P&O launches naming contest for new ship

The 180,000-ton vessel will enter service in 2020 and will be the biggest ship under a British name.

The competition is now running on the P&O Cruises website and through social media channels. A panel of experts will consider all entries, with the winning name being announced next year.

To help inspire entrants, P&O Cruises has produced four short videos featuring Food Heroes Eric Lanlard and Olly Smith, producer and performer Jonathan Wilkes and Azura godmother and Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell, which can be viewed online.


The winner will be given two VIP places at the ship’s naming ceremony in spring 2020.

P&O Cruises senior vice president Paul Ludlow said: “This new ship will be the first new launch for P&O Cruises in five years and will play a pivotal role in redefining the brand and broadening our appeal.

“It is therefore incredibly important that we have a name that reflects the ship’s heritage as well as highlighting the array of new cruising experiences it will offer – something memorable and dignified that reflects its position as the new star in our fleet.

“I encourage the general public to get their thinking caps on but also to remember that naming a ship is akin to naming a child. The name is an inherent part of its personality and is something that will sail with it for life!”

The new ship will accommodate approximately 5,200 guests and be will be partially powered by liquefied natural gas.