P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises is one of the oldest cruise brands in the world, with roots dating back to 1837 when the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company began operating mail and passenger routes.
In the late 1800s, the company started offering leisure voyages, helping to pioneer the modern cruise holiday. Over time, P&O shifted from transport to tourism, focusing more on luxury travel at sea.
Today, P&O Cruises is a major British cruise line known for its long history, traditional style, and modern ships, blending heritage with contemporary holiday experiences.
P&O's Promise
The promise of P&O Cruises is to deliver a classic yet modern British holiday experience at sea, combining comfort, quality service, and carefully designed itineraries. Building on the heritage of the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, P&O focuses on relaxed sophistication, offering guests a balance of traditional cruising values with contemporary entertainment, dining, and destinations.
Britania
The Britannia is a modern cruise ship operated by P&O Cruises, designed to offer a classic British holiday experience at sea with a contemporary feel. Launched in 2015, it features elegant interiors, a grand atrium, and a wide selection of dining venues ranging from formal restaurants to casual eateries. Guests can enjoy West End-style entertainment, multiple swimming pools, a spa, and dedicated spaces for families and adults. With its large size and variety of onboard activities, Britannia combines traditional cruising values with modern amenities, making it popular for both short breaks and longer voyages.
Arvia
The Arvia is one of the newest and largest ships in the fleet of P&O Cruises, designed to deliver a modern British cruise experience with a strong focus on relaxation and entertainment. Launched in 2022, it features contemporary interiors, a wide variety of restaurants, and expansive deck spaces with ocean views. One of its standout attractions is a high ropes course, along with pools, a spa, and a cinema-style entertainment programme. Guests can also enjoy live shows, bars, and family-friendly activities, as well as adult-only areas for quieter relaxation. With its mix of innovation, comfort, and variety, Arvia is designed for warm-weather cruising and immersive holiday experiences.
Ventura
The Ventura is a large cruise ship operated by P&O Cruises, designed to offer a family-friendly British holiday experience at sea. Launched in 2008, it features elegant yet contemporary interiors, a wide range of dining venues, and spacious public areas. Guests can enjoy multiple swimming pools, a spa, sports courts, and a full programme of West End-style entertainment, along with activities for children and teens. The ship also includes adult-only spaces for relaxation, making it suitable for a variety of travellers. With its balance of leisure, entertainment, and comfort, Ventura provides a classic cruising experience with modern amenities.
Target Market
P&O Cruises is aimed mainly at UK holidaymakers who prefer a relaxed, familiar style of cruising with a distinctly British feel. It attracts families, couples, and older travellers who enjoy comfortable onboard living, traditional entertainment, and the convenience of sailing from UK ports. Many passengers are also drawn to its mix of sunny destinations, varied food options, and easy-going, classic cruise holiday experience.
Ship Floorplan
Your Trip -
Britania
Day - 1
Southampton, UK
Departing from Port of Southampton on a P&O Cruises ship is an exciting start to your holiday. As the ship leaves the harbour, you’ll see the city skyline fade behind you while enjoying views of the coast.
Onboard, there’s a lively atmosphere as guests explore the ship, settle into their cabins, and enjoy the first meals and entertainment of the trip. It’s a smooth and memorable beginning to your cruise adventure.
Day - 2
At Sea
A sea day on a P&O Cruises ship is relaxed and full of choice. You can spend time by the pool, join fitness classes, enjoy spa treatments, or simply unwind on deck with ocean views.
There’s plenty to do throughout the day, including live entertainment, quizzes, enrichment talks, and a wide range of dining options. It’s a great chance to explore the ship and enjoy a slower pace while sailing between destinations.
Day - 3
Haugesund
Haugesund is a coastal town in Norway often visited by cruise ships for its scenic fjords and Nordic charm.
As a cruise stop, you can explore nearby waterfalls, Viking history sites, and beautiful natural landscapes, or enjoy walking through the town’s harbour area with its cafés, shops, and relaxed atmosphere.
Day - 4
Alesund
Ålesund is a scenic coastal town in Norway known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and stunning surrounding fjords and mountains.
As a cruise stop, you can enjoy panoramic viewpoints like Mount Aksla, explore charming streets filled with unique buildings, or take excursions into nearby fjords and nature landscapes.
Day - 5
Stavanger
Stavanger is a coastal city in Norway known for its colourful old town and close access to dramatic fjords and natural scenery.
As a cruise stop, you can explore the charming harbour area, visit historic streets, or take excursions to famous sights like the Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock for incredible views.
Day - 6
At Sea
On one of your last sea days with P&O Cruises, the atmosphere is relaxed and a little more reflective as your cruise begins to wind down.
You can revisit your favourite spots on the ship, enjoy the pool or spa, and make the most of the dining and entertainment options one last time. It’s a chance to unwind, take in the ocean views, and enjoy the final moments of your journey at sea.
Day - 7
Zeebrugge
Zeebrugge is a coastal port in Belgium often used as a cruise gateway to nearby cities.
As a cruise stop, you can explore the nearby medieval city of Bruges, known for its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings, or enjoy the local seaside and harbour area.
Day - 8
Southampton, UK
Returning to Port of Southampton on a P&O Cruises ship marks the end of your journey. As the ship docks, you’ll disembark, collect your luggage, and go through customs.
It’s a smooth and well-organised process, making it easy to head home or continue your travels, while enjoying your final views of the harbour as your cruise comes to an end.
