The new larger ships, called Bolette and Borealis, will take over existing itineraries for Boudicca and Black Watch, when Fred Olsen resumes cruising next year.

Bolette and Borealis, which formerly sailed as Amsterdam and Rotterdam, can carry up to 1,380 and 1,404 guests, and will increase Fred Olsen’s capacity by around 30%. A deal to buy the ships was announced last month.

Peter Deer, managing director at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “I am pleased to say we are now at the stage of finalising our back in the water plans and we are very excited to be doing this with two new vessels within our fleet.

“While we are still looking at a number of options for Boudicca and Black Watch, what we do know is that they won’t resume sailing with us when we do start to cruise again.

“We know that these ships are much loved among our guests, as indeed they are by us, but it is time to evolve and look ahead to a long and bright future for Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.”

Clients who have booked cruises on Boudicca and Black Watch will have their bookings automatically transferred to Bolette or Borealis, with additional cabins to go on sale in September.