THERE will be a definite European atmosphere about the world's latest cruise liner when it arrives in Southampton later this month.

The 48,000 ton Mistral is at present undergoing sea-trials after leaving the French shipyard Chantiers de l'Antique in St Nazaire ahead of schedule before arriving in the city's docks on Sunday, June 27.

Mistral is the first brand new ship for the fast expanding Festival Cruises, which is rapidly establishing itself as a pan-European operator.

The ship will be the first to use the Euro currency on board with all prices for drinks, shore excursions and shop purchases in the denomination.

Mistral, with 600 cabins and a capacity of around 1,200 pasengers, will be the largest cruise ship to sail under the French flag.

During the short time Mistral will be in Southampton, hundreds of representatives of the shipping and travel industries will be invited to look over the ship, which will be based in the Italian port of Genoa until October before being repositioned in the Caribbean for the winter season.

"We are a highly international cruise line with a very European product which is being enjoyed by an extraordinary mix of nationalities,'' said Festival's UK managing director Graham Smith.

"This is a rare opportunity for Europeans to savour a top class cruise ship specifically built to suit their tastes. I would be surprised if Mistral did not exceed her anticipated four star rating.''

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