The anticipation starts before you sail, the thought of relaxing days at Sea, the culinary delights, Family and friend time, planning and packing.
And when the day finally arrives it all starts with the Sailaway Deck Party of music and dancing around the pool on P & O’s Pacific Pearl. The Sky Tower looks beautiful glistening in the Auckland Skyline as you cruise away for 3 days at Sea.
A little bit of research before you embark will ensure that you have an amazing time. In your Cabin or Stateroom you will find an on board Ship compendium, with all you need to know to make your Cruising life easy. There’s a daily programme with information on where to register for the special events and, as most are for limited numbers only you should book straight away.
There will be Wine and Cheese pairing, Rum tasting or Cocktail classes, food demonstrations and cook offs with Celebrity Chefs. Some classes have a small charge but most of the food demonstrations are free. Programmes can clash so think about what you want to experience.
Luke Mangans’ Salt Grill offers a magnificent fine dining experience for lunch and dinner on both days and Luna Restaurant offers an 8 course degustation menu of either Thai or Japanese cuisine for dinner only. With only one sitting for each make sure you go to the Restaurants and book your place before you unpack. There is a nominal charge for both of these restaurants
There are themed nights on every cruise, the first night is a “Bianco” night, so that is easy. Then there’s a “Gatsby night” and one afternoon a ”Nero” blackout party. These are held in the Atrium, 3 levels looking into the centre of the ship and for those who don’t feel like partying there are other Restaurant and dining options, relaxing lounges and bars.
The daily programme includes Health & Well-being seminars, Bootcamp, Hair shows, dance classes, sports challenges, comedy club and live shows. It’s a feast of Tastes, Experiences and Shopping alongside wonderful leisure times, the Aqua Spa, the Library, Thermal Suites a Gym and Salon.
P & O’s Pacific Pearl leaves our shores at the end of this season and will be replaced by Pacific Jewel.
- Written by Monett Johnston
