P&O’s ORIANA arrived in Gibraltar this morning her penultimate visit before she leaves P&O service to become Well Star Travel Cruises’ PIANO LAND, operating for the Chinese market.
She will first conclude her P&O program with an 18-day sailing roundtrip from Southampton to Norway and Svalbard; ending on August 9. The first cruise from Xiamen could happen as soon as mid-October.
The transfer of the Oriana to a new Chinese brand marks the second phase of home-grown brands in China. Following the demise of SkySea, only two local one-ship brands remain in Bohai Ferry and Diamond Cruise, which each operate a single 838-guest vessel.
The M.S. Oriana was commissioned in 1995 and last renovated in 2017. On a length of approx. 260 m, up to 1880 passengers can be accommodated on 10 passenger decks. The ship's special features include the impressive atrium with its Tiffany glass ceiling or Crow's Nest with stunning panoramic views. There are plenty of activities and entertainment options on offer, while quiet places like the library or some bars are popular hangouts for relaxing hours.
With her signature tiered stern decks, Oriana is elegant and attractive. She has been specifically designed to suit British tastes; the broad teak promenade and lido decks are great for sunbathing and watching the world go by; the card room and wood paneled library are ideal for relaxing in, as are the bars including the Lord's Tavern sports bar and the iconic Anderson's bar and of course a flutter in the Casino!