A CRUISE ship which has been laid up in Rosyth since the coronavirus pandemic is set to embark on a new journey.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines have confirmed that MS Braemar has been sold to Villa Vie Residences who, under the new name of Villa Vie Odyssey, plan to transform the boat into a residential cruise ship complete with villas as residences.

A spokesperson for Fred Olsen said Braemar has been part of their fleet since 2001.

"We’re incredibly proud of the range of voyages that she offered our guests throughout that time," they said.

"We know many of our guests, crew and trade partners will have made some incredible memories on board, including when she became the biggest ship to sail through the Corinth Canal with us back in 2019.

“We decided to put Braemar up for sale following the purchase of our two newest ships in 2020, Bolette and Borealis. Currently, we operate a fleet of three smaller-sized ocean cruise ships which offer a wide range of cruises, with a selection of sailings directly from Scotland.

“Our smallest ship, Balmoral, will be starting her summer season in late June this year, sailing out of Rosyth to destinations such as the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and the Azores.

READ MORE: Wheels in motion for gala fundraiser

“Whilst we are of course sad to see her go, we are pleased that she is set for an exciting future.

"We wish Braemar and her future residents the best for her new future.”

Villa Vie say the 924-passenger ship will enter service in May this year after the completion of a multimillion-dollar transformation.

Villa Vie Residences CEO Mikael Petterson explained: "The ship's name symbolises the company ethos of creating a community to share unforgettable moments of discovery on an extended journey, connecting people, places, and self.

Petterson added: "Villa Vie Odyssey will be customised for her immersive, 3.5-year global circumnavigations, ensuring all the comforts and amenities of home."

Villa Vie Odyssey will offer an intimate, new cruise lifestyle and will be able to reach parts of the world that larger ships cannot access, often docking in the heart of destinations.

The ship's flatter hull enables her to navigate inland waterways and rivers too. It will feature eight decks including cascading aft decks and a wrap-around promenade.

Lengthened in 2009 and refurbished in 2019, she offers three restaurants, eight bars and four lounges, an extended pool with four Jacuzzis, a spa and fitness centre, and a well-stocked library.

READ MORE: Dani hoping to help young Fifers battling with mental health

A large, central business centre will offer private offices and conference spaces for passengers needing to work. The ship will also feature an interactive and educational culinary centre as well as a pioneering golf around the world programme, complete with onboard golf simulator and tours and classes led by a Master PGA Professional.