Maiden arrival in Southampton

18 years ago today Southampton turned out in style to greet its proud new citizen ORIANA the brand new £200 million flagship of Britain's most distinguished and popular shipping and passenger line P&O perhaps more importantly new flagship of the merchant fleet replacing in both roles to of the most famous liners afloat CANBERRA and QUEEN ELIZABETH 2 respectively.
In scenes reminiscent of the Ocean Liners of Yesteryear ORIANA was escorted into her new home by a flotilla of small ships.
Having endured force 7 to 11 winds during her trials which has proven her superior sea keeping abilities and some slight delays due to a unforeseen vibration problem ORIANA proudly showed her clean lines as she emerged from the haze to a warm reception which continued as she came alongside her berth as P&O's and news film crews looked on.
Below is a News story looking at ORIANA's arrival in Southampton from UK broadcaster ITN.

  On her bridge when asked about his feelings of bringing ORIANA in for the first time Commodore Gibb replied simply "Delight absolute delight" while P&O's Chairman Lord Sterling also was irrepressible during an interview for P&O's film ORIANA: From Dream to Reality which gave a look behind the genesis of the great liner's creation.
As ORIANA's took her first great bow the first of many members of the public got their first proper view of her in her home waters.
While her first journey was completed  the rush activity to prepare for the next event her naming and the Maiden Voyage was just beginning.