Royal Caribbean International has extended its British Isles sailings on Anthem of the Seas due to “excellent demand from families wanting a holiday like no other this summer”.

The line will now operate domestic voyages through to October 2021, and from next month eligible international guests will also be able to set sail from Southampton, subject to the latest travel guidelines from the UK government and their country of residence.

The line has been operating five and seven-night UK cruises since last month, featuring ports of call such as Liverpool, Belfast, Kirkwall, and Glasgow. The extended season is open for bookings.

Royal Caribbean International vice-president EMEA Ben Bouldin said: “We are thrilled with the response to our Royal Caribbean holidays from the UK. Since recommencing sailings in early July, our British Isles itineraries have achieved peak guest satisfaction levels.

“Anthem of the Seas is an incredible ship and very popular with UK guests, so we have seen excellent demand from families wanting a holiday like no other this summer.

“We welcome the recent update from the UK government, which lifted advice against international cruise travel. While this marks a positive step forward in the global return of cruise, there are still complexities to navigate when calling at multiple European ports of call from the UK.

“This, coupled with the popularity of our British Isles sailings to date, has led to our decision to extend our sailings around the British Isles, and I’m delighted to welcome international guests to experience these itineraries, starting in September.”

Cruises from Southampton will depart with fully vaccinated crew and guests 18 and older. All guests must provide negative Covid-19 test results before boarding.

• Read more about Anthem of the Seas in this special shakedown cruise report, including what to expect on board, from entertainment to food.