Your guide to P&O Cruises
Photos courtesy of P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises at a glance
Great for:
Solo travellers
Couples
Families
Groups
Age Range:
Price Range:
How formal?
As Britain’s oldest cruise line, P&O Cruises blends maritime heritage with modern comfort to create a distinctly British experience at sea. With a legacy spanning nearly two centuries, the brand is renowned for its reliability and its understanding of what travellers value: excellent food, warm service, and effortless relaxation. Let’s explore…
Why Choose P&O Cruises
From the state-of-the-art Arvia and her sister ship Iona, both powered by cleaner LNG technology (or Liquified Natural Gas for the non-engineers amongst us), to cherished vessels like Britannia and Aurora, the P&O fleet presents contemporary cruising infused with a distinct sense of Britishness. Guests enjoy afternoon tea in the Crow’s Nest, including a wide selection of sandwiches and cakes, classic fish and chips by the pool, and elegant gala evenings where you can don the posh gear and tuck in to a five-course meal (yum!), each experience designed to feel both familiar and refined.
What to expect
The onboard atmosphere is comfortably cosmopolitan with a uniquely British charm. Guests can enjoy well-stocked libraries, traditional deck games, and menus designed by celebrated chefs like Marco Pierre White and José Pizarro. Looking for that bit of evening glitz and glamour? The entertainment ranges from polished West End-style productions and live bands to intimate acoustic sessions in one of the comfortable onboard lounges.
Who it’s for
P&O Cruises caters to families, couples, and those choosing to travel solo, offering itineraries across the Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands, and the Caribbean, often sailing conveniently from Southampton on the south coast of the UK. It’s an elegant, stress-free way to explore the world while feeling right at home.
Top tips for your P&O cruise
- If sailing from Southampton, arrive a day early and stay overnight to ensure a smooth start to your trip.
- Formal nights are a P&O tradition, so pack a tuxedo or evening gown to join in the fun.
- Head to the Crow’s Nest at sunset for stunning views and pre-dinner cocktails.
- On Arvia and Iona, check out the SkyDome for all-weather entertainment and alfresco dining.
- Pre-book speciality dining, like Epicurean or Sindhu, to secure a spot at some of the best venues at sea.