Pacific Encounter renovations raise the bar for P&O Cruises Australia

The 2,600-passenger Grand-class ship was delivered by Fincantieri to Princess Cruises as Star Princess in 2002.

She transferred to P&O Cruises Australia’s fleet and was renamed Pacific Encounter in 2020, but has been out of action as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She will arrive in Brisbane next month as part of the company’s staged resumption and will make her first cruise from the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal on August 20 with a seven-night ‘Barrier Reef Discovery’ round voyage.

Encounter Hotel

Midship on Deck 7 is a new ‘super pub’ called Encounter Hotel. 

This will be used for indoor activities like trivia and karaoke. Passengers will be able to sample a wide range of draft beers, boutique ales and ciders.

Bonded Store

P&O Cruises Australia’s signature Bonded Store has been transformed in partnership with the  Archie Rose Distilling Co.

Its decor is described as ‘quirky’ and the artisanal bar will appeal to ‘lovers of cocktails, gin and whisky.’

Blue Room

The opulent Blue Room has been styled with luxe velvet, brass finishings, dim lighting and illustrations of musical instruments.

It is ‘reminiscent of a New Orleans speakeasy’ and will showcase some of Australia’s best musicians, with an emphasis on the blues and jazz.

The Ocean Bar

Located at the top of the Atrium, The Ocean Bar features lounge chairs and sofas in green and white with touches of black.

It is billed as the place to watch the world go by with morning cappuccinos and evening martinis. 

The Lobby

A new feature in Pacific Encounter is The Lobby on Deck 5, with several cafes and bars, including Charlie’s.

Altitude

Sitting at the top of Pacific Encounter on Deck 18 is Altitude, with incredible ocean views, that transitions into a high-energy nightclub where passengers can dance the night away.