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15l of Mount Gay rum chosen for Arvia bottle smash

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Mount Gay has a long history, celebrating its 320th anniversary this year
P&O Cruises will use a specially commissioned 15l bottle of Mount Gay Black Barrel rum for the naming of Arvia in Barbados this month.

The specially produced demijohn will be employed for the traditional bottle smash during the naming festivities on March 16. According to the line, it is the world’s largest bottle of rum. 

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow explained, ‘Our naming party in Barbados is a world first and so it had to be rum. Rum is the very essence of Barbados and as the world’s oldest ocean cruise line we simply had to pair with the world’s oldest running rum distillery and create what we believe to be the world’s largest bottle of rum. 

‘Mount Gay has a long and distinguished history and affiliation with the sea – it is a perfect mix.’ 

Ludlow went on to assert that spirits were traditionally used for ship ceremonies of old, with champagne a recent adjustment. 

A replica bottle will remain on board the ship following the ceremony as a reminder of the naming event. 

A historical drink choice 

Mount Gay has a long history, celebrating its 320th anniversary this year.

‘Mount Gay has had a long historical connection with sailing. At the heart of this shared story is Barbados, the birthplace of rum,’ said Mount Gay MD Antoine Couvreur.  

‘Since 1703, honouring our authentic heritage has made Mount Gay the drink of choice for sailors and the maritime industry as a whole…’ 

Arvia will be officially named by singer Nicole Scherzinger, who will perform the closing finale. Hosted by DJs Trevor Nelson and Sara Cox, it will also include a performance from Olly Murs.