A NEW luxury cruise ship is set to make her maiden voyage from Southampton this week.

The Daily Echo was given exclusive access to P&O Cruises' Arvia before her departure to the Canary Islands for Christmas and New Year.

The 185,000-tonne Arvia can carry 5,500 passengers and 1,500 crew, and the ship is set to be based in Southampton.

Yesterday, a selection of local dignitaries joined Captain Robert Camby onboard with Bishop of Southampton Deborah Sellin to bless the ship.

They also exchanged plaques and were given a tour of the new vessel.

Arvia is an impressive 345m long ship with a modern feel throughout.

Guests have 16 decks to explore with a huge range of restaurants, bars, and cafes to sample.

The ship has a state-of-the-art SkyDome with a retractable glass roof and pool, where guests can unwind in an almost futuristic setting.

In the evening, it turns into an entertainment venue featuring shows, live music, guest acts and aerialist performances.

The atrium is an impressive site and is currently decked out with festive embellishments so guests can relax with a Christmas feel.

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