Viking will launch a new vessel in 2019 in response to growing demand on one of its most popular river cruise itineraries.

Hosting 106 passengers, the ship – designed for the Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary – will be smaller than the original Viking Longships, while still including features such as the Aquavit Terrace and a wide variety of staterooms.

The cruise line has also opened bookings for 2020 sailings on the 10-day cruise, which includes an overnight hotel stay in Lisbon and a trip through the Douro Valley, for a starting price of £1,345pp. This includes all onboard meals and drinks, return flights from the UK and one shore excursion at each port.

Wendy Atkin-Smith, managing director Viking UK, said: “The popularity of the Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary means many of our staterooms for 2018 and 2019 have already sold out.

“Now, with a brand-new ship and early release of our 2020 sailings, we’re very excited to be able to give our guests more of what they love most.”

Viking will operate a total of 69 river vessels in 2019.