TUI River Cruises is expanding, with a newly refurbished ship that is expected to set sail down two European rivers in summer 2026.

TUI Ria is the latest ship to join the TUI River Cruises group alongside TUI Isla, TUI Maya, and TUI Skyla – and it is also the largest ship in the group, accommodating up to 190 passengers across 96 standard and superior French balcony cabins.

The adults only ship will provide six, seven, eight and nine-night itinerary options from Amsterdam, Basel and Frankfurt as it sails through the Rhine and Moselle.

But what makes the cruise so exciting is that it is the company’s first European cruise ship that includes a pool with panoramic views.

The incredible deck area will have a sauna, sun loungers, a putting green and a shuffleboard on the upper deck.

Not only that but the pool will also be transformed into a dining room and entertainment area for guests to enjoy.

It will do this by raising the pool floor to close off the water, creating the necessary space. It also has a retractable roof which means that passengers can enjoy weatherproof enjoyment all year round.

TUI Ria will also have “will also have modern and spacious interiors with a choice of restaurants, lounges and entertainment spaces” according to the travel company.

New flight routes will also be made available as part of the launch of TUI Ria.

Direct flights from Bristol Airport to Amsterdam will take place on May 4, June 1 and September 28 of next year, while a route from Newcastle Airport to Frankfurt will operate on April 4, 11 and 25. 

Katy Berzins, head of TUI River Cruises, TUI River Cruises said: “We’re thrilled to be expanding our fleet with the addition of the latest ship to sail the European waterways.

“This marks another significant step in the growth of TUI River Cruises, following our second newly refurbished ship announcement in just one month. TUI Ria will provide more customers than ever the opportunity to explore Europe’s stunning rivers, offering new routes and alternatives, all with convenient access from UK regional airports.

“Onboard TUI Ria, guests can enjoy a unique all-weather pool with panoramic views and a versatile venue that transitions from a daytime space to an evening dining and entertainment area. These innovative features of TUI Ria, combined with enhanced accessibility from UK regional airports, will strengthen TUI River Cruises’ position in the market, offering customers more choice and flexibility in how they choose to sail with us.”