BBC launches new HD channel for cruise ships

Cruise passengers can now watch a newly launched BBC channel created especially for the industry.

Launching initially with P&O Cruises and Cunard, BBC HD will go live through Global Eagle Entertainment’s (GEE) MTN TV network and will eventually be available to the entire cruise industry.

The new channel will cover all genres ranging from drama, comedy and factual entertainment to natural history and documentaries, and will launch with a line-up which includes Eastenders, Holby City and Casualty which will air close to the UK broadcast.

BBC HD complements BBC World News, which launched on MTN TV in 2010 and is available on cruise ships throughout the world.

Zina Neophytou, Vice President, Out of Home, BBC Worldwide said: “There has always been a strong demand for BBC content within the travel and hospitality sectors including cruise ships so launching a bespoke global entertainment channel on MTN TV alongside BBC World News is an obvious step.

“BBC HD will be the one-stop shop for the best of British TV content.”

“The BBC was our initial launch partner when MTN TV was rolled out in 2010, and once again they are leading the way in pioneering more TV programming choices for cruising passengers around the world,” said Walé Adepoju, Executive Vice President, Media & Content at GEE.

“The addition of the BBC HD channel is part of our expansion plan for MTN TV to provide more entertainment options relevant to today’s cruising market.”

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