A stunning new cruise shop which is kitted out with more than 1,000 cabins was spotted sailing off the coast of Southend this morning. 

The Valiant Lady forms part of Virgin Voyages' fleet and is on its maiden tour of the UK. 

Echo camera club member Graham Mee captured the moment the ship sailed along the Thames earlier today, with the iconic Southend Pier at the centre of the shot.

The ship is heading to Tilbury as part of a tour of the country which also includes a trip to Liverpool. 

Her first major voyage will take place in March and see her sail from Portsmouth to Barcelona - which will be her main home. 

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She will travel around the Mediterranean and visit popular tourist hotspots such as Mallorca and Ibiza.

The Valiant Lady features an impressive 1,330 cabins and has two luxury suites that boast their own turntables and a private hot tub.

Most of the cabins come with their own balconies and sea views. 

Speaking to Virgin Voyages website last month, the firm's CEO Tom McAlpin said: “Following the success of our first lady ship, Scarlet Lady, we are so excited to debut Valiant Lady to the UK this March and begin our European tour.

"The lifting of UK travel restrictions has already shown promising signs with 70% uplift in bookings since December – and we can’t wait to welcome sailors on board."