P&O AZURA Inaugural Launch

P&O’s Azura was my very first time aboard a brand new ship but hopefully not my last. She was as beautiful as her Godmother ‘Darcey Bussell’ the ballet dancer who named her officially

My only complaint is that I could not spend more time onboard – however I did get to see everything I had planned on. In case anyone has any questions about her – on embarkation we were given a guide book which had a suggested route to see all the ship had to offer – check out the pictures attached to this journal

First port of call once onboard was to the Venezia Restaurant for a spot of lunch after which I strolled around the ship taking pictures and talking to the staff who were so proud to be serving on a maiden voyage. Worthy of a mention also is the Sea screen which is a giant screen situated above the Aqua Pool, this will show a variety of classic films, family films and some latest blockbusters as well.

Although there are fantastic children’s facilities on board I got the impression it was aimed more so at a particular sort of client in the 50+ age bracket who like a bit of affordable luxury The retreat is a lovely part of the ship – an adult only area for spa treatments and total relaxation.

Later we were treated to a champagne reception and a presentation from the Sales and Customer Services Director Giles Hawke, after which we had a little more time to explore and grab a drink (or two) in one of the many bars available. I chose The Glass House – which is a fantastic wine bar designed by the TV Presenter and wine expert Olly Smith He is responsible for the blending of the ships house wines as well as selecting a fantastic array of world class wines I also checked out Sindhu restaurant run by Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar as well as the Oriental restaurant You will never get bored of the food choices on this ship

Dinner for us was served in the Meridian Restaurant and did not disappoint – a fabulous choice of starters, mains and desserts. Later that evening we had an almost impossible choice of entertainment to choose from so I went from venue to venue to try and see as much as I could this included a ‘Soul Experience’ , Piano bar , Comedy , 70’s style blame it on the boogie.

All in all a great ship with the traditional values P&O are famous for together with a modern look and feel

Roll on my next ship launch NCL’s brand new ship EPIC – what this space