Viking Saturn: I toured an exclusive cruise ship in Portsmouth and was blown away by the lavish interior

I was invited on board the ship yesterday after it docked at Portsmouth International Port for the first time yesterday morning, being greeted with a glass of champagne. Captain Anders Steen spoke whole-heartedly about the care and attention provided to the ship’s guests.

After the traditional plaque exchange to mark the historic visit, I was whisked along a tour which showed what the 745 foot vessel had to offer. It didn’t disappoint. Guests were living in cabins of sumptuous comfort.

A huge swimming pool dominated one of the rooms, large enough for dozens of people to be in the water at once. Everything felt open, spacious and steeped in luxury. I wasn’t surprised to find out the most expensive package for the Trade Routes Of The Middle Ages voyage in August - sailing between Bergen and Barcelona - costs £17,980.

Nordic mythology and imagery was scattered across the ship, but not in an audacious way: nodding to the ship’s Norwegian heritage. This was particularly noticeable in the Nordic Spa, where guests could relax in the warm pools but also sit in the Snow Grotto. Yes, you read that right, an actual grotto with seats made of ice which looked like something you would picture in a childhood dream about Lapland and Christmas.

I was blown away. Everything you could think of was there. A fitness centre complete with exercise bikes and other gym equipment. Various bars and restaurants with all sorts of cuisine on offer. Shops with boutique jewellery and designer watches. A hair salon so visitors can look their best when they stop off and explore the cities they visit.

They even had a traditional drawing room where holidaymakers could relax, unwind, and look at the glorious views out to see. My only criticism was that we could not stay longer. Viking Saturn and other small ships in the Viking line are meant to be exclusive.

With its capacity of 930 guests, there is roughly two staff members per visitor on board. Their needs are catered to in a pleasant but not overbearing way, as they’re given the freedom to look around the ship and any destination on the itinerary. Visitors to Portsmouth got chance to explore our city, or flock to places further afield such as Stonehenge, Winchester Cathedral and London. Holidays on board really would be a once in a lifetime experience for anyone, and I only caught a glimpse of it. Maybe one day I’ll return.