New ship Viking Venus has arrived in Portsmouth ahead of its UK summer season of cruises.

On board the 930-passenger ship was Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, who said: “We are delighted to be here. The UK government is leading the way with its sensible approach to the safe return of cruising and has helped us all put hope back on the horizon. 

“Viking was the first cruise line to suspend operations in March 2020 and, after 14 months of keeping our ships in warm lay-up, we are looking forward to ushering in this new era.”

The ship will be christened by godmother Anne Diamond, the TV personality, on 17 May.

Viking UK Managing Director Wendy Atkin-Smith said: “As a proud seafaring nation it is fitting that the UK is where Viking will restart operations globally and, with its rich naval and shipbuilding history dating back more than 800 years, we are thrilled that Portsmouth is Viking Venus’ maiden port of call, especially as it is the place Viking Venus will call home for the next two months.”

The ship will sail roundtrip from Portsmouth, calling at Liverpool, the Isles of Scilly, Falmouth and Portland.