The ship has had a multi-million-dollar refresh. And so has the menu of its most famous chef – Luke Mangan.

P&O’s Pacific Explorer returned to Sydney this week boasting a new-look Luke Mangan restaurant serving perennial signature dishes kingfish sashimi, liquorice parfait and more.

But the sashimi has a new zesty lime taste, making it a stunner. And he is planning other new dishes – though the 11-year P&O veteran is conscious his diners love their favourites.

See our exclusive interview with Luke here.

Luke’s occupies the same space above the pool deck – but now it has windows, so you can dine at night in a more sophisticated atmosphere.

For lunch, it will be serving favourites such as Salt Grill breakfast burger, spiced Sydney sirloin and Cajun spiced ocean trout.

The popular 400 Gradi dining venue serving Neapolitan pizzas by award winning chef Johnny Di Francasco, has also been refreshed with more intimate seating for couples and families to enjoy a feast of authentic pizzas and other Italian favourites.

Many of the ship’s public spaces have been revamped with a much bigger accommodation choices for families as well as activities.

Pacific Explorer will have a new games arcade with 21 attractions including the hottest “Virtual Rabbids” which take guests on an action-packed virtual amusement ride full of twists and turns and fabulous views.

The ship’s Pantry, Marquee Lounge and Atrium are all looking fresh and stylish. Black Circus, which will host the adult show “Love Riot” has also been updated with new upholstery and artwork.

Pacific Explorer will have two new five berth family suites offering guests complimentary laundry service, priority embarkation and disembarkation.

“Pacific Explorer has an exciting year ahead with her upcoming move to Brisbane when Pacific Adventure joins the fleet and is based in Sydney this October,” said P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell.

“The refurbishment is an exciting start to Pacific Explorer’s final season in Sydney and we expect the changes to ‘wow’ a new audience in Queensland over the autumn and winter months.”

The Explorer departs Sydney today on a three-night cruise to the Sapphire Coast Food Festival in Eden.

In October she moves to Brisbane and offers a seven-night Barrier Reef Discovery cruise departing on 7 November with fares starting at $699 pp quad share.

In February 2021, she will sail her first New Zealand season.

For further information, visit pocruises.com.au or call 132494.