The newest in the company's fleet of six vessels, Seven Seas Voyager, which entered service in April, was in port for the start of a round-Britain cruise for mainly American passengers.

Operators Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, which has its British base in Canute Road, Southampton, says that UK bookings are already up 95 per cent compared with 2002.

The ultra-luxurious six-star-rated vessel accommodates up to 700 guests all in en-suite staterooms with balconies.

In one of the four separate restaurants on board the ship passengers are able to look into the galley and watch the team of chefs prepare meals.