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Travel agent leads cruise ship float out ceremony
Travel agent Moira Lumsden was today leading a special ceremony in Italy for P&O Cruises’ new ship Ventura.
The Thomas Cook Cruise agent from Dundee was nominated as the ship’s “madrina” or “godmother” for the symbolic event in which a newly-minted two pound silver coin and a new euro were welded at the foot of the ship’s mast for good luck.
She was the winner of a competition run by the line to reflect the key role travel agents play in selling cruise holidays.
P&O Cruises managing director David Dingle said: “The float out ceremony is significant in the build of a new ship, and as we have developed the design of Ventura to fulfil and exceed the expectations of the UK holiday market, it seemed apt that we choose to recognise the importance of the travel trade in our business.
“The arrival of Ventura will increase P&O Cruises capacity by some 30% and ensure our continued market leadership in the UK.
“When Ventura went on sale we experienced record-breaking levels of demand, reinforcing to us the strength and sustainability of the ex-UK cruise market. We are convinced that Ventura will confirm us as the cruise line introducing the most innovative cruise ships to the British market and will prove to be an icon of cutting edge design.”
Thomas Cook head of cruise Jenny Ellis said: “As one of Cruise Thomas Cook’s key partners, we were delighted when Moira was chosen as the “madrina” for Ventura. Not only has she been working with Thomas Cook for over 26 years but she is also one of our best selling cruise experts.”
Following the ceremony, Ventura was to be blessed by a priest as a bottle of Italian Prosecco was smashed against the hull. The valves of the giant dry dock at the Fincantieri shipyard were then to be opened allowing the ship to meet the water for the first time.
P&O Cruises claims 115,00 ton Ventura will be the most family friendly cruise ship sailing from the UK when it makes its debut next April.
The vessel will be named in Southampton before departing on its on her maiden voyage on April 18, 2008.
by Phil Davies
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