Travelers who head out on a Tauck land, sea or river vacation usually come back raving about an absolutely fantastic trip. “As the world’s largest seller of Tauck, we truly know how exceptionally this travel company performs in serving our valued customers,” says Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel. “That’s why we’re excited to learn about two new Tauck river vessels sailing on France’s Seine River and Portugal’s Douro River in 2027.”
Citing “unprecedented guest demand,” Tauck says the newly ordered river vessels — coupled with two other new river ships arriving in 2026 — represent a 30 percent growth in its river cruise capacity between 2025 and 2027. That’s the highest volume increase in Tauck’s river cruising history.
In fact, the addition of the two new 2027 ships will increase capacity 50 percent in France. Capacity will nearly double on the Douro River. “These new riverboats will enable us to host more guests in these beloved regions,” explains Jennifer Tombaugh, Tauck’s CEO
With the ordering of these two new vessels, Tauck also announced its 2027 river cruise season earlier than ever before. “That will allow travelers to secure preferred departures with risk-free deposits while final details are being completed by Tauck,” says Pavlus’ Steudle. “Talk with a skilled, experienced personal travel planner to get started.”
(Shown above is the enticing pool deck of the Andorinha, a sister to the new vessel planned by Tauck for Portugal’s Douro River in 2027. Photo courtesy of Tauck.)
Next Generation: New Tauck River Ships
“The enthusiasm for our river cruising experiences has been extraordinary,” says Tombaugh. “Guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere fostered by our ‘small is big’ philosophy.” That’s particularly so in high-demand destinations like Portugal’s Douro and in France.
Essentially, Tauck limits guests to 84 to 98 on its smaller river vessels. No more than 130 guests sail aboard the tour operator’s larger vessels.
Both new ships are built to take advantage of the temperate climates and scenic beauty of Europe’s wine regions and bucolic rivers. Look for resort-style Sun Decks with swimming pools and full-service bars.
Guests will also discover sky-lit atriums, and panoramic lounges designed to maximize the connection between guests and the passing landscapes.
Accommodations-wise, more than 75 percent of the new river ship cabins will span 225 square feet or larger. Plus, potential guests will find a robust number of 300-square-foot Category 5 Tauck Suites on the Diamond (upper) Deck.
Guests in those suites will relax within roomy, airy and well-lit accommodations with double French balconies, walk-in closets and comfortable seating areas. King-size beds will be positioned so guests can enjoy views of the passing countryside.
New Tauck River Vessel on the Seine
The new 410-foot-long Seine riverboat will share the same elegant design philosophy as the 124-passenger Serene, scheduled to launch in 2026. The ship’s Sun Deck with swimming pool and bar will become the ideal outdoor space to enjoy France’s temperate climate.
Arthur‘s casual dining venue at the bow will deliver panoramic views of the Seine’s meandering waterway. The vessel will also offer the new Retreat, an expanded and innovative wellness area on the upper Diamond Deck.
In this wellness area, guests can expect abundant natural light and river views through full floor-to-ceiling windows. Here Tauck plans to offer a fitness center, massage treatment room, and comfortable lounging area, providing coffee, juice, and a snack bar.
New Tauck River Ship on the Douro
Tauck’s new 262-foot-long Douro riverboat will join sister ship Andorinha on Portugal’s Douro River. Its hydraulic systems will allow easy navigation through the Douro’s distinctive lock system.
Arthur’s casual dining venue positioned at the stern will provide guests with unobstructed 360-degree views. Guests will see lovely terraced vineyards and dramatic landscapes.
“Every detail on these new ships has been designed to elevate the guest experience while cruising along two of Europe’s most storied rivers,” says Tombaugh. Tauck’s comprehensive, all-inclusive river cruise experience ensures guests enjoy a worry-free journey as well.
Tauck Inclusions and Opportunities
What’s included in Tauck’s river cruise fare? Besides the cruise itself (covering accommodations, onboard meals and entertainment), the upfront price includes the following:
- All shore excursions
- Gratuities
- Onboard beverages (including premium wines, beers, and spirits)
- Airport transfers
- Luggage handling
- Taxes, fees and more
“So, why not get started on planning your new Tauck river cruise today, knowing that you’ll be setting sail on a superb product and possibly on one of these two new river vessels,” stresses Pavlus’ Steudle.
Desire to sail sooner — say early next spring? Then check out Tauck’s new spring air ticket offer. Or, if you desire to take a 2026 Tauck land tour, perhaps enjoying a new tour itinerary to Greece, Scotland or Scandinavia, check out the contact details below.
Important Information from Pavlus Travel
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