Collins has more than 20 years’ experience in the shipping and travel industry and will join the board in addition to her role as chief executive of ferry company Red Funnel.

She also spent 16 years in a number of operational and management roles at Condor Ferries, having started her career as a cadet in the Merchant Navy.

The appointment follows the resumption of Saga Cruises earlier this year and the launch of Saga’s new boutique cruise ship Spirit of Adventure in July.
  
Collins will replace Tom Allan on the board of Saga Cruises, who will be retiring in the new year after serving ten years in the role.
 
She said: "I am proud to join Saga at such an exciting time in its journey and I look forward to working collaboratively with the cruise board as it continues to transform its business and provide world-class cruising which exceeds every guest’s expectation, every time they travel."