P&O Cruises |
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Each ship has a spirit, atmosphere and personality all its own. What makes a P&O cruise stand out from other cruise experiences? For one thing, they have been in the cruise business longer than anyone else, having pioneered cruise holidays more than a century ago. We're also the biggest British cruise line and all our ships have been designed and built to cater specifically for the needs of British passengers. From the moment you board one of our ships, you'll find the atmosphere welcomingly familiar. You'll also notice, however, that there are certain aspects of the British lifestyle that are conspicuous by their absence: British reserve for example. And, more importantly, British weather. Each ship has its own special atmosphere and character, but what they all have in common is extraordinarily high levels of comfort and consistently impeccable service. Another P&O hallmark is the sheer choice of cruises we offer: 180 different places in 75 countries. P&O cruises also represent excellent value for money, with a dazzling array of entertainment, superb dining, comfortable accommodation and thousands of miles of effortless travel all included in a single fare.
Arcadia
Striking in design, and completed in April 2005, child-free Arcadia is the newest addition to the fleet. Constructed in Fincantieri shipyard, just outside Venice, she was built in a period of just twenty months.
Offering a contemporary cruise experience, her modern flair and signature features set her apart. Choice is her watchword and everywhere you go you will find evidence of her unique style and innovation.
You can experience all three styles of dining on board this superliner during one holiday, Arcadia makes the very most of P&O Cruises Dining Choice. Stylish to the core, her rooms are adorned with an amazing art collection created by contemporary British artists. Fabulous hues and sumptuous fabrics combine to great effect and her tranquil, modern and spacious bars and lounges are havens for socialising and relaxing. Sociable, spontaneous and flexible, Arcadia enables you to make the most of every moment away.
Artemis
Artemis joined the P&O Cruises fleet in June 2005. She was previously named Royal Princess and sailed with P&O Cruises sister company, Princess Cruises. Her arrival was heralded with a naming ceremony with a difference. For she was the very first ship in British history to be named at sea. The much-loved British actress Prunella Scales (CBE) accepted the title of ‘Godmother of Artemis’. Whilst Osborne House, the country retreat of Queen Victoria, provided the perfect setting for the ensuing garden party and classical concert.
The smallest member of the P&O Cruises fleet, Artemis is friendly, intimate and child-free. You will find every facility you would expect on board a P&O Cruises ship from a spa to a library and even a cyb@study. And with outside and balcony cabins only (the first ship ever to be built in this way), you need never be far from an ocean view. As well as bringing you new shores and cultures, Artemis can help you discover your own potential. Take part in Artemis’ New Horizons programme and you can further your interests or start a new hobby. And join Artemis for one of her Theme cruises or Music Festivals at Sea in 2006 to enjoy a range of talks and activities based on a range of interesting subjects plus opera, operetta, music quizzes and recitals.
Aurora
Aurora had a spectacular start to her life. On 16th April 2000 she made the short journey from her German shipbuilders, Meyer Werft. Sailing into her home port of Southampton, she was escorted by the "Tall Ships". Shortly afterwards, she was named by the Princess Royal.
This £200m ship incorporated every advance in engineering, navigational equipment and passenger comfort. She can cruise at a speed of 24 knots, be positioned to within 6 inches during docking and has been designed especially for British cruise passengers. Features such as a swimming pool with a retractable roof, golf simulator and a virtual reality centre have earned her a very loyal following. Taking her cues from her extensive travels, Aurora’s rooms combine influences from around the globe. Stylish yet unstuffy, Aurora caters for families, couples and solo travellers with ease. An effortlessly tasteful interior invites you to relax and watch the world go by. Boasting every type of accommodation from an inside cabin to a lavish two-tier suite with butler service, she has something to suit every pocket.
Oceana
Oceana commenced sailing with P&O Cruises in November 2002. At the time she was the largest vessel in the fleet, and the first to accommodate over 2000 passengers. In her maiden season, Oceana introduced some new ports of call to P&O Cruises itineraries. These included Cristobal in Panama, Costa Maya in Mexico and Princess Cays, the private island of P&O Cruises sister company, Princess Cruises.
Offering a relaxed and child-friendly cruise experience, Oceana offers a particularly flexible and spontaneous experience, with three dining options to choose from. Step on board and her atrium provides a glamorous first impression. Gleaming marble steps invite you to explore further. Glass fronted lifts glide up and down. And palm trees invoke the holiday spirit!
Oriana
Oriana entered service in April 1995 as the first cruise liner custom-built for the British cruise market. She is specifically designed and equipped to operate world voyages. And embodies the classic lines, comfort and ambience of traditional ocean liners.
She was the fastest cruise ship built for 25 years, with an operating speed of 24 knots. Her high speed and technically advanced hull enable Oriana to operate the best and most far-reaching itineraries worldwide. Like her predecessor, Oriana celebrates in her name the two great Elizabethan eras. She was named in Southampton on 6th April 1995 by Her Majesty, the Queen Elizabeth II. Combining elegance and classic cruising, Oriana’s timeless style is a favourite with many. Wooden panelling, traditional artworks and tiered decks provide the most refined of settings. Her terraced stern and sense of history epitomise the romance of cruise travel. Broad decks, quiet nooks and sparkling pools invite you to linger and relax. And her open bow provides the perfect vantage point as you sail.
