Trip.com Group takes majority stake in cruise specialist e-hoi
The Frankfurt-based company will retain its brands, offices and leadership while operating independently within the travel group.
Trip.com Group acquired a majority stake in Frankfurt-based cruise specialist e-hoi in a transaction completed on September 4, 2026. The purchase price and other financial terms were not disclosed.
According to e-hoi’s announcement, founder and chief executive Detlev Schäferjohann will remain a shareholder and continue leading the company alongside managing director Nicolay Merkt. E-hoi will operate independently within Trip.com Group, retaining its brands, European offices, management and teams. Existing bookings, services, contacts and processes for customers and commercial partners are expected to continue unchanged.
Founded in 2003, e-hoi sells and organizes ocean and river cruises through online travel agency and tour operator businesses. It operates in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Belgium, Portugal and France.
The companies said the acquisition will combine e-hoi’s European cruise operations with Trip.com Group’s international reach and technology. They plan to explore improvements to cruise products, services and the online customer journey.
The transaction comes as ocean cruise passenger volumes continue to rise. Cruise Lines International Association reported 37.2 million ocean-going cruise passengers in 2025, an increase of 7.5% from the previous year.