The Ultimate Guide to P&O Cruises (2025) | Ships, Dress Code & Tips

Last updated: 12 October 2025

In This Guide

A Brief History
The P&O Cruises Fleet
Accommodation and Service Levels
What's Included in Your Fare
Loyalty Programme: Peninsular Club
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Dining Options
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
P&O Cruises for Solo Travellers
Dress Code
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
Official Websites
Required Travel Documents
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
Food Policy
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of P&O Cruises
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
Additional Resources

P&O Cruises holds a special place in the hearts of British cruisers, offering a proud maritime heritage with a distinctly British holiday feel. As the UK's most popular cruise line, it provides a familiar and comfortable way to explore the world, often without the need for flights. The focus is firmly on great food, quality entertainment, and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Brief History

The P&O lineage dates back to 1837 with the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company, which initially ran mail routes. By 1840, it became the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O). In a groundbreaking move in 1844, P&O pioneered "pleasure cruising" by offering leisure voyages from the UK to the Mediterranean.

After decades as a leader in passenger transport, P&O Cruises was formally established as a dedicated cruise brand in 1977. In 2003, it became part of the Carnival Corporation & plc family. Today, P&O Cruises maintains its unique British identity, designing its ships and services specifically for the UK market.

The P&O Cruises Fleet

P&O Cruises operates a varied fleet, from sophisticated adult-only ships to large, family-friendly resorts at sea. This ensures there is a perfect ship for every type of holidaymaker.

Arcadia (adult-only)

Launch Date: 2005
Tonnage: 84,341 GT
Capacity: 2,094 passengers
Notable Features: Three-tiered theatre, expansive spa with hydrotherapy pool, exterior glass-fronted lifts

Arcadia is a mid-sized, adult-only ship offering a classic and refined cruise experience. Its stylish interior, diverse dining options including the Indian-fusion restaurant Sindhu, and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for couples and solo travellers. The ship's design focuses on sophistication and comfort.

Arvia

Launch Date: 2022
Tonnage: 184,700 GT
Capacity: 5,200 passengers
Notable Features: SkyDome with retractable glass roof, Altitude Skywalk high-ropes course, Mission Control escape room

Arvia is one of P&O's largest and most innovative ships, designed for sunshine-filled holidays. As an Excel-class ship, she is powered by cleaner LNG fuel and packed with family-friendly entertainment. Her huge variety of bars and restaurants caters to every taste.

Aurora (adult-only)

Launch Date: 2000
Tonnage: 76,152 GT
Capacity: 1,874 passengers
Notable Features: Classic tiered stern, cinema, The Glass House wine bar

Aurora is a classic, mid-sized ship exclusively for adults, known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere. She is perfectly suited for longer, destination-focused itineraries like world cruises. Her traditional maritime design appeals to those who love classic cruising.

Azura

Launch Date: 2010
Tonnage: 115,055 GT
Capacity: 3,100 passengers
Notable Features: SeaScreen outdoor cinema, The Glass House by Olly Smith, family-friendly pools

Azura is a large, vibrant ship that offers something for everyone, making her a fantastic choice for families. She boasts a huge range of dining and entertainment options to keep all ages happy. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, perfect for a fun-filled holiday.

Britannia

Launch Date: 2015
Tonnage: 143,730 GT
Capacity: 3,647 passengers
Notable Features: The Cookery Club, Limelight Club (dining & entertainment), stylish atrium

Britannia combines classic elegance with contemporary design, featuring a stunning starburst chandelier in her atrium. The ship has a strong focus on fine dining and sophisticated entertainment. She is popular with both families and couples seeking a stylish getaway.

Iona

Launch Date: 2020
Tonnage: 184,089 GT
Capacity: 5,200 passengers
Notable Features: SkyDome, Grand Atrium with ocean views, 710 Club cocktail bar

Iona was P&O's first Excel-class, LNG-powered ship, offering a contemporary and spacious holiday experience. She is designed to maximise views of the sea, especially in the stunning Grand Atrium. Her extensive choice of dining and entertainment makes her a floating destination in herself.

Ventura

Launch Date: 2008
Tonnage: 116,017 GT
Capacity: 3,078 passengers
Notable Features: Extensive children's clubs, large sports court, multiple pools

Ventura is a super-family-friendly ship, packed with activities and venues for all ages. She has a relaxed, fun-loving vibe that makes everyone feel at home. With a great selection of restaurants and bars, she is an excellent choice for a multigenerational holiday.

Accommodation and Service Levels

P&O Cruises offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed cabins to suit different budgets and preferences. All cabins include steward service, TV, fridge, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Standard Cabins

Standard accommodation includes Inside, Sea view, and Balcony cabins. Inside cabins are the most affordable option, while Sea view cabins feature a window or porthole. Balcony cabins provide private outdoor space to enjoy the fresh sea air.

Suite Categories

For more space and luxury, guests can choose from Mini-suites, Suites, and Family Suites. These larger cabins feature a separate living area and a more spacious balcony. The top-tier Penthouse Suites offer the most premium accommodation onboard.

Exclusive Suite-Level Services

Guests staying in Suites (not Mini-suites) receive enhanced service levels. This typically includes the services of a personal butler, priority embarkation and disembarkation, and complimentary canapés. Access to exclusive dining venues may also be included on some ships.

Accessible Cabins

P&O Cruises provides a number of fully accessible cabins across its fleet. These cabins are designed for guests with mobility challenges and feature wider doorways and adapted wet rooms. They are available in various categories and should be booked early.

What's Included in Your Fare

A P&O Cruises fare offers excellent value by including many of the core holiday elements. Your cruise price covers your accommodation, essential drinks, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options.

Standard inclusions are full-board dining in the main restaurants and buffet, plus deck food like pizza and grills. Also included are water, tea, coffee, and fruit juice from the buffet. Access to the pools, gym, sports facilities, and the majority of onboard entertainment is also part of the fare.

Loyalty Programme: Peninsular Club

The Peninsular Club is P&O Cruises' loyalty programme, designed to reward repeat guests. Members earn 10 points for every night spent on board, unlocking progressively better benefits as they move up the tiers.

Pacific Tier

Requirement: 150 to 500 points
Perks & Benefits: An onboard discount of 5% on all purchases, a dedicated loyalty manager, and a quarterly magazine.

Atlantic Tier

Requirement: 501 to 1,500 points
Perks & Benefits: All Pacific Tier benefits, plus an increased 7.5% onboard discount. Guests also receive a dedicated check-in and a glass of Champagne on the first formal night.

Mediterranean Tier

Requirement: 1,501 to 2,500 points
Perks & Benefits: All Atlantic Tier benefits, with an increased onboard discount of 8.5%. Additional perks include an annual gift and a welcome-on-board reception.

Caribbean Tier

Requirement: 2,501 to 5,000 points
Perks & Benefits: All Mediterranean Tier benefits, with the onboard discount increasing to 10%. Members also receive priority booking, a dedicated phone line, and an exclusive travel insurance discount.

Baltic Tier

Requirement: 5,001 to 7,500 points
Perks & Benefits: All Caribbean Tier benefits, plus a 50% discount on machine washable laundry. Members in this tier also receive an invitation to an officer-hosted fine dining event during their cruise.

Ligurian Tier

Requirement: 7,501+ points
Perks & Benefits: All Baltic Tier benefits, plus complimentary half-bottle of Champagne on the first formal night and invitations to special inaugural events. The top tier signifies the most loyal guests.

Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.

Pre-Paid Packages Available

P&O Cruises offers several packages that allow guests to manage their onboard spending in advance. These cover drinks and internet access, providing convenience and potential savings.

The Classic Drinks Package

Includes a wide selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass.
Also covers soft drinks, juices, and premium coffees.
Provides a discount on drinks not included in the package.

The Ultimate Drinks Package

Includes everything from the Classic package.
Adds an extended selection of premium spirits, cocktails, and fine wines.
Offers more choice and is ideal for those who enjoy top-shelf brands.

The Connect Wi-Fi Package

Designed for basic internet use like messaging apps and email.
Offers a simple, lower-cost way to stay in touch.

The Browse Wi-Fi Package

Provides faster speeds suitable for browsing the web, social media, and streaming.
Available for a single device or for a family of four devices.

Please note that specialty dining is typically booked on a pay-as-you-go basis. We advise visiting the P&O Cruises official website for the most current package pricing and details.

Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line's official website.

Dining Options

Dining is a highlight of any P&O cruise, with a strong emphasis on quality British and international cuisine. Guests can choose between traditional Club Dining at a fixed time and table, or the more flexible Freedom Dining. The main dining rooms serve a multi-course menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For casual meals, the Horizon buffet offers a vast array of choices throughout the day. Additionally, many ships feature poolside grills, pizzerias, and grab-and-go food courts. For a special occasion, specialty restaurants like The Glass House (wine bar and restaurant), Sindhu (Indian), and The Epicurean (fine dining) offer elevated culinary experiences for an extra charge.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities

Entertainment on P&O Cruises is varied and professional, catering to British tastes. The main theatre hosts spectacular West End-style production shows, live bands, and guest comedians. Intimate venues like The Limelight Club on Britannia combine dinner with a show from a celebrity performer.

During the day, you can expect quizzes, guest lectures, dance classes, and deck games. Evenings are filled with live music in the numerous bars and lounges, cinema screenings, and late-night discos. The larger ships like Iona and Arvia also feature the SkyDome, an all-weather entertainment hub with aerial performances and pool parties.

P&O Cruises for Solo Travellers

P&O Cruises is an excellent choice for solo travellers, offering a welcoming and sociable environment. The cruise line has been a leader in catering to singles, providing dedicated single-occupancy cabins on many of its ships.

Accommodation for Solo Cruisers

Several ships in the fleet, including Azura, Britannia, Iona, and Ventura, feature a good number of single cabins. These are available as both inside and balcony cabins and are priced for one person, avoiding the hefty single supplement. Booking early is essential as they are extremely popular.

Meeting People and Onboard Life

The crew onboard actively helps solo travellers connect. They often host coffee mornings and meet-ups specifically for guests travelling alone. In the main dining rooms, solo cruisers can request to be seated with other singles, creating an easy way to socialise over dinner.

Dress Code

P&O Cruises has a straightforward dress code that enhances the holiday atmosphere. During the day, the dress code is casual, allowing for shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear by the pool. In the evenings, the code is "Evening Casual."

Evening Casual means no football shirts, tracksuits, or fancy dress. Smart trousers or dark jeans with a polo shirt or collared shirt are perfect for men, while ladies might opt for a dress, skirt, or smart trousers. Cruises of seven nights or more will also feature one or two "Celebration Nights," which are glamorous black-tie evenings where guests are encouraged to wear their finest suits and cocktail dresses.

Gratuities / Tipping Policy

P&O Cruises makes tipping simple and hassle-free for its British guests. On all cruises, gratuities for the crew are included in the holiday price. This means there is no need to tip individual crew members, and no automatic daily service charge will be added to your onboard account.

Embarkation Day Beverage Policy

Guests aged 18 and over are permitted to bring a modest amount of alcohol on board at the start of their cruise. The allowance is typically up to one litre per person of either wine, Champagne, beer, or spirits. This alcohol is intended for consumption in your cabin only.

Any alcohol purchased ashore in ports of call will be stored by the ship and returned to you on the last day of the cruise. All drinks purchased in the ship's bars and restaurants are subject to a service charge, which is covered if you have a drinks package.

What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View

Guests frequently praise P&O Cruises for its distinctly British atmosphere, making them feel at home on the high seas. The convenience of no-fly cruises from Southampton is a major draw, as is the consistently high quality of the food. The inclusion of gratuities in the fare is also a much-appreciated policy.

On the other hand, some guests find the largest ships, like Iona and Arvia, can feel crowded at peak times. While service is generally very good, it can occasionally be less personal on these mega-ships compared to the smaller, more intimate vessels in the fleet. Overall, feedback highlights P&O as a reliable and enjoyable choice for a British-style cruise.

Environmental & Sustainability Efforts

As part of Carnival Corporation, P&O Cruises is committed to reducing its environmental impact. The line's newest ships, Iona and Arvia, are powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This significantly reduces air emissions, marking a major step forward in sustainable cruising.

The company is also focused on waste reduction, energy conservation, and sourcing food sustainably. P&O Cruises is working towards ambitious long-term goals for decarbonisation. These efforts aim to preserve the beautiful marine environments its ships visit for future generations.

Official Websites

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, or to make a booking, please visit the official P&O Cruises website for your region.

UK Website: https://www.pocruises.com

Required Travel Documents

A valid passport is mandatory for all P&O Cruises holidays, even those that do not leave the EU. It is crucial to check the passport validity rules for both the cruise line and the countries you are visiting. Many destinations require your passport to be valid for at least six months from the final day of your cruise.

Warning: Always adhere to the cruise line's policy, as it can be stricter than the entry requirements of a specific country. For example, a country might only require three months' validity on your passport, but if the cruise line demands six months, you will be denied boarding if you do not comply. Visas may also be required depending on the itinerary and your nationality.

Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)

If you are travelling with a child for whom you are not the legal parent or guardian, you must carry specific documentation. This is a strict requirement to prevent international child abduction. You will need a notarised letter of consent signed by both legal parents.

The letter should explicitly grant you permission to travel with the child, take them out of the country, and authorise emergency medical treatment. Failure to produce this document upon request at check-in can result in being denied boarding. It's a simple step that ensures a smooth start to your holiday.

Onboard Safety & Permitted Items

Guest safety is the top priority for P&O Cruises. All guests must attend a mandatory safety drill (muster drill) before the ship sails. This drill provides essential information on emergency procedures and the location of your assembly station.

For the safety and comfort of everyone, certain items are prohibited from being brought on board. This includes, but is not limited to, clothing irons, candles, illegal drugs, weapons, and drones. All luggage is scanned at embarkation to ensure compliance with these rules.

Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy

Guests who need to take medication during their cruise should bring a sufficient supply for the entire journey, plus a little extra in case of delays. All medications should be kept in their original packaging and carried in your hand luggage. It is also wise to carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor.

Please be aware that some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the UK may be considered controlled substances in other countries. The possession of any illegal substances is strictly forbidden, and any violation of this policy will have serious consequences, including being disembarked and reported to local authorities.

Food Policy

Bringing Food Onboard

Guests are generally permitted to bring small quantities of pre-packaged, non-perishable snacks on board. However, bringing fresh food or homemade items is not allowed. This policy helps maintain health and safety standards on the ship.

Taking Food Off the Ship

For public health reasons, guests are not allowed to take fresh food off the ship at ports of call. This includes items from the buffet or restaurants, such as fruit, sandwiches, or pastries. This helps prevent the transfer of agricultural pests between countries.

Bringing Food Back from Port

Bringing food back onto the ship from a port is subject to strict agricultural regulations. Items like fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat products are generally prohibited to prevent the spread of disease. Commercially sealed and packaged items are sometimes permitted, but it's always best to check with the crew.

Current Starting Ports (2025)

P&O Cruises specialises in no-fly cruises, making Southampton its primary hub. They also offer fly-cruise packages for international itineraries.

United Kingdom: Southampton, England
Caribbean Fly-Cruises: Bridgetown, Barbados
Mediterranean Fly-Cruises: Valletta, Malta

Sample Itineraries: A Taste of P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises offers a wide variety of itineraries, from short breaks to epic world voyages, primarily sailing from the UK.

Norwegian Fjords Discovery

This classic itinerary is a fantastic way to experience some of the world's most breathtaking natural scenery. Sailing directly from the UK, it offers a convenient and immersive journey into the heart of Norway's dramatic landscapes. You'll wake up to stunning new views right outside your window.

Best For: Scenery lovers, photographers, and first-time cruisers.
Duration: 7 nights
Departure Port: Southampton, UK
Example Ship: Iona
Typical Ports of Call: Stavanger, Olden, Ålesund, Haugesund.

Canary Islands Winter Sun

Escape the British winter with a no-fly cruise to the sun-drenched Canary Islands. This popular route provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, with diverse islands offering everything from volcanic landscapes to beautiful beaches. A stop in Madeira adds a touch of Portuguese charm.

Best For: Sun-seekers, couples, and those looking for a winter escape.
Duration: 12-14 nights
Departure Port: Southampton, UK
Example Ship: Britannia
Typical Ports of Call: Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Lisbon.

Caribbean Fly-Cruise Adventure

For a true taste of paradise, a Caribbean fly-cruise is unbeatable. After a direct flight to Barbados, you'll join your ship for a journey through idyllic islands. Each day brings a new culture, stunning beaches, and turquoise waters, all without the long transatlantic sea days.

Best For: Beach lovers, families, and winter holidaymakers.
Duration: 14 nights
Departure Port: Bridgetown, Barbados
Example Ship: Arvia
Typical Ports of Call: Curaçao, St. Vincent, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are gratuities included on P&O Cruises?: Yes, gratuities for the crew are included in your cruise fare, so no additional tipping is required or expected.
2. What currency is used on board?: The currency used on all P&O Cruises ships is the British Pound (£ GBP).
3. Is P&O Cruises adult-only?: No, most of the fleet is family-friendly. However, two ships, Arcadia and Aurora, are exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.
4. What plugs are in the cabins?: All cabins are fitted with standard UK-style 3-pin plug sockets, so UK guests do not need travel adapters.
5. Can I smoke on board?: Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is only permitted in designated outdoor areas on the open decks. Smoking is not allowed in cabins or on balconies.
6. Is there Wi-Fi on board?: Yes, satellite Wi-Fi is available across the fleet for a fee. Different packages are available depending on your usage needs.
7. What is the dress code for Celebration Nights?: The dress code for Celebration Nights is black tie. This means dinner jackets or tuxedos for men and glamorous evening gowns or cocktail dresses for women.
8. Do I need a passport for a cruise from Southampton that only visits EU countries?: Yes, a full and valid passport is a mandatory requirement for all P&O Cruises holidays, regardless of the destination.
9. Can I bring my own alcohol on board?: Yes, each guest aged 18 or over can bring one litre of wine, beer, or spirits on board during embarkation for consumption in their cabin.
10. Are there kids' clubs on P&O ships?: Yes, all family-friendly ships have complimentary, age-specific kids' clubs called The Reef, catering for children from ages 2 to 17.

A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams

When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:

"Free Cruise" or "Exclusive Offer" Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you've won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced "exclusive" deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for "port taxes," or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line's official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a "limited-time offer" that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer's legitimacy.
Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.

To ensure your journey with P&O Cruises begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact P&O Cruises directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.

Additional Resources

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Tours & Activities

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Transport & Transfers

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Welcome Pickups: Airport Transfers
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Other Services

Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
Radical Storage: Luggage Storage
Yesim: eSIM Provider

Disclaimer

The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.

Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.

We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.

Affiliate Disclosure

Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.

The Essential Cruise Shop’s Guide to P&O Cruises 2025 | Ships, Dress Code & Tips

Your complete expert guide to the fleet, dining, onboard life, and policies for P&O Cruises in 2025.