TUI Unveils Luzia: A Brand-New River Ship Bringing Sunshine to Portugal’s Douro
A Light on the Douro: TUI Unveils Luzia, Its First-Ever New-Build River Ship for 2027
There’s a new glow on the horizon, and it’s coming from Portugal. TUI River Cruises has just dropped anchor on some seriously exciting news: their first-ever purpose-built river ship, the elegant TUI Luzia, will set sail on the River Douro in Summer 2027.
That’s right, the travel titan is going bespoke, crafting a ship designed from the hull up for the laid-back rhythm and golden landscapes of northern Portugal. And for guests eager to climb aboard, bookings open 16 October 2025, with pre-registration from 2 October 2025.
Meet Luzia: A New Light in River Cruising
Fittingly, “Luzia” means light in Portuguese, and she’s poised to be the shining star of TUI’s expanding fleet. With space for 111 guests across four decks, this sleek new vessel promises both comfort and charisma.
On the top deck, cruisers can unwind beside a shallow pool, sip cocktails under the sun, and enjoy a breezy casual dining space. Inside, Luzia offers 56 cabins, including Super French Balcony, Balcony cabins, French Balcony Suites, and even a single cabin for solo travellers.
Hungry? TUI Luzia delivers four inviting venues:
Novo – the ship’s main lounge bar (where evenings are sure to sparkle)
Retreat – a daytime wellness and juice bar that transforms into a chill-out lounge after dark
Sorriso – the main restaurant serving hearty international and local favourites
Vinha – an alfresco dining space inspired by Portugal’s rich wine culture
The Douro Itinerary: Pure Portuguese Charm
TUI Luzia’s debut itinerary, the Douro River Adventure, is a 7-night round trip from Porto, calling at Entre-os-Rios, Peso da Régua, Vega de Terrón (for a day in Salamanca), and Barca d’Alva.
It’s a sun-soaked blend of vineyards, hilltop towns, and UNESCO-worthy scenery, in short, the perfect setting for TUI’s newest star.
And the good news doesn’t stop there: TUI is expanding its European routes for 2027 with new ports of call including Zaandam, Netherlands (via TUI Aria) and Aljmas, Croatia (via TUI Maya).
From 3-night escapes to 15-night European odysseys, there’s something for every river wanderer.
Tui Luzia river ship’s elegant top deck seating. A place to eat al fresco with an amazing view all around.
From the Bridge
“We’re thrilled to introduce TUI Luzia … 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.”
— Katy Berzins, Head of River Cruises at TUI
Booking Snapshot
Pre-registration opens: 2 October 2025
On sale: 16 October 2025
Starting from: £899 per person (Grand Capitals 3-night sailing on TUI Maya)
Why This Launch Shines Bright
TUI Luzia isn’t just another ship, it’s a new chapter in TUI’s river story.
It’s their first purpose-built vessel, tailor-made for European waterways.
It marks TUI’s debut on the River Douro, adding Portugal to its river map.
And it highlights TUI’s commitment to expansion, bringing even more variety (and sunshine) to the river cruise scene.
About TUI River Cruises
TUI River Cruises brings together the best of both worlds, the intimacy of small-ship travel with the polish of a trusted global brand. Each ship in the fleet sails Europe’s most iconic waterways, offering a relaxed, adults-only experience where fine dining, cultural discovery, and scenic slow travel meet.
With thoughtfully curated itineraries, all-inclusive dining, and modern design that keeps things fresh yet familiar, TUI River Cruises has quickly become a favourite for those who prefer their adventures with a side of comfort and style.
So when TUI Luzia lights up the Douro in 2027, she won’t just be a new ship, she’ll be another reason to fall in love with life on the river.