The P&O Pacific Aria is the sister vessel to the P&O Pacific Eden, who joined the P&O fleet in November 2015. Aria is based out of the P&O Sydney Cruise fleet in Queensland for approximately eight months of every year, with trips scheduled to cities along the Australian coastline, as well as further afield to destinations such as Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and the South Pacific.
Popular among travellers from Australia and New Zealand, she also attracts cruise enthusiasts from all around the world.
Some seasoned cruisers may recognise the P&O Pacific Aria's exterior, as in a previous life she was the Ryndam, part of the Holland America Line fleet. However once guests step on board Aria, any signs of the Ryndam are likely to be long gone.
Both the indoor and outdoor decor was given a major facelift, or in some cases completely replaced, during an extensive refurbishment in 2015. The renovations resulted in a fresh, modern feel, and brought the vessel up-to-date with modern cruise trends.
With a 1,500 passenger capacity, the P&O Pacific Aria is slightly smaller than other cruise ships in Australia. Measuring 720 feet in length and spanning across 10 decks, she is the perfect-size vessel for short to medium length trips.
With a total of 15 eateries on board, the P&O Pacific Aria presents a fun challenge; how many restaurants can you sample in a short space of time? While those on longer cruises will have ample opportunity to work their way around the various menus and venues, guests on short sailings have a big decision on their hands.
To opt for modern Australian classics in the main dining room, or to try something different at one of the ship's many specialty restaurants? The choices don't stop with food, either. Come nightfall take your pick from a range of equally appealing watering holes, where high quality wines, craft beers and delicious cocktails await.
For a mid-size cruise ship, the P&O Pacific Aria packs a lot of punch, proving once again that big isn't necessarily better.
Whether your relaxation method of choice is reading, exercising or simply soaking up some sun by the pool, you'll find a wealth of options on board.
There are most traditional cruise activities, such as deck games, trivia shows and fitness classes. If you'd like to try something different, the on board Bootcamp is a great way to meet fellow cruisers and improve your fitness, while the Internet Cafe is a great spot to catch up on the news and get in touch with loved ones back home.
As the P&O Pacific Aria travels to several different destinations, the excursions available will depend on each sailing.
With several short trips between Australian cities, such as the Sydney to Brisbane 2-day cruise, the P&O Pacific Aria is likely to appeal to those looking to travel in style. Forget driving or flying - what could be more relaxing than going from city to city by sea?
Guests can choose from six different sleeping options on board the P&O Pacific Aria. The Aria Penthouses and Mini Suites are luxurious, comfortable and spacious. All P&O Pacific Aria suites have separate living areas and balconies.
Balcony and oceanview rooms are perfect for those who don't need the extra space of a suite but want to make the most of sea views. Meanwhile budget conscious travellers will feel right at home in one of the P&O Pacific Aria interior rooms.
Interconnecting rooms are available for families and larger groups.
Dining included in your P&O Pacific Aria ticket:
Specialty dining (not included in your fare):
The P&O Pacific Aria offers a good range of daytime activities, from deck games and cocktail classes to game shows and trivia competitions. The ship also features a casino, internet cafe and child-free retreat called The Oasis, not to mention a decent range of shops.
No matter what the season, the pools on board the P&O Pacific Aria are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit - nothing says 'I'm on holiday' like a dip in the water. If the sun's out, take your pick from a range of deck chairs and relax by the poolside.
The Aqua HealthSpaFitness facility on the P&O Pacific Aria caters to all your wellbeing needs. Whether you feel like a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating facial, this is the place to be. Most sailings also have private yoga classes and bootcamps, to help keep you fit at sea.
You can tell the P&O Pacific Aria has life's priorities sorted; as with the extensive range of dining options, there are also plenty of bars to choose from - no matter where you are on the ship, you'll never be far away from food or drink.
The MIX Cocktail Bar is the perfect place to start the evening, while the Orient Bar, Charlie's Bar and Marquee Bar are also great options for a pre-dinner beverage. Once you've finished dining, you'll want to enjoy a live show - be it at an exclusive P&O Pacific Aria show at the Marquee Theatre or something more low-key, such as stand-up comedy or live music.
Night owls will be able to party until the early hours of the morning at The Dome Bar, which features one of the best dance floors on board.
Worried you won't be able to take the kids out for a meal with so many fancy bars and fine dining options on board? Never fear, the P&O Pacific Aria is a family friendly vessel and caters for children of all ages. The Waterfront Restaurant offers a 'Just For Kids' option, while the Pantry serves family favourites such as fish and chips.
The P&O Pacific Aria also has plenty to offer in terms of children's activities. There are three age-appropriate activity clubs; Turtle Cove for ages 3 to 6, Shark Shack for ages 7 to 10 and HQ for tweens and teens.
Children don't have to go to an activity club to have fun, however. The Lido pool is open to families, and there is a zip line on the top deck that both young and old will enjoy.
There is no in-cabin babysitting service, however the Kids Club reopens between 10.30pm and 1am for group babysitting sessions, at a fee of $5 per child.
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