Pictured on Pacific Pearl (left to right) are Mercyanto Rajagukguk, Jolden Jon Andrades, Gelyn Basco, Graham Willshere (Manager Food and Beverage Systems Carnival Australia – judge), Tony Durante (Nestle Professional barista/trainer – judge), Steve Stubbs (Manager Food and Beverage Operations Carnival Australia – judge), Shimray Shanchuila, Cliff Maurer (Nestle Professional management – judge), Mario Avelino (winner) and Joey Castor.

A good cup of coffee is easy to find on P&O Cruises’ fleet, with P&O Cruises’ baristas regularly participating in onboard competitions to hone their skills.

The cruise line has just held its yearly coffee barista competition across its three ships, overseen by Nestle Professional.

The top six baristas on each ship were judged head to head based on the preparation of three drinks, their technical knowledge and demonstrated skills.

Graham Willshere, Manager Food and Beverage Systems at Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, said coffee culture and the preparation of good coffee were very important to its passengers.

“The F&B staff involved onboard our ships are proud of the very high standards they have set. Passengers love our coffee and that’s what keeps them coming back for more,” Mr Willshere said.

The winners of the 2012 competitions were: Pacific Pearl – Mario Avelino; Pacific Dawn – Maylene Galban; Pacific Jewel – Rowena Rongavilla.