TUI Confirms New Ship Luzia for Summer 2027 Douro Sailings and Expanded European Routes
About the blog
  • Blogs, Travel
  • 3 mins
  • Travel and Tour World
  • Iram Firdosh
Author: Iram Firdosh

TUI River Cruises unveils Luzia, a new ship debuting on Portugal’s Douro in summer 2027 with expanded European itineraries

TUI River Cruises will debut its first new ship, the TUI Luzia, in the Summer of 2027, which will start sailing along Portugal’s picturesque River Douro. This will be the company’s most ambitious cruise which will also be its most extensive consisting of multiple ports, cities, and longer trips. It will also be it’s most extensive offered schedule in the summer.

Bookings will be available starting October 16, 2025, while pre-registration is available starting October 2, 2025.

TUI Luzia: A New Chapter on the Douro

The TUI Luzia, meaning “light” in Portuguese, is designed for intimate travel with space for 111 guests. Spread across four decks, the ship offers modern comforts.

  • Top Deck: Shallow pool, loungers, and open views.
  • Dining: A casual bar and dining space called Cinder, serving daily drinks and self-serve lunches.
  • Cabins: 56 options, ranging from Super French Balcony cabins and Suites to Balcony cabins and a dedicated single cabin.

Full Board Plus is standard, with the option to upgrade to All-Inclusive.

New Destinations in Summer 2027

Alongside the Luzia launch, TUI will expand its reach with two new ports of call:

  • Zaandam, Netherlands on the Dutch Delta Discovery itinerary aboard the TUI Aria.
  • Aljmaš, Croatia on the East Danube Delights route aboard the TUI Maya.

These destinations add cultural depth to the brand’s seasonal offerings.

Range of Itineraries for Every Traveller

TUI’s 2027 program features a flexible range of durations, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned cruisers. Options include:

  • Short sailings: 3 to 6 nights.
  • Extended voyages: 7 to 15 nights.

Routes span Europe’s iconic waterways including the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, and the Dutch and Belgian Waterways.

Fares begin at £899 per person for the three-night Grand Capitals sailing on the TUI Maya.

Government-Verified Travel Context

According to Portugal’s National Tourism Board (Turismo de Portugal), the Douro Valley has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape and winemaking traditions. The region draws travelers worldwide seeking authentic river journeys through vineyards, terraced hills, and historic towns.

Similarly, Netherlands’ official tourism board (NBTC) highlights Zaandam as a cultural gateway, known for windmills, wooden houses, and ties to the painter Claude Monet. Croatia’s Ministry of Tourism identifies Aljmaš as a growing pilgrimage and cultural stop along the Danube, blending riverside landscapes with heritage tourism.

Why the Douro Matters

The addition of Luzia positions TUI within a competitive space. Portugal’s Douro has seen rising demand, as reported by INE Portugal (Instituto Nacional de Estatística), which notes sustained growth in river tourism. The Douro combines natural scenery, historic wine estates, and tranquil sailing, making it a standout destination for summer 2027.

Traveller’s Guide to TUI Luzia and Beyond

  • Best Time to Go: March to October 2027. Spring offers wildflowers, while autumn brings wine harvests along the Douro.
  • Booking: Reservations open October 16, 2025. Early booking is advised for popular sailings.
  • Boarding Points: Expect embarkation at major river hubs including Porto for the Douro sailings.
  • Inclusions: Full Board Plus with upgrade options. Drinks and meals included; excursions available at added cost.
  • What to Pack: Light layers for warm days, a hat for deck lounging, and comfortable shoes for walking tours.
  • Nearby Attractions: On Douro cruises, highlights include Porto’s Ribeira District, Peso da Régua’s wine estates, and the UNESCO-listed town of Guimarães.

Summary

From summer 2027, Portugal’s River Douro will welcome TUI River Cruises Luzia, marking a strong addition to TUI’s river cruise portfolio. With 35 sailings throughout various parts of Europe, two additional ports of call, and sailings tailored to every adventurer, the program is bound to please. The new season’s offerings reflect sustainable development and authenticity, supported by prominent places promoted by national tourism boards and UNESCO world heritage sites.

TUI’s river cruise portfolio is set to expand further with the addition of Luzia, available for bookings starting October 2025. Luzia promises to offer travelers a new, exciting way to experience the river which is the pride of Portugal.

The post TUI Confirms New Ship Luzia for Summer 2027 Douro Sailings and Expanded European Routes appeared first on Travel and Tour World