Quick Answer
P&O Cruises is one of the easiest cruise lines for UK travellers to understand. It offers a familiar British onboard style, lots of Southampton departures, no-fly itineraries, and a broad mix of family-friendly and adult-focused ships.
Best For
- UK travellers who want to sail from Southampton.
- First-time cruisers who prefer a familiar onboard feel.
- No-fly cruises to the Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands, Spain, Portugal and the Mediterranean.
- Travellers who like British-style dining, entertainment and pricing.
- Couples or families, depending on the ship.
It is less ideal if you want a highly international atmosphere, ultra-luxury service or the biggest American-style resort ships.
What Is Usually Included
P&O Cruises fares typically include accommodation, main dining, buffet, pools, entertainment, gyms, many activities and the travel between ports. Tipping is not required on P&O ships, which makes budgeting simpler than on some other lines.
Extras can include drinks packages, speciality restaurants, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, spa, photos and some premium activities.
| Area | Included feel | Extra-cost watchout |
|---|---|---|
| Dining | Main restaurants and buffet | Select speciality dining venues |
| Service | Tips included in the fare approach | Extra purchases may still carry their own terms |
| Drinks | Basic drinks with meals and self-service areas vary | Drinks packages and bar drinks |
| Travel | Southampton cruises avoid flying | Parking, hotels or rail travel to port |
Ships Matter
P&O is not one single experience. Larger ships such as Iona and Arvia feel more modern, bigger and family-friendly. Adult-only ships such as Arcadia and Aurora have a calmer, more traditional feel.
Before booking, choose the ship personality as carefully as the itinerary. This is where many first-timers get caught out.
Cabins
P&O offers inside, sea view, balcony, mini-suite and suite options depending on the ship. Inside cabins are good for value. Balcony cabins are popular on fjords and warmer sea-day routes. Suites add space and perks but are not essential for a first cruise.
For a stable and quiet first cabin, look for midship with cabins above and below.
Drinks And Dining
P&O’s dining style is approachable and familiar. Main dining and buffet options mean you do not need to pay extra to eat well. Speciality restaurants can be worth it for a treat.
Drinks packages can help with budgeting, but check the rules, daily limits, exclusions and whether both adults in a cabin need the same package.
Best Itineraries
P&O is especially useful for no-fly cruises from Southampton. Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal, Northern Europe and longer Mediterranean routes are all natural fits.
For first-timers, a 7-night fjords cruise or a Canary Islands winter-sun sailing can be an easy way to test cruising.
What To Watch
- Southampton departures are easy, but parking and hotels can add cost.
- Larger ships may feel busy in school holidays.
- No-fly Canary Islands cruises involve more sea days.
- Saver fares may offer less choice than Select fares.
- Ship style varies a lot, so check the actual vessel.
Final Verdict
Choose P&O if you want a UK-friendly cruise with simple logistics and a familiar onboard feel. It is especially strong for no-fly first cruises, provided you pick the right ship for your travel style.