The newly refitted Pacific Aria (ex Random) arrived in Sydney on 22nd November direct from Singapore’s Sembawang Shipyard. The Pacific Eden (ex-Noordam) cruised her way towards Sydney and, on 25th November, both ships positioned off Sydney Harbour with fleet mates Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel and Pacific Pearl to perform a world first 5-ship spectacular marking the debut of the Pacific aria and Pacific Eden. The history-making gathering of five cruise ships from one fleet on the Harbour was watched by thousands on the foreshore and on small boats, while more than 12,000 guests and crew onboard the P&O fleet joined in the celebrations. 

The five ships lined up on their approach and then remained in Sydney Harbour all day, with guests aboard enjoying a series of live concerts from more than 25 music acts during the afternoon and evening. The celebration concluded with a special fireworks display above the harbour at 8.45pm. The Fort Denison naming ceremony was attended by key cruise industry members and two special guests, Sydney sisters 8- year-old aria and 3-year-old Eden Mulligan, invited by P&O to perform the role of “junior godmothers” for the sister ships Pacific aria and Pacific Eden, which coincidentally share their names. Social media played a large part in the naming ceremony, which saw popular Australian singer Jessica Mauboy and actress Kate Ritchie simultaneously christen the ships via Twitter as the two vessels sailed either side of Fort Denison.

Thankfully, maritime tradition was still adhered to with a bottle of Champagne being smashed on the bow of each ship as they reached Fort Denison, with all five ships sounding their whistles to mark the nation’s first dual cruise ship christening.