KfW IPEX-Bank says it is one of three lenders offering cash to help pay for the Mein Schiff 7 and Mein Schiff 8 that were ordered earlier this month.

UniCredit is also part of the facility, along with a third bank that has not been disclosed.

The latest newbuildings will replace the first two vessels in the Mein Schiff series following delivery in 2018 and 2019 as part of the owner’s fleet renewal programme.

As TradeWinds reported in early July, the 1,900-berth Mein Schiff 1 (built 1996) and Mein Schiff 2 (built 1997), will head to UK sister operation Thomson.

TUI Cruises latest newbuildings are were initially options on an order for two vessels placed last year.

Its four-ship programme at Meyer Turku is priced at $2.7bn.