TUI River Cruises has marked the launch of its second River Nile vessel, TUI Bahareya, with a blessing ceremony in Luxor that signalled the start of the ship’s maiden voyage.

Held onboard the ship, the event featured a traditional Prayer to Hapi, the ancient Egyptian god of the Nile, intended to bless the vessel with safe and prosperous journeys. 

The ship’s pool was decorated with rose petals and LED candles for the occasion, while guests received locally sourced alabaster plaques engraved to commemorate the ship’s first season.

The evening featured a range of performances and entertainment, including canapés and cocktails, Whirling Dervish dancers, a saxophonist, and live music from the TUI River Cruises entertainment team.

TUI Bahareya (meaning the northern Oases in Arabic) is the company’s second vessel on the Nile following the introduction of TUI Al Horeya. With two vessels now operating in the region, the line will offer a pair of seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip itineraries from Luxor.

Designed to accommodate 142 passengers, TUI Bahareya has 72 cabins, including French Balcony and Superior French Balcony categories. The ship’s interior features modern Arabic-inspired décor across its new venues, combining regional cultural influences with contemporary design elements. 

Guests can enjoy panoramic lounges, a sun deck with pool, and locally influenced dining venues.

Belhanna restaurant

Sofra lounge

TUI Bahareya

Each venue onboard has been designed to reflect aspects of Egyptian art and architecture, while onboard licenced Egyptologists will provide insight into the destinations visited throughout each sailing.

“The maiden voyage of TUI Bahareya marks a significant addition to the TUI River Cruises fleet,” said Katy Berzins, Head of TUI River Cruises. “After a successful first winter season for TUI Al Horeya, we’re pleased to be launching the second ship on the River Nile, allowing more river cruisers to experience the wonders in Egypt.”

TUI Bahareya will operate a seven-night Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs itinerary, a round-trip sailing from Luxor that calls at Kom Ombo, Aswan, and Edfu before returning to Luxor. This cruise includes excursions to iconic sites like the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and Edfu’s Temple of Horus, all guided by an Egyptologist.

The expansion of TUI River Cruises’ Nile fleet comes amid growing interest in Egyptian river cruises, with Viking, Abercrombie & Kent, and Travelmarvel all expanding their Nile River fleets.