ONE of the most colourful cruise ships in the world has docked in Southampton.

The Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Getaway has docked in the city this morning to celebrate its inaugural voyage from Europe to the USA, where it will be based in Miami.

The vessel's hull is adorned with striking, colourful artwork and will be docked in Southampton until Thursday.

The ship will host visiting dignitaries and representatives of the travel industry in the UK and British media during her stay.

The Norwegian Getaway, which is the sister ship to the Norwegian Breakaway, will arrive in Miami in late January 2014 and begin her first eastern Caribbean sailing on Saturday, February 1.

On board there will be a GRAMMY Experience, which includes artefacts chosen and curated by the GRAMMY Museum along with live performances by past GRAMMY winners and nominees, among others.