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TUI River Cruises announces first newbuild order

CRUISE_topDeck_TUI_alma.jpg
Digitally generated image of TUI Alma's top deck
TUI River Cruises announced its first newbuild ship which will come into service summer 2025.

Named TUI Alma, meaning soul in Portuguese, the ship is being constructed at Portugal's WestSea Shipyard and will have four decks, 62 cabins and accommodate 123 guests.

It is being purpose-built for Portugal’s River Douro. TUI River Cruises launched in 2021 with TUI Isla, TUI Maya and TUI Skyla and recently announced a new Nile river cruise ship TUI Al Horeya set to sail in winter 2024.

Managing Director, Specialist Business, Chris Logan called the newbuild a ‘huge moment for TUI River Cruises and a defining moment in our journey.'

Based in Porto

The ship will sail a five-location itinerary, starting in Porto, before arriving in Entre-os-Rios, then Peso de Regua, Vega de Terron and Barca d’Alva. The itinerary then circles back to Peso de Regua before finishing back in Porto.

The top deck will feature a shallow pool with seating areas, sun loungers, a bar and food service. There are also other choices for dining onboard including main restaurant and a Portuguese inspired alfresco dining space where guests can enjoy a la carte dinner, and by day, will be a place for relaxation and unwinding.

Of the 62 cabins, TUI Alma will feature six standard balcony cabins and two suites.

Head of River Cruises Katy Berzins says: ‘We’ve gone from the European waterways of the Rhine, Danube, Main and Moselle to our recently announced sailings on the Nile and now we get to offer our customers the chance to experience the Douro.’

TUI is offering a new fly-river cruise programme from London Gatwick to Porto.