| P&O introduces program for groups

New, free ‘Events at Sea’
packages are designed to
attract more group travel on
P&O’s local cruises.
P&O has launched a program targeting groups
from 16 to 250 people, including birthday
parties, sporting and hobby group meetings,
small conferences and incentive gatherings.
The complimentary packages consist of an
onboard event coordinator, venue hire, audio
visual equipment, personalised photo
sessions, group dining and welcome receptions.
Optional extras include personalised group
shore tours, special occasion cakes, branded
menus and program printing.
The new program comes in the wake of the
company’s successful Ceremonies at Sea
program for weddings and vow renewals,
launched last year.
Jenny Lourey, svp, Carnival Australia, said
there was a growing demand for group travel
on ships because it was social, relaxing and
“extremely cost effective”.
She said the wide range of cruise itineraries
made it very easy for agents to help groups to
choose a suitable getaway.
Recent groups hosted on P&O Cruises’ ships
have included a genealogy conference, a health
and beauty event, and a medical conference.
Franca Cafra, events coordinator at LR
Health & Beauty Systems, said their recent
incentive trip – an eight-night Pacific Jewel
cruise for 42 independent partners – had
been a huge success.
“The detailed information and personal
assistance offered by P&O Cruises resulted in
a smooth operation, from my initial enquiries
to cruise completion,” Ms Cafra said.