As Azura leaves Southampton behind and heads for Malaga, the first port of call on her maiden voyage, it’s time to take a considered view of what P&O’s newest ship has to offer, and how it compares with sister ship Ventura.

Designed to appeal more to P&O’s traditional customers, the 3,100-passenger Azura promises “classical touches with contemporary style,” whereas Ventura made a big thing about being a family-friendly ship, complete with circus skills classes and a rock school.

Structurally, the two ships are almost identical although Azura – which cost £380 million – has what is known as a ducktail stern to improve stability and fuel consumption. There are other differences: up top, the new ship has an open-air cinema screen above the midships swimming pool; on her older sister the pool can be covered by a sliding glass roof – perfect for chilly days in northern waters.

John Honeywell

Read More…