TUI Luzia Floated Out: First Purpose-Built TUI River Cruises Ship Reaches Major Construction Milestone

TUI River Cruises has celebrated a major milestone in the development of its fleet as TUI Luzia, the brand's first purpose-built river cruise ship, has successfully touched water for the first time. 

The float-out ceremony took place at the Kladovo Shipyard in Serbia, marking the transition into the vessel's final construction phase ahead of her scheduled delivery in June 2027.

The new ship is being built by Concordia Damen and will become the flagship of TUI River Cruises' expansion on Portugal's scenic Douro River, where she will begin her inaugural season in summer 2027.

Katy Berzins, Head of River Cruises at TUI River Cruises, described the float-out as an important milestone for both the company and its long-standing partnership with Concordia Damen.

According to Berzins, TUI Luzia represents a new chapter for the cruise line as its first vessel designed specifically for the brand. She noted that the addition of the ship will allow TUI River Cruises to strengthen its presence on one of Europe's most popular river cruise destinations while attracting both loyal guests and first-time customers.

The float-out took place at Concordia Damen's partner yard in Kladovo, Serbia, a significant stage in shipbuilding as it marks the first time a vessel enters the water before final outfitting and sea preparations.

Designed exclusively for the Douro

Once completed, TUI Luzia will accommodate 111 guests in 56 cabins spread across four passenger decks. Accommodation options will include Super French Balcony cabins, Balcony cabins, French Balcony Suites, as well as a dedicated single cabin for solo travellers.

As with the existing TUI River Cruises fleet, guests will enjoy Full Board Plus as the standard offering, with an optional upgrade to an all-inclusive package.

The spacious sun deck will feature loungers and a shallow pool overlooking the Douro landscape. Guests will also find several new dining and lounge concepts throughout the ship.

Cinder will combine a bar with a casual dining venue serving drinks and self-service lunches during the day. Novo will become the ship's main lounge and bar, while Retreat will offer a quieter atmosphere with a juice bar by day and an intimate lounge in the evening.

Dining will centre around Sorriso, the main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, while Vinha will provide an outdoor Portuguese-inspired à la carte dining experience alongside a relaxed daytime seating area.

Concordia Damen highlights partnership

Chris Kornet, CEO of Concordia Damen, said the company is proud to deliver the first purpose-built vessel for TUI River Cruises. He emphasised that the project combines Concordia Damen's engineering expertise with TUI River Cruises' vision for future growth and innovative ship design in the European river cruise market.

The delivery of TUI Luzia in 2027 is expected to strengthen TUI River Cruises' position in the rapidly growing Douro market while marking the beginning of a new generation of purpose-built ships for the brand.