Celebrity Cruises has said it has received a “phenomenal response” from guests for its UK cruises departing this summer.

Celebrity Silhouette – which had an extensive refit last year – will set sail from Southampton from 3 July for six to eight-night itineraries.

Guests will have the chance to explore Portland, Inverness, Kirkwall, Glasgow, Belfast and Liverpool.

All guests aged 18 and over must be vaccinated against Covid-19, while those under the age of 18 will need a negative PCR test result.

The line said upper suite categories are proving particular, with “holidaymakers look to make the most of their precious time away”.

Additional sailings on Celebrity Silhouette are due to go on sale on 12 April.

Celebrity Cruises vice-president and managing director EMEA Jo Rzymowska said:“We’ve seen extraordinary demand so far for bookings for Celebrity Silhouette, particularly our first cruises out of Southampton, as holidaymakers are just as keen for a return to cruising as we are.

“The popularity of Silhouette’s revitalised suites combined with the unique appeal of The Retreat is proving an enticing proposition as family and friends reunite to really make the most of a luxury staycation this summer.

“With additional summer sailings opening on Celebrity Silhouette from 12 April, there is even more choice for our British guests this summer, and we can’t wait to welcome them back on board.”

Celebrity said it had seen “huge support from travel partners” for its UK cruises, with the “opportunity to pre-register customer interest as a key driver for success”.

Celebrity has also launched a podcast series to educate and inspire travel agents. The monthly ‘Conversations with Celebrity’ podcast will provide the latest news and selling tips.