Passau/Hanover - The German tour operator TUI has launched a riverboat on the Danube, the longest river in Central Europe.

Christened on April 4, the 126-metre-long TUI Maxima is based in Passau, in Bavaria near the Austrian border, and will make regular trips as far as the Danube delta in Romania.

After Passau, the Danube passes through Vienna, Budapest, and Belgrade on its way to the Black Sea.

TUI, headquartered in Hanover, said the boat had 90 cabins and could accommodate up to 180 passengers. Bookings can be made for four-day round trips to Vienna as well as 17-day trips to the Black Sea.

The travel season extends into the month of October.

The TUI Maxima has been plying European rivers since 2003, previously under the name Maxima. The boat was remodelled for TUI. All of its cabins, which are just under 16 square metres in size, are outside. Most of them have a French balcony. Amenities include a restaurant, library, and fitness area with a sauna and whirlpool.

TUI aims to become more involved in cruises with its own vessels.

In 2009, TUI Cruises will launch its first oceangoing ship. A company spokeswoman said additional riverboats were not planned at this time. (dpa)