TUI River Cruises to sail the Douro in 2027 with TUI Luzia
The TUI River Cruises fleet will reach the Douro in 2027. The first ship built for the brand, the TUI Luzia, has just been floated out in Serbia and will open its first season in Portugal. With 111 passengers, it also marks the company's entry into the rivers of the Iberian peninsula.
In my view, this confirms how strong European river cruising is right now. It is no longer just the Danube or the Rhine. The Douro fits perfectly with what travellers are looking for:
- sailing,
- culture,
- gastronomy and wine tourism.
And, as Hosteltur points out, that demand keeps growing. Smart move by TUI, which gets into a destination with plenty of product and room for modern ships.
For the local sector, the opportunity is straightforward: wineries, rural hotels and agencies in northern Portugal and the Ribera del Duero can tap into a traveller with high spending power. Those that want in should get their offers ready.
Quick questions
When will TUI start sailing the Douro?
Which ship will TUI use on the Douro?
Why is TUI choosing the Douro?
Where will the TUI Luzia's first season be?
What opportunities does this open for wineries and agencies?
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