P&O Cruises has named multi award-winning performer Nicole Scherzinger as godmother to its latest ship, the 5,200-passenger Arvia.

The lead singer of The Pussycat Dolls will officially name the ship in a beachside ceremony on 16 March in Barbados.

She will also “create spectacular music and dance extravaganzas for P&O Cruises in an exclusive entertainment partnership”, the cruise line said in a statement.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “It is an extraordinary privilege for us to work with someone of Nicole’s talent and calibre.

“As a global superstar, Nicole is well placed to create contemporary and breathtaking late night shows, which will be performed in the SkyDome on our two newest ships, Iona and Arvia.

“We could not be more thrilled that she has agreed to be Arvia’s godmother and will be with us on 16 March when Arvia is officially named in the Caribbean.”

P&O Cruises a ‘modern, forward-thinking’ cruise line

Ludlow added: “Her involvement reflects everything which P&O Cruises stands for – a modern, forward-thinking holiday company which has always excelled in the levels of cutting-edge entertainment we provide.

“As part of the fabric of the iconic British theatrical and live music sector, with hundreds of performers every year, we are always striving to set new standards for the quality of our on-board shows and this association with Nicole takes that to another level.”

Scherzinger added: “This is an extraordinary and special opportunity for me to create a visual and musical feast for people to immerse themselves in, with the sea as their backdrop, giving them something to truly remember.

“I have always felt as though I am an honorary Brit and to be asked to name Arvia in Barbados really is the icing on the cake. I cannot wait to perform my godmother duties in the most beautiful of Caribbean locations.”

Arvia’s naming ceremony will be broadcast live on YouTube on 16 March, at 7pm.