Stunning aerial photos show the huge luxury liner The Valiant Lady looming over the Thames waters off Gravesend.

The new cruise ship, the latest to be launched by Virgin Voyages, sailed up the River Thames on Thursday morning, docking at Tilbury after an overnight voyage from Portsmouth.

The gigantic vessel can be seen from the riverside in Gravesend and across north Kent.

Drone shots offer a birds-eye view of the impressive ship with its 1,330 cabins, and 78 'RockStar Quarters', two private suites, and 20 dining options.

Picture taken of the ship on Friday night show the vessel lit up as guests were due to enjoy a glamorous party - with BRIT Award nominee Tom Grennan among the performers due on stage in the ship's nightclub, The Manor, along with another surprise special guest.

The shots also show other attractions such as the Valiant Lady's swimming pools and upper deck seating areas.

The company says 86% of the cabins on board will have a balcony and 93% with ocean views.

Valiant Lady is Virgin's second cruise ship and is touring the UK ahead of her maiden voyage from Portsmouth before travelling to her home port in Barcelona.

She is due to sail on a seven-night Mediterranean cruise from the Spanish port before joining with her sister ship Scarlet Lady for the rest of the year.

Another four feature itineraries will offer overnight and late night stops across France, Italy and Spain