Fincantieri Delivers TUI’s Latest Cruise Ship: Mein Schiff Relax

On February 7, 2025, TUI Cruises celebrated the delivery of its latest cruise ship, Mein Schiff Relax, marking a notable achievement in its 16-year collaboration with the Royal Caribbean Group. This new addition represents TUI’s largest vessel to date, boasting a volume of 161,000 GT tons and being the first in its fleet to be LNG-ready.

Mein Schiff Relax is designed as a dual-fuel ship, allowing it to operate on LNG or Marine Gas Oil, with ambitions to switch to bio- or e-LNG when available. This delivery also marked TUI’s initial venture with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, departing from its long-standing partnership with Meyer Turku in Finland. The order for two new vessels was placed in July 2018, with construction starting in June 2022. The ship floated out from Fincantieri’s Monfalcone yard in November 2023 and underwent successful sea trials in October, focusing on performance and maneuverability.

The first LNG load was received in December, and this delivery follows TUI’s introduction of the first methanol-ready cruise ship, Mein Schiff 7. The Mein Schiff brand has experienced significant growth in the thriving German cruise market since its inception in 2009, beginning with a second-hand vessel from Celebrity Cruises. The Mein Schiff fleet now comprises eight ships.

With an overall length of 1,070 feet and 19 decks, Mein Schiff Relax can accommodate up to 3,984 passengers and features 1,945 passenger staterooms. The ship includes notable enhancements for relaxation, such as 14 dining venues—including a new Asian restaurant—updated spa and wellness areas, and the introduction of two-deck "freedom suites."

Environmental responsibility is a key aspect of the ship’s design, featuring catalytic converters that meet Euro 6 standards, a generative turbine to utilize heat from diesel generators, and a shore power connection for port use. Additionally, the vessel’s advanced waste treatment system converts organic waste into recyclable materials through thermal processes.

Mein Schiff Relax is set to enter service in early March, initially operating around Spain’s Canary Islands. The ship will shift to the German market by mid-2026. A unique christening ceremony is planned in Malaga, Spain, on April 9, 2025, where it will be introduced alongside fleetmates Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7 amidst celebrations featuring a gala dinner and performances. Following swiftly on the heels of Mein Schiff Relax’s launch, the introduction of Mein Schiff Flow is anticipated in August 2026.

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