A younger focus for P&O Princess

P&O Princess Cruises is expanding from the blue rinse brigade to younger holidaymakers with the launch of cheaper, less formal trips.

Ocean Village will aim to attract young families and a more active clientele aged between 35 and 50. Starting with one ship next May, Ocean Village will offer sporting activities such as diving and watersports, plus eight bars, an internet cafe and a bistro endorsed by TV chef James Martin.

At one or two weeks, trips will be shorter than usual cruises, making them more affordable.

Meanwhile, P&O Princess will switch its 2010-berth Sea Princess liner from the US to the UK next spring and a new 3100-berth ship being built for Britain will go to North America instead.

The European Commission will decide by next Tuesday whether to widen its investigation into Carnival Cruises' takeover bid for P&O Princess.