Britain’s Queen Elizabeth officially named the UK’s biggest ever cruise ship, Brittania, on Tuesday (10.03.15).
The monarch was joined by Prince Philip during a visit to the port of Southampton for the ceremony celebrating P&O Cruises’ new 141,000-ton liner.
Shortly before a nebuchadnezzar of British Wiston Estate Brut NV was smashed against the boat to officially name it, Her Royal Highness said: "I name this ship Brittania. May Gold bless her, and all who sail in her."
The vessel – which features a 308-foot version of the Union Jack flag across its bow – is the second ship which the 88-year-old monarch has given the title, having previously named the royal yacht Brittania which began service in 1954, and continued to serve the public until 1997.
The latest ship has been created specifically for the British holiday market and is capable of carrying more than 3,600 passengers and 1,350 crew.
As well as a sports arena, library and gym, the £473 million liner boasts 15 passenger decks, a three-tier atrium, four swimming pools and a theatre capable of seating over 900 people.
Brittania’s maiden voyage will be a 14-night Western Mediterranean cruise leaving Southampton on March 14, with the super-liner set to visit 57 ports in 31 countries during its first year alone.
Britain’s Queen Elizabeth names ship Brittania
