TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises have won approval from Europe anti-trust authorities for their joint venture cruise line.
TUI Cruises will target the German market and be based in Hamburg with the first ship due to be launched in May next year.
Details of the brand’s first ship and the cruise offering will be revealed when the company is established, TUI said.
TUI Cruises will be formally founded at the end of the month, with each company having a half share in the venture.
The brand’s chief executive Richard Vogel said: “TUI Cruises will not only expand the current cruise offering but also provide a real alternative in the premium market.â€
by Phil Davies
