TUI Cruises has announced a series of dance and literature-themed voyages for 2026 aboard its ships Mein Schiff 2, Mein Schiff 3 and Mein Schiff 6. The themed sailings are designed to combine travel with cultural and interactive experiences, giving guests the opportunity to engage with professional dancers, trainers and authors while exploring scenic destinations.
Dance Cruise Along the West African Coast
One of the highlights of the program is a dance-focused cruise aboard Mein Schiff 6, where guests will participate in workshops, training sessions and evening dance programs led by professional instructors.
The cruise will feature renowned dancer Christian Polanc, a two-time winner of the German television dance competition Let’s Dance. Polanc will guide participants through dance sessions throughout the voyage.
He will be joined by several professional trainers including:
- Holger Nitsche, a multiple world and European champion
- Werner Straßer and Michèle Straßer, Discofox world champion couple
- Matthias Gronostay, a “dancit” master trainer
- Sibylle Lepp and Oliver Lepp
- Tobias Lange and Joana Schipper
The itinerary, titled “Highlights along the West African Coast,” will sail from Las Palmas to Cape Town between October 25 and November 14, 2026. Prices start at €2,069 per person for an inside cabin under the Mein Schiff Premium inclusive service, based on double occupancy.
Reading Cruises with Renowned Authors
In addition to dance voyages, TUI Cruises will also host reading-themed cruises, where authors from different genres will lead literary discussions, readings and writing workshops.
Passengers will have opportunities to attend book readings, purchase books and participate in signing sessions with the authors.
Iceland Literary Voyage
The first reading cruise will take place aboard Mein Schiff 2, featuring authors such as:
- Tankred Lerch
- Clara Schönberg
- Florence Winter
The “Iceland’s Natural Wonders” itinerary will depart from and return to Hamburg from July 21 to August 2, 2026. The cruise is priced from €3,529 per person for a balcony cabin with the Mein Schiff Premium inclusive services under the Pro fare.
Norway-Themed Literary Cruise
Another reading cruise aboard Mein Schiff 3 will explore the Norwegian coastline while hosting several notable authors, including:
- Linus Geschke
- Volker Busch
- Sandra Beckedahl, writing under the pen names Tuva Brø and Ines Villiger
The “Enchanting Norway” itinerary will sail from and return to Bremerhaven between November 14 and November 28, 2026, with prices starting from €3,169 per person for a balcony cabin.
Growing Trend of Experience-Based Cruises
With these themed voyages, TUI Cruises continues to expand its portfolio of experience-based travel, combining cultural programs, interactive workshops and destination exploration. By integrating dance training and literary events into its cruise itineraries, the company aims to offer travelers a more immersive onboard experience beyond traditional cruising activities.
