TUI River Cruises has announced plans to add a fifth ship to its European fleet in summer 2027

TUI Elara will be one of the river cruise line’s most intimate capacity passenger ships across its European fleet, accommodating 138 passengers. The launch will be supported by a range of third‑party flight routes to Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Basel, available from seven UK airports.

The vessel will operate five, seven and 14-night sailings from Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Basel with five new itineraries along the Rhine, Moselle, Dutch & Belgian waterways, making 15 itineraries in total, and will be the first ship in its fleet to sail to Brussels in Belgium.

The adults only ship will feature the brand’s Verdastro as its main à la carte restaurant, and The Observatory as the primary lounge, bar and entertainment space. The Top Deck is an open-air space with sun loungers, a putting green and room for activities including yoga, deck games, and BBQs.

The 138 passengers will be accommodated across 70 cabins including the brand’s first offering of eight French Balcony Junior Suite cabins. These 19.5m² cabins provide extra space with a coffee table, chair and en suite complete with a double sink, large shower, and upgraded toiletries. Additional services in the suite include nightly turndown services and continental breakfast in bed included within the price.

Katy Berzins, head of TUI River Cruises, said: ”As we enter our fifth year of sailing, we’re thrilled to continue expanding our fleet with the introduction of TUI Elara to Europe’s waterways. Demand for more immersive, experience‑rich travel continues to grow, and TUI River Cruises is all about giving customers the freedom and flexibility to explore multiple rivers and destinations in their own way.

“Our strong performance, high customer satisfaction scores and growing occupancy show the strength of our position in the river cruise market as we continue to modernise and expand the fleet. TUI Elara will open up Europe’s stunning rivers to even more customers, with new routes along the Rhine, Moselle, Dutch & Belgian waterways.”

The five new itineraries include the Grand Rhine Delights, Rhine Delights and Dutch and Belgian Gems itineraries sailing from Amsterdam, the Rhine Delights 2 itinerary from Basel and the Splendours of the Rhine & Moselle itinerary from Frankfurt.