Royal Caribbean forms J/V for German cruise market

OSLO, Dec 10 (Reuters) - U.S.-Norwegian cruise group Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL.OL) (RCL.N) and Germany's TUI AG (TUIGn.DE) will form a new joint venture to serve the German market, the companies said.

"The new company, TUI Cruises, will begin service with one ship, in early 2009, and grow quickly with two newbuilds planned for 2011 and 2012," they said in a joint statement.

Sales and marketing for the 50/50 venture will begin earlier in spring 2008, the companies said.

(Reporting by Aasa Christine Stoltz)