Ship review: Tui Aria

Overview: Tui Aria is the largest ship in the Tui River Cruises fleet, with capacity for 190 passengers. The adult-only vessel is the first to offer a pool and sauna, and has sleek, light and contemporary decor.

It will spend its debut season sailing six to nine-night itineraries on the Rhine and Moselle rivers from Frankfurt and Amsterdam.

Cabins: There are 96 cabins in four categories: Single, Standard, Superior and Superior French Balcony. All Single Cabins are on deck one and, at 15sq m, are the same size as Superior Cabins; first deck cabins come with a porthole or picture window.

I stayed in a Superior French Balcony Cabin that was very spacious, with room for a double bed, table and two chairs, a desk and plenty of storage.

Coat hooks by the door were so well styled they could be mistaken for a work of art, while the large bathroom also had the feel of a modern spa.

Food and drink: Reflections is a new multipurpose venue comprising a large pool with accompanying sauna alongside an intimate dining and bar venue.

It’s an elegant, peaceful space with a retractable roof so it can be used in all weathers, though it must be pre-booked. It was my standout venue thanks to the relaxing views, the decor, range of signature cocktails and a dining menu inspired by Italian antipasti.

Meanwhile, Verdastro and the Observatory are returning favourites. The former offers à la carte or buffet for breakfast and lunch, and a more formal multicourse dinner with both local and international dishes, flexible dining times and an open seating policy.