Pacific Explorer transformation begins

The final countdown is on for next month’s debut of P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer, with the ship’s multi-million dollar transformation underway in Singapore.

During her 12-day dry dock, the vessel – formerly sailing as Princess Cruises’ Dawn Princess – will undergo a massive refit which will see the addition of a range of exciting new features for Australian holidaymakers.

When she sails from Sydney on her first cruise on June 22, Pacific Explorer will be sporting the two longest and wildest waterslides on an Australian-based ship – each stretching more than 80 metres – along with an action-packed waterpark and a barefoot lawn bowling green. Top-deck favourites P&OEdge Adventure Park and the Big Screen will also be installed during the ship’s dry dock.

During her time in Singapore, Pacific Explorer’s public spaces, including its multi-storey atrium, lounges, bars and restaurants, will be transformed with the introduction of the stylish modern Australian décor and quirky features which have become a trademark of the P&O fleet in recent years.

Continuing P&O Cruises’ ongoing food evolution, Pacific Explorer’s refit will include the creation of  new dining options from fast-casual dining at Luke’s, a new poolside grill by Australian chef and restauranteur Luke Mangan to a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria called 400 Gradi, by award-winning Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco.  

 Guests will also be able to dine in the ship’s Waterfront Restaurant, try a taste of la dolce vita in its Italian restaurant Angelo’s, relax in the sultry atmosphere of the pan-Asian restaurant Dragon Lady or be spoilt for choice in The Pantry, an international marketplace of nine fresh food outlets already popular across the P&O Cruises’ fleet.

Relaxation and good times will also be on the menu in Pacific Explorer’s elegant new small bar, The Bonded Store, featuring a cocktail list created in partnership with Sydney-based award-winning Archie Rose Distilling Co, as well as whisky and gin-making classes.

 P&O Cruises president Sture Myrmell said Pacific Explorer was the perfect addition to P&O’s existing four-ship fleet.

“Pacific Explorer is the next stage in the evolution of P&O, building on our very popular modern Australian holiday offering with some exciting new features.  We can’t wait to show her off to our guests,” Mr Myrmell said.

Pacific Explorer will set sail from Singapore on June 9.