What’s New With Thomson?

Over the last couple of years Thomson or (as they will soon be re-branded), TUI have begun to take this cruising malarkey pretty seriously. Some of us may be old enough to remember back in the last century the Sapphire, Topaz and the Emerald ships being introduced in the 1990’s, but did you know that Thomson’s first foray in to cruising started in the early 70’s with the SS Ithaca followed by the SS Calypso? This venture was short lived starting in 1973 and ending in 1976 due to rising fuel costs.

Now they are slowly modernising their fleet with the TUI Discovery and TUI Discovery 2 (both ex royal Caribbean ships, the Splendour and Legend of the Seas respectively) joining the company recently and enjoying a contemporary makeover. To follow is the TUI Explorer which started life with Celebrity cruses in 1996 and is currently operating in the German market as Mein Schiff plus the yet to be named ship which is currently sailing as the Mein Schiff 2, another ex-Celebrity ship. These ships will be refurbished to a modern standard and all 4 will operate as all inclusive cruises whilst the other ships in the fleet are based as full board, although you can often catch an early booking offer that includes the drinks package.

TUI Explorer is set to boast 10 dining venues, including a taster menu style restaurant which will be a new concept for the cruise line.

Thomson have always received great feedback about their entertainment and for the 2 newest ships there will be a U.K. based production and entertainment company  providing all entertainment on board both ships. Like with sister ships the TUI Discovery 1 & 2, the new ships will incorporate high-tech entertainment, such as virtual reality experiences and interactive screens.

British actor Larry Lamb (star of Gavin & Stacey and Eastender’s amongst other things) has been recruited to film promotional videos for the cruise line, concentrating on the social aspect of cruising, meeting people both on the ship and ashore.

The future is definitely looking rosy for Thomson or Tui or whatever you’d like to call them. When they offer 22 regional departure airports, include tips and often free drinks it’s no wonder they are getting more popular. You can read some recent reviews by clicking here and to see the latest deals click here.