Royal Caribbean cruise ship to sail year-round from UK

Independence of the Seas, one of the world's largest cruise ships, is due to sail on its inaugural journey in the winter next year.

The cruise ship has capacity for over 4,000 passengers and will be based year-round in southampton from from April 2010.

Cruise itineraries for winters of 2010 and 2011 include the Mediterranean and Canary Islands and go on sale on June 1, ranging between 11 to 18-night durations.

Prices for an inside cabin on an 11-night Winter Sun voyage to the Canary Islands start at £799 per person sharing a room. An 18-night sailing trip to the Med costs at least £999 along the same vein.

Independence of the Seas is expected to bring in £50 million worth of beneficial economic impact as it runs its schedule of 36 sailings a year with over 3,600 passengers each time.

UK and Ireland vice-president and managing director Robin Shaw said: "Royal Caribbean International is committed to continuing to grow its presence in the British and Irish markets.

"When Independence of the Seas first sailed from the UK it was one of the best performing ships in the fleet.

"The 2009 return of the ship has been equally successful due to the fantastic array of activity, entertainment and facilities onboard, and the enormous support we receive from our trade partners.

"It is great news that Independence of the Seas will call Southampton home for the long term and means that we firmly cement our position as one of the leading players in the UK cruise industry."