From Carnival Vista to Viking Star, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Escape to P&O’s Britannia, the world’s new ocean ships offer innovation, style and extraordinary experiences at sea. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect on board…
P&O’s Britannia
Cool Britannia
Sailing on its maiden voyage in March 2015, P&O’s new ship Britannia draws on the company’s 175-year heritage and is the biggest cruise ship ever built for the British market. The 3,600-passenger ship features blue funnels and statement Union Flag livery, while the exquisite attention to detail continues in the ship’s Starburst atrium, a chandelier-sculpture centrepiece.
Big hitters include The Cookery Club, headed up by celebrity chef James Martin, as well as Eric Lanlard’s patisserie, located in the ship’s three-storey atrium, along with a charcuterie and gelateria. Wine connoisseurs will head to The Glass House Grill with pairings by wine expert Olly Smith. Or enjoy a drink in the Crow’s Nest bar featuring piano music and the atmospheric Blue Bar for sumptuous cocktails. Boutique-style staterooms will offer soothing colours, bespoke British artwork and large flat-screen TVs for films on demand. All the outside rooms have balconies while bathrooms have glass shower screens and pamper packs from The White Company.
The oasis spa on P&O’s Britannia
For entertainment, a multi-purpose TV studio doubles as a cinema and a venue for guest speakers, demonstrations, game shows and radio plays. For something a bit different, there’s also the dining and live entertainment venue, the Limelight Club. The Retreat, Britannia’s al fresco spa terrace, has cabanas for chilling out, while the buzzing Live Lounge hosts singers, tribute acts and live bands. And when the entertainment’s over, the venue turns into a nightclub. Fans of Strictly Come Dancing will love the glamorous Crystal Room with its wooden dance floors, chandeliers and intriguing dance memorabilia. Or why not work out in the gym, take a Spinning class or head to the dedicated sports space, Arena. For relaxation and pampering, there’s the Oasis Spa, where you’ll be surrounded by luxurious dark wood and the aroma of scented oils, and can choose from a menu including Elemis treatments. Britannia promises a true home away from home (pocruises.com).
