As we excitedly look forward to Arvia joining the P&O Cruises fleet in December, we’ve been catching up with Captain Robert Camby who’ll be leading the team on board our incredible new ship…
“I’ve had the honour to captain all the P&O Cruises ships over the last 11 years but I have to say, being asked to be the first captain of Arvia, our latest new build, is my proudest moment.
My first introduction to cruising was through my grandfather who took the family on Canberra when I was just 14 and I think it is safe to say I absolutely got the cruising bug and this is what sparked my dream of a career at sea.
To be part of a new build team and see the ship construction is amazing to watch. I cannot wait to bring this new, stunning and environmentally friendly ship into Southampton for the first time, to be involved in her naming and to take her on her maiden voyage. It will be the highlight of my career.”
It’s been exciting for us all to see how Arvia is coming together! How’s her build progressing?
“I’ve had the opportunity to visit Arvia regularly at the yard in Germany and honestly it still amazes me how quickly things change and how you see new things every time – she’s really starting to take shape.”
“I’m going out to the yard again shortly to familiarise myself with the ship, the bridge and all the new features, however for me the most exciting thing will be to bring Arvia into Southampton for the first time and take her on her maiden voyage. A maiden voyage is something very special and it’s a great honour to bring a new ship to ports for the first time.”
What can our colleagues onboard expect from their new home from home?
“I feel so privileged to command Arvia and to be working alongside the most talented and experienced team. Arvia will underpin all the innovative and environmental credentials of Iona and will create even more aspirational and desirable experiences.
“I’m also excited that Arvia will welcome another Food Hero with Chef Shivi Ramoutar joining the team and providing local Caribbean food delights to excite our guests – I can’t wait to meet her and sample her dishes.
Then of course let’s not forget how beautiful the Caribbean is, home to Arvia’s maiden season. Each island is very different, both from a navigational and guest point of view, but magical in its own way with a different vibe and culture. I particularly enjoy Barbados as I’ve made many friends there over the years, and of course we also have colleagues from the region, so for them it’ll be a very proud moment.”
Thank you Captain Camby – Arvia sounds truly amazing and we can’t wait for her arrival! Watch this space for more on Arvia coming soon, plus check out all the latest news here.
Calling all fleet colleagues!
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