VENTURA COMPLETES SEA TRIALS

P&O's Ventura, the largest cruise ship dedicated to the British market, has successfully completed its official sea trials.

The two weeks of trials included testing of the £300 million ship's navigation system and propulsion motors.

Completion of the sea trials signify that 3,100-passenger Ventura is close to completion, and will soon be sailing for the UK from its Italian shipyard prior to its launch in Southampton in April.

P&O Cruises' managing director, Nigel Esdale said: "We are delighted that Ventura passed her sea trials with flying colours.

"The next few months will be a busy time at the shipyard, as the innovative concepts and designs for Ventura come to life in the final stages of her development.

"We are very much looking forward to Ventura joining our fleet and embarking on her maiden season as the most family friendly superliner built for the British market."

The build of Ventura started with the laying of the keel in August 2006.

Since then more than 3,000 workers at the Fincantieri shipyard have worked to complete the project, and the final few months will be dedicated to creating and outfitting her contemporary, innovative and family friendly public spaces and cabins.

A sister ship is due to be delivered to the cruise line in 2010.

Meanwhile, sister brand Cunard's new ship Queen Victoria is due in Southampton today for a weekend of trade events prior to be named by The Duchess of Cornwall on Monday.

by Phil Davies