THEY were following in the footsteps of royalty.

Lucky winners of a Daily Echo competition stepped aboard Britannia, the largest cruise ship ever built for the British market, for some fine dining and an exclusive tour.

Our five readers won the chance to take a sneak preview of the enormous ship, which is due to set sail on its maiden voyage today.

Stepping aboard the £473m vessel emblazoned with a 308ft long Union Jack across its bow, they glimpsed inside P&O’s super ship which the company hopes will rule the waves.

First there was a chance to tour the mammoth vessel, which boasts a stunning three-tier feature atrium with its centrepiece spectacular Star Burst sculpture, its bars and spas, eateries and charcuteries.

Then it was to off to the restaurant for a three-course meal, with Captain Paul Brown giving a brief speech.

The Echo winners were treated to a choice from a selection of dishes from the ship’s restaurants – and some fine wine to wash it all down.

Cruise veteran and competition winner Olive Bartlett, 69, from Millbrook, was aboard with husband Robin, a retired construction fitter.

She said: “I was looking forward to coming on board.

“It is one of the ships we were thinking of going on. So it’s a good opportunity to look round to see if it lives up to expectations.”

Daily Echo:

Ann Stopher, 70, and retired ship engineer Gordon Murray, 78, both from Hedge End, were also winners.

Ann said: “This is the first time I have won a competition. I was delighted. My sister was in hospital and I came home exhausted and Gordon said ‘Take your coat off, I have some good news’.”

Phyllis Robinson and Terry Langdown, from Townhill, were also Echo winners and novices to cruising.

Mary said: “That’s why we were thrilled about winning it. It’s a beautiful ship and it’s a wonderful opportunity to go round it. Who knows, we may be back for a cruise.”

Maria Smith, from Hamble, who won and brought friend Sharon Coleshill, from Locks Heath, with her, said: “I have never been on a cruise ship and I think it’s absolutely fabulous and I am blown away by it.

“I saw her come in from Hamble last Friday.”

Daily Echo:

Maria Smith and Sharon Coleshill

Maurice Marsh, 68, from West End, was with his wife Claudette, 57.

He said: “The three-course lunch was the best I have ever had and the service was good as you would expect for P&O.”