The fleet’s largest cruise ship has been officially named by TV personality Angela Rippon who says it will “open up new horizons and destinations” for travellers across the world.
In homage to her namesake, the new Columbus ship, launched this week, is the epitome of exploration and adventure.
The occasion was marked with a celebration to remember with the newest vessel expanding Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ fleet to five ocean cruise ships.
Based at Tilbury, the former P&O Cruises’ Ocean Village ship has had an extensive refit and upgrade, offering passengers a very spacious feel without compromising on luxury and intimacy.
Accommodation and facilities on board
The 12-deck vessel has capacity for 1,400 passengers and boasts 64 deluxe balcony cabins with 75% of its 775 cabins promising an ocean view.
There are five dining options as well as a choice of seven lounge pubs and six entertainment venues.
Two swimming pools stretch across the open top deck and there is a wellness centre and gym for passengers.
Cruise calendar
Columbus sets sail on its maiden voyage on Sunday, a mini cruise taking in Amsterdam and Antwerp in Belgium.
This winter it will embark on a number of festive trips including a 15-night Christmas & New Year cruise to the Canaries and Madeira.
Its 2018 programme, which includes a round-the-world trip, is proving very popular with 40% already booked for the year.
Deals for groups
Groups receive a 5% discount for bookings of 12 or more people as part of the early booking Saver Fares. GTOs booking a holiday with CMV will also get one free place when 20 passengers are booked and two for 40 passengers.
In addition, groups can enjoy a complimentary welcome cocktail party when embarking on a cruise, as well as the chance to arrange exclusive get-togethers on board each ship.
Exciting time for CMV
Just two years since the independent cruise firm launched the Magellan ship, chief executive Christian Verhounig has hinted that another new vessel could be entering service in 2019.
Journalist Angela Rippon CBE was announced as godmother of Columbus, named after Christopher Columbus, the discoverer of the New World.
Telling guests she shares her birthday with Columbus Day – 12th October – Angela said: “This beautiful ship is named after a man whose courage, sense of adventure and perseverance led him to discover the Americas.
“He didn’t just see the world, he opened up the New World to travel and to commerce and this Columbus will do the same.”
For more information, call the groups department on 0844-414 6199, or visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com.
