P&O Cruises announces new brand ambassador: Gary Barlow

As revealed in my related post, P&O Cruises have announced Gary Barlow, one the UK’s most successful and prolific musicians, as it’s new Brand Ambassador, but what exactly does that mean?

Well, Gary’s debut role will be as musical director of The 710 Club on Iona, the contemporary new P&O Cruises flagship to be launched in May this year.

More about P&O Iona

About P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is Britain’s favourite cruise line, welcoming guests to experience the good life and enjoy a blend of discovery, relaxation and exceptional service catered towards British tastes.  P&O Cruises fleet of premium ships combine genuine service, a sense of occasion and attention to detail, ensuring guests have the holiday of a lifetime, every time.

In Summer 2021 (delayed from 2020 due to pandemic), P&O Cruises will launch Iona, the largest ship built to serve the UK market. Iona will feature some fabulous venues, the most exciting of which will be the innovative SkyDome.

What is the SkyDome on Iona?

SkyDome is the exclusively designed glass dome by award-winning British engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan. This will be a world first at sea and offer a unique space for both relaxing in all weathers and providing entertainment, featuring aerial performers and a wealth of live acts.

You can find out more about Iona here.

What is The 710 Club

Part of the SkyDome on Iona, The 710 Club is a “hidden” nightclub based on those found in London’s Covent Garden - low-key yet high-class with decor to match. An exclusive adult venue, the club is a lounge during the day and at night hosts bands and singers tailored to British tastes, including acoustic and impromptu performances.

What Is Gary Barlow’s Brand Ambassador Role?

As musical director of The 710 Club, Gary is collaborating with P&O Cruises to make Iona’s intimate music bar the most exciting live music venue at sea. Showcasing an eclectic range of performances, chosen specifically to appeal to British music lovers, this atmospheric late-night music venue will offer an opportunity for up-and-coming musicians to get their break.

Gary started his career performing in numerous pubs and clubs, and as seen on his TV shows, he loves to see up-and-coming talent catch that all-important break. The 710 Club will showcase a new guest performer every month,  giving new talent the chance to shine, while the resident band, will perform numbers inspired by Gary’s life, loves and musical style, creating  atmospheric sets that have been crafted for the true music lover.

Gary is involved in choosing music for the club, guiding future performers and playlists and even shaping the interiors and signature cocktails. 

P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow, said: “We are immensely proud to have someone of Gary’s stature and talent working with us as brand ambassador. Gary’s impressive career speaks for itself and he will bring his vision and personality to our new The 710 Club; from guiding the resident band, selecting future performers and playlists and even shaping the interiors and signature cocktails.

“We’re excited that our guests can be a part of it and they will have the opportunity to watch Gary light up Iona’s theatre for some extraordinary performances in dazzling surroundings. This collaboration highlights our commitment to providing world-class entertainment on Iona that places music firmly at its heart.”

Gary Barlow added: “I want The 710 Club to be a celebration of great music and great talent. As its musical director, I want to give a unique experience for people who love music as much as I do.

“Music has been such a massive part of my life – and taken me on so many journeys and adventures. I’m hoping to pass this on to all the guests in my club.”