Tauck Expands River Cruise Fleet With Two New Ships In 2027

Tauck has announced the addition of two new riverboats to its fleet in 2027, marking the largest expansion in the company’s river cruising history. Together with two ships already scheduled to launch in 2026, the four new vessels will increase Tauck’s overall river cruise capacity by 30% compared with 2025 levels. The growth is particularly significant in high-demand destinations, with capacity in France projected to rise by 50% and on Portugal’s Douro River nearly doubling.

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Responding to rising demand

The decision comes amid strong guest demand, prompting Tauck to open reservations for its 2027 season earlier than usual. According to CEO Jennifer Tombaugh, the early launch allows guests to secure preferred departures with risk-free deposits while final details are still being confirmed. She emphasized that Tauck’s “small is big” philosophy – focused on intimate, personalized experiences remains central, even as capacity expands in destinations where space is naturally limited.

Ship design and guest comfort

The new vessels reflect Tauck’s latest design philosophy, with a focus on spacious accommodations and closer connections to Europe’s landscapes. Passenger numbers will be capped at no more than 130, depending on the ship size. More than 75% of cabins will measure 225 square feet or larger, and suites of 300 square feet will be available on the upper decks. These larger accommodations will feature double French balconies, walk-in closets, and king-size beds positioned to offer uninterrupted views of the riverside scenery.

The 125-meter Seine riverboat, designed in line with the ms Serene launching in 2026, will include a Sun Deck with a pool and bar, a panoramic atrium, and Arthur’s casual dining venue at the bow. A new wellness area, The Retreat, will occupy space on the upper deck, with a fitness center, massage treatment room, and lounge space offering floor-to-ceiling river views.

On Portugal’s Douro, a smaller 80-meter vessel will join the ms Andorinha. The new ship will incorporate hydraulic systems to manage the Douro’s challenging locks, while offering 360-degree views of terraced vineyards and dramatic landscapes from Arthur’s dining venue at the stern.

For travel trade professionals, Tauck’s fleet expansion highlights both the rising demand for European river cruising and the company’s commitment to differentiated experiences. With expanded wellness offerings, destination-specific ship features, and increased capacity in sought-after markets, Tauck is positioning itself to capture growth while maintaining its focus on smaller-ship intimacy.

Reservations for 2027 cruises are already open, with deposits fully refundable until pricing and itinerary details are finalized later this year.

The article Tauck expands river cruise fleet with two new ships in 2027 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.