Marella Cruises Delayed as TUI Cruises Takes Over Planned New Ships

Marella Cruises will have to wait longer than expected to expand its fleet after two shipbuilding slots originally reserved for the brand were reassigned within the TUI Group. The decision was confirmed by TUI AG on September 29, 2025, marking a significant shift in the company’s fleet development strategy. The ships had initially been scheduled for delivery in 2031 and 2033 and were expected to represent a major milestone for the cruise line.

The two vessels were first announced in March 2025 as part of an agreement between TUI AG and the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. At the time, the project was presented as the first-ever newbuild program for Marella Cruises, signaling a new chapter for the brand. However, the company has since decided to reassign the shipbuilding slots to its German sister brand, TUI Cruises, which is planning to construct larger vessels that better fit its long-term fleet strategy and operational needs.

According to the group, the shipyard slots initially announced on March 31, 2025, were formally released by Marella Cruises and later secured by TUI Cruises through new contracts for bigger ships. The financial deposit previously paid by Marella to Fincantieri will be refunded. Despite the change in plans, the company emphasized that Marella’s operations will continue without disruption.

The group also confirmed that Marella Cruises will continue working closely with TUI’s UK tour operator business and its airline services, maintaining its existing operating structure. For now, the cruise line will rely on its current fleet while awaiting future development opportunities.

The cancelled project had been valued at more than €2 billion and was intended to help modernize Marella’s fleet of refurbished ships, including Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, and Marella Voyager. The proposed new vessels were designed with the British market in mind and were expected to feature environmentally conscious technology, refined interior design, and spacious accommodations. Meanwhile, the larger ships ordered for TUI Cruises are now projected to be delivered by September 30 in both 2031 and 2033.