First look: Saga’s new ship

Saga has released images of its forthcoming purpose-built ship, due in 2019. Carrying fewer than 1,000 passengers, the as yet unnamed vessel will benefit from single-sitting dining with numerous speciality restaurants, both indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and a selection of bars.

Every cabin will also have a balcony, while 15 per cent of rooms will be for solo travellers.

The double-tiered dining room and vast central atrium give the ship a sophisticated look in what is an exciting move for the company. SMC, the agency responsible for Viking’s much-heralded class of ocean ships, is pioneering the design.

David Pickett, Saga’s new build director, said: “A huge amount of thought and detail has gone into the design and construction. We’ve just finalised the sizes of the restaurants and the theatre. The designs of the stunning balcony cabins are also being finalised. The whole ship certainly has the ‘wow’ factor.”

Andy Yuill, managing director of SMC, added: “I think people are going to be surprised by what Saga will deliver with this ship – expect the unexpected! We are maintaining the best bits of the existing brand, but introducing new and unexpected elements. It’s a ship built for a British company, with the customers at the forefront.”