Viking will launch its seventh ocean ship in early 2021, the line has revealed.

The 930-guest Viking Venus will spend its maiden season sailing in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, including the British Isles Explorer, In Search of the Northern Lights, Viking Homelands, and Into the Midnight Sun itineraries.

Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said: “The spirit of exploration is at the heart of everything we do. We have always drawn inspiration from the original Viking explorers, who were the first to use the stars and constellations for long-distance navigation. Many elements on board our ships honour those Viking explorers, and we are proud to host our guests on itineraries that sail some of those historic trading routes.

“I am pleased to announce that Viking Venus will join our fleet in 2021, allowing us the ability to introduce even more travellers to the Viking way of exploration.”

Viking UK MD Wendy Atkin-Smith added: “Viking offers cruises that allow our guests to explore the world, experience destinations and learn about new cultures, all from the comfort of our small, beautifully designed, Scandinavian-inspired ships. Viking Venus will be identical to our six existing ocean ships, allowing our guests to enjoy a familiar home away from home experience wherever they choose to cruise with us.

“Demand from the UK market for our ocean cruises is very high so we would advise travellers to book as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment – especially if they would like to sail on Viking Venus in her maiden season.”

Viking will also expand its offerings in the Mediterranean with five new itineraries that include stops in Istanbul. The new eight Ancient Mediterranean Treasures will sail between Athens and Istanbul, with overnight stays in both cities.

Guests looking for an extended experience in the region can choose a longer versions of the itinerary, including the 15-day Ancient Adriatic Treasures, which sails between Venice and Istanbul.