WHAT’S new pussycat? P&O Cruises has named chart star Nicole Scherzinger as the godmother to its newest ship Arvia – and she will officially name her in the Caribbean.

Nicole, who fronted The Pussycat Dolls and has been a judge on TV’s The X Factor, will join the stars already announced for Arvia’s naming ceremony in Barbados on March 16.

She follows in the footsteps of Dames Helen Mirren, Darcey Bussell, Kelly Holmes and Irene Hays as P&O Cruises godmothers to the line’s ships.

“I have always felt as though I am honorary Brit,” says Nicole. “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.”

Also appearing at the naming are Olly Murs, Sara Cox and Trevor Nelson, building on the cruise market drive towards a younger audience. Take That’s Gary Barlow already works with the line, and performs onboard selected sailings, as a musical director.

Read more: Olly Murs to headline cruise ship naming show

Nicole will also devise new music and dance shows for the line’s flagships as part of her new duties as entertainment partner in an exclusive new tie-up.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow says: “As a global superstar, Nicole is well placed to create contemporary and breathtaking late night shows which will be performed in 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 March 16 when Arvia is officially named in the Caribbean. The ceremony will be broadcast live and will include a performance from Olly Murs as well as Nicole’s striking show finale.

“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.”

To watch the live launch broadcast with Nicole, Olly, Sara and Trevor click here on Thursday March 16 at 7pm (UK time).

Read more: Gary Barlow to perform on two more P&O cruises