The initiative, named Athena, aims to offer “support and connections for like-minded individuals to grow personally and professionally” across the group’s Southampton-based brands, P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Seabourn.

The group was founded by employees Emma Kenny, Rosy Sims and Brodie McIntosh with support from the Carnival UK executive board.

The organisation will look to develop forums to “spotlight topical issues and to provide a voice for women within Carnival UK” and will celebrate International Women’s Day 2018 this week by welcoming executive mentor Kiki Maurey to Carnival House for a talk and training.

“Athena’s primary aim is to ensure all women at Carnival UK, irrespective of current level or position, are supported and given equal opportunities to develop and thrive during their time in the business,” Carnival UK said.

Josh Weinstein, Carnival UK president said: “Athena is a positive, pro-active group formed by Emma, Rosy and Brodie on their own initiative rather than an HR-led directive, and I couldn’t be prouder.

“The more diverse points of view and perspectives that we can bring to the business — and the more skilled we can get at ensuring everyone’s voice is heard in an inclusive environment — the more innovative we can be and the better we can be at decision making.

“It’s ethical, smart, profitable and contagious. It’s an important thing for us all to be passionate about and I wholeheartedly believe it’s the right thing to do.”

Athena co-founder Rosy Sims added: “We recognise there are many forms of inequality in the world and in business but our primary goal is to focus on factors that typically apply to women.

“When women fulfil their potential, everyone benefits - in the workplace and more broadly in society. We are very fortunate to have passion and support throughout the business and as such we will be able to make a real difference, both personally and professionally to lives of the Athena members.”