Crew members are set to rejoin the cruise ships Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 in Cape Town and Malta, as both ships make their way back to Europe following weeks of disruption in the Middle East. During the conflict, the majority of crew were repatriated, leaving the vessels operating with minimal manning while stranded in the region. Now, as the ships reposition toward the Mediterranean, a full crew rebuild is underway to support the restart of regular cruise operations. This is a turning point after nearly two months of uncertainty for the crew who were waiting to join the ships once again.

After successfully passing the strait of Hormuz, both ships are now sailing toward the Mediterranean via a repositioning route around Africa. The move is a major step toward restoring normal operations after a prolonged period of uncertainty that saw multiple cruise ships canceling voyages.

As part of the transition back to service, crew will gradually return onboard in key ports, while preparations are underway to bring both vessels back to full operational readiness. Once completed, Mein Schiff 4 is scheduled to resume cruises from Trieste starting May 17, while Mein Schiff 5 is expected to restart operations from Heraklion on May 15. Previously canceled voyages are now being reinstated.

The past several weeks have been described by TUI Cruises, as an unprecedented challenge. Wybcke Meier praised the professionalism and resilience of both shipboard and shoreside teams, highlighting the effort required to navigate the crisis and prepare for a full return to service.

Captains from both vessels have also shared messages of appreciation. Captain Jan Fortun reflected on nearly two months of difficult conditions, calling it an experience that will stay with the crew for a long time. Meanwhile, Captain Ioannis Anastasiou confirmed the ships have now exited the Persian Gulf and are heading back to safer waters, expressing hope for a return to normal cruise operations.