Bocce is Bellisimo on P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises has introduced a little Italian flair to three of its ships, adding the popular sport of bocce to its extensive list of onboard activities.

One of the world’s oldest sports, bocce, which is similar to lawn bowls, can now be played onboard Pacific Jewel, Pacific Pearl and Pacific Dawn thanks to an innovative portable court developed by New Zealand company Packaworld.

Inflatable ‘Packabocce’ courts overcome the storage and space challenges posed by traditional bocce courts to allow the Italian sport to be available on cruise ships and other smaller shared spaces.

P&O Cruises Head of Entertainment Brett Annable said the cruise line was always looking to create new experiences for guests.

“With bocce becoming popular Down Under, the inflatable courts have proved a great way to introduce this fun and entertaining sport to local guests, while also increasing our onboard offering,” Mr Annable said.

“The response from our guests has been wonderful – they’re really excited to try a new activity.”

Packaworld CEO Peter Roberts said the invention of portable recreation courts in a new 9 by 2.5 metre recreation size had made the game more accessible.

He said bocce was a great fit for recreational play on cruise ships as it encouraged people of all ages and physical abilities to get involved.