Founded in 1844 as the Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company, P&O Cruises can claim to be the world’s oldest cruise company. It’s also the largest British cruise line specialising in no-fly sailings from Southampton.
Lanzarote beckons with its volcanic legacy, a testament to its fiery history. The island's famed connection to the artist Car Manrique is evident in its harmonious blend of architecture and nature, preserving its natural allure. Its arid climate creates a surreal landscape, punctuated by stark volcanic formations and otherworldly vistas, offering a glimpse into primordial earth. This haven for eco-adventurers showcases the rugged beauty of Spain's Canary Islands, providing a sanctuary away from tourist crowds. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Jameos del Agua, where a lava tube has been transformed into a stunning subterranean auditorium, a true marvel of nature and human ingenuity.
Days 4-5
At sea
Day 6
Cádiz
Journey to Cadiz, where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its cobblestone streets. This maritime marvel boasts a colorful past, once a haven for Phoenician traders and a strategic outpost during Roman rule. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Cadiz offers balmy breezes and sun-kissed shores, perfect for leisurely exploration. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Cadiz exudes authenticity, inviting travelers to savor its laid-back ambiance and discover hidden gems around every corner. As Spain's oldest continuously inhabited city, Cadiz proudly showcases its maritime heritage, including the renowned Carnival of Cadiz, a festive extravaganza dating back over three centuries.
Day 7
Gibraltar
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Day 8
At sea
Day 9
Valencia
Amidst the Mediterranean breezes lies Valencia, a city steeped in the remnants of its Moorish past and vibrant with contemporary allure. Known for its ancient silk trade, Valencia's history weaves tales of resilience and innovation. Its temperate climate, kissed by the sun and cooled by sea winds, provides the perfect backdrop for exploration, enticing cruisegoers seeking an authentic Spanish experience. Beyond the tourist traps, Valencia offers hidden gems, from bustling markets to charming tapas bars tucked away in narrow alleys. And did you know? Valencia is home to the iconic dish, paella, a savory masterpiece loved the world over.
Day 10
Barcelona
Barcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.
Day 11
At sea
Day 12
Naples
Amidst the captivating backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, Naples beckons with a tapestry of ancient allure. Its fabled past, steeped in mythology and legend, whispers tales of emperors and poets, of Pompeii's tragic fate and the birth of pizza. The Mediterranean climate blesses Naples with warm, sun-drenched days, perfect for savoring gelato on cobblestone streets or basking in the glow of historic piazzas. This vibrant city pulsates with an energy that ignites the senses, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Neapolitan life. And did you know? Naples boasts the world's oldest continuously operating pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, dating back to 1738.
Day 13
At sea
Days 14-15
Valletta
Day 16
At sea
Days 17-18
Livorno
Day 19
Civitavecchia
Perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.
Lanzarote beckons with its volcanic legacy, a testament to its fiery history. The island's famed connection to the artist Car Manrique is evident in its harmonious blend of architecture and nature, preserving its natural allure. Its arid climate creates a surreal landscape, punctuated by stark volcanic formations and otherworldly vistas, offering a glimpse into primordial earth. This haven for eco-adventurers showcases the rugged beauty of Spain's Canary Islands, providing a sanctuary away from tourist crowds. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Jameos del Agua, where a lava tube has been transformed into a stunning subterranean auditorium, a true marvel of nature and human ingenuity.
Journey to Cadiz, where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its cobblestone streets. This maritime marvel boasts a colorful past, once a haven for Phoenician traders and a strategic outpost during Roman rule. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Cadiz offers balmy breezes and sun-kissed shores, perfect for leisurely exploration. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Cadiz exudes authenticity, inviting travelers to savor its laid-back ambiance and discover hidden gems around every corner. As Spain's oldest continuously inhabited city, Cadiz proudly showcases its maritime heritage, including the renowned Carnival of Cadiz, a festive extravaganza dating back over three centuries.
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Amidst the Mediterranean breezes lies Valencia, a city steeped in the remnants of its Moorish past and vibrant with contemporary allure. Known for its ancient silk trade, Valencia's history weaves tales of resilience and innovation. Its temperate climate, kissed by the sun and cooled by sea winds, provides the perfect backdrop for exploration, enticing cruisegoers seeking an authentic Spanish experience. Beyond the tourist traps, Valencia offers hidden gems, from bustling markets to charming tapas bars tucked away in narrow alleys. And did you know? Valencia is home to the iconic dish, paella, a savory masterpiece loved the world over.
Barcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.
Amidst the captivating backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, Naples beckons with a tapestry of ancient allure. Its fabled past, steeped in mythology and legend, whispers tales of emperors and poets, of Pompeii's tragic fate and the birth of pizza. The Mediterranean climate blesses Naples with warm, sun-drenched days, perfect for savoring gelato on cobblestone streets or basking in the glow of historic piazzas. This vibrant city pulsates with an energy that ignites the senses, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Neapolitan life. And did you know? Naples boasts the world's oldest continuously operating pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, dating back to 1738.
Perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.
Whether you seek family fun, romantic moments, or a personal retreat, Azura offers the perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation. Between visiting sun-soaked destinations, why not unwind by the pool, enjoy dazzling shows at The Playhouse, indulge in alfresco treatments at The Retreat, and experience unforgettable dining at venues like The Glass House? With so many venues, there's something for everyone onboard Azura.
The room was excellent. it took us over a week to properly book a table for when we wanted to eat at night.There were two people at the point of booking,one the man was very good and tried to help when he could.The other a female was one of the most horrid people I have ever met on a cruise liner.Basically the ship was too big. To say I wont be going back is an understatement.
Chosen because of itinerary and more days on land than at sea. Had been on this ship more than 10 years ago. Ship recently refurbished so looks very smart. Balcony cabin more spacious than other P&O ships. Food generally good in main dining rooms though getting a table for 2 very difficult unless you are prepared for a long wait. Entertainment good, itinerary excellent (Santander is recommended, not often on itineraries). Ship had to have a deep clean so boarding was late but didn't detect high levels of sickness, just keep away from the buffet and Jacuzzis!
On the whole, good value and the only gripe was missing out on Guernsey with a day at sea instead. As there was warning that this would probably happen there was disgruntlement among the passengers that there appeared to be no effort made to find a substitute port of call.
Only our 2nd cruise (1st was the Caribbean on Arvia) but even though we were on a smaller and older ship we still had an amazing holiday. The destinations and tours we did were fantastic. Our only negative was we should have booked for 2 weeks instead of one!
Arrived at port had to wait to book in cabin with balconie very good no problem with luggage arrived on time was quite rocking in bed sailing for 2 days got to madera very nice but not a lot to do alot of old poeople on board which was fine food was nice staff very nice dont like the strict dress code though but others didnt seem to mind lovely weather in the canaries very pleasant cruise going to another cruise with pand o in november
Caribbean with P&O Britannia: Far More Than Just Beaches
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5)
My wife and I recently sailed the Caribbean on P&O Britannia, a round‑trip ex‑Barbados itinerary taking in Aruba, Curaçao, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Antigua, St Lucia and Saint Maarten. I had worried it might feel “samey”, just beach after beach, but this cruise completely changed my mind.
Each island had its own personality. Aruba felt dry, sunny and cosmopolitan with its Dutch architecture, while Curaçao’s colourful waterfront and cafés gave it a vibrant, lived‑in feel. St Vincent and the Grenadines was more rugged and unpolished, with a strong sense of real Caribbean life, and Grenada’s markets and spice stalls lived up to its “Spice Island” nickname. Antigua offered those classic beaches alongside historic sites and viewpoints, St Lucia was lush, mountainous and wonderfully romantic (helped by our overnight stay there), and Saint Maarten’s Dutch–French mix and low‑flying planes were a fun finale. Rather than blurring into one, each stop felt like a mini‑holiday.
A highlight for us was choosing to support local communities wherever we could. We bought spices directly from stallholders in Grenada, enjoyed local beers in small bars and booked some excursions with independent guides rather than only through the ship. The local operators we used were professional, very conscious of sailing times and clearly proud of their islands. With a bit of homework and the usual common sense, going independent felt safe and rewarding, and it was good to know more of our spend stayed in the islands.
On board, Britannia looked in good shape following her 2024 refit and offered plenty to do. Sea days fell into a relaxing rhythm of time by the pool, quizzes and game shows, the odd flutter in the casino and evening entertainment that ranged from ballroom and live music to game‑show‑style events like Deal or No Deal. We never struggled to find something that suited our mood.
We were also impressed with the food. The main dining rooms delivered consistently good dinners with enough variety over the cruise, while The Glass House offered a more informal setting with interesting wine pairings. Sindhu was our standout meal: beautifully presented Indian‑inspired dishes and a sense of occasion that felt perfect for a special night.
Our balcony cabin was comfortable and practical, with decent storage and a balcony that made sea days and sail‑aways feel special. Our cabin steward kept everything spotless and struck that ideal balance of friendly but unobtrusive, which reflected the general standard of service on board. In terms of value, we felt the combination of varied ports, included dining and entertainment, and the convenience of unpacking once made this an excellent way to see the Caribbean.
Overall, I would happily recommend this P&O Britannia itinerary, particularly to UK guests considering their first Caribbean cruise or anyone worried that “the Caribbean is all the same”. This sailing showed us just how different the islands can be, while the ship provided a comfortable, activity‑packed base to return to each evening. A solid 4 out of 5, with special praise for the ports of call and speciality dining.
Already booked our next Caribbean cruise but this time exploring the British & US Virgin Islands, The Dominican, Republic, San Juan with a few days pre and post cruise nights in Philadelphia
We enjoyed our cruise but if there is a negative it is that the ship in parts is quite dated, and our cabin had 2 bunk beds above our bed and at 73 years young I banged myself a number of times getting in and out but our overall experience was great
