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Destination Traveller

Cruise line review

P&O Cruises

No flights, no fuss: P&O sails from Southampton, and for a calm voyage its two smaller ships, Arcadia and Aurora, keep most of their holidays adults-only. Choose the ship as carefully as the route.

The line

Britain's best-known cruise line runs seven ships, most of them from Southampton to the Norwegian fjords, the Baltic, the Canaries and the Mediterranean, plus fly-cruises in the Caribbean. It is good value and very British, from the pub to the afternoon tea.

The ships

The fleet splits in two. Iona and Arvia are huge, family-focused ships carrying over 5,000 guests, with Britannia, Azura and Ventura in between. Arcadia and Aurora are the smaller, traditional ships, at around 2,000 guests, and are adults-only for most of the year. From December 2026, selected Arcadia and Aurora holidays will also welcome families, so check the sailing before you book.

Cabins and suites

Balcony cabins are the sweet spot. Arcadia and Aurora offer mini-suites and suites with more space and a calmer feel; both ships have had multi-million-pound refurbishments.

Food and drink

Plenty of choice, from the main restaurants with club or freedom dining to specialty venues at extra cost. Arcadia is the only ship with Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White.

Onboard life

On Arcadia and Aurora, think quiet lounges, a library, a proper pub, ballroom dancing and long sea days. Arcadia also sails long world cruises. The big ships are lively, with headline shows and busy pools.

Excursions

Paid excursions in every port, from coach tours to walking and food outings. Ports such as Bergen and Lisbon are easy to explore independently.

What is included

Meals in the main restaurants and buffet, entertainment and tea and coffee. Drinks packages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining and excursions cost extra, and gratuities are added to your onboard account.

Who will love it

UK travellers who want to sail from home with no flights and like a traditional, sociable ship. Book an adults-only Arcadia or Aurora sailing, outside the school holidays, for the calmest voyage.

Questions

Which P&O ships are adults-only?

Arcadia and Aurora, for most of the year. From December 2026 selected holidays on both ships also welcome families, so check each sailing.

Where does P&O sail from?

Mainly Southampton, with fly-cruises from the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

Are drinks included on P&O?

No, apart from tea, coffee and water. Drinks packages are available.

When is the calmest time to sail?

Term time on an adults-only Arcadia or Aurora sailing, such as May, June or September.

Last updated 30 October 2026

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