CMV launches Columbus

Cruise & Maritime Voyages has launched its new flagship, Columbus, at a ceremony in Tilbury.

The company, which now has a five-strong fleet, increased its capacity by 25% with the 1,400 passenger vessel, which used to sail under the Ocean Village and P&O Australia brands. CMV also has Marco Polo, Magellan, Astor and Astoria.

Columbus will homeport in Tilbury.

During the ceremony Christian Verhounig, the company’s CEO & chairman, said that CMV was on the lookout for further additions to its fleet. “We are currently looking for new ships and we’re also looking for strategic acquisitions. An announcement will be made very soon,” he explained.

Verhounig added that sales for Columbus were already 40 per cent sold out for 2018.

The launch of Columbus coincided with CMV unveiling its new in-cabin magazine, Globe, which has been created by Waterfront Publishing, owners of Cruise Adviser. The magazine will be distributed across the entire CMV fleet, with lifestyle features and passenger information.

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