Party nights and ‘dreamlike’ cruising – that’s the experience P&O Cruises is hoping to offer ‘contemporary’ cruisers aboard its five ships.
The new multimillion-dollar line up of entertainment is part of the line’s new ‘Like No Place on Earth’ positioning, which urges ‘earthlings’ to escape into the P&O world.
Described as a ‘bold new direction’, the line has revealed it will offer ‘dreamlike party nights’ and cutting edge special effects during shows across its fleet – Pacific Pearl, Pacific Jewel, Pacific Dawn and the two new ships Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden.
For the regulars, have no fear because not everything will change. P&O Cruises entertainment director Brett Annable – who was responsible for introducing the ‘Circus’ showroom – said the ships will continue to produce big production shows, however, they have received minor adjustments inspired by US entertainment capitals like Las Vegas.
“We will be taking them to a whole new dimension employing techniques and special effects that will have the whole ship buzzing for our guests.”
Brett Annable, P&O Cruises entertainment director
The line’s move to attract younger ‘contemporary’ cruisers started earlier this year when it revealed Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will feature offerings and activities new to the P&O line.
Currently sailing under the Holland America umberella (under different names), the two ships will join P&O’s existing three-vessel fleet in November next year.
P&O’s two new ships will have The Pantry – a food-court-like space with individual food outlets.
Prior to their debut, Aria and Eden will undergo multimillion-dollar makeovers, which will include new livery and new onboard amenities.
During the announcement in September, the line shocked fans when revealing that unlike the current fleet, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will not have a buffet bar. Instead the ships will have a food-court-like room called ‘The Pantry’ with individual spaces for various foods.
There will also be new food venues such as The Dragon Lady – an Asian fusion restaurant; Angelo’s – traditional Italian food; and the Open Kitchen – where guests can learn to cook.
The new ships will make their debut in Sydney Harbour with P&O’s three other vessels on 25 November 2015.
To kick off the countdown P&O organised a special ‘365-days’ cake (see above).