It has just been announced that Columbus will become the proud new flagship of the Cruise & Maritime fleet later this year.
This newly refurbished, medium-sized cruise ship, fit to carry 1,400 passengers, enjoys a fine reputation on the British cruise market and will offer the same traditional cruising style that CMV is known for.
Originally built in 1989, and since refurbished in 2015 and 2017, the vessel will offer 13 passenger decks, 9 lifts and onboard entertainment from British and International cruise staff & entertainers.
Guests will also be offered five dining options, including three fine dining options and two speciality coffee shops; 150 double cabins for single occupancy, two large public laundarette and ironing rooms; eight lounge bars plus two deck bars and six entertainment venues.
Other onboard entertainment will include a well appointed wellbeing centre with fully equipped gym; two heated swimming pools and expansive deck areas including a large screen for outdoor movies and sporting events; a tiered main show lounge spanning two decks; a library and dedicated Bride & card room with a seperate Crafter’s studio; and a British themed Taverners pub and casino.
CMV has also revealed an exciting partnership with British tea brand, Whittard of Chelsea, which will debut onboard Columbus on June 8th.
The retailer, also known for its blends of coffee, china and confectionery, will supply the 1,400-passenger ship with a range of tea and chocolate drinks, while gift collections will feature in the ship’s onboard boutique.
The cruise line’s head of customer service, Bob McGowan, said: “We are delighted to be working with such a recognisably famous tea and beverage company.
“Our passengers always appreciate a blend of quality and tradition and we believe that they will appreciate and enjoy the quality of Whittard beverages. There will be also be the opportunity to buy Whittard gift products on board.”
This news follows the announcement of TV presenter, Angela Rippon, being named as Godmother to Columbus after years of presenting numerous prime time programmes- Rip Off Britain, How To Stay Young, Health: Truth or Scare and Holding Back the Years.
Chris Coates, CMV’s Commercial Director said “With a broadcast career of fifty years and counting, Angela Rippon CBE is one of the most recognisable British journalists around and was awarded a CBE for her contribution to charity work in the field of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.
We are all thrilled here at CMV that this lovely lady is going to be the godmother of Columbus and will be naming our new flagship which is also a new cruise ship for Britain. Columbus has an exciting year ahead as she sails to Cuba, Central America and the Caribbean and at the start of 2018 in true tradition of her name sake will set off round the world.”
On Thursday 8th of June, Angela will name the ship at the official naming ceremony in London after Columbus has arrived in Tilbury on 5th June ready to sail.
What are your thoughts on the news today? Are you a Cruise & Maritime fan? Which part of Columbus sounds most appealing to you? Is it the collaboration with a tea brand, or the focus on onboard entertainment for guests? Have you sailed with CMV before? Leave us your thoughts and comments below!
