P&O Cruises Australia Raises a Toast to Pacific Encounter’s New Look Bars

A sneak peek at Pacific Encounter’s Shiny Shipwide Enhancements

P&O Cruises Australia is once raising the bar when it comes to the guest experience onboard, revealing a sneak peek at the contemporary design onboard Pacific Encounter ahead of her inaugural season commencing next month. This includes the brand new Encounter Hotel ‘super pub’, the new Lobby precinct on Deck 5 and the ever popular live music bar, The Blue Room.

Sitting at the heart of the ship on Deck 7, one of the biggest transformations is the Encounter Hotel, whose tasteful renovations were inspired by Sydney’s vibrant pub scene. Bringing together a winning combination of locally sourced art, banquette seating with custom fabrics and a fresh colour scheme, Encounter Hotel is a modern, welcoming venue and will become the go-to pub for guests who enjoy trivia, karaoke, or simply sampling the extensive menu of draft beers, boutique ales and ciders.

Created in partnership with Archie Rose Distilling Co the transformation of P&O Cruises’ signature Bonded Store will appeal to guests seeking a craft cocktail menu at sea. The artisanal bar with its cosy furniture and quirky decor has plenty of vintage appeal and is destined to favoured by lovers of cocktails, gin and whiskey. 

Reminiscent of a New Orleans “speakeasy” the opulent Blue Room has been meticulously detailed with luxe velvet brass finishings, and dim lighting for dramatic effect. Complete with art detailing musical instruments, The Blue Room will continue its reputation for showcasing some of Australia’s best live musicians - appealing to those with a particular penchant for blues, RnB, funk, soul and jazz.

Known as the ship’s “living room”, The Ocean Bar has been designed to make guests feel right at home, complete with lounge chairs, sofas and a soothing palette of green, white and subtle black accents. Located at the top of the Atrium, The Ocean Bar invites guests to watch the world go by no matter the time of day; morning cappuccinos and evening martinis are welcomed equally. 

The newest feature on Pacific Encounter is The Lobby on Deck 5. It’s home to several bars and cafes including Avalon Café for a morning coffee fix and all day casual dining, Charlie’s Bar for cocktails, and Lilly’s - with oversized windows and sweeping views, it’s the idea spot to unwind with an afternoon cheese platter and glass of wine. Once the sun goes down, Lilly’s transforms into a Piano Bar where song requests and singalongs are encouraged!   

Finally, sitting atop of the Pacific Encounter on Deck 18 is Altitude. With its incredible ocean views, it's an inviting, nautical inspired space to while away the day with a book. Once darkness falls, Altitude transitions into a high-energy club where the night owls can dance the night away.

Pacific Encounter will initially arrive in Sydney next month before heading for her new cruising home in Brisbane, which has been host to P&O ships throughout the line’s 90-year cruising history in Australia.  Pacific Encounter welcomes her first guests on 20 August on a 7-night cruise departing from Brisbane.

For more information, please visit www.pocruises.com.au

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