TUI
UK has confirmed it is to add a new ship to its fleet from spring 2005, as
exclusively reported by Travel Weekly (January 5).
Thomson
Cruises is to acquire Holland America Line’s Noordam in November and plans a
multi-million pound refit on the vessel that will see it fitted out with four
restaurants, more public areas and an Irish-themed pub. The ship, which will be
renamed Thomson Celebration, has a capacity of around 1,300.
Thomson
Cruises general manager David Selby said there was the possibility of adding
yet another ship, although would not confirm the timings of any further
announcements.
Selby
added the addition of the Celebration “set the standard for a consistently
high standard of product”.
Thomson
Celebration, like its sister ship Thomson Spirit launched last year, will
operate year-round itineraries.
Selby added the operator was still considering options
for its ageing Emerald vessel.