P&O Cruises launched its new £473m flagship, Britannia, in Southampton with the help of Star Events’ infrastructure and technical expertise.

Subject to strict accreditation and security checks in step with the event’s Royal profile, Star Events supplied a 20-20 roofed grandstand, seating 1,325 invitees, a performance stage, ground support for an LED screen and PA, as well as a tiered press platform. 

Technical Director, Tim Hudson, from Event Production Management Ltd, said: “Star’s attention to detail and high standards of professionalism, combined with a proactive, imaginative approach and a commitment to finding practical solutions, has made it an invaluable and preferred supplier,” said Event Production Management’s technical director Tim Hudson.

Star Events also came up with a solution for the quayside fix of the zip wire behind the bottle smash. Working closely with the technical production manager Kal Butt and a US specialist team led by Mike Walsh, Star had to overcome the tidal effect on the height of the ship and the fixing point at the middle of the grandstand.

“We used a system of ropes and pulleys and counterweights, ensuring the steel wire rope remained tight, but disconnected before it reached the end of its reach, where the ship finished the loop,” said Star’s project manager Phil Addyman.

Britannia is the biggest ship built for the British cruise market and will offer a sophisticated, contemporary holiday experience across health and beauty, shopping and entertainment, with a strong focus on dining.
 

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