The expanded programme encompasses 35 voyages throughout the operator's European fleet between March and October 2027. Reservations for these itineraries become available from October 16, 2025.
The introduction of TUI Luzia, whose name translates to 'light' in Portuguese, represents a significant milestone for the river cruise operator. The vessel will operate with Full Board Plus included as standard, with passengers able to enhance their package to All Inclusive.
The vessel will host 111 guests across four decks, featuring a top-level area equipped with a shallow swimming pool and sun loungers.
Accommodation comprises 56 cabins in various configurations, including Super French Balcony rooms, standard Balcony cabins, French Balcony Suites and a single occupancy option. Dining and social spaces aboard include Cinder, a bar and self-service lunch venue on the upper deck.
Douro Valley is a beautiful part of Portugal
| GETTYThe main lounge bar, Novo, serves as a central gathering point, whilst Retreat functions as a dual-purpose space offering juice bar services and wellness activities during daytime hours, transforming into a quiet lounge bar in the evenings.
The ship's primary route, Douro Discovery, operates as a circular journey beginning and ending in Porto. The week-long voyages navigate through the UNESCO-designated region, calling at Entre-os-Rios, Peso de Regua, Vega de Terron (providing access to Salamanca in Spain) and Barca d'Alva.
Passengers can reach Porto through flight connections with TUI's airline partners to board the Douro cruises. The itineraries feature leisurely daytime navigation combined with onshore excursions.
Sorriso serves as the vessel's primary dining room, offering meals from breakfast through dinner. Vinha provides an outdoor Portuguese-themed dining experience with à la carte evening meals, whilst functioning as a relaxation area during daylight hours.
Beyond the Douro operations, TUI River Cruises is introducing fresh destinations to its 2027 summer schedule.
The TUI Aria will navigate Dutch and Belgian waterways on its Dutch Delta Discovery route, incorporating Zaandam in the Netherlands, renowned for its distinctive green timber architecture.
Meanwhile, the TUI Maya's East Danube Delights itinerary will include Aljmas in Croatia, a scenic riverside settlement distinguished by its contemporary church designed in the shape of a swan.
The operator will maintain programme diversity with voyage lengths ranging from three to 15 nights. These options span multiple waterways, including the Danube, Rhine, Moselle and Belgian-Dutch routes, with shorter trips specifically designed for newcomers to river cruising.
CRUISE NEWS
The introduction of TUI Luzia, whose name translates to 'light' in Portuguese, represents a significant milestone for the river cruise operator
|TUI
Head of River Cruises at TUI River Cruises, Katy Berzins, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce TUI Luzia, our first new-build ship, which will sail the stunning River Douro in Portugal – a brand-new destination for TUI River Cruises.
“This marks a major milestone as we launch our biggest summer programme to date, with more itineraries, more durations, and exciting new ports of call across Europe. From the charming villages of Croatia and the Netherlands, we’re giving guests the opportunity to explore Europe’s rivers in a way that’s more flexible, immersive and exciting than ever before.”
Prices start from £899 per person for the ‘Grand Capitals’ three-night sailing on TUI Maya in the summer 2027 itineraries. It is available to book from Thursday, October 16, 2025.