The major Italian shipbuilders are planning to build two new vessels for TUI's cruise line, Marella Cruises, designed specifically for the UK market. Travel agency TUI has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOA) with Fincantieri for the design and construction of two new build vessels to be delivered in 2030 and 2032.
Marella's existing fleet consists of renovated ships, marking the first new ships in the line, boasting huge cruise liners, including the Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, and Marella Voyager. Fincantieri said the ship will focus on “environmental sustainability, elegant design, high quality materials and spacious accommodation.” “We're looking forward to seeing you in the company's CEO and general manager,” said Piero Belt Forgiero.
“This agreement is a testament to Fincantieri's ability to build strategic partnerships with an expanding client base, enhance long-term visibility and ensure a high level of capacity saturation in the shipyard.”
He added: “This project brings together our expertise in ship design, innovation and sustainability to provide vessels that meet the evolving expectations of modern cruise passengers.”
Ficantieri shows in a statement on its website that the orders for the two ships will be worth more than 2 billion euros (over £1.6 billion).
The new ship will replace parts of Marella's old fleet, according to cruise critics.
In a statement, Marella Cruise said: “First ship delivery is expected for fiscal year 2031 following approval by the Supervisory Board on Sunday, following today's confirmation of slot availability by shipbuilder Fincantieri SPA. The second ship is expected to continue in 2033.”
In a post on X, Fincantieri said, “The new relationship between the two companies renewing their already strong partnership with TUI AG reaffirms their unique expertise in building increasingly cutting-edge units designed to effectively meet future challenges through innovation and sustainability.”
