The boutique cruise ship left her dry dock and will begin her sea trials in readiness for her maiden voyage in July.

On Sunday 12 May, Saga’s Spirit of Discovery was spotted for the first time floating out of her dry dock at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The vessel’s mast and funnel were lifted on to the ship, before she was moved to a nearby quay to undergo a series of trials in readiness for going to sea, which will begin in early June. Saga will then take delivery of the ship on 20 June and her maiden voyage will be in July.

Commenting on the new ship, Nigel Blanks, COO of Saga Cruises, said: “This is a major milestone for Saga Cruises and for the future of the Company. Spirit of Discovery has been meticulously designed for our customers and to epitomise Saga’s unique British boutique cruising concept. We’d like to thank everyone at Meyer Werft and look forward to the keel laying of Spirit of Adventure, on 3 June, as we start the construction of our next ship for the British market.”

The small, but elegant boutique ship will carry 999 guests and 523 crew around the world. Spirit of Discovery will share the same characteristics of a luxury boutique hotel, featuring sumptuous and intimate public spaces, luxurious cabins and several fine dining restaurants.

The ship has been custom-built to promote British style and excellence. The interior design was the work of UK-based agency SMC, who have brought in more than 400 pieces of original British art to showcase around the ship. A number of British suppliers, including Kent-based Hush Heath wine producers, have also been called on and will serve their produce to guests on board.

As a final tribute to her heritage, Spirit of Discovery will proudly fly the Red Ensign; established as a naval flag of royal standard in 1707, it is a historic emblem of British seafaring excellence.

Spirit of Discovery will be the first cruise ship to be named at the port of Dover for more than a decade, following the £250m redevelopment of Dover Western Docks. Arriving in Dover on 28 June, her Naming Ceremony will take place on 5 July, and her inaugural cruise, A British First, will commence on 10 July.

Saga’s second boutique ship, Spirit of Adventure, is planned to enter service in 2020.

For more information, visit saga.co.uk.