CRUISE ship performer Allison McAreavey has landed her most exciting venture to date.

The singer is preparing to board the Costa Magica for its inaugural journey to the Mediterranean.

The 30-year-old, from Darlington, said: "It is the first inaugural journey I have been on so I'm looking forward to seeing the champagne bottle smashed against the liner."

The Costa Magica, which will carry more than 2,500 passengers, is due to set sail from Savona, Italy, in November.

Miss McAreavey will start rehearsals next month and perform on the ship until April next year.

Having worked on board cruise liners since her teens, Miss McAreavey says she is not ready to give up for at least another year or two.

She said: "It is such a nice lifestyle. There are no bills to pay, you meet so many people and you have a really fun time."