Introducing TUI Elara: A New Era of Seine River Cruises
TUI River Cruises is excited to announce its entry into the scenic Seine River region, making it possible for travelers to explore this celebrated waterway starting in March 2028. The highlight of this debut will be the brand-new ship, the TUI Elara, which is expected to launch operations with a variety of itinerary options.
A Variety of Itineraries
The TUI Elara, designed to accommodate 138 guests, will offer four, seven, and ten-night cruise itineraries. Passengers can soak in the stunning views of Paris as they sail past prominent landmarks, including the iconic Eiffel Tower and the historic Notre Dame Cathedral.
In addition to the enchanting views of the city, guests can look forward to port stops in remarkable locations such as:
- Vernon: A charming riverside town famed for Claude Monet's house, a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
- Rouen: Normandy's capital, rich in history and known for its connections to Joan of Arc.
- Le Havre: Where the Seine river meets the English Channel, offering unique coastal experiences.
Travelers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Normandy's rich history through excursions, including visits to the D-Day landing beaches.
Seamless Travel to Paris
As part of the cruise package, guests can fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle with Air France from various UK airports, ensuring a hassle-free start to their river adventure.
The TUI Elara is equipped with 70 cabins, featuring the company's first French Balcony Junior Suites. Each suite offers nightly turn-down service and the luxuries of continental breakfast served in bed, enhancing the onboard experience.
More Ships on the Horizon
TUI is not only launching the Elara; they are also developing two additional ships for their fleet. The TUI Zora, meaning 'dawn,' is set to operate on the Rhine starting May 2028, while TUI Velara, which translates to 'to shine,' will be focused on the Danube from August 2028. Both vessels will host 94 cabins, accommodating up to 188 guests, and are tailored for the UK market with feedback-driven designs, including expansive suite balconies.
The summer 2028 program also includes solo sailings on TUI Maya on the Danube and TUI Skyla on the Rhine, along with the TUI Aria, the largest vessel in the fleet, scheduled to traverse the Danube.
The Future of River Cruises with TUI
Katy Berzins, head of river cruises at TUI River Cruises, expressed her enthusiasm about the brand's expansion. "Summer 2028 marks a significant milestone for TUI River Cruises, showcasing our growth and ongoing demand for new routes, notably the Douro. With a 26 percent increase in capacity for the upcoming season, we are clearly in a growth phase, offering more diverse options on rivers including the Seine, Rhine, Danube, and beyond."
She further added, "TUI Zora and TUI Velara reflect the desires of our guests, delivering a modern river cruising experience that integrates the culture and charm of each destination onboard. With the addition of the Seine, we are responding to our customers’ interests and providing memorable experiences from Paris to Monet's gardens and the breathtaking Normandy coast."
Tag: Cruises