TUI River Cruises has announced that its second Nile River ship, the TUI Bahareya, started its voyage in Luxor.
The blessing ceremony took place onboard the river ship, with a traditional “Prayer to Hapi,” the god of the River Nile, blessing the ship for safe and prosperous voyages.
Katy Berzins, head of TUI river cruises at TUI River Cruises, said: “The maiden voyage of TUI Bahareya marks a significant addition to the TUI River Cruises fleet.”
“After a successful first winter season, TUI Al Horeya, we’re pleased to be launching the second ship on the River Nile, allowing more river cruisers to experience the wonders in Egypt,” added Berzins.
The company said in a press release that the ship’s pool was decorated with rose petals and LED candles, and that guests were given locally sourced, commemorative, engraved plaques made from traditional alabaster to mark the start of its first season.
The event featured canapes and cocktails, traditional Egyptian Whirling Dervish performances, a saxophonist and live entertainment from TUI River Cruises’ entertainment team.
TUI River Cruises’ second newly refurbished ship, the TUI Bahareya, will now sail on its maiden voyage along the Nile River.
The expansion along the river with this second river ship means that the river cruise line will operate two seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip sailings from Luxor, the company added.
The TUI Bahareya will accommodate 142 passengers and offers 72 cabins, including French Balcony Cabins and Superior French Balcony Cabins.
To enhance the customer experience onboard, licensed Egyptologists will be on hand throughout each cruise to bring the history of Egypt to life.
TUI River Cruises offers a seven-night “Ancient Gods and famous Pharaohs” round trip from Luxor, Egypt, on the TUI Bahareya from £1239 per person.
Price is based on two adults sharing a Deck 2 Superior French Balcony cabin on an all-inclusive basis.
Itinerary calls include Luxor, Kom Ombo, Aswan and Edfu. Fares include TUI Airways flights from London Gatwick or Manchester Airport to Luxor on December 16, 2025, 25kg of luggage per person, transfers, tips and service charges.
