PACIFIC EXPLORER’S POLISHED NEW LOOK

Guests on the inaugural voyage of P&O’S new Pacific Explorer next year will have some shiny new features to test out. Two waterslides, a barefoot bowls green and a supper club for evening entertainment are just the start of the vessel’s multi-million dollar refurbishment.

The cruise line’s first waterpark at sea will be unveiled, boasting two heart-racing waterslides, the first with LED lights and sound effects and the other with rapid twists and turns. A shaded area featuring a dumping bucket and oversized water toys will ensure guests of all ages are kept entertained. After a game at the new barefoot bowls on the back deck or a ride on a flying fox at the P&O Adventure Park, guests can refuel at a range of new dining concepts.

A supper club venue with a side of cabaret-style entertainment will be served up at The Black Circus, while gourmet pizzas and share platters will be on offer at a new pizza restaurant. The Pantry’s collection will notch up a ninth member, in the form of “Nic and Toni’s” providing Mediterranean cuisine. A poolside Lobster & Burger bar will also be introduced to the dining scene, serving lobster and seafood rolls along with premium beef and pulled pork burgers.

The additions will sit alongside favourites Waterfront restaurant, Angelo’s, Dragon Lady and Salt Grill.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the team had had a lot of fun designing Pacific Explorer.

“We’ve taken the winning features of our existing ships, then added a whole new layer of excitement with some big wow moments like the waterslides as well as new concepts like the bowling green and a stunning hidden bar, which we think will put a smile on our guests’ faces. It really will be a ship that offers something for everyone.”

Currently sailing as Dawn Princess with Princess Cruises, the vessel will be refitted in May and June next year and sail on her first P&O cruise from Sydney on 22 June 2017.