#CubaCruiseConcept – P&O Cruises Adonia which made an overnight call to Cobh before this weekend is to embark on a new career in 2016 to include cruises to Cuba, the first since the US embargo began in 1960, writes Jehan Ashmore.
The smallest member of the fleet had sailed from the Isles of Scilly to arrive in Cobh on midday Thursday, a day earlier than scheduled. This gave additional time for cruise-goers to visit Cobh and take coach tours in the region the following day.
The visit of the 30,000 tonnes Adonia to Cobh will be her last this season and next Spring, her owners Carnival Corporation will begin with a new brand named Fathom operating 'impact travel' cruises based out of Miami. Adonia will run week-long cruises with a difference as Fathom focus on a rising number of people wanting to participate in making a positive social impact on the communities they visit. Fathom will provide such cruises to communities in Cuba and the Dominican Republic.
As in the case with Cuba, cruises will now be possible to the beleaguered island following the lifting of US travel restrictions. This will allow Fathom passengers to take part in cultural activities along with social outreach events for eight hours a day. The cruises also to the Dominican Republic, will involve programmes in areas such as education, the environment and economic development.
The new assignment to Adonia's 2016 cruise programme has led to the cancellation of a cruise from South America to Southampton in April. Passengers have been offered their money back or an option to take an alternative cruise.
During her call to Cobh, Adonia had the traditional all white P&O Cruises livery on the hull and superstructure and topped off with a customary yellow funnel.
While strolling along the dedicated deepwater cruise berth, it was noted her appearance was somewhat let down as she was scruffy looking at the stern. Later on that day of the Friday, scaffolding was in situ and no doubt put in place for a spot of touching up with a lick of fresh paint.
She departed that same day for her homeport of Southampton.
Adonia will continue to be a part of the P&O Cruises fleet, however what is not clear is if she will receive the new fleet livery in the Spring, as already sported by the new flagship Britannia.
The 147,000 tonnes cruiseship, the biggest ever built for P&O Cruises and that for the UK market, made a maiden visit to Cobh also during this week and before that to Dublin Port.
