P&O Cruises will officially name its newest ship, Arvia, in a beachside ceremony in Barbados in what will be a first for the cruise line. Due to take place on 16 March 2023, the event will be live-streamed across the world and feature a series of guest performances and extra-special surprises.

Describing the ceremony as an “unmissable event”, President of P&O Cruises Paul Ludlow explained that it would be an opportunity for people to see the ship’s striking interior design, surrounded by the island’s beautiful scenery.

“We always aim to do things differently, to create stand-out and memorable moments for our current and future guests,” Paul Ludlow continued.

“Arvia, which will be delivered in December, will spend her first season sailing in the Caribbean so it is fitting that we mark her naming in one of our favourite ports of call with a week of celebratory performances and experiences on board.”

P&O Cruises already has close ties with the port of Barbados, with the cruise industry proving vital to the island’s economy.

“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,” noted Prime Minister of Barbados, The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley.

Arvia’s naming ceremony will coincide with a seven-night Caribbean cruise departing 11 March and a longer, 14-night sailing on 4 March. Details of the line-up and how to watch the naming event live online will be announced nearer the time.

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