Amanda PhillipsThe launch of the MV Britannia was a big one for P&O Cruises. Taking centre stage as the British cruise line’s new flagship vessel, she became the biggest cruise liner in their fleet – and the biggest cruise ship in the world exclusively for UK cruisers. The designers of the ship took inspiration from P&O’s traditional cruising style and infused it with contemporary elements, fit for a modern-day cruiser and their family. Here’s just 10 of the best features you’ll find on board.
1. Ten places to dine
Included in the price of your P&O Cruise are the three main dining rooms, known as the Meridian Restaurant, Peninsular Restaurant and Oriental Restaurant. As a special touch, the Classic English Afternoon Tea that is served daily in the main restaurants is also included in the price. For a casual bite to eat between meal times, passengers can pop by either Horizon (a buffet style restaurant), Lido grill (casual burgers and pizza by the pool) or Grab & Go (pre-made sandwiches and salads on Deck 16). On top of all that, there’s also 24 hour room service.
2. The Cookery Club
Learn to cook with guidance from an expert team that were hand-picked by TV chef James Martin. Classes for adults include the Best of British, where you’ll learn to create home-made favourites such as Cornish pasty and Welsh rarebit, and a chocolatier lesson including hand-prepped liqueur and truffles with ganache filling. There’s also a family class that is open to children between the ages of 8 and 17, and is a great opportunity to ignite a passion for food.
3. Strictly Come Dancing
The Britannia is the designated cruise liner for P&O Cruises Strictly Come Dancing themed cruises. There’s two itineraries for 2017, both of which take place in June with one sailing around Scandinavia and Russia, and the other sailing around Spain and Italy. The onboard venue will be The Crystal Room, a silver-hued entertainment area with rich wooden dance floors and glossy chandeliers.
4. Family and kids’ clubs
The P&O Britannia is perfect for a family cruise, with a range of kids and teen clubs that will keep younger members of the family occupied. There are age specific clubs for 4 age groups, each with their own hangout room. There’s even an outdoor deck and pool area just for teenagers!
5. Designer shopping
The shelves of P&O Britannia’s shopping hub boast the likes of Chanel, Michael Korrs, Swarovski, Clarins and Pandora.
6. Five pools
Looking for a relaxing adults-only pool? A family-friendly pool? Or a serene indoor hydrotherapy pool? You’ll find each of them on board the P&O Britannia.
7. Spa and salon facilities
If you’re looking for a bit of pampering, you’ve boarded the right ship. Choose between the Oasis Spa (a luxurious experience with a virtually endless list of treatments) and The Retreat (an outdoor alfresco spa experience). There’s also the nearby Serenity, an adults only sun deck, and a fitness centre.
8. Three accommodation types
Choose between an inside cabin, balcony cabin and suite. All room types come with a TV, telephone, air conditioning, vanity desk, refrigerator and safe as standard. Suites come with their own separate living area, butler service and pamper packs from The White Company. Perfect for resting your head after a day exploring port!
9. Headliners Theatre
This modern onboard theatre is back-dropped by a sophisticated LED light screen ready to play host to performances that pull the audience into an immersive experience. Already on the line-up is The Sound of the Underground, Gravity, Once upon a Time and I’ve Got the Music in Me.
10. WIFI throughout
The P&O Britannia is fitted with satellite internet, and there’s three packages available depending on whether you want to use it for quick access to emails or for video streaming.