Pacific Encounter refit transforms ship after leaving Princess fleet

The Pacific Encounter refit has completed the ship’s dry dock in Singapore, during which the new ship for P&O Australia received her new name badge and had all cabins and public rooms refreshed.

Pacific Encounter is the former Star Princess, and was transferred from Princess Cruises last year amid a major fleet restructuring undertaken by Carnival Corporation, which owns both cruise lines.

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During the Pacific Encounter refit, more than 250 contractors spent over 84,000 hours fitting 14,000 square metres of fresh carpet and painting 5,000 square metres of walls and ceilings.

She ship spent two weeks in dry dock as the second and final stage of her transformation from Star Princess to Pacific Encounter. This was preceded by a wet dock in February, during which extensive refurbishment was made to her interior.

Her public venues now include the Encounter Hotel and the Blue Room, which will offer guests a wide selection of vibrant live music from some of Australia’s leading musicians.

P&O’s signature trio of restaurants (the Italian Angelo’s, Pan-Asian-inspired Dragon Lady and contemporary Australian dining outlet The Waterfront) have all been introduced onboard, with stylish new carpets and artworks in keeping with the home grown cruise line’s signature look and feel.

The popular international marketplace The Pantry is now complete with bright graphics that depict the nine classic, comforting and modern Australian fresh food outlets on offer such as the ‘Curry House’, ‘Kettle and Bun’ and ‘Stix’ to name a few.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said the Pacific Encounter refit is an important milestone for the cruise line as it prepares to resume domestic cruises in Australia.

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“We know that our guests are extremely excited to experience Pacific Encounter and her arrival will be a pinnacle moment in our fleet transformation and a mark of confidence in the expected rebound of the local cruise industry,” Myrmell said in a statement.

“Our design and technical teams have yet again surpassed expectations in completing the transformation of a new addition to our family – a ship which will have the signature experiences, entertainment and programmed activities that sets apart P&O as a contemporary cruise holiday for everyone,” he added.

In addition to the recently completed inclusive dining options, Pacific Encounter will offer speciality restaurants by renowned chefs Luke Mangan and Johnny Di Francesco as well as family-friendly activities and vibrant night-time venues.

Pacific Encounter is expected to homeport at Brisbane’s International Cruise Terminal later this year. She will be joined by Pacific Adventure (the former Golden Princess) and Pacific Explorer (the former Dawn Princess) to complete P&O Australia’s three ship line-up in Australia.