P&O Cruises goes small with new addition
Tuesday, 09 Dec, 2009
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A small-scale ship is being introduced to the P&O Cruises’ fleet to replace the outgoing Artemis in 2011.
The 710-passenger vessel will transfer to the UK line from US sister company Princess Cruises where it is currently sailing as Royal Princess.
It is to become the latest P&O Cruises ship to be named Adonia when it joins the fleet in June 2011, a month after Artemis departs.
The adult-only ship, built in 2001 and in service with Princess since 2007, will provide sailings to ‘off the beaten track’ destinations that are inaccessible to bigger vessels.
Itineraries and fares for what will become the smallest ship in the fleet will be announced next spring.
The addition means that the UK line will continue to have seven ships despite the sale of Artemis which is undertaking its final voyage in spring 2011.
More than 75% of Adonia’s 355 cabins have balconies. The ship will have a traditional feel featuring wood panelling, leather armchairs and fine artwork.
The library will feature more than 4,000 titles and a grand lounge with wooden dance floor and stage is to host entertainment ranging from after dinner speakers to shows by P&O Cruises Headliners Theatre Company.
Adonia will also have signature P&O Cruises’ features of a forward Crow’s Nest observation lounge with a nautical feel, and Anderson’s, a centrally located traditional club-style lounge bar.
P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow told TravelMole that Adonia was being introduced due to passenger demand for the company to continue offering an adult-only, small size ship option following the departure of Artemis.
Smaller than Artemis, the new Adonia will be the same size as former P&O Cruises’ ship Victoria, which had a strong following amongst traditional British cruise passengers up until 2003.
Marlow said some minor changes would be made in the transfer from Princess Cruises to ensure Adonia is ideally suited to a British traditional cruise audience.
“I am delighted to announce this great news in response to our passengers’ comments to me that some prefer smaller ships,” she said.
“Whilst larger ships have their own appeal, with the spectrum of bars, dining and entertainment choices they can offer, others really enjoy a smaller ship, with its more intimate ambience.”
She added: “The addition of Adonia will deliver an elegant and welcoming ship with real small ship charm.
“She will offer a truly intimate and traditional cruise experience, yet with all the comforts you would expect from a modern vessel.
“With this size of ship our passengers will be able to get to know their fellow cruisers and crew easily as they travel to some of the most intriguing destinations on the map.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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