P&O - Pacific Aria - P&O Cruises
| P&O - Pacific Aria itinerary and upcoming sailing dates | ||
|---|---|---|
| May 10, 2019 | Comedy, 3 nights | from $1688 |
| May 13, 2019 | Discover Vanuatu, 10 nights | from $3756 |
| May 23, 2019 | Fiji Encounter, 8 nights | from $1964 |
P&O - Pacific Aria Overview
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.
Inside P&O Pacific Aria
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.
P&O Pacific Aria specs
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.
P&O Pacific Aria restaurants and bars
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.
Things to do on P&O Pacific Aria
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.
P&O Pacific Aria itineraries and shore excursions
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?
Cabins on board the P&O Pacific Aria cruise ship
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.
P&O Pacific Aria Food and Dining
Dining included in your P&O Pacific Aria ticket:
- The Pantry: P&O Cruises new take on traditional buffet-style dining
- The Waterfront Restaurant: The main formal dining room
- Dragon Lady: Pan-Asian cuisine
- The Cafe: Light snacks and hot drinks
Specialty dining (not included in your fare):
- Angelo's Italian
- Salt Grill by Luke Mangan
- The Chef's Table
Entertainment on board the P&O Pacific Aria cruise ship
P&O Pacific Aria by day
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.
P&O Pacific Aria pools, gyms and spas
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.
P&O Pacific Aria nightlife
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.
P&O Pacific Aria for families
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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P&O - Pacific Aria Cabins
Balcony Cabin
-
Private balcony with outdoor furniture~
- Sitting room area
- Twin beds that covert to a queen-size bed.
- Air-conditioning with personal controls
- Ensuite with complimentary toiletries and hairdryer
- Flatscreen TV for in-room entertainment
- Wardrobe and writing desk and chair
- Telephone and safety deposit box
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
~Some balconies are metal fronted instead of Glass.
Inside Cabin
- Made up as either a double or twin for twin share occupancy^
- Two fixed lower beds and two upper beds for quad share occupancy^
- Cabin has no window
- Private ensuite, shower only
- Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
- Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).
Obstructed View Cabin
- A cabin with a window that is obstructed in view by a lifeboat. In some cases the view is completely obstructed by the lifeboat but will allow some natural light into the cabin.
- Made up as either a double or twin for twin share occupancy^
- Two fixed lower beds and two upper beds for quad share occupancy
- Private ensuite, shower over bath
- Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
- Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).
Oceanview Cabin
- Made up as either a double or twin for twin share occupancy^
- Two fixed lower beds and one or two uppers for triple & quad share occupancy
- Cabin has a Window or Porthole
- Private ensuite, shower over bath
- Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
- Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
^A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot if a cot is required (Cot subject to availability).
Penthouse with Balcony
- Twin beds that convert into a queen-size bed
-
Private balcony with outdoor furniture
-
Bathroom with shower bath
-
Air-conditioning with personal controls
-
Separate living area, dining area and kitchenette
-
Flatscreen TV for in-room entertainment
-
Large walk in wardrobe, dressing area, safety deposit box, desk with chair
-
CD/DVD Player
-
Fully loaded iPod with docking station
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
Porthole Cabin with Bunk Beds
- A cabin with a porthole only
- Made up as either a double or twin for twin share occupancy^
- Two fixed lower beds and two upper beds for quad share occupancy
- Private ensuite, shower over bath
- Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
- Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).
Suite with Balcony
- Twin beds that convert into a queen-size bed
-
Private balcony with outdoor furniture
-
Bathroom with shower over bath
-
Air-conditioning with personal controls
-
Separate sitting area
-
Flatscreen TV for in-room entertainment
-
Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair
-
CD/DVD Player
-
Fully loaded iPod with docking station
- 24-hour room service*
- Bathrobe and slippers*
*Charges apply
P&O - Pacific Aria Deck Plans
P&O - Pacific Aria Onboard Entertainment
Bars and Lounges
Bars and Lounges on the Pacific Aria
Mix Bar
At MIX the drinks are sophisticated and the scene is chic. Choose from our innovative cocktail menu of classics and new creations or seek inspiration from our expert staff for something unique. Whatever you choose your cocktail will feature top shelf spirits expertly mixed with real, fresh ingredients.
The Dome
If you feel like dancing the night away The Dome is the place to be. Our DJs know just how to get the party started so make sure you wear the right shoes to burn a hole in the dance floor.
Lido Pool Bar
Sip the day away by the pool – you’re never going to feel so relaxed.
Marquee Bar
Take in a performance or even a game of bingo (charges apply for bingo).
Ocean Bar
Decorated with comfy chaise lounges in an area with few columns for more open space. This onboard bar is offers a resort-style set up perfects for an afternoon drink or some well-deserved lazing around.
Blue Bar
The Blue Room – a New Orleans "speakeasy" lounge bar – decorated with velvet and chrome furnishings is an opulent space ideal for an evening pre or post dinner drink. Passengers can spend the evening listening to live music, anything from funk to Blues, and Jazz to RnB.
Spa
Elemis Spa on the Pacific Aria
Elemis Spa
Unwind with some rejuvenating 'you' time. At our onboard day spa you can loosen your muscles, relieve your tension and clear your mind. And we're not just talking facials and massages. Reflexology, acupuncture, men's treatments, even teeth whitening are all on the menu.
And if you're not feeling quite prepped for the poolside, we've got you covered with spray tans, body scrubs, and the full service range of a hair and beauty salon.
Elemis Spa is open daily though we suggest you make a booking on embarkation day for an appointment time which suits you.
Charges apply.
Kids Club
Kids Club on the Pacific Aria
P&O's unique Kids' Club programs have been developed with guidance from professional childhood academics, with a focus on the sorts of can't-wait-to-tell-my-friends-back-home type activities you wont find anywhere else. P&O also limit the number of children onboard each cruise to ensure everyone receives an even higher level of care and attention.
Here's just a sample of the activities on offer:
Turtle Cove (2-6yrs)
iPad activities, DUPLO Zone, Arts and Crafts, Movies and Cartoons, Talent Sohws, Theme nights, Mini Olympics, Sleepyheads storytime.
Shark Shack (7-10yrs)
iPad activities, LEGO Zone, Arts and Crafts, Movies and Cartoons, Scavenger hunts, Jewellery making, Dance lessons, Karaoke.
HQ & HQ+ (11-14 & 15-17yrs)
Stop-Motion film making, Teen jam music sessions, Sports competitions, Movies, Theme nights, Karaoke, Talent Shows, Dance Classes.
Please note: toilet trained children two and up are welcome without adult supervision and infants under two may access the centre as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian who is over the age of 18.
Night time childcare
From 10.30pm until 1am each evening, toilet trained kids three and over can hang out in the Kid’s Clubs for a nominal fee per child, per hour, with a special reduced rate per additional child. Check with Kid’s Club staff for details and prices.
Swimming
Any child using the pools must be supervised by a parent /guardian at all times. For public safety reasons, children in nappies (including swim nappies) and children who are not toilet trained are not permitted in the public swimming pools and spas.
P&O Edge
P&O Edge on the Pacific Aria
P&O Edge is not for the faint hearted. If you're up for some extra adventure, join the adrenalin junkies at P&O Edge Adventure Park.
It's Australia's largest adventure park at sea, and take it from us, it's awesome! With up to 19 exciting activities you can really get your heart pumping.
Bookings for all P&O Edge activities can be made on Deck 14 - AFT
Pacific Dawn Sail Away Opportunity (Limited Spaces)
Be lucky enough to have this unique opportunity to stand in some of the highest places on the ship whilst sailing away from the beautiful destinations on either the Crows Nest or Pacific Dawn Sign of the Pacific Dawn. This experience also includes a glass of Bubbles or Wine.
Rock Climb
Climb to some of the highest points on the ship. There are a range of purpose built climbs that use an auto belay system allowing you to climb over and over again up to 10 metres high off the deck.
Walk the Plank
Come up to the top decks once you are on board to Walk the Plank to the edge of the ship! Test your nerves, how far will you go? If someone in your group has been naughty, then make them Walk the Plank! Argggggh!
Pacific Dawn Sign Experience
Stand tall on our purpose built platform, directly above the Pacific Dawn Sign at the top of the ship and experience unique and spectacular views over the entire ship and ocean.
Low Ropes
Our purpose built Low Ropes obstacle course is approx 2m off the ground. It allows you to walk, climb and crawl around our high ropes park located on deck 15. Lower than the high ropes course makes it accessible for younger children or those wanting to test the waters before tackling the High Ropes challenge.
High Ropes
Our purpose built obstacle course in the air. Wearing a harness and connected to a continuous belay system, you will walk, climb and crawl around our high ropes park located on the very top of the ship. Watch the ocean go by as you complete this challenging yet fun course.
Flat Line
Seen the clowns at the circus walk the tight rope? You can try it out for yourself on our portable adventure that can run almost anywhere on the ship. It’s a flat line that you must attempt to walk from side to the other on, great for improving your balance and a great social activity.
Crows Nest
Ascend to the top of our purpose built structure on Deck 15 and be a real sailor looking out to sea. Get the best views and fantastic photo opportunities from the photo department. Up to 6 people can be up there together which could be a great family experience or a special moment for you and a loved one.
Climbing Wall
Climb the walls to the top of Deck 7, then across the roof and back down the other side. 4 purpose built climbs that use an auto belay system allowing you to climb over and over again.
Bouldering Wall
Just like climbing but instead of going up you will traverse across our wall located on Deck 7. Perfect for those who want to try climbing but are unsure of heights. Also great for experienced climbers to improve on their technique.
Titanic Moment
Come through crew only areas to arrive at the bow of the ship. You will walk on flat surface out to the very front of the ship; and we mean the front! We’ve even built a purpose built platform to get you further forward as you re-enact the infamous Titanic moment whilst being securely fastened to the ship.
Slackline Surfing
Seen the clowns at the circus walk the tight rope? You can try it out for yourself on Deck 15 in the sunshine. It’s a flat line that you must attempt to walk from side to the other on, great for improving your balance and a great social activity.
Segway
Challenge yourself on these amazing 2 wheeled vehicles. Receive an introduction on how to ride them from our Instructors and following on from this, if you choose to, you can ride our purpose built obstacle course in the open area of Deck 15.
P&O Bow Ladder Experience
Let us guide you through crew only areas to arrive exclusively at the bow of the ship. You will walk up a small ladder system to have a great photo opportunity from the photo department next the P&O Logo with the bridge in the background.
Laser Tag
Two teams will battle it out in the Marquee Theatre on Deck 7 using our laser equipment which consists of a phaser (gun) and head band (sensors to aim at). Plan your strategies, reload your weapon and respawn to conquer the ship.
Flying Fox
You can soar over 80m across the open decks of the ship on one of our zip lines! A unique experience at sea that is not to be missed!
Bungy Tramp
How high can you jump on a trampoline? Let’s add some bungy cords and a harness into the mix, how high can you jump now? This is a purpose designed trampoline that allows participants to jump higher than ever before whilst being securely fastened to the structure.
Bosun’s Chair Swing
Swing through the Atrium or open decks just like the Cirque team on our purpose rigged swing for children.
Abseil
Enjoy the views whilst you climb to the very top of the Aft funnel where you will be met by an instructor who will then guide you in Abseiling down the 10m high funnel, controlling your own descent the entire way!
* Pacific Adventures has a minimum age of 6yrs on all activities. Note that to safely participate, you must also be able to correctly fit in the appropriate PPE. Children age from 6-17yrs. Adult ages from 18+
* For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to P&O Edge activities. Pacific Adventures may ask you for your weight before participating in an activity. Note, a maximum weight of 110kg on all activities. Exclusion to this is Bungy trampoline which is maximum of 90kg.
Casino
Players Bar and Casino on Pacific Aria
Add a little luck to your cruise!
There are roulette and blackjack tables, gaming lessons for beginners, poker machines and even a private poker room on Pacific Aria & Pacific Eden. We also offer a Casino Rewards program which offers a wide variety of benefits.
And on cruises of seven night or more, don't miss Ladies Evenings where you can learn how to play the fantastic variety of games on offer including Blackjack, Roulette, Three Card Poker and Texas Hold'em Poker. It's a friendly, informative evening that's lots of fun.
Check the Pacific Daily onboard newsletter for more information.
Entertainment - Shows and Performances
Production Shows on the Pacific Aria
Fancy a show after dinner? The original production shows onboard are choreographed by a leading Australian production company and designed exclusively for P&O Cruises audiences.
Performed in the impressive two-storey The Marquee theatre and with a number of different shows* featured on each ship, you'll be spoilt for choice.
- Off The Charts - A concert-style production offering a roller coaster ride through some of the musical smash hits of the naughties. Off the Charts features the cool sounds of artists such as Adele, Amy Winehouse, Bruno Mars & Taylor Swift. Urban Funk, modern soul and cool pop vibes ensures it’s a high energy, feel good experience for everyone.
- Disconnected - Set in an inner-city cafe, DisConnected is a thought-provoking production show that uses music and dialogue to explore the complexities of social media and technology in today's world.
- The Very Last Night Show - Based on a live-to-air TV show for a live studio audience, The Very Last Night Show offers true variety with design elements reminiscent of a typical late night television program.
- Life As We Know It - A modern music performance piece, Life as We Know It reflects on the various aspects of life including love, loss, fear and joy. The soundtrack includes a mix of contemporary music and the imagery reflects the emotional, reflective and entertaining moments in various phases of life.
- Sideshow Alley - Sideshow Alley takes a theatrically entertaining look at the characters behind the scenes of a travelling sideshow. Set in no particular place at no particular time, the story reverberates the value of being ourselves, to be truly accepted. The diverse characters each find the sideshow world is one in which they fit in unequivocally.
- Twice upon a Time - Twice Upon A Time is a remarkable, original lyrical dance piece which has been created like no other show P&O has previously presented. It dramatically takes a journey through a post apocalyptic world to a time of re-generation and splendour. The contemporary dance style captures the tension and glory of the tale delivering an emotional masterpiece unlike any other show on board.
- The Velvet Rope - A mix of song, dance and drama, The Velvet Rope is set in a nightclub of the 1930s. This is a story of hope and perseverance, a lesson in not always listening to others but listening to yourself and a joyful mix of music blends linking the romance of troubled times in the 1930s with the slick music grooves of the 21st century.
- Slumber - P&O beds can be a place of rest, of nurturing and revitalising. They can also be a place of struggle and torment. A place to dream, to love, to play, to escape to. This original new production has a bed as the central theme and touches on these aspects with a dream-like treatment. Featuring a broad mix of contemporary songs, Slumber is bound to be an entertaining treat for all.
*Production shows may vary from ship to ship dependent on itineraries
Shopping
Shopping on the Pacific Aria
Whether it’s window shopping or pure unabashed purchasing, there’s a floating marketplace to discover. You’ll find top names in fragrances, cosmetics, fashion, jewellery and accessories, plus the latest in digital cameras and equipment. And in our tax and duty free stores+, there are savings of up to 40% off the recommended retail price.
Be sure to keep an eye out for sales and special offers in Pacific Daily, the onboard newsletter.
+Tax and duty-free shopping is not available on Australian coastal cruises, except Queensland cruises featuring Willis Island.
Adult Only Activities
Sit Down Comedy Club on the Pacific Aria
Sit Down Comedy Club
This adult’s only event features some of Australia's funniest stand-up comedians in a comedy club setting.
The Oasis on the Pacific Aria
The Oasis
The Oasis...it's just like it sounds - a happy, peaceful place that's all about downtime, drinks and deckchairs. A child-free refuge, where the sound track is the ship's wake, the cocktails are crisp and the view is a show-stopper.
But don't take our word for it, get onboard and pull up a day bed!
Sports & Fitness
Sports and Fitness on the Pacific Aria
Deck Sports
Get moving outdoors with a game of table tennis, deck chess, gold putting, shuffleboard or quoits. The Pacific Aria’s sports complex also includes a full-size Tennis Courrt (portside), a full-size Basketball Court (starboard).
Fitness Centre
Access to the fitness centre is included in your cruise fare and it’s professionally staffed, with weight and aerobic conditioning equipment. There are also fitness classes, a sauna and steam rooms available (charges apply). Guests using the fitness centre must be 16 years or over.
Bootcamp at Sea
Bootcamp will get your pulse racing and your adrenalin pumping. Our exclusive program consists of specifically designed workouts conducted by qualified instructors. Challenge your body, strengthen your mind and build your character! To sign up visit the Fitness Centre once onboard (charges apply).
Swimming
Swimming on the Pacific Aria
Choose from two separate pool decks. The top deck pool area is fully climate controlled and open in any weather thanks to our retractable roof. It also features luxurious furnishings, water features and a bar.
The Oasis overlooks the wake and features an adult-only swimming pool cushioned day beds and bar.
Any child using the pools must be supervised by a parent /guardian at all times. For public safety reasons, children in nappies (including swim nappies) and children who are not toilet trained are not permitted in the public swimming pools and spas.
Themed Parties
Themed Parties on Pacific Aria
P&O Cruises have four new themed parties you won’t be able to stop yourself from joining, not that it was ever an option.
White Party
Bring your whitest and brightest outfits to this top deck whiteout featuring a DJ, live music, performers, white body paint, white cocktails and more!
Back to School
Get a hit of nostalgia and go back to school for a night in the Dome or Connexions. Features include a giant blackboard wall, graffiti decor and even a principal handing out detention slips for the class clowns. Get back to the good old days where your biggest worry was what to have for lunch.
Vegas Pool
Get glammed up and join us on the pool deck for an afternoon of sin (Sin City, that is). This pool party will be packed with high-energy music, Vegas style cocktails and performers. Think over-the-top, high-energy vibes you can only find in Vegas.
Gatsby Party
Live the extravagant style of Gatsby in real life. This high end cocktail party will be complete with themed music, entertainment and classic cocktails.
- Vessel: P&O - Pacific Aria
- Year: 1994
- Beam: 101ft
- Cruising speed: 22kn
- Onboard Currency: Australian Dollars
- Refurbished: 2015
- Vessel: P&O - Pacific Aria
- Year Built: 1994
- All Main Meals Included
- Casino
- Dance Classes
- Fitness Centre and Gym
- Internet Facilities
- Kids Club
- Medical Centre
- Length: 719ft
- Kids Club: Turtle Cove, Shark Shack, HQ and HQ+
- Passenger Capacity: 1,260
- Tonnage: 55,819
- Voltage: Australian 220v
- 24 Hour Room Service
- Art Auctions
- Conference Facilities
- Duty Free Shopping
- Guest Entertainers
- Jogging Track
- Live Music & Comedy
- Themed Party Nights
P&O - Pacific Aria Overview
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.
Inside P&O Pacific Aria
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.
P&O Pacific Aria specs
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.
P&O Pacific Aria restaurants and bars
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.
Things to do on P&O Pacific Aria
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.
P&O Pacific Aria itineraries and shore excursions
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?
Cabins on board the P&O Pacific Aria cruise ship
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.
P&O Pacific Aria Food and Dining
Dining included in your P&O Pacific Aria ticket:
- The Pantry: P&O Cruises new take on traditional buffet-style dining
- The Waterfront Restaurant: The main formal dining room
- Dragon Lady: Pan-Asian cuisine
- The Cafe: Light snacks and hot drinks
Specialty dining (not included in your fare):
- Angelo's Italian
- Salt Grill by Luke Mangan
- The Chef's Table
Entertainment on board the P&O Pacific Aria cruise ship
P&O Pacific Aria by day
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.
P&O Pacific Aria pools, gyms and spas
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.
P&O Pacific Aria nightlife
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.
P&O Pacific Aria for families
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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