P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is the oldest active cruise line in the world – the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company was founded in London in 1837 and began its first pleasure voyages in 1844. Today the brand belongs to Carnival Corporation. Its headquarters are in Southampton. The on-board concept is thoroughly British: traditional formal dining with a dress code on Black Tie evenings, Afternoon Tea, pubs on board, and the pound sterling as the on-board currency.

The fleet comprises seven ships. The newest and largest are the LNG-powered sister ships Iona (2020) and Arvia (2023) of the Excel class, each measuring 184,000 gross tons and accommodating up to 5,200 guests – built to the same design as Carnival Mardi Gras and AIDAcosma. The Royal class (Britannia 2015) is slightly smaller at 143,730 gross tons. Ventura (2008) and Aurora (2000) are the older classic ships. P&O sails predominantly from Southampton, and many itineraries require no air travel.

The on-board language is English and the on-board currency is the British pound. Key destinations include the Mediterranean, Norwegian fjords, the Caribbean, the Canary Islands, and world voyages departing from Southampton. P&O also operates the separate brand P&O Cruises Australia, with its own fleet serving the Australian market.