My Holiday Expert

P&O Cruises’ new ship Azura sets sail on its maiden voyage to the Mediterranean today following launch celebrations in Southampton over the weekend.

Ballerina and Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell acted as the ship’s godmother on Saturday night, while respected journalist Trevor McDonald was master of ceremonies.

Leading figures from the trade joined P&O Cruises customers and celebrities including Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood, TV presenter Esther Rantzen and actors Tom Chambers and Michelle Collins onboard.

P&O Cruises managing director Carol Marlow said Azura had been designed for the line’s “heartland” customers and would be less overtly positioned as a family ship than sister ship Ventura.

Around 2,000 agents visited Azura following its arrival in port last Wednesday.