P&O Cruises Adds Strictly Come Dancing Contests

Passengers can now slip on their dancing shoes as P&O Cruises ups the tempo with its first “official” Strictly Come Dancing contests on all ships.

Exclusively recorded clips of judges Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli, will be shown along with footage of celebrity performers from the show and the “voice” of Strictly, Alan Dedicoat.

P&O Cruises marketing director Christopher Edgington said: “All passengers will have the opportunity to enter the competition, giving them an exclusive chance to become part of the Strictly magic – a real money can’t buy experience, which is only available with P&O Cruises.”

The competition will be announced at the start of each cruise with a specially-recorded message from Len Goodman. Each couple that enters chooses a dance style and their own routine to selected music based on famous routines from the show. Solo entrants are also welcome and will be partnered with a member of the ship’s company.

Rehearsals take place during the sailing, culminating in a live show on a stage set resembling the famous Strictly TV studio in the main theatre, complete with judges’ desk and the distinctive mirrorball. Contestants are expected to provide their own costumes, but will be given exclusive back-stage access and offered hair and make-up sessions.

Performances will be scored by the judging panel, armed with the famous golden paddles, and comprising members of the on-board entertainment team, senior officers, guest entertainers and fellow passengers.

The couple accruing the most points will be crowned Strictly champions and presented with the famous mirror-ball trophy, while their photo will be published on the front page of their own personalised copy of the ship newspaper Horizon.

The Strictly Come Dancing competition is already running on P&O Cruises family friendly ships Oceana and Aurora and will be introduced to the line’s other ships later this year.