P&O orders largest-ever UK ship
P&O Cruises will take delivery of the largest passenger liner ever built for the UK market in 2008.
The 3,100-capacity ship, to be named Ventura, is being built by Italian shipbuilders Fincantieri at a cost of almost £300 million.
P&O cruises managing director David Dingle said the ship will take cruising into a new age.
“This new order acknowledges the unprecedented demand for the P&O Cruises brand and its increasingly wide appeal,” he said. “Over the past 10 years, we have introduced a progression of new ships purpose-built for the Britain which have created new levels of demand.
“Ventura, through her innovation, scale and contemporary appeal marks the next major step forward for P&O.”
Its maiden voyage is expected to take place in April 2008 although it is unclear where the liner will be based.
The 116,000 tonne Ventura will feature eight restaurants, six shops, five swimming pools and three show lounges including the largest theatre on a British ship. It will also include a spa and a family zone with four activity areas for children of various age groups.
Of the 1,550 cabins, 900 will have a private balconies.
Report by Steve Jones
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