P&O Cruises

Cruising aimed squarely at British holidaymakers is the speciality of P&O Cruises, which sails mainly from Southampton, so many guests can travel to the ship by road or rail rather than fly. Part of Carnival Corporation, the line operates a mix of large family-friendly ships, including the LNG-powered Iona and Arvia, alongside smaller ships that have offered adults-only sailings for those who prefer a quieter break. Itineraries cover Northern Europe, the Norwegian fjords, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and the Caribbean, with fly-cruise options for warmer winter sailings. Onboard dining, entertainment and service are geared to British tastes, with pounds sterling as the onboard currency. Fare types differ in flexibility and inclusions. Buyers should choose between family and adults-only ships carefully, check what their fare includes, and budget for drinks packages, excursions and Wi-Fi.