Queen Elizabeth has officially named P&O’s newest and largest ship, Britannia, in a special christening ceremony held earlier today in Southampton.
The new ship, which features a commonality with Princess’ Royal Class ships, is the largest ship to be built for the British cruise market and the eighth ship to join the P&O Cruises fleet. To top off the new ship’s already prominent British-ness, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth was announced as the ship’s godmother only a few weeks ago. Today, the ship was official launched as Queen Elizabeth blessed the ship and released a bottle of sparkling British wine against Britannia’s Union Jack hull.
The christening ceremony, attended by 1,500 guests, featured performances by the stars of Strictly Come Dancing, The Red Hot Chili Pipers, and an orchestral performance of “Rule Britannia.”
Following her christening and inaugural festivities today, Britannia will launch a unique collection of 14 night round trip sailings throughout the Mediterranean, setting sail from Southampton.
The new Britannia will accommodate 3,747 guests across 15 decks. The new ship features a number of onboard amenities, including the Cookery Club, where guests can learn how to master a meal; The Retreat, an alfresco spa terrace; and a number of dining experiences featuring celebrity chefs James Martin, Eric Lanlard, Marco Pierre White, and many others. Britannia is also the first ship in the P&O fleet to launch with the new Union Jack color scheme, displayed prominently on her bright white bow.
