AS a prima-ballerina, Darcey Bussell was used to having the world at her feet, so it was no surprise that ballet’s most famous name did not put a foot wrong when she starred in Southampton’s Grand Event yesterday.

Darcey stepped out and embarked on the 115,000 ton cruise ship Azura, the vessel she named in 2010, to join the celebrations marking the 175th anniversary of P&O Cruises.

She will be back in Southampton in two weeks’ time when she and her family join Azura for a two-week cruise to the Norwegian fjords.

“Being invited to take part in these celebrations is quite an experience, a real performance-and-a-half,’’ said Darcey, standing on the breezy stern of Azura, with all the other P&O Cruises ships in the background.

“Although I am Azura’s godmother, and I named the ship, I have never had the opportunity of ever taking a cruise, so I am really looking forward to setting sail for Norway.

“It is such an honour, and I feel so fortunate to make it down to Southampton and see these magnificent ships all together on a once in a lifetime occasion.’’ During her time on board Azura, Darcey toured the ship and met many members of the crew.