Compagnie du Ponant is set to target holidaymakers looking for holiday ideas around the UK from next year with the launch of a new range of trips from Portsmouth.

The French cruise operator confirmed it will position its 226-passenger expedition ship Le Diamant at the British port during July and August next year.

The vessel will offer five seven-night round trip voyages and two 12-night roundtrips from the port.

Compagnie du Ponant’s UK sales director, Claire Hancer, said: “We are delighted that by visiting the UK next year, Le Diamant is following fast in the footsteps of her sister super yacht, the new Le Boréal, which sailed out of Southampton earlier this summer.

“This gives us an ideal opportunity to showcase Le Diamant and its appeal to the UK marketplace and at the same illustrate the individuality of our ships in the fleet.”

Ms Hancer went on to explain the seven night voyages would call at locations including Dublin, Holyhead, and the Isles of Scilly - as well as St Malo in France.

In turn the 12-night voyages would also feature Scottish locations, such as Kirkwall, Leith and Portree on the Isle of Sky.

Voyages would also stop at Whitby, England.

Voyage-only fares will begin at £848 per person plus £195 port charges for seven nights. Prices for a 12-night trip Portsmouth/Portsmouth will start at £1,455 per person, plus £335pp port charges.