P&O Cruises has built a reputation as one of the leading names in British cruising, with a fleet that caters to a wide range of travelers. Some ships are packed with the latest technology and modern luxuries, while others have been sailing for years, offering a more classic cruise experience. In this guide, I’ll be ranking P&O’s ships by age and showcasing their features, helping you decide which ship suits your style best.
Of course, a ship’s age doesn’t tell the whole story. That’s why I’ve also included reviews and ratings for each one, so you can see how they measure up in terms of comfort, service, and onboard experience.
Whether you’re after a brand-new ship packed with cutting-edge features or a tried-and-true classic with a loyal following, this ranking will help you find the right fit for your cruise.
Before booking your next P&O cruise, take a look at my ranking of their ships based on passenger reviews.
Arvia (2022)
- Launch Date: 2022
- Capacity: 5,200 passengers
- Ship Class: Excel Class
- Length: 1,130 ft. (344 m)
- Size: 185,000 GT
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.7/5)
Arvia, one of the largest ships in P&O’s fleet, is designed for sun-soaked voyages in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. As a sister ship to Iona, Arvia shares much of its structure but introduces fresh features that set it apart. With a retractable SkyDome roof, a swim-up bar, and a top-deck high ropes course, the ship offers an active, resort-like experience at sea.
Arvia also features the first-ever rum distillery at sea and an impressive selection of 30 restaurants and bars, including the all-American 6th Street Diner and the plant-based Green & Co. Entertainment is a major highlight, with the Headliner’s Theatre hosting full-scale productions, a four-screen cinema, and the new submarine-themed escape room, Mission Control. For those seeking tranquility, the adults-only Retreat also offers a peaceful escape.
What Cruisers Think
Arvia is popular among reviewers for its modern design, variety of entertainment, and dining options. However, some passengers note that the ship can feel overcrowded, especially on sea days, and that service in bars and restaurants can be slow. The lively yet sometimes chaotic atmosphere divides opinion—some find it overwhelming, while others love the energy and excitement.
Iona (2021)
- Launch Date: 2021
- Capacity: 5,200 passengers
- Ship Class: Excel Class
- Length: 1,130 ft. (344 m)
- Size: 185,000 GT
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Iona is P&O Cruises’ largest ship and a game-changer for the UK cruise market, bringing a modern and lively atmosphere to the fleet. Designed with a resort-style experience in mind, the ship offers over 30 restaurants and bars, catering to a range of tastes from traditional British favorites at the Keel & Cow to contemporary fine dining at Sindhu.
One of Iona’s standout features is the SkyDome, a stunning glass-enclosed space that transforms from a relaxed daytime retreat to an entertainment hub at night, featuring aerial performances and live music. The Grand Atrium, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, creates a bright and airy focal point for socializing. Passengers can enjoy two infinity pools, a four-screen cinema, and even the first-ever gin distillery at sea.
What Cruisers Think
Passengers love Iona’s sleek, modern design, many dining options, and high-quality entertainment. However, some find the ship overcrowded, particularly in public spaces and around the pools.
Britannia (2015)
Launch Date: 2015
Capacity: 3,647 passengers
Ship Class: Royal Class
Length: 1,080 ft. (330 m)
Size: 141,000 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Britannia marked a new era for P&O Cruises when it launched in 2015, becoming the largest ship ever built specifically for the British market at the time. Designed by luxury hotel specialists Richmond International, the ship is known for its boutique elegance with nautical tones, marble, and warm wood. One of its standout features is the stunning three-tier atrium, home to The Glass House wine bar and the Market Café by patissier Eric Lanlard.
Britannia is perfect for food lovers, with celebrity chef partnerships that bring gourmet dining experiences to life, from Marco Pierre White’s gala menus to Atul Kochhar’s Sindhu restaurant. Entertainment options include the Headliners Theatre’s high-tech LED stage, live music in The Live Lounge, and dance classes in the Crystal Room. With a focus on elegance and fine dining, Britannia appeals to those who appreciate a refined cruise. However, it doesn’t offer the high-energy attractions found on similarly sized U.S. ships.
What Cruisers Think
Britannia receives praise for its elegant décor, quality dining, and excellent service, particularly in the specialty restaurants. That said, some passengers find it too large and difficult to navigate, citing a lack of stairs midship as a frustration. Others note that while entertainment is a highlight, certain areas—such as the buffet—can feel overcrowded.
Azura (2010)
Launch Date: 2010
Capacity: Around 3,100 passengers
Ship Class: Ventura Class
Length: 951 ft. (290 m)
Size: 115,055 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)
Azura is a ship designed with British cruisers in mind, offering a comfortable and familiar experience at sea. Since its launch in 2010, it has remained a favorite for those who appreciate traditional cruising with a modern touch. The ship underwent a significant refurbishment in 2015, which updated many of its public spaces, refreshed soft furnishings, and added The Epicurean, a fine-dining restaurant replacing the former Seventeen.
Azura’s entertainment and dining options cater to a wide range of passengers. Sports fans can catch Premier League games in Brodie’s, while others enjoy a sophisticated meal at Sindhu, the ship’s Indian fine-dining venue. Passengers looking for relaxation can retreat to The Retreat, an exclusive VIP sun deck, while those seeking activity can enjoy ballroom dancing, pub quizzes, and a variety of live performances.
Despite being over a decade old, Azura continues to attract families, couples, and groups looking for a well-rounded cruise experience.
What Cruisers Think
Passengers appreciate Azura’s friendly service, varied entertainment, and range of dining options, particularly Sindhu and The Epicurean. However, common complaints include overcrowding, especially on sea days, dated cabin decor, and difficulty finding sun loungers. Some guests have also noted that the buffet layout can be frustrating and that reception staff can sometimes feel overwhelmed.
Ventura (2008)
Launch Date: 2008
Capacity: 3,200 passengers
Ship Class: Grand Class
Length: 950 ft. (290 m)
Size: 116,017 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)
P&O Ventura is a spacious, lively ship known for its great dining, family spaces, and all-round fun. The ship has since found its place as a great all-rounder, catering to both families during school holidays and a more traditional P&O crowd at other times. With four pools, a large kids’ club (The Reef), a spa, and plenty of dining options, Ventura manages to feel both spacious and lively.
Restaurants onboard Ventura include Olly Smith’s The Glass House, serving excellent wine and small plates, and Sindhu, which offers Indian cuisine with a British twist. There’s also an adults-only retreat, The Serenity Pool, for those seeking a quieter spot. Though it’s now over 15 years old, Ventura has undergone several refurbishments, including one in 2023, keeping it fresh and up to date.
What Cruisers Think
Ventura is popular for its solid dining options, friendly crew, and well-organized entertainment, including live music in Havana and impressive West End-style shows. Despite this, some passengers feel the ship is starting to show its age, particularly in the cabins and décor. Reports of occasional overcrowding in buffet areas and long waits for dining have also been mentioned, especially on full-capacity sailings.
Arcadia (2005)
Launch Date: 2005
Capacity: 2,000 passengers
Ship Class: Vista Class
Length: 950 ft. (290 m)
Size: 83,781 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.7/5)
Arcadia is one of P&O’s only ships designed exclusively for adults, offering a relaxed atmosphere tailored for couples and those looking for traditional cruising over high-energy thrills. Originally designed for Holland America Line and briefly reassigned to Cunard, its history gives it a unique feel, including a smaller atrium and a Cunard-inspired funnel.
The ship features an impressive array of entertainment and dining options, including the specialty Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White and the Asian-inspired Sindhu. For those seeking relaxation, the Neptune Pool with its retractable Skydome is a highlight, while The Globe provides evening entertainment ranging from live music to game shows.
With itineraries spanning from short European getaways to world cruises, Arcadia remains a popular choice among British cruisers.
What Cruisers Think
Arcadia receives mixed feedback. Many enjoy its refined, adults-only atmosphere, well-designed public spaces, and friendly crew. However, some find the ship showing its age, particularly in cabins and public areas. Food quality also gets mixed reviews, with specialty restaurants generally praised but the buffet and main dining room receiving more varied opinions.
Aurora (2000)
Launch Date: 2000
Capacity: 1,868 passengers
Length: 886 ft. (270 m)
Size: 76,152 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)
Approaching its 25th year of service, Aurora is the oldest ship in the P&O Cruises fleet but remains one of the most beloved. Unlike the massive modern cruise ships, Aurora offers a more intimate, traditional experience with a simple, easy-to-navigate deck plan and a relaxed, adults-only atmosphere. The ship may not have flashy amenities, but its elegant design, cozy spaces, and strong sense of nostalgia make it a favorite among P&O loyalists.
Dining on Aurora remains a highlight, with two specialty restaurants—Sindhu, known for its outstanding Indian cuisine, and The Glass House, a wine bar with excellent pairing options. Aurora also offers a variety of entertainment, from the Curzon Theatre’s shows to a casino, a cinema, and multiple bars. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the onboard golf nets, shuffleboard, and pickleball courts, while those seeking relaxation will appreciate the well-maintained pools, including the scenic aft Lido Pool.
What Cruisers Think
Passengers love Aurora’s friendly crew, relaxed vibe, and excellent entertainment, especially the well-designed theatre and cozy bars. However, some have noted that the ship’s age is starting to show, with outdated cabins and occasional maintenance issues.
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