TUI Group's Chief Executive Officer, Sebastian Ebel, announced during the company's Capital Markets Day on March 25th that the organization is actively engaged in discussions with shipyards to commission two newbuild vessels for its UK-based subsidiary Marella Cruises.
This initiative aims to address the aging profile of the current fleet and enhance offerings tailored to the British market.
Ebel highlighted that European shipyards are presently at full capacity, with newbuild slots unavailable until at least 2031. Consequently, TUI is evaluating potential partnerships and joint venture opportunities to facilitate the construction of these vessels. The proposed ships would be specifically designed to cater to the preferences and expectations of UK clientele.
Currently, Marella operates a fleet of five ocean vessels, each accommodating fewer than 2,000 passengers. The introduction of new vessels is anticipated to modernize the fleet and potentially expand passenger capacity.
During Capital Markets Day, Ebel elaborated on TUI's strategic vision to transform from a traditional tour operator into a 'global curated leisure marketplace.' While emphasizing plans for international expansion, he reaffirmed the UK's status as the company's largest individual market. Ebel also noted a positive trend in bookings through third-party retailers, which have risen to 7% of TUI's total UK business, with expectations for continued growth. Additionally, he underscored the company's focus on enhancing sales via its mobile application, currently accounting for 12% of UK bookings, and identified significant growth potential in the dynamic packaging sector, which presently represents 20% of UK sales.
David Schelp (TUI's CEO of Markets and Airlines) commented on the opportunities within the UK market, particularly in the dynamic packaging segment. He cited TUI's recent collaboration with Ryanair as a strategic move to expand offerings in city breaks and 'semi-beach' destinations, such as Venice.
These developments reflect TUI Group's commitment to fleet modernization and strategic growth, with a focus on enhancing its presence in the UK market through tailored cruise offerings and diversified travel products.