P&O Australia names new ship, farewells two others

Currently Star Princess

Pacific Encounter is currently sailing as Princess Cruises’ Star Princess.

The moves are part of a previously announced strategy of replacing vessels over time with larger ships to meet demand in the region and come as the line prepares to welcome Pacific Adventure in 2020.

From late 2021, Pacific Explorer, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will comprise the new-look P&O Cruises Australia fleet with a total capacity of about 9,000 passengers.

‘We have a clear picture of the P&O fleet of the future and it is a very exciting prospect with the brand well positioned to continue to lead in this dynamic market,’ Sture Myrmell, P&O Cruises of Australia President and Chairman of Carnival Australia, said.

‘When we embarked on this transformation two years ago, we committed to refresh the fleet over time and to set the brand up for continued success,’ Myrmell said.

'Much loved' ships

He said the company wants to give everyone the opportunity to farewell the ‘much loved’ Pacific Dawn and Pacific Aria.

Dawn’s farewell voyage departs Melbourne on February 8, 2021, heading for Singapore via Brisbane. 

Aria’s final voyage from Australia leaves Melbourne on April 9, 2021, sailing to Singapore via Fremantle.

Myrmell said with the long lead time to the departure of these ships, only a small number of bookings are affected. Passengers will receive a full refund if no other suitable cruise option can be found.

P&O Cruises Australia is not announcing where Pacific Dawn and Pacific Aria are heading.