At least from the outside, My Ship Relax appears to be close to joining the TUI Cruises fleet. Considering construction began in June 2022, it’s exciting to see how far she’s come.
The Germany-based cruise line has released new photos of its eighth ship, which is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. Aside from some remaining scaffolding that might suggest otherwise, the exterior of the 4,100-guest ship looks complete.
When the 160,000 gross ton ship was successfully launched in November 2023it makes sense for all or most of the exterior work to be completed – as this is easier in dry dock. The floating ceremony commemorates the first time a new ship touches the water and leaves dry dock.
Shipyard crews are most likely in the process of completing the ship’s interior fitout – from perfecting the onboard furnishings to ensuring all operating systems are functional.
Her next major milestone will likely be sea trials, where she will prove she is suitable for sailing with paying passengers. Around the same time, nearly 1,100 crew members will board her to complete her maiden voyage.
Speaking of which, the highly anticipated maiden voyage is scheduled for March 16, 2025 and will depart round-trip from Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The 7-day voyage will visit Rome, Italy, La Spezia, Italy, Barcelona, Spain and Valencia, Spain.
During her inaugural season, she will maintain her homeport in Palma de Mallorca and will mainly offer 7- to 9-day cruises to destinations in Spain, Italy and France.
It is also possible that the small but fine cruise company could add an earlier test drive to solve all problems before the maiden voyage – as is also the case for My Ship 7 before its official launch in June this year.
Arrival of a new TUI Cruises ship with many premieres
My Ship Relax, Launched as part of a joint venture between TUI Cruises and Royal Caribbean, the ship will make history when it officially joins the TUI fleet in 2025.
First of all, enthusiastic cruise fans may have noticed that this is the first ship in the fleet with its own nameand not just a number. The previous ships, all of which were My Shipare numbered from one to seven.
She is also the first of two ships that will form the new InTUItion class. Her as yet unnamed sister ship is also under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard and is scheduled to enter service in 2026.
Read also: How long does it take to build a cruise ship?
The new class is designed to demonstrate that these are the most modern and environmentally friendly ships in the fleet and help the company move closer to its goal of being carbon neutral by 2030 while offering guests an upscale experience.
This means that the new buildings equipped with LNG-powered engines (Liquefied Natural Gas), which is a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel engines and can in future be powered by biofuel obtained from the processing of organic waste streams.
The new and improved amenities The facilities on board what will soon be the largest ship in the fleet are also likely to be the immediate focus of cruisers – particularly exciting are the theater stretching from decks 3 to 5, the wellness area on deck 15 and the pool deck with its unique shade roof.
There will also be a new atrium with panoramic windows as well as various themed restaurants, bars and lounges on board.
