There has been a growing trend for travellers looking for more intimate and personal holiday experiences.

To cater to this trend within the cruising sector, there has been a steady rise in the number of small ship vessels being launched, which offer a more personal cruise experience, along with destination-focused itineraries and the option to dock in smaller ports which larger vessels simply cannot reach.

Case in point is Saga. This year marks a significant turning point for the cruise line as it retires two of its main vessels to make way for its first-ever all-balcony cabin sister ships, the 999-passenger Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, the first of which sets sail this July while the latter will follow in summer 2020.

For when it comes to luxury cruising, Saga is of the opinion the smaller the better. Beautifully boutique, its exclusive sister ships, Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, will offer a uniquely British way to cruise to a range of destinations.

On-board, guests can expect all of the high-end, state-of-the-art features you would expect from a large cruise liner, while still retaining the intimate feel of a small ship. These facilities include five world-class free-to-dine restaurants, a tiered theatre, wraparound promenade and luxurious spa. Every guest will also be given access to their own private balcony.

There will be elegant lounges and stylish venues where live music and shows take place every evening, as well as cosy corners and convivial bars for relaxing and meeting friends for drinks.

In terms of entertainment, Saga has announced that Jools Holland will be the face of an exciting new venue aboard Spirit of Discovery. Recalling the famous music lounges of the 1950s and rivalling the world’s best supper clubs, Jools and his band will be playing live on several cruises while guests enjoy cocktails and dinner. Among the delicious dishes on offer, you can look forward to Cornish crab cakes, grilled half lobster and surf ‘n’ turf, to name a few.

Every Saga boutique cruise includes:

• A return chauffeur service up to 250 miles from the port
• Every cabin has a balcony
• Speciality dining in a choice of restaurants
• Unlimited drinks on all Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure 2020 cruises
• Wine with lunch and dinner on 2019 sailings
• 24-hour room service
• All on-board gratuities
• Free Wi-Fi
• Porterage at the port

New dates for Jools Holland cruises to be released 23 April 2019, saga.co.uk