Christened by Darcey Bussel, Azura is a star turn as well
Azura, a sophisticated addition to the P&O Cruises fleet, was named in Southampton by Britain’s favourite ballerina, Dame Darcey Bussel, on 10 April, 2010.
And two days after the christening, the 115,000-ton liner set sail on her maiden voyage.
The then P&O Cruises managing director Nigel Esdale said: For Azura weve gone back to the future. Were looking at how travelling at sea really should be; sophisticated, relaxing, indulgent and exciting, while we are also looking forward at the same time. Firsts for P&O Cruises will include an open-air cinema-at-sea, an open air spa terrace and single staterooms.
The stylish superliner carries up to 3,100 passengers who will enjoy 15 public decks, 11 restaurants, five boutiques, four pools, two lounges and more than 900 private balconies and also boasts:
- Dance floor in the centre of the spectacular atrium
- Ten restaurants, including Sindhu, created by the first Indian chef to be awarded a coveted Michelin star, Atul Kochhar
- State of the art health and beauty spa with an open-air spa terrace
- Giant cinema SeaScreen showing British film classics
- 750-seat live show theatre and separate nightclubs
- Full range of daytime activities including sports courts, whirlpool spas and fully equipped gym, dance and art classes all offer non-stop entertainment
Sindhu is the creation of celebrated Michelin starred Chef Atul Kochhar. It means meeting point, and the menu offers a fusion of fine British and Indian cuisine with dishes such as pan-fried lobster tail in coconut milk and tamarind sauce.
TV wine expert Olly Smith was also enlisted to help create a new wine bar and restaurant concept – The Glass House. A must for wine lovers, The Glass House menu features different wines recommended with each course, all served by the glass and expertly matched by Olly.
The Saturday Kitchen star also helped in the creation of the drinks menus for Azuras other bars and restaurants and will travel regularly throughout the year to host light hearted tasting sessions in his own irreverent style.
PASSENGERS : 3100
BERTHS : 1532
CREW : 1200
FACILITIES : Three restaurants (two sittings), five alternative dining venues, casino, cinema, two show lounges, three dance floors, hair and beauty salon, library, five swimming pools (two inside), fitness centre, hair and beauty salon.