P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises

 

P&O Cruises can trace its colourful history all the way back to 1837. On 1st September that year, Arthur Anderson and Brodie McGhie Wilcox, founders of the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company, were awarded a contract from the British Government to carry mail from London to the Iberian Peninsula. At that time passengers were also carried on these routes, but initially it was more a case of business than pleasure.


It is commonly believed that Arthur Anderson first imagined deep-sea cruising two years before establishing the company. Arthur placed a dummy advertisement selling a mythical cruise to fill space in the first edition of his ‘Shetland Journal’ newspaper.


As the company picked up more contracts with more varied destinations, they also put Anderson’s idea for leisure cruise travel into action. They offered round trip tickets to some of the more exotic destinations along their routes like Malta, Athens and Egypt. Needless to say this new holiday phenomenon well and truly took off.


P&O Cruises set the standards for quality, service, reliability, comfort, safety and innovation. And this forward-looking approach ensures that we remain at the forefront of cruise holidays.


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What to expect from P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises Ships

Arcadia

Exclusively for adults - Arcadia’s signature features such as her exterior glass-fronted lifts and expansive art collection, featuring no less than 3,000 works of art, create a sophisticated air.

Arvia

Iona’s eagerly-anticipated sister ship, Arvia, joined the fleet in December 2022. Like Iona, Arvia is another Excel class ship, with even more freedom, innovation and variety in store than ever before. So get ready for your ultimate P&O Cruises holiday.

Aurora

Exclusively for adults - Mid-sized Aurora is a world-class ship, bringing you the joys of classic cruise travel. In April 2019, she enjoyed a refit and started an exciting new chapter as a ship that caters exclusively for adults.

Azura

Family friendly - Azura offers the perfect balance, bringing the opportunity to enjoy quality time together as well as time separately. From hassle-free meal times to carefree days out, we really have got it all covered.

Britannia

Family friendly - Inspired by our past. Designed for the future. There has never been a more stylish way to see the world! Nothing beats the feeling of stepping on board a new ship for the first time. Whether you're new to cruising, or a veteran of the high seas, your moments on board Britannia are sure to be truly memorable.

Iona

Are you ready to see the world in widescreen? Our newest and most innovative ship, Iona was designed to invite the outdoors in. Gazing out from the stunning SkyDome, three-tier glass Grand Atrium or the brand-new Conservatory Mini-suite cabins, you’re never far from a spectacular view of the ever-changing horizon on Iona’s cruise holidays.

Ventura

Family friendly - There’s always something happening on Ventura, enjoy delicious fine dining, a tranquil spa, many quiet spaces to unwind, great sports facilities and four pools. Evenings are particularly memorable, with the lavish two-deck theatre where you’ll witness elaborate shows and stand-up comedy.

P&O Cruises Brochures