P&O Cruises to add 710-berth ship

P&O Cruises is to add a small ship to its fleet that will accommodate 710 passengers and visit “off the beaten track” destinations off limits to bigger vessels.


The new ship, which replaces Artemis in the fleet, will be named Adonia and will join the fleet in May 2011, to become the smallest of P&O Cruises' seven ships. It will be an adult-only ship, along with Arcadia.

Adonia was built in 2001 and has previously been with Princess Cruises and Swan Hellenic. More than 75% of its cabins have balconies.

P&O said Adonia's public rooms will have a traditional feel and feature wood panelling, leather armchairs and fine artwork. There will be a library with more than 4,000 titles and a lounge with an wooden dance floor and stage.

P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow said: “I am delighted to announce this great news in response to our passengers’ comments that some prefer smaller ships.

“She will offer a truly intimate and traditional cruise experience, yet with all the comforts you would expect from a modern vessel. With this size of ship our passengers will be able to get to know their fellow cruisers and crew easily as they travel to some of the most intriguing destinations on the map.

“While larger ships have their own appeal, with the spectrum of bars, dining and entertainment choices they can offer, others really enjoy a smaller ship, with its more intimate ambience.”

Adonia's itineraries and fares will be announced in spring next year.

P&O Cruises give Artemis a makeover

Artemis has taken a mini break this December to get a make over in preparation for her 84-night South American Odyssey departing on 17 December 2007.
A 15-day face-lift in Bremerhaven saw the public areas and cabins of the 46,000 ton ship transformed with soft furnishings and brand new carpets.


Areas, such as the Horizon lounge and the Coral dining room, have been re-designed with a completely new look for passengers to enjoy whilst keeping the traditional feel of the ship.

This will be the first re-fit on Artemis since her arrival into the P&O Cruises fleet in June 2005.

“New ships are joining the fleet and P&O are committed to ensuring that all thier ships are of the same high quality that passengers expect.

“Cabins have also been ‘elevated’ to include brand new 8” slumber land mattresses, Egyptian cotton linen, new bed presentation with stylish bed runners and scatter cushions.

“Small is beautiful and Artemis is set to wow passengers stepping on board in the future.”

Artemis re-fit included:

· Horizon lounge has received a completely new look including new British made furniture, dance floor, carpets and artwork

· The Coral dining room, the Conservatory and the Trumps card room have had a complete new colour scheme with changes including carpets, soft furnishings, curtains and blinds.

· Starlight’s has received an entire overhaul with replacement of carpets, upholstery, curtains, blinds and furniture.

· Cabins have been ‘elevated’ with brand new 8” slumber land mattresses, bedding, bed runners and scatter cushions

· All cabin bathrooms have been upgraded

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