Posts in category: River Cruising

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises

Dreaming of a tranquil river cruise? There’s no better time to book than now!

TUI River Cruises’ Black Friday deals have arrived, offering up to £300 off selected sailings across Europe’s scenic waterways and the legendary Nile.

From exploring cultural capitals to uncovering ancient wonders, these savings make your next river adventure even more irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of this exclusive offer.

What’s the offer?

TUI River Cruises is offering tiered savings for Black Friday, so you can tailor your deal to your dream getaway.

Wherever you decide to sail, you’ll be able to save big on your booking:

• Save £100 when you spend £1,500 or more.
• Save £200 when you spend £2,500 or more.
• Save £300 when you spend £3,500 or more.

The offer is valid for bookings made between 25th November and midnight on 2nd December 2024, covering sailings departing from 1st January 2025 to 31st October 2026. Simply enter the promo code BFRIVER on the holiday payment page to secure your discount.

The only caveats are that you need to choose a sailing that’s at least 7 nights or more, and the offer applies to the price before you add on any extras such as insurance, or upgrades for your flight.

So, if you choose a cruise that costs £2,400 total but then choose insurance and upgrade your seats on your flight to get above £2,500, you’d still save £100.

Also, the offer’s subject to availability so if the cruises sell super-fast during this Black Friday period, the offer may be withdrawn. In other words, be quick and book!

Why choose TUI River Cruises?

TUI River Cruises offers a distinctive blend of comfort, culture, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a memorable river journey.

Inclusive Value

TUI River Cruises provides a full board experience, covering meals, drinks with your meals, and a selection of excursions. This approach ensures a hassle-free holiday, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about additional costs.

Want to upgrade to fully all-inclusive? You can, and it won’t cost you anywhere near as much as some other river cruise lines.

Oh, and tips and WiFi are also covered by your fare, as well as your flights and overseas transfers. So in short, the value you get is outstanding!

Diverse Itineraries

TUI River Cruises offers a variety of itineraries across Europe’s most scenic waterways, including the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, and Dutch and Belgian canals. These journeys provide opportunities to explore both iconic cities and hidden gems, catering to a wide range of interests.

And from the 2024 winter season, the Nile is now an option for anyone looking to travel beyond Europe’s rivers. Explore ancient wonders and discover the exciting thrills of a cruise along this legendary river.

Each cruise is thoughtfully curated to immerse passengers in the local culture, history, and cuisine of the destinations visited. Onshore excursions are led by knowledgeable guides, offering authentic experiences that enrich your journey.

Exceptional Service

The dedicated crew and staff are committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of your cruise meets the highest standards. From attentive housekeeping to personalised assistance, the team strives to make your voyage as enjoyable as possible.

Itineraries to inspire you

Here’s a look at three itineraries where you can take advantage of these amazing savings.

Bear in mind that these, of course, are the smallest sample of options and there are loads of amazing itineraries for you to choose from!

Rhine Explorer

Discover the enchanting landscapes of the Rhine River on this picturesque journey through the heart of Europe. Starting in Amsterdam, you’ll sail past storybook towns and iconic landmarks, including Cologne’s majestic cathedral and the historic charm of Koblenz.

Further along, visit Mannheim’s cultural treasures, explore Strasbourg’s Alsatian beauty, and enjoy Breisach’s scenic vineyards. End your journey in Basel, Switzerland, where the Rhine meets alpine elegance.

This itinerary is perfect for those seeking a blend of cultural highlights and stunning natural scenery.

Magical Danube

Sail the iconic Danube River and uncover Europe’s cultural gems on this journey through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany. Start in Budapest, known for its stunning architecture and thermal baths, before exploring Bratislava’s charming Old Town and Vienna’s regal streets.

Other highlights include the beautiful Wachau Valley in Austria, the medieval town of Krems, and the riverside city of Passau in Germany. This cruise is ideal for history buffs and foodies alike.

Legends of the Nile

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure along the Nile, the lifeblood of ancient Egypt. This itinerary takes you through Luxor, the heart of pharaonic history, where you’ll explore the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple.

Sail south to Edfu, home to the Temple of Horus, and Kom Ombo, a unique double temple. In Aswan, visit the Aswan High Dam and enjoy the serene beauty of the Nile before returning to Luxor to complete your journey through one of the world’s most storied rivers.

This immersive itinerary combines breathtaking sights with fascinating history, making it a must for explorers and history lovers.

Don’t miss out!

This incredible Black Friday offer is only available for a limited time, so don’t wait to book your dream river cruise. Whether you’re gliding through Europe’s historic waterways or delving into Egypt’s ancient wonders, these savings make it the perfect time to set sail.

Remember to use code BFRIVER at checkout to claim your discount, and act quickly – the offer ends at midnight on 2nd December 2024.

With savings of up to £300, there’s never been a better time to plan your TUI River Cruise. Relax, explore, and make unforgettable memories on the water with these amazing itineraries.

Related posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises.

When planning a river cruise, much of your adventure will take place ashore. Your cruise will drop you right in the heart of some of Europe and Africa’s best destinations, giving you ample time to explore and enjoy the culture.

However, don’t disregard the other half of your cruise – the time spent onboard. You can look forward to exceptional comfort, great dining and the fantastic service that TUI is renowned for.

Yet the ships aren’t identical, so let’s look at the full fleet of TUI River Cruises ships and the differences between them, as it may influence your decision on which one to book.

How Many TUI River Cruises Ships Are There?

There are seven ships in the TUI fleet, all of which are adults-only. Three of those are currently sailing in Europe, with two more ships joining them in 2026. The final ships sail the Nile in Africa.

The ships are:

• TUI Isla – Europe
• TUI Maya – Europe
• TUI Skyla – Europe
• TUI Al Horeya – Africa
• TUI Bahareya – Africa
• TUI Alma – Europe, brand new for 2026
• TUI Ria – Europe, joining in 2026

Most of the fleet has been taken on by TUI and given extensive renovation to offer the best cruises possible, but TUI Alma will be the first brand-new ship built exclusively for the fleet.

TUI River Cruise Ships Accommodation

There are several different cabin options available across the TUI fleet, including standard cabins, cabins with a French Balcony, some with a full balcony, and some suite options.

Here’s a breakdown of all the different accommodation types by ship:

There are no cabins on any of the TUI ships that are Insides – you will always have at least a view from a large window – Superior Cabins have two windows for even more light.

Most of the rooms on the ships have a French Balcony, so you don’t actually get an outdoor space you can step out onto, but you do get to have an open air view and soak in the sights and smells of your destinations.

There are a handful of cabins with a Balcony, including the option of a Balcony Suite if you cruise on TUI Al Horeya.

TUI River Cruise Ships Dining

While river cruise ships don’t have the space to have the same number of restaurants as ocean-faring vessels, you aren’t stuck with just one choice, regardless of the ship you choose. Each has at least two dining options to enjoy, and most have three.

Each ship has a main restaurant. On Al Horeya, that’s its name, while TUI Alma has Sorriso while the other three ships have Verdastro. It offers a range of meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a mix of buffet and a la carte options.

Al Fresco is an outdoor bar area on the top deck that, when the weather permits, will serve BBQ food and snacks. Cinder, on TUI Alma, is similar but it’s designed to be open on all itineraries and has self-serve lunches every day.

The Bistro is an alternative dining venue and offers a more relaxed environment. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and again offers a range of buffet and a la carte options.

While Vinha, exclusive to TUI Alma, is designed to showcase the best of local flavours. It is only open for dinner.

TUI River Cruise Ships Entertainment

The leisure facilities and entertainment across the ships are relatively similar, though there are a couple of key differences to watch out for.

Each of the river cruise ships has a main lounge – it’s called the Observatory on most of the fleet, although TUI Alma’s lounge is called the Novo Lounge. Here, you’ll be able to grab a relaxed drink during the day, while in the evening you can enjoy the varied entertainment provided by the ship, including live music, quizzes and more.

Prefer a quieter cocktail or coffee? TUI Isla, TUI Maya and TUI Skyla all have the Club Lounge, perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks in a more peaceful spot, with a roaring digital fireplace setting the mood.

TUI Alma has a similar spot, but it’s called The Retreat. By day, it serves as the wellness centre, with exercise equipment, classes and more along with a juice bar. It then transforms at night into an intimate location for a post-dinner cocktail.

Each of the other ships has its own Wellness Centre too, with a sauna available on TUI Isla, TUI Maya and TUI Skyla. TUI Al Horeya offers spa treatments including massages, as well.

All ships also have a top deck where you can relax and enjoy a range of activities, including cornhole and even mini golf. Only TUI Alma and TUI Al Horeya have a pool, though.

TUI River Cruise Ships Destinations

The main differences between the TUI River Cruises ships are the destinations where they sail – so if you’re planning your cruise based on your itinerary, that’s more likely to be the deciding factor on which ship you book.

Final word

Honestly, the onboard experience doesn’t vary too much between the TUI ships – you’re going to have an amazing time regardless. There are subtle differences in the accommodation options and some of the onboard dining and entertainment, but it’s mainly the destination choices that separate these ships.

Remember that all your dining is included, along with drinks during meals and the tips – not a penny extra to pay across the fleet. So whichever ship you sail on, you’ll enjoy fantastic value.

Related posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises.

A TUI River Cruise along the Moselle River is a scenic journey through some of Germany’s most charming towns and historic sites.

Winding through picturesque vineyards and medieval villages, the Moselle offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and world-renowned wine regions.

While there aren’t as many itineraries to choose from with the Moselle as there are with the Rhine or Danube, it’s still a destination worth checking out. Here’s a look at some of the best ports you’ll visit on a Moselle River cruise and what you can do there.

Koblenz – A gateway to history and culture

Situated where the Moselle meets the Rhine, Koblenz is one of the most important cities along the Moselle River.

A highlight of any visit here is a trip to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which sits high above the city and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. You can reach the fortress via a cable car ride across the river, making for an unforgettable entrance.

Back in the city centre, stroll along the famous Deutsches Eck, where the two rivers meet, and explore Koblenz’s medieval Old Town, dotted with cafés, boutiques, and historical landmarks.

Traben-Trarbach – Wine tasting in a fairy-tale setting

Nestled in the heart of the Moselle Valley, Traben-Trarbach is a dream destination for wine lovers.

This small town is surrounded by steep, vineyard-covered hills and is known for its fantastic Rieslings. One of the best ways to experience the town is by visiting its many wine cellars and tasting rooms, where you can sample the region’s famous white wines.

The town also boasts a rich architectural heritage, with Art Nouveau buildings lining the riverside promenade. For a more active excursion, you can take a leisurely hike or cycle through the surrounding vineyards and forests, enjoying panoramic views at every turn.

Trier – Discovering Germany’s oldest city

As the oldest city in Germany, Trier is a must-see for history buffs.

Founded by the Romans in 16 BC, Trier is packed with ancient landmarks, including the Porta Nigra, the largest Roman city gate north of the Alps. Another highlight is the Aula Palatina, a 4th-century basilica that still stands in remarkable condition.

If Roman ruins aren’t enough, Trier is also home to impressive medieval cathedrals, including the Trier Cathedral, Germany’s oldest. Wandering through Trier’s cobbled streets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by history at every corner, making it a fascinating stop on your Moselle River cruise.

Bernkastel-Kues – A picture-perfect wine village

Bernkastel-Kues is often considered one of the prettiest towns along the Moselle River. Its half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and medieval market square make it feel like something straight out of a fairy tale.

The town is famous for its wine culture, particularly its Riesling, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to visit local wine cellars and taverns for a tasting.

For those who enjoy a bit of history, a visit to the ruins of Landshut Castle, perched above the town, offers stunning views of the valley below. The laid-back charm of Bernkastel-Kues, combined with its wine traditions, makes it a favourite for many river cruise guests.

Cochem – Castles and riverside charm

Cochem is arguably one of the most photogenic towns in the Moselle Valley. Its main attraction is the Reichsburg Castle, a striking 1,000-year-old fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town and river.

A guided tour of the castle reveals its medieval history and offers spectacular views of the surrounding vineyards.

The town itself has a lively riverside promenade, especially during its summer wine festivals in June and August.

For those seeking a more adventurous outing, nearby Bremmer Calmont, Europe’s steepest vineyard, is just south of Cochem and offers challenging but rewarding hikes with breathtaking views.

Why the Moselle River is an incredible cruise destination

The Moselle River is the ideal destination for travellers looking for a combination of serene landscapes, rich history, and exceptional wines.

The region is famous for its Riesling vineyards, which stretch along the riverbanks and offer plenty of opportunities for wine tasting. The Moselle is also known for its winding path through beautiful countryside, characterised by medieval castles, quaint villages, and scenic river bends.

One of the best things about cruising the Moselle is its smaller-scale charm. The towns you’ll visit, like Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues, feel intimate and authentic, allowing you to experience German culture in a more relaxed setting.

The river’s natural beauty, combined with its cultural and historical significance, makes it a fantastic alternative to busier European river cruises, especially for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Why choose TUI River Cruises for your Moselle adventure?

TUI River Cruises lets you enjoy the many highlights of the Moselle as part of one exceptional holiday. Their carefully curated itineraries are designed to showcase the best of the Moselle Valley, whether that’s sipping Riesling in a quaint wine village or exploring ancient Roman ruins.

TUI also provides a variety of shore excursions catering to different interests, so whether you’re a history enthusiast, wine lover, or nature fan, there’s something for everyone.

The smaller, more intimate atmosphere of TUI’s river cruise ships ensures a personal and comfortable experience, perfect for discovering the charming towns and villages of the Moselle River in style.

Of course, all Moselle cruises are Full Board Plus too, meaning your fare includes all of your food and drinks with meals too. You also won’t pay extra for flights or tips, as everything is included in the price.

With TUI, you can sit back and enjoy the sights of the Moselle, knowing that every detail of your trip is taken care of, from the exceptional onboard service to the memorable shore excursions. A TUI River Cruise on the Moselle offers a stress-free, enriching journey through one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.

Related posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises.

Sailing the Danube River with TUI River Cruises offers a variety of cultural, scenic, and historical experiences across Central and Eastern Europe.

With each stop, you’ll get the chance to explore iconic cities, ancient landmarks, and local traditions. You can wander off on your own if you want, but often the best experiences are found by booking a shore excursion.

TUI River Cruises offers a wide range of excursion opportunities in every port, suitable for all different activity levels and interests. Here I’ve picked out some of the best, but by no means are these your only options – but they do paint the picture of the variety you can enjoy!

Eat your way around Bratislava – Bratislava

This culinary experience in Bratislava combines history and gastronomy, offering a fun and interactive way to explore the city.

Your adventure starts with a walking tour of Bratislava’s Old Town, where you’ll visit top landmarks like the Presidential Palace and St Martin’s Cathedral.

The highlight of the tour is a stop at the historic Monastic Brewery, where you’ll dive into a cooking class to prepare traditional Slovak dumplings – either savoury pirohy filled with sheep’s cheese or sweet strawberry-filled ones.

Afterwards, enjoy your creations with a cold beer, a perfect way to end a day of cultural exploration.

Budapest City Tour – Budapest

A must for any first-time visitor to Budapest, this city tour ticks off all the major sights in just a few hours.

Starting with a scenic coach ride through the city, you’ll reach Castle Hill for a walking tour of this charming district, filled with museums, churches, and quaint cafés.

The main event of the tour is a visit to the 19th-century citadel, offering panoramic views over Budapest, the Parliament building, and the iconic bridges that span the Danube.

It’s an essential excursion for those looking to capture the beauty and history of Hungary’s capital.

Sound of Vienna: An Evening In Concert – Vienna

Vienna’s rich musical heritage comes alive during the Sound of Vienna concert, held in the elegant Kursalon concert hall.

As you sip on Prosecco, you’ll be transported back to the 18th and 19th centuries through the classical compositions of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss.

The 90-minute performance is an enchanting way to spend an evening in the “City of Music,” complete with a 15-minute interval to take in the atmosphere of this historic venue.

It’s a must-do for music lovers looking to immerse themselves in Vienna’s artistic legacy.

The Krusedol Monastery & Novi Sad – Novi Sad

This excursion blends history and culture with visits to two of Serbia’s key landmarks.

First, you’ll visit the Krusedol Monastery, tucked away in the scenic forests of Mount Fruska Gora.

This 15th-century monastery boasts beautiful Baroque architecture and a serene atmosphere.

The tour continues with a guided exploration of Novi Sad, where you’ll visit the Petrovaradin Fortress and stroll along the lively Zmaj Jovina street, lined with cafés and shops.

A stop for refreshments adds a nice local touch to this cultural day out.

Bavarian Boat Cruise, Beer & Baroque Town Tour – Passau

In Passau, this excursion offers a mix of river cruising, traditional Bavarian snacks, and a tour of a picturesque town.

You’ll start by boarding a wooden barge for a scenic trip along the River Inn, which forms the border between Germany and Austria.

As you drift past castles, you’ll enjoy local beer and pretzels.

Afterwards, a bus will take you to the charming Baroque town of Scharding, where pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled streets set the scene for a relaxing stroll. It’s a leisurely outing perfect for anyone who enjoys scenic boat rides and local culture.

Devin Castle with Wine-Tasting – Bratislava

This Bratislava excursion takes you to the hilltop Devin Castle, an ancient fortification with a history stretching back to the Bronze Age.

Perched on a clifftop overlooking the Danube, the castle offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

After exploring the battlements, you’ll be treated to a wine-tasting session, where you can sample three varieties of Slovakian wine paired with local snacks. This blend of history and local flavours makes it a fantastic excursion for wine lovers and history buffs alike.

Why the Danube River makes a great destination for a cruise

The Danube River is one of Europe’s most iconic waterways, weaving through ten countries and some of the continent’s most captivating cities.

From the cultural riches of Vienna and Budapest to the charming streets of Bratislava and Novi Sad, cruising the Danube offers a unique way to explore Central and Eastern Europe’s history, architecture, and landscapes.

One of the Danube’s biggest draws is its versatility. You can experience bustling capitals, tranquil monasteries, and scenic countryside all in one trip.

If you’re looking for a way to explore multiple destinations while soaking up stunning riverside scenery, a Danube River cruise is the perfect choice – and these shore excursions really bring each destination to life.

Why choose TUI River Cruises for your Danube River Cruise

TUI River Cruises offers a comprehensive way to explore the Danube, with Full Board Plus packages that ensure your meals, drinks (during those meals), and tips are taken care of.

The wide range of excursions available caters to all types of travellers, from food enthusiasts to history lovers, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

What sets TUI River Cruises apart is their attention to detail and commitment to delivering a seamless experience, from the comfort of their river cruise ships to the expertly guided shore excursions.

With TUI, you can enjoy the sights of the Danube in a relaxed and comfortable setting, knowing that everything is taken care of.

Whether it’s enjoying traditional Bavarian snacks on a riverboat or taking in a classical concert in Vienna, TUI River Cruises provides a stress-free, enriching way to discover the treasures of the Danube.

Related posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me