The ship will come out of the water in Hamburg from November with the key refurbishment taking place in 423 cabins across the ship.

Cafes and restaurants will also be subject to improvements while bars and the Marina Cinema will also be subject to improvements.

Following Black Watch’s dry dock, the ship will recommence her cruise season from London Tilbury with a seven-night German and Danish Christmas Markets cruise, departing on December 15, 2016. 

Similar refurbishments and upgrades are expected to the rest of the Fred Olsen fleet, Balmoral, Braemar and Boudicca, in the coming years.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines managing director Mike Rodwell said: “Black Watch is one of Fred Olsen’s most popular cruise ships, and it is important that she always looks her best.

“During her 26-day dry dock in Hamburg, as well as the usual maritime inspections and maintenance work, we will also be undertaking major upgrades to the cabins and public areas throughout the ship, to ensure that we continue to provide the best facilities possible to meet our guests’ expectations.

“Our significant investment in refurbishing and upgrading Black Watch will ensure that our guests will be able to enjoy her classic looks and unique, intimate ambience for many years to come.”