Your guide to P&O Cruises ships

P&O Cruises – familiar comfort with a touch of home

Fairly Good

Average Ship Age

Cabin Variety / Outside Cabins

Environmental Impact

Tech & Innovation

Accessibility & Design

There is a certain feeling that comes with stepping aboard a P&O Cruises ship. It is a sense of coming home, mixed with the quiet thrill of knowing an adventure is about to begin. The scent of salt on the air, the gentle hum of the engines, and the warm welcome from the crew all combine to create an atmosphere that is both familiar and exciting.

It is a world where British sensibilities meet modern luxury, where a good cup of tea is as important as a spectacular sea view.

This blend of comfort and discovery is at the heart of the P&O Cruises experience. The fleet, from the grand, contemporary lines of Iona and Arvia to the classic elegance of Britannia and Aurora, is designed to feel both impressive and wonderfully approachable. Each ship offers a distinct personality, yet all share a commitment to style, quality, and a reassuring sense of Britishness that makes every voyage feel special.

P&O Cruises’ fleet represents a proud blend of British maritime tradition and thoughtful, modern innovation. Every ship is designed with comfort, style, and a sense of familiarity in mind, creating an experience that feels both luxurious and genuinely welcoming. From the magnificent, LNG-powered Iona and Arvia to enduring favourites like Britannia and the adults-only Aurora, the line has a vessel to suit every kind of traveller, whether they are seeking family fun or a peaceful escape.

Fleet innovation

While P&O Cruises may not chase the headline-grabbing attractions of some international competitors, it leads in thoughtful, passenger-focused design. The introduction of the LNG-powered sister ships, Iona and Arvia, marked a significant step towards more sustainable cruising. Their magnificent SkyDomes, vast glass-roofed spaces that house pools and entertainment venues, offer all-weather leisure, perfect for the variable British climate. The fleet’s focus remains on understated sophistication and quality rather than fleeting trends, a philosophy that resonates perfectly with its loyal British audience and fosters a relaxed, premium atmosphere onboard.

Cabin variety

The cabin design across the P&O Cruises fleet is modern, comfortable, and cleverly practical. From affordable inside cabins perfect for budget-conscious travellers to luxurious suites complete with butler service and expansive balconies, there is an option for every preference and price point. Balcony cabins are especially popular, providing a private slice of outdoor space for enjoying quiet morning coffees or watching the sunset over the ocean. On Arvia and Iona, the selection is even broader, with dedicated family rooms and innovative conservatory mini-suites. These feature a versatile, light-filled lounge area that opens onto the balcony, creating a stylish and flexible indoor-outdoor space.

Environmental impact

P&O Cruises is actively investing in its environmental future. The LNG-powered engines on its newest ships, Arvia and Iona, dramatically reduce air emissions, making them among the cleanest in the industry. Across the rest of the fleet, company-wide initiatives such as reducing single-use plastics and implementing advanced waste treatment systems reflect a serious commitment to sustainability. The growing use of shore power capabilities in port, combined with ongoing improvements in operational efficiency, places P&O Cruises among the more environmentally conscious mainstream cruise lines.

Accessibility and design

P&O Cruises excels in creating an accessible and comfortable environment for all its guests. The ships are designed with wide corridors, a generous number of accessible staterooms, and well-planned public spaces that make navigation straightforward for everyone, including those with limited mobility. Clear signage, step-free access to most areas, and dedicated assistance services ensure a welcoming and stress-free experience from the moment of boarding. From a design perspective, the interiors skilfully combine classic British elegance with light, modern styling. The result is a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere that feels contemporary without being tied to short-lived trends.