TUI River Cruises has announced its biggest season launch ever for summer 2028. The program introduces the newbuilds TUI Zora and TUI Velara on the Rhine, Moselle and the Danube, and takes the TUI Elara to a new river, the Seine.
The program will include 10 river cruise ships, 43 itineraries and sailings of 3 to 14 nights from March to October 2028, going on sale from October 15, 2026.
TUI said in a press release that guests shaped its Zora and Velara based on what they said they wanted.
TUI Zora, meaning “dawn” or “new beginnings,” and TUI Velara, meaning “to shine,” are purpose-built for TUI River Cruises and designed specifically for the UK market.
Each will have 94 cabins and space for 188 customers and will operate as Full Board Plus as standard, with the option to upgrade to All Inclusive.
The TUI Zora makes her debut on the Rhine on May 7, 2028, and the TUI Velara follows on the Danube on August 14, 2028. They have been designed with the foundations for the next generation of alternative fuels, particularly methanol.
The company added in the press release that the TUI Elara, joining the fleet in March 2027, is the right size for the Seine.
From March 20, 2028, the adults-only river ship will offer four-, seven-, and 10-night itineraries flowing through the heart of northern France.
The ship will sail through the capital, Paris, past landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Musee d’Orsay, Vernon and Rouen.
Customers can also discover Normandy’s history, including the D-Day landing beaches, as part of a “TUI River Cruise Collections” excursion.
Onboard highlights on the ship include Verdastro, the ship’s main à la carte restaurant, and The Observatory, a lounge and bar. The Top Deck has sun loungers, a putting green and space for yoga, deck games and BBQs.
The TUI Luzia continues on the Douro in 2028 with seven-night sailings taking in Porto, the Douro Valley and Peso da Regua.
The summer 2028 program also includes dedicated solo sailings on the TUI Maya on the Danube and the TUI Skyla on the Rhine. The TUI Aria moves to the Danube.
Summer 2028 itineraries are available to book from Thursday, October 15, 2026.
