Tidal debuts ‘first’ rum distilled at sea

Jersey-based Tidal Rum has partnered with P&O Cruises to create what is thought to be the world’s first rum distilled at sea.

The partnership between the rum brand and the British cruise line was first announced in August 2022.

As part of the collaboration, Tidal Rum has opened a rum distillery on board P&O’s new ship Arvia, which arrives in December 2022.

The brand has created Golden Tide Rum, an island-inspired liquid that is said to capture the adventure and excitement that the ocean brings.

The rum will be distilled exclusively for P&O Cruises while the Arvia sails in the Caribbean. The recipe will be recreated on the mainland by the rum brand.

The resulting liquid blends flavours of the region with marine botanicals from the British Isles.

The ‘world’s first’ rum distillery at sea will be located in Anderson’s Bar on the ship, which houses a 50-litre still called Aurelia.

Guests will be able to watch the entire distilling process through the ceiling-to-floor windows. Golden Tide will then be sold neat and in cocktails across all the bars on Arvia, and bottles will be available to buy in the ship’s shops.

Harry Coulthard, co-founder of Tidal Rum, said: “With this new rum, we wanted to bring together the finest rums of the Caribbean with the fresh notes of coastal botanicals from the shores of Britain’s islands.

“Whether you’re taking your first sip while enjoying a stunning island horizon or a beautifully crafted cocktail in Anderson’s Bar, Golden Tide Rum has all the ingredients of an unforgettable P&O Cruises holiday.”

Furthermore, guests will be able to participate in on-board rum experiences including a rum tasting class and a rum blending class.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow added: “Our partnership with Tidal Rum is based on a shared affinity with the sea, a commitment to sustainability and a passion for exclusively-crafted drinks.

“We’re delighted to offer guests Golden Tide Rum onboard Arvia as the perfect accompaniment to a memorable holiday in the Caribbean.”

Founded in 2019, Tidal Rum is made from a blend of Caribbean cask-aged rums from Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic.