P&O bouncing back strongly in ‘21

P&O Cruises Australia has announced Pacific Adventure and

Pacific Encounter will now both join the fleet in the first half of next year, holding the cruise line in stead for a “bounce back”.

Pacific Adventure will begin sailing from Sydney on 30 Apr next year, as the delivery of Pacific Encounter (CW 26 Nov 2019) will also be brought forward by at least six months.

Encounter is scheduled to homeport in Brisbane from 07 May, but P&O Australia said earlier voyages may be added depending on the timing of the return of cruising in Australia.

“The arrival of these muchanticipated ships, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter, in the first half of next year represents a step-change for the fleet and a sign of confidence in the market,” P&O Australia President Sture Myrmell (pictured) said.

“This investment in our fleet is a demonstration that P&O Cruises Australia is ready to lead the industry in bouncing back when government and public health authorities agree it is appropriate to begin sailing again with protocols in place.

“It is also a mark of respect for our many loyal guests as well as crew, fresh food suppliers, entertainers and musicians, shore tour operators and port logistics partners.”

The two sister ships will sail alongside P&O’s flagship Pacific Explorer, which will extend its operational pause until Jan.

Both Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will offer a range of inclusive dining options, speciality restaurants by chefs Johnny Di Francesco and Luke Mangan, and a suite of familyfriendly activities.

The announcements come with P&O having recently flagged the early departures of Pacific Dawn (CW 29 Sep) and Pacific Aria (CW 16 Oct) from the fleet.

“We have sought to use this operational pause to fast-track our planned fleet refresh,” Myrmell added.

“Our pathway to a return to cruising may be unclear but we wanted to give our guests confidence about our future fleet and our commitment to Australia and New Zealand.”