TUI has launched TUI Forest Rhodes, an initiative aimed at helping regenerate areas of Rhodes affected by the 2023 wildfires.

As part of the initiative, 25 crew members from the Marella Discovery took part in a tree planting event on the island on October 16, 2026, getting directly involved in the restoration process.

The wider project will restore 80,000 square meters of land, plant more than 3,000 trees and involve around 1,500 volunteers, including tourists and tourism employees, over the course of three years.

It will also create or maintain 45 local jobs and introduce a new nature trail and environmental education center.

“Rhodes has long been an important destination for our customers, so it’s incredibly meaningful to support efforts to restore and protect the island’s natural environment,” said Joel Hipple, cruise operations director at Marella Cruises.

“We’re proud to support initiatives like TUI Forest Rhodes and work alongside the TUI Care Foundation, local partners and communities to help create a positive and lasting impact in the destinations we visit. This is a project that not only helps regenerate areas affected by the wildfires but also creates opportunities for local people and visitors to connect with and care for the island’s unique natural landscape.”

An irrigation system drawing water from a natural spring and supported by the island’s water network will be installed, alongside fencing and fire-prevention infrastructure.

An existing stone building at the project site will also be renovated and transformed into an Education and Information Center, which will provide a dedicated space for environmental education, volunteer activities and visitor engagement.

Connecting visitors with the island’s natural environment is another central element of the initiative.

A new nature trail will allow visitors to explore the project area and learn about local biodiversity, forest ecosystems and the process of landscape restoration.

Educational seminars, guided experiences and tree-planting activities will offer opportunities for tourists, residents and students to participate directly in the project.

The project is implemented through the TUI Care Foundation in partnership with Greek environmental organization Gia Ti Fisi, and as part of the Rhodes Co-Lab initiative.