P&O Cruises and Meyer Werft have celebrated the official start of construction for what will be Britain’ biggest cruise ship ever.
The steel cutting ceremony, the first important construction milestone for a new ship, was attended by P&O Cruises senior vice president Paul Ludlow, Carnival UK president Josh Weinstein and managing director of Meyer Werft, Tim Meyer.
Designed by the world’s leading design and guest experience teams, P&O’s newest ship will offer 5,200 guests more choice of accommodation, more places to dine in style, more spaces to relax and more entertainment.
At heart of the ship, the Atrium, will be the boldest and brightest yet. Glass walls spanning three decks will let natural light flood in while a grand staircase, gallery and overhead walkways will provide dramatic focal points.
Onboard the new vessel P&o Cruises will introduce a major new entertainment hub called The Dome. Featuring an impressive roof and a pool with a retractable stage the Dome will offer a unique space whatever the weather. By day, The Dome will be the perfect place for entertainment, relaxation and informal dining. By night, the Dome will come alive with aerial performances and immersive shows.
The dining, entertainment, socialising and relaxation options will include over 15 places to eat to suit all appetites and occasions, more than 6 places to have breakfast, 8 speciality restaurants, more than 10 places to enjoy a drink and take in sea views, 18 whirlpools, 4 swimming pools (three outside and one inside) and plenty of entertainment venues from the theatre to venues for adults only.
At 180,000 tons P&O Cruises’ newest ship will not only be Britain’s biggest cruise ship ever, it will also be the most environmentally efficient ship in the history of P&O Cruises. Powered at sea and in port by liquefied natural gas, exhaust emissions will be significantly reduced to help protect the environment.
The name of the new ship has yet to be announced. Last year P&O Cruises ran a competition where they invited members of the public to suggest a suitable name for the ship. Over 30,000 submissions were received. A panel of experts has made the final decision and P&O Cruises will announce the name of its new ship on Thursday 24 May at 4pm.
P&O Cruises newest cruise ship is scheduled to enter service in 2020 followed by a second ship in 2022.
Photos courtesy of P&O Cruises/Dan Weight