Hugh Bonneville, celebrated star of ITV’s ‘Downton Abbey’ will act as master of ceremonies at the naming ceremony for P&O Cruises newest ship Adonia, on May 21, 2011.
Hugh will share the spotlight with Adonia’s godmother, Dame Shirley Bassey, DBE, as he welcomes her to the stage to name the ship with the official bottle breaking ceremony.
Hugh has had a long and distinguished career, starring on both the big and small screen, including roles in ‘The Vicar of Dibley,’ and ‘Notting Hill’. He is taking time out from filming the second series of Downton Abbey to join the celebrations on board Adonia.
P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow said “We are delighted that such an eminent British actor has agreed to join us for the occasion, and we’re sure that it will add an extra element of glamour and distinction to the event.”
Adonia is considerably smaller than the larger ships of today. Carrying just 710 passengers, the ship will be able to reach off the beaten track ports of call, yet is big enough to provide an extensive range of on board facilities. Exclusively for adults, Adonia will offer an atmosphere that is intimate and refined – and the on board excellence for which the company is renowned.