UK-based Saga Cruises announced that the 39-year-old Saga Ruby -- the last cruise ship built in the UK -- will retire in early 2014. Built at the Jarrow Shipyard in Tyneside, England, the 661-passenger vessel originally was launched as the Vistafjord by the now-defunct Norwegian America Line and sailed for years under that name and the name Caronia for the UK-based Cunard Line. Saga bought the ship in 2004.

"Saga Ruby has delighted cruise-goers for some 40 years, but operating a ship of this age to meet the exacting standards we and others set is becoming an increasing challenge," Saga Shipping CEO Robin Shaw says in a statement.. "We have therefore decided that she should be gracefully retired in 18 months. Saga Ruby will in her ruby anniversary year visit many of the ports where she been warmly welcomed over the years."

Saga says the 25,000-ton vessel will sail a final around-the-world cruise in 2013. The company caters to travelers ages 50 and older, and it draws mostly British passengers. Most ocean-going cruise ships today are built at one of a handful of shipyards located in Italy, Germany, France and Finland. Source : USAtoday