Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Mein-Schiff-5

Title: TUI's Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 Set Sail with Minimal Crew Ahead of Summer Restart Content: As anticipation builds for the return of cruise travel in Europe, TUI's 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' are currently navigating the seas with a significantly reduced crew. Scheduled to welcome guests back in early May, these vessels are operating with just a skeleton crew onboard. The 'Mein Schiff 4', typically staffed by around 900 crew members, is now sailing with only 59 essential personnel tasked with maintaining crucial operations. While many ships find themselves repositioning through the Suez Canal, the TUI fleet is taking a unique route, sailing around Africa. The 'Mein Schiff 5' is projected to arrive in Cape Town on April 28, closely followed by the 'Mein Schiff 4', which has an estimated time of arrival (ETA) of April 29. Come mid-May, both ships are set to resume service in the Eastern Mediterranean, marking the beginning of a vibrant summer season in the region. The 'Mein Schiff 4' will embark on itineraries from Italy to the beautiful shores of the Adriatic Sea, while the 'Mein Schiff 5' departs from Greece, offering exciting journeys to the Aegean Sea, Malta, and Egypt.

**Title: Cruise Ships Set to Resume Operations in May 2026** **Content:** The cruise industry is poised for a vibrant return this May, with several ships ready to embark on their highly anticipated summer voyages. On May 15, the 'Mein Schiff 5,' operated by TUI Cruises, will kick off its summer schedule in the stunning Eastern Mediterranean, departing from Heraklion. Excitement is building as crew members prepare to reunite with the 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' in Cape Town and Malta to ensure smooth sailing ahead. Just two days later, on May 17, the 'Mein Schiff 4' will set sail from Trieste, establishing its base for captivating Adriatic cruises. The logistical planning for these two vessels has been intricate, as the southern passage around Africa will take over three weeks and require several crucial stops along the way. Meanwhile, MSC Cruises' 'MSC Euribia' is on track for a more extended journey as it prepares for its operations to commence on May 16 in Kiel. This vessel is set to begin its summer itinerary, albeit two weeks later than planned, charting a scenic route to the breathtaking Norwegian fjords from Kiel and Copenhagen. In a notable move, Celestyal Cruises is currently repositioning its fleet from the Middle East back to the Mediterranean. As the ships have switched off their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), it remains unclear whether they are traversing the Red Sea and the Suez Canal or navigating south around Africa. The last known destination for the 'Celestyal Discovery' pointed towards the Suez Canal, while the 'Celestyal Journey' seems to be heading for Cape Town. However, all scheduled voyages remain confirmed for operation. This means that the 'Celestyal Discovery' is set to commence its voyages on May 22 from Lavrion, and the 'Celestyal Journey' will kick off its adventures a day later, on May 23, from Piraeus. In terms of regional developments, the 'Aroya,' a cruise vessel operated by Aroya Cruises, marked its exit from the Persian Gulf. The ship is anticipated to arrive in Jeddah on April 27, after navigating the challenging Yemeni coastline. If the schedule proceeds smoothly, 'Aroya' will be ready to receive guests starting May 14 in the bustling port of Jeddah. **Here’s a quick glance at the upcoming cruise ship launch dates:** - **May 14, 2026:** Aroya (Aroya Cruises) in Jeddah - **May 15, 2026:** Mein Schiff 5 (TUI Cruises) in Heraklion - **May 16, 2026:** MSC Euribia (MSC Cruises) in Kiel - **May 17, 2026:** Mein Schiff 4 (TUI Cruises) in Trieste - **May 22, 2026:** Celestyal Discovery in Lavrion/Athens - **May 23, 2026:** Celestyal Journey in Piraeus/Athens As the cruise industry revitalizes, passengers can look forward to an exciting and unforgettable summer of exploration and adventure on the high seas!

**Title: Resumption of Cancelled Cruises as 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' Navigate Back to Regular Routes** In a positive development for cruise enthusiasts, TUI Cruises will be reinstating previously cancelled sailings on the 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5.' Both vessels have successfully departed from their Orient assignments and are now en route to Cape Town, with an expected arrival on April 28. This shift allows them to resume their standard itineraries as planned. The reinstated sailings include the 'Mein Schiff 4,' which is scheduled to set sail from Trieste on May 17, and the 'Mein Schiff 5,' departing from Heraklion on May 15, 2026. TUI Cruises expressed enthusiasm over the swift return of these two ships to regular operations, enabling a complete deployment of their fleet. As part of the ongoing repositioning effort, crew members will rejoin the vessels in Cape Town and Malta. Preparations are in full swing to ensure the ships are ready to welcome guests back aboard as per the revised schedule, bringing travelers back to the beautiful ports of Trieste and Heraklion.

**Title: TUI Ships Set Course for Cape Town** In an exciting update for maritime enthusiasts, TUI Cruises’ 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' are making their way southward around the African coastline following their successful transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Scheduled to arrive in Cape Town on April 28, these two vessels plan to dock temporarily before heading to the Mediterranean at the end of April. After spending several days traversing the Indian Ocean, both ships are expected to refuel, restock supplies, and welcome new crew members upon reaching South Africa. Currently, for safety reasons, the TUI Cruises fleet is operating with a minimal crew aboard. On the evening of April 18, TUI Cruises confirmed their safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, expressing gratitude to their captains, crew, and all individuals who facilitated this journey with exceptional professionalism and caution. Their focus is now on advancing to the Mediterranean at the earliest opportunity. Additional details regarding the updated sailing schedule will be released soon as arrangements are finalized. It is noteworthy that a series of cruises aboard the 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' were unfortunately canceled a couple of months ago due to the unfolding hostilities in the region. The anticipated arrival in Cape Town represents a hopeful return to normalcy for these beloved ships. Stay tuned for further updates!

**Title: TUI Cruises Cancels ‘A Journey for All Senses’ Departure Amid Regional Turmoil** In a significant announcement, TUI Cruises has officially cancelled the much-anticipated 19-day voyage “A Journey for All Senses,” planned aboard the 'Mein Schiff 5' and originally set to embark from Doha on March 29. This decision, made on March 17, has left many guests scrambling for new travel arrangements just days before their planned departure. Initially part of an ambitious transatlantic cruise route from the Orient to the Mediterranean, the cancellation marks a shift in TUI’s operations, having previously only scrapped the segment from Dubai to Cape Town. The ongoing regional instability related to the conflict with Iran has severely impacted the cruise line's ability to safely navigate the Strait of Hormuz. Currently, the 'Mein Schiff 5' is in a hot lay-up in Doha with a limited crew, making it untenable to proceed with the scheduled cruise. Guests who had looked forward to the journey now face the challenge of finding alternative vacation plans on short notice. The potential for the 'Mein Schiff 5' to resume passenger operations in Palma de Mallorca by April 17 remains uncertain and is closely tied to the evolving situation in the Middle East. If conditions improve and the Strait of Hormuz becomes navigable, both 'Mein Schiff 5' and its sister vessel, 'Mein Schiff 4', could swiftly depart the Persian Gulf for their summer cruising schedules. However, as of March 18, such plans remain unrealizable. As the situation continues to develop, TUI Cruises may have to consider additional cancellations in the weeks and months ahead, leaving the future of several planned journeys in limbo.

**Title: Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 Remain Grounded in Persian Gulf** The renowned cruise ships "Mein Schiff 4" and "Mein Schiff 5" are currently immobilized in the captivating waters of the Persian Gulf, as both vessels await better sailing conditions through the vital Strait of Hormuz. As the situation unfolds, most crew members have disembarked, leaving only a small team on board to ensure the ships remain operational until they can set sail again. While concerns loom over potential cancellations of upcoming voyages, TUI, the tour operator for these vessels, has confirmed that no cruises have been canceled as of yet. The planned itineraries for both ships still aim to offer exceptional travel experiences, despite the current instability in the region. The "Mein Schiff 4" is expected to welcome passengers in Cape Town this April, kicking off a scenic journey that will ultimately lead to Mallorca. Meanwhile, "Mein Schiff 5" has plans to embark on an exciting cruise to the eastern Mediterranean at the end of the same month. However, with the cruise season in the Gulf region drawing to a close, the outlook for further adventures there appears limited for the foreseeable future. Despite rising oil prices, TUI remains optimistic that these fluctuations will not significantly impact travel fares, thanks to previously secured favorable agreements. As both ships await clearance to navigate the strait, eager travelers are keeping their fingers crossed for a swift resolution that will allow them to embark on these anticipated journeys.

**Title: Successful Repatriation of TUI Guests and Crew Continues to Progress** TUI's efforts to repatriate guests and crew from the 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5' are making notable strides. As of now, the repatriation of German passengers onboard the 'Mein Schiff 4' is considered successfully completed, with a total of 13 flights returning guests and crew to Europe and their respective home countries. From Dubai, ten flights transported passengers to various German cities, including Munich, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt/Main, and Hamburg. Crew members were flown back to Manila, supported by additional flights that operated from Muscat to Frankfurt. Meanwhile, the repatriation of passengers from 'Mein Schiff 5' is also progressing well. Approximately 600 guests have successfully returned to Germany on a Saudia charter flight from Riyadh, along with overflow seats available on Qatar Airways flights from Doha. On March 10 and 11, TUI arranged two Saudia charter flights and additional flights through Sundair and LEAV Aviation, which helped over 1,200 guests from 'Mein Schiff 5' return home. By the evening of March 10 alone, five flights had successfully transported guests back, featuring four special Saudia flights from Riyadh to Munich, Frankfurt, and Cologne, and one Qatar Airways connection from Doha to Frankfurt. Looking ahead, TUI has arranged for two additional charter flights from Riyadh on March 11, expected to facilitate the return of approximately 450 more guests to Germany. TUI Cruises is actively exploring further return travel options via accessible regional airports and is maintaining close communication with airlines to maximize the repatriation of guests and crew onto available flights. In a reassuring announcement made by the captain, it was noted that by March 12 at the latest, all passengers are expected to be homeward bound, followed by the return of crew members.

**Title: Thousands of Passengers Stranded as TUI Cruises Launches Hotline Amid Ongoing Cancellations** TUI Cruises has activated a crisis management team in response to the challenging circumstances faced by passengers aboard the 'Mein Schiff 4' and 'Mein Schiff 5'. The primary focus of the cruise line is to devise effective solutions for repatriating affected guests in collaboration with their airline partners. Ongoing assessments are being made regarding alternative flight routes, including the possibility of utilizing diverted and regional airports outside directly impacted areas. To facilitate communication for family members, TUI Cruises has also introduced a dedicated hotline which began operations on March 2. This hotline can be reached daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at +49 40 60001 5403. In light of the current situation, the cruise line has announced further voyage cancellations affecting departures on the 'Mein Schiff 4' scheduled for March 1, 2, 8, and 9, as well as canceling the 'Mein Schiff 5' sailings on February 28 and March 5. Roughly 30,000 tourists under German tour operators are caught in the crisis zone or have booked flights via hubs in this region. Approximately 5,000 guests are presently on board the two ships. Recent updates indicate that restrictions on the 'Mein Schiff 5' have been relaxed, allowing for a mostly normal onboard experience. Sections of the outer decks, including Deck 12 beneath side roofs, are now accessible, although access to open areas like Deck 14 remains restricted. Passengers have been allowed disembarkation, enabling them to walk to the port terminal while adhering to applicable safety regulations. To enhance connectivity for guests, TUI is providing vouchers for 350 MB of free internet data at the reception. This initiative is aimed at ensuring passengers can maintain contact with family and friends while staying informed about the latest developments. Moreover, all restaurants and bars aboard the ships are operating on their usual schedules, offering a full range of dining options. The entertainment lineup continues as planned, featuring theatre performances, live music, quizzes, and interactive games. The ship’s sports and wellness facilities are fully operational, along with activities designed for children, teenagers, and families. Crew members are assisting travelers in sourcing essential daily necessities, such as medications, hygiene items, diapers, and baby food, through coordination with local port agencies. Passengers have been reminded to memorize their designated assembly locations and advised to avoid open decks temporarily. Several hundred pieces of luggage have successfully been returned on board, with the primary goal of organizing an orderly departure tentatively set for March 6. Airlines are making gradual progress in resuming flight operations and are reportedly engaging in coordinated efforts with TUI Cruises. The cruise line is maintaining close communication with authorities, embassies, and airline representatives to facilitate the reinstatement of travel activities. However, please note that Doha's airspace will remain closed for an additional 12 hours. Despite occasional distant sounds of drone or missile launches during the night, conditions aboard the ships remain stable, with crew members performing their duties with a “business as usual” attitude. All Middle East cruises aboard the 'Mein Schiff 4' until March 9 and on the 'Mein Schiff 5' through March 12 have been officially canceled. Furthermore, the repositioning cruise from Dubai to Cape Town scheduled for March 12 on the 'Mein Schiff 5' is also affected.

**Title: Uncertainty Looms for Thousands of Passengers Stuck at UAE Ports Amid Regional Tensions** As of March 1, the fate of passengers aboard TUI cruise ships "Mein Schiff 4" and "Mein Schiff 5," as well as the "MSC Euribia," hangs in the balance as they remain docked in ports across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. Thankfully, all passengers are safely back on board, but the next steps for their voyages are shrouded in uncertainty. The Persian Gulf has been marked by rising military tensions, with unverified reports indicating possible military strikes targeting the Iranian navy. In light of this turmoil, Iran has closed the critical Strait of Hormuz, leaving vessels stranded in the Gulf and only allowing passage for ships associated with China or Russia during the night. On this date, the nearly 2,000 travelers aboard the "Mein Schiff 4," who were due to set sail from Dubai back to Germany, found their plans abruptly altered. The ship was also set to welcome another 2,000 passengers arriving from Germany, aiming to embark on a seven-day "Magic of the Orient" cruise to Oman set to depart on March 2 at 10:30 p.m. Unfortunately, those plans have been postponed indefinitely as the situation develops. In a similar predicament, passengers aboard the "Mein Schiff 5" in Qatar have been stranded since February 28, following the conclusion of their cruise. Some travelers reached the airport only for their flights to be unexpectedly canceled, forcing them to return to the ship after ten hours of waiting. They reported receiving alerts on their smartphones about incoming missile threats, amplifying anxiety among those on board. The captain has ensured continuous communication with the German embassy and TUI, keeping passengers updated as more information is expected. Passengers have encountered considerable challenges at Doha's airport, with lengthy lines and no clear information available. Those aboard "Mein Schiff 5" were instructed to remain on the ship, leaving behind all personal belongings. Due to restrictions, they have relied on the onboard shop for basic necessities like toiletries, though reports indicate that essentials, including underwear, are now sold out. The "MSC Euribia," currently docked at Port Rashid in Dubai, was also scheduled for departure on March 1 but had its cruise canceled shortly after tensions rose in the region. Other vessels stuck in Dubai include the Saudi cruise ship "Aroya" and the Greek "Celestyal Discovery," alongside another Celestyal vessel, the "Celestyal Journey," which is docked in Qatar. Air travel for repatriation remains contingent on the reopening of airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. TUI Cruises has noted that coordination with the German Federal Foreign Office led to updated travel advisories and warnings for the region, rendering travel aboard the cruise ships inadvisable at this time. Passengers have been urged not to seek further information on their planned departures, with the cruise line stating that they cannot provide updates at this moment. Presently, all ships are to remain in port until further notice, though so far, no damage has been reported on board due to the recent Iranian attacks. Subsequently, passengers have been advised to steer clear of outdoor areas and window zones given the threat of drone and missile strikes near port facilities. Future plans indicate that the cruise ships aim to depart the Persian Gulf between late March and early April, with the "MSC Euribia" scheduling its final voyage from Dubai on April 4 before arriving in Kiel on May 2. The "Mein Schiff 4" and "Mein Schiff 5" are also set to embark on their Mediterranean summer cruises at the end of March, though their schedules currently remain uncertain.

**Title: TUI Cruises' Mein Schiff Fleet Positioned Near Attacked Military Bases** **Content:** Currently, TUI Cruises' "Mein Schiff 4" and "Mein Schiff 5" are docked close to military bases in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates that have recently fallen under attack from Iran. These two ships are in the immediate area of the incidents that targeted US bases in Abu Dhabi and Qatar. Fortunately, both vessels have managed to avoid any damage during the initial assaults. In light of the escalating security concerns, passengers aboard the "Mein Schiff 4," which is stationed in Abu Dhabi, have been restricted from disembarking. The ship's operations have been further affected, as new embarkations planned for March 1 have been canceled. Meanwhile, the "Mein Schiff 5" was set to facilitate a passenger transfer in Qatar on February 28, but those plans have also been disrupted. The situation has led to growing dissatisfaction among TUI Cruises passengers, with one traveler expressing frustration over the lack of a contingency plan. “I’m amazed that TUI Cruises doesn’t have a strategy for such emergencies, particularly since they made the choice to continue their Orient route unlike other cruise lines,” shared a passenger stranded at Doha airport. Complicating matters, some of the approximately 2,000 vacationers on these sailings found themselves in a challenging situation when their flights back to Germany were aborted shortly after takeoff due to the sudden closure of airspace, forcing the planes to return to Doha. As uncertainty looms, the travel plans of many are left hanging in the balance.

A medical emergency occurred on the 'Mein Schiff 5' on the evening of June 15 in the eastern Mediterranean, requiring an immediate disembarkation. Approximately two hours after departing from Limassol, the ship was approached by a helicopter to transport the patient to a hospital on land as quickly as possible. Ahead of the medevac, the ship had adjusted its course and slowed down so that the person could be safely handed over to the helicopter crew. The helicopter then flew directly to Cyprus for medical care on a higher level. The slight delay caused by the medevac had no further consequences for the itinerary of the 'Mein Schiff 5' which has a sea day on June 16.

The 'Mein Schiff 5' requested a medical evacuation in the port of Arrecife on Dec 3, 2024. The CCS Las Palmas of Salvamento Marítimo mobilized the SAR boat 'Salvamar Al Nair' to take the passenger off, as prescribed by the ship's doctor. He was taken to Puerto Naos-Arrecife, where an ambulance was waiting for the further transport to a hospital for medical care on a higher level.

Due to the current situation in the Red Sea, TUI Cruises has been forced to cancel the trip of the 'Mein Schiff 5' from Dubai through the Suez Canal. Instead, the ship will take a course around Africa, which means that the port of Heraklion will not be reached until June 21, 2024. Due to this background, the trips on May 23, 2024, June 7, 2024 and June 14, 2024 with the 'Mein Schiff 5' must also be canceled. Bookings will be canceled free of charge in the next few days and guests receive a travel credit with a 10% discount on the cruise share for a new booking. This credit does not have a redemption deadline and can be used flexibly. The following trips with Mein Schiff 5 are affected: 15 nights – Dubai to Heraklion / May 23 – June 7, 2024 7 nights – Eastern Mediterranean with Piraeus / June 7. – June 14, 2024 14 nights – Eastern Mediterranean with Cyprus / June 7 – June 21, 2024 7 nights – Eastern Mediterranean with Cyprus / June 14 – June 21, 2024 14 nights – Eastern Mediterranean with Cyprus & Crete / June 14 – June 28, 2024