By
Elizabeth Robinson |
P&O Cruises has ordered a second LNG-powered cruise ship from German and Finnish shipbuilders Meyer Werft.
Similar to a sister ship due for delivery in 2020, this second newbuild will be the largest cruise ship to be built specifically for the British market.
The new ship will be able to accommodate approximately 5,200 guests.
The ship will be built by Meyer Werft at its shipyard in Papenburg, Germany and feature the company’s ‘green cruising’ design. The vessel will be one of the first generation of cruise ships to be powered by LNG fuel.
“We are seeing the momentum in awareness of cruising both across the media and in our national psyche as ever-increasing numbers of people see first-hand the value for money, unrivalled service and extraordinary onboard experience,” said Josh Weinstein, president of Carnival UK. “These two next generation ships for delivery in the next four years are real and tangible evidence of our absolute optimism for future growth.”
“In four years’ time when her sister ship is launched, adding an additional 22% capacity, we will see an even greater rise in the popularity of cruising across all demographics and all age ranges including both Millennials and Generation Xers,” said Paul Ludlow, senior vice president of P&O Cruises. “Many of them have already learned to appreciate cruising by going on cruises with their families while growing up. Additionally, there are millions more we will attract in the future by retaining the amazing on board and on shore experiences and itinerary choices P&O Cruises is known for while reflecting forward-thinking trends and tastes of British holidaymakers.”
The new ship is expected to be delivered in 2022.