Why choose TUI river cruises
TUI is the world’s biggest travel company. As you would expect, TUI's cruise ships are akin to floating, sophisticated hotels that take guests to world-famous cities - as well as lesser-known towns.
There are multiple restaurants and lounges, plus lots of outdoor space in which to relax. The staff-to-passenger ratio remains one to four, so you'll be well looked after. Holidaymakers will get plenty of time in destinations as lots of TUI river cruises sail during the night, meaning the range of chosen shore excursions isn't cut short.
Another advantage is that TUI will sort all your flights and transfers too in order to minimise hassle, allowing you to chill in the knowledge that everything is taken care of.
Cruising with TUI
TUI's Observatory Lounge hosts evening entertainment, which ranges from talented musicians and quizzes to international and local guest acts.
During the day it's great for views throughout the widescreen window, while happy hour kicks in every evening between 6.30-7.30pm, with discounted drinks and complimentary canapés. Plus, there's an afternoon tea buffet once per sailing here.
Meanwhile, Club Lounge, which boasts plush purple chairs, brass fittings, mirrored tables and a roaring digital fireplace, serves coffees and cocktails.
Cabins range from standard to suites and come with air-conditioning, a hairdryer, a flatscreen TV, a safe, and tea and coffee-making facilities. What's more, they’re all on the outside of the ship, with a porthole, window or French balcony.
Who should cruise
TUI river cruises are for adults only. That may sound a tad harsh, and strictly alienates young families, yet the client base has proven that there's a huge market for those seeking an escape - either from the stresses of modern family life, or simply to enjoy alone time as a couple.
TUI provides a place in which to re-discover yourself, free from the pressures of child care or keeping young teenagers entertained. Couples, groups and solo travellers are all welcome.
Regardless of whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, TUI guarantees a good time for those looking to broaden their horizons and lap up different cultures that envelop each the world's rivers.
Destinations
TUI specialise in Danube river cruises, sailing through Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia and Slovakia
Dutch and Belgian waterways are also frequented by TUI vessels, meandering with style through the delights of Belgium and the undeniable class of the Netherlands. Moselle river cruises allow passengers to lap up Germany's finest cultural traditions, while Rhine river cruises shine a spotlight on France, Germany and Switzerland.
If you are seeking a taste of chic European landscapes and fresh local cuisine, TUI has you covered. You'll enjoy a staple diet of Europe's most celebrated arts and philosophy, alongside tranquil riverscapes that ooze history and heritage.
Dining
There are two restaurants onboard - Verdastro and Bistro. Both restaurants serve buffet breakfasts, before transforming into an à la carte for lunch and dinner.
Verdastro is the main restaurant and has an elegant green-and-gold colour scheme. The menu changes daily, with fresh, seasonal food sourced from local suppliers. For dinner, there’s always a meat, fish, veggie and pasta dish.
Bistro is more casual and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The à la carte menu changes halfway through the sailing.
The cruise line will also put on outdoor events such as barbecues on deck when the weather is nice, too. There's also a six-course gala dinner on every sailing.
All TUI ships are Full Board Plus, which means three meals and drinks at mealtimes are included in your price.
Inclusions
So, what's included in your TUI package? Firstly, your flights and transfers are part of the cost, while your ticket entitles you to three meals (with certain drinks) per day.
It's worth noting that premium coffee and cocktails are not included as part of the standard dining package, but upgrades are available should you wish to enhance your trip with extra-premium beverages. And, hey, why not? When in Rome, as they say!
Your tips and gratuities, and your luggage allowance, are all included in the fee, meaning that you don't have to worry about extra bills or carrying money with you around the ship.
Instead, you can cherish the moment and unwind - free from concerns about overspending.