Blohm+Voss secures multimillion-pound makeover for Aurora

The refurbishment will take place November 29 to December 18, 2014 at Blohm+Voss yard in Hamburg, ahead of Aurora’s Christmas and New Year cruise and before the world cruise itinerary to South America and Pacific departs on January 8, 2015.

The planned changes include: a contemporary version of the Union Flag on its bow and new blue funnels with illuminated rising sun designs; introduction of Sindhu restaurant for evening fine dining (replacing the library on deck 8) with an Indian fusion menu designed by Michelin-star celebrity chef Atul Kochhar and The Glass House restaurant and wine bar is replacing Café Bordeaux on deck 8 and serving brunch, lunch and dinner with wines selected by TV presenter Olly Smith.

Enomatic wine systems will allow passengers to buy premium wines by the glass. There will also be a private room for wine tastings and dinners.

On deck 12, the buffet restaurant will undergo a complete refurbishment with new décor and in the evening, The Beach House menu replaces the Pennant Grill menu.

Other changes include a complete refurbishment of The Reef children’s clubs with room names changed to reflect Reef club names across the rest of the fleet and the introduction of Freedom Dining to Medina Restaurant with more tables for two and Marco Pierre White dishes on gala evenings.

A refurbishment of the Sidewalk Café and the introduction of Costa Coffee and new ‘Grab and Go’ counter, an option for breakfast and lunch on the move are also planned.

The library relocates to the current cyb@study space adjacent to the Crow’s Nest on deck 13 whilst the Casino and Champions refurbishment sees new open-plan design, new furniture and improved stage area for entertainment, live music and quizzes

The photography gallery upgrade includes more touch screen technology plus there will shopping area will have an extensive makeover as will the spa.

All cabins will receive new soft furnishings with flat-screen TVs.

P&O Cruises marketing director Christopher Edgington said: ’This is a massive investment. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to ensure continuous improvement of our ships and consistency across the fleet.

‘Both Ventura and Arcadia underwent huge multi-million pound refits last year and Aurora is the next in line with Azura planned for 2015.’

Launched in 2000, Aurora’s last refit was in 2009.