Just under four years from delivery, P&O Cruises announced details regarding its 2020 newbuild at a press event in the UK.

A major new entertainment hub called The Dome will be among the star attractions to feature, the company said. The ship will be powered by LNG. The ship will be delivered in summer 2020 and cruises will go on sale in late 2018. 

Featuring a clear sky dome, a pool with a retractable stage, water feature and whirlpools, The Dome will act as an all-weather venue for all day entertainment and informal dining.

At night The Dome – one of four primary entertainment spaces on the new 180,000 ton ship – will feature aerial performances, projection onto the roof and shows.

There is also an uninterrupted half-mile Promenade around the ship on Deck 8 which provides access to al fresco dining at a range of restaurants.

Glass walls spanning three decks will flow natural light into P&O Cruises signature Atrium, the central heartbeat and focal point of the 5,200-passenger ship, complete with a grand staircase, gallery and overhead walkways.

Among the highlights:

• 17 places to eat
• 7 speciality restaurants
• 12 places to enjoy a drink and see the sea
• 13 entertainment venues from the theatre to adult only venues
• 3 pop-up entertainment spaces/venues
• 16 whirlpools
• 4 swimming pools (three outside, one inside)
• 9 places to have breakfast
• 5 places to enjoy afternoon tea
• 7 places to have coffee

P&O Cruises senior vice president Paul Ludlow said: “Choice, flexibility and the ability to create individual holiday experiences on board will be at the heart of the new ship which, thanks to an innovative use of space, will offer an extensive range of dining, entertainment and relaxing areas.

“Understanding the psychographic – the mindset – of our current and future guests is the key – acknowledging and realising what they want from a holiday and then providing it for them.

“Our vision is to offer the next generation of British guests the holiday of a lifetime on the next generation of P&O Cruises ships. This new ship will bring an array of new cruising experiences to guests and attract newcomers to our brand, whilst instantly resonating with forward-thinking guests, encapsulating the ‘P&O-ness’ they recognise and love.”