P&O Cruises announced that the naming ceremony of its newest cruise ship Arvia will take place in a beachside ceremony in Barbados on Thursday March 16, 2023. The 5,200-passenger cruise ship will launch just before the Christmas holidays.
The naming ceremony will be broadcasted live online and according to P&O Cruises, "will include some of Britain's most contemporary, popular performers and presenters".
Following this announcement P&O Cruises' President, Paul Ludlow said: "This naming event, which has never been done before, will showcase our extraordinary new ship Arvia, the beauty of Barbados and will include some very special surprises.
"The ship will be positioned off one of the island's most stunning beaches so the audience at home will be able to see both the striking new interior design of the ship as well as the performances and events taking place on the shore.The build-up to the ceremony will be marked with a week of celebratory performances and experiences on board, Mr. Ludlow added.
Spoiler alert, we’re planning the most amazing event we’ve ever held, the likes of which the world has never seen! Even better, you’re invited!
— P&O Cruises (@pandocruises) December 6, 2022
Discover the details you need to know for our newest ship’s naming ceremony in a festive update from P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow. pic.twitter.com/HLRNtkkeKx
"I want to thank P&O Cruises for choosing Barbados as the location for this unique event. Barbados continues to share a rich relationship with our sea and tourism, and the cruise industry has been of vital importance to our island and our economy." Prime Minister of Barbados, The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley said.
"I am delighted that Barbados can be that place that continues to bring more “firsts” to the world, and through this beachside ceremony, give thousands of people the opportunity to see a glimpse of what we have to offer to visitors," he added.
The Arvia will sail first to the Canary Islands for a Christmas voyage, and then reposition to the Caribbean where it will homeport in Bridgetown, Barbados for the winter season.
