TUI River Cruises is set to launch a second cruise ship on the Nile following high demand for their 2024 itineraries. This move signifies TUI’s growing influence and commitment to the river cruise sector.
- The new ship, TUI Bahareya, will join the fleet and commence operations in the winter season, upping the profile of Nile river travel.
- With a setup catering to 136 guests across well-appointed cabins, the vessel promises a comprehensive onboard experience, complete with modern amenities.
- Guest experiences will be enhanced by Egyptologists, diverse dining options, and culturally immersive decor inspired by Arabic traditions.
- Scheduled itineraries include ‘Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs’ and ‘Legends of the Nile’, alternating monthly, promising diverse exploration experiences.
TUI River Cruises is poised to expand its fleet with the addition of a second ship plying the Nile, attempting to meet increased demand in the region for the coming years. This development highlights TUI’s strategic growth in the river cruise market, targeting a segment enriched by picturesque views and historical intrigue, appealing to travel enthusiasts internationally.
The eagerly anticipated TUI Bahareya will complement the soon-to-launch TUI Al Horeya, offering a luxurious seven-night, all-inclusive cruise that departs from Luxor. With a capacity for 136 passengers, the vessel will feature well-furnished cabins including the sought-after Superior French Balcony accommodations.
Connectivity will not be an issue as plans are in place for twice-weekly non-stop flights from Gatwick and Manchester to Luxor, operating between November 2025 and April 2026. This logistical addition is poised to streamline access for UK-based travellers, marking a significant step in TUI’s operational planning.
Katy Berzins, head of TUI River Cruises, has articulated strong confidence in the prospective success of these new itineraries, citing robust sales of their premier Nile journey. She emphasises the ship’s cultural offerings, echoing the company’s aspirations to create a ‘differently immersive’ experience with local flavours and themes integral to the onboard experience.
Enriching the journey further, the ship promises an arsenal of amenities and activities. Passengers can indulge in a top-deck swimming pool, a variety of dining experiences, an entertainment space, and even a boutique shopping outlet. Furthermore, expert Egyptologists will accompany the cruise to provide insightful explorations, a feature that will likely captivate history aficionados.
The alternating itineraries, including ‘Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs’ launching in November 2025, and ‘Legends of the Nile’, commencing December 2025, offer varied and enriched views of Egypt’s storied past. Tourists can look forward to visits to notable sites such as Luxor, Kom Ombo, Aswan, and Edfu, deepening their appreciation of the region’s historical tapestry.
This expansion of TUI River Cruises’ fleet demonstrates a strategic commitment to enhancing the cultural and historical travel experience on the Nile.
