12 Years of Mein Schiff 3: Anniversary Cruise to the North Cape

Bild von Herbert Aust auf Pixabay
Today, Friday, June 12, 2026, Mein Schiff 3 celebrates its 12th anniversary in service. Exactly on this day in 2014, the vessel was officially christened in the Port of Hamburg. The event entered German cruise history under the motto "Diamond meets Pearl". Pop icon Helene Fischer served as the godmother, floating alongside the hull on a giant balloon to smash the traditional champagne bottle against the bow. The celebrations concluded that evening with a public concert at the St. Pauli Fish Market for tens of thousands of fans, accompanied by fireworks over the Elbe River.

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Mein Schiff 3 is spending its birthday during the Northern European summer season on a relaxing day at sea. The vessel is currently operating a 12-day itinerary titled "Norway's Fjords and the North Cape", which departed from Bremerhaven on June 9. Transiting from the Norwegian fjord town of Molde toward the Arctic city of Tromsø, this sea day provides passengers with the perfect opportunity to enjoy the anniversary under the "Premium All-Inclusive" onboard concept.

The ship's commissioning in 2014 marked a strategic milestone for TUI Cruises. While the brand's first two vessels were converted older ships, Mein Schiff 3 was the company's very first custom-built newbuild. This prototype introduced structural innovations that remain brand signatures today, such as the "Great Diamond"—a 167-square-meter glass facade spanning two decks at the stern—and the 25-meter outdoor sports pool. The vessel also established a comprehensive family framework with dedicated youth lounges.