The site will allow consumers to read and write ship reviews and share photos, as well as search for cruise deals and compare prices.

The launch of TripAdvisor Cruises, which is also launching in the US, will not affect the company’s existing cruise brand, Cruise Critic, which will continue to operate independently from the main TripAdvisor brand.

Bryan Saltzburg, president of TripAdvisor Flights, Cruise and Car, said: “We know our community demands the best options while travelling, and by adding awe-inspiring cruises to our platform, we’re excited to support the continued growth of the overall cruise industry by bringing cruise to the world’s largest travel audience.”

Royal Caribbean International will be the official UK sponsor for TripAdvisor’s new cruise launch.

Ben Bouldin, RCI’s managing director, United Kingdom and Ireland, added: “We are thrilled to be partnering with TripAdvisor on the launch of its dedicated cruise hub, which we anticipate having a huge impact on the travel industry as a whole, introducing cruise to a completely new audience of travellers and holidaymakers.”