Marella Cruises, which is part of the TUI AG group, said it would operate domestic cruises in the UK on two ships.

Marella Explorer will set sail from Southampton on UK itineraries from June 25, sailing to new ports of call including, Belfast, Dublin and Liverpool. 

Marella Explorer 2, the cruise lines adult only ship, will also offer UK sailings from Newcastle from Saturday 10 July, with even more UK ports of call. Newcastle sailings will go on sale by the end of this month.  

 The company said Marella Explorer will sail seven new UK itineraries during the summer season perfect for those looking to explore via sea the history and culture of some amazing British cities and towns. All itineraries will have recommended excursions from our onboard destination services team to offer guests options to make the most of their time ashore.  

"Sail the South Coast itinerary is a great taster and for those new to cruising with a three-night itinerary from Southampton, visiting Dover for Canterbury Cathedral and Portland for the beautiful Abbotsbury Swannery & Gardens. Cruisers looking for a longer break can experience the new Sail the Irish Sea. Departing in August from Southampton, it will visit popular cities including Liverpool, Dublin and Cobh in the Republic of Ireland," Marella Cruises said. 

Anyone aged 18-years and older will be required to have had both COVID-19 jabs at least seven days before travelling. All under 18-year-olds, excluding infants under the age of two who will not be able to sail as they are exempt from testing, will be asked to have a lateral flow test. 

All guests must also provide proof of a negative lateral flow test before boarding the ships at the start of the cruise, the company said.