On a cruise holiday, you can discover new destinations and experiences. You can also make friendships that last a lifetime – and even find lasting love

How cruise holidays bring people together

Explore Topics

Tasha McIntyre: finding a soulmate at sea

<h2>Tasha McIntyre: finding a soulmate at sea</h2>
Tasha McIntyre, a 26-year-old copywriter from Southampton and a P&amp;O Cruises employee, has enjoyed family holidays on our ships since she was six years old. ‘We all loved being so close to the water and the variety of things you can do on board,’ she says.
&nbsp;
In 2019, while exploring the <a>Mediterranean</a> on <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/azura/overview">Azura</a> with her extended family, she clocked a fellow guest during the first week of her holiday. It wasn’t until the second week that she struck up a conversation with Aaron, the man who would become her husband.
&nbsp;
He made quite an impression. ‘He was super funny and had a really nice energy about him,’ says Tasha. ‘I liked being around him. He was super respectful and a kind and gentle person.’
&nbsp;
At the end of the holiday, Tasha and Aaron shared a hug and went their separate ways, subsequently striking up a virtual friendship. During Covid, the friendship blossomed and, when restrictions lifted, they saw each other in person for the first time in 14 months. They realised the friendship had shifted – and the rest is history.
&nbsp;
Tasha reflects that the happy atmosphere on board helps forge friendships and more. ‘Everyone is so relaxed when you’re on board that it’s hard not to get chatting with someone. The atmosphere is happy and friendly – everyone always seems to just be enjoying getting away on a beautiful ship.’
&nbsp;
And what about the romance of travel? ‘Whether it’s a beautiful destination or the blue ocean waves that are your backdrop, taking a stroll on deck with your significant other can be a very romantic experience,’ says Tasha. ‘And the speciality dining venues are the perfect place for a romantic meal for two.’

Julie Webb: forging new friendships

<h2>Julie Webb: forging new friendships</h2>
When Julie Webb retired, she was keen to travel the world. The 58-year-old from Essex had never tried a cruise holiday before, but when a friend recommended P&amp;O Cruises as a great way to see many destinations in one holiday, she booked her first cruise on <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/ventura/overview">Ventura</a>, visiting <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/spain-cruises">Spain</a>, <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/portugal-cruises">Portugal</a> and <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/gran-canaria-spain">Gran Canaria</a> in April 2024.
 
Having enjoyed the experience so much, she went on to enjoy an enriching cruise adventure in the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/deals/deals-by-destination/north-america-and-canada-deals">USA and Canada</a> on <a>Aurora</a> and, more recently, a <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/mediterranean">Mediterranean</a> cruise on <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/britannia/overview">Britannia</a>.
 
As a single traveller, Julie felt at ease and nurtured, and she embraced the opportunity to meet new friends. ‘I felt safe and was so well looked after by the crew,’ says Julie. ‘And I loved meeting new people. Being put on single tables in the restaurants is a great way to meet other single people, or you can sit with couples.’
 
Julie forged great friendships, remaining close to two couples from her first cruise. They met up subsequently and then booked the same Britannia cruise to travel together. She also found a close friend on her Stateside travels – and a friendship that has lasted beyond her holidays. ‘It turns out we only lived about half an hour from each other. We’ve spoken since and have arranged to meet up.’

Susan Binda: exploring with kindred spirits

<h2>Susan Binda: exploring with kindred spirits</h2>
Before Susan joined P&amp;O Cruises, she had never considered a cruise before. Having spent Christmas on Britannia in the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/caribbean">Caribbean cruise</a> with her husband and teenagers, it’s now her favourite way to holiday.
 
‘As the holiday planner in our family, I love the fact that all the planning stops once I get on board. No itineraries to manage, no researching restaurants or planning days out, or how we’re getting from A to B, as we would do on a shore holiday. It feels like a real rest for me, and I can completely switch off.’
 
Susan’s sense of wanderlust is satisfied too. ‘I can never stay in a holiday location for more than three or four days because there’s so much to explore and I get restless. That’s why visiting nine Caribbean islands in one cruise holiday was perfect, completely satisfying my explorer nature! It was effortless from start to finish.’
 
The holiday took a fun turn when they met two families, travelling together from Manchester with children of similar ages. The children bonded first and soon became inseparable. Naturally, the parents met over drinks and three families got on really well. ‘We often went on shore experiences together, ate in <a>The Glass House</a> and <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/onboard-activities/dining/sindhu">Sindhu</a> and spent sea days together. It was unexpected to meet and get on brilliantly and so lovely to share happy memories and photos.’
 
Since then, the children have stayed in close touch despite their busy lives. Susan’s family went to Manchester for the weekend to visit their new-found friends and they all went on another cruise together the following year in the Mediterranean.
 
‘We had another brilliant holiday together,’ says Susan. ‘The children all stay in touch, and I don’t doubt we’ll see each other on another cruise one day.’

title

description

Article Info Model

OFFER ENDS 26 AUGUST 2025

You’ll shortly receive an email from us to confirm your sign up. Please click on the link contained within this email to start hearing more from us. If you are unable to find this email in your inbox, please check your junk mailbox.

Arvia arrives in Ibiza before the Pete Tong set on board this evening.
Picture date: Saturday September 19, 2026.
Photograph by Christopher Ison ©
07544044177
chris@christopherison.com
www.christopherison.com

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING IMAGE LICENCING FOR THIS PHOTOGRAPH: This image is supplied to the client under the terms previously agreed. No sales are permitted unless expressly agreed in writing by the photographer. Image licence is for below the line only. No out of home use without acquiring an extended image licence. Sharing with third parties is prohibited without the written permission of the photographer.

Looking ahead with Paul Ludlow

There's plenty to catch up on, from exciting fleet news to memorable moments onboard  and special partnerships. Our president, Paul Ludlow, shares the latest news from across P&O Cruises.

Looking ahead with Paul Ludlow | P&O Cruises

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Landscape with Assos village on Kefalonia, Ionian island, Greece"}}

Set your sights on Greece

Dreaming of cobbled streets, ancient treasures and sun-kissed shores? On a P&O Cruises holiday to Greece, you can wake up to a new view of paradise every single day

Holiday your way on Arcadia and Aurora

A beautifully balanced holiday awaits, with cruises for all ages now available on our two smallest ships.

Sail in style on a holiday exclusively for adults

If you’re looking to explore, indulge and truly switch off, an adults-only cruise holiday might be just the ticket. 

Sail in style on a holiday exclusively for adults 

Four islands, one holiday | P&O Cruises

Why visit one island when you can visit four? Find your perfect match on a P&O Cruises holiday to the Canary Islands and Madeira

Four islands, one holiday

Find out what’s new at P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow, is excited to catch you up on all the new news and brand highlights as we head into the summer season. 

Find out what’s new at P&O Cruises | P&O Cruises

Historic destinations in the Mediterranean 

Looking for a historic getaway that includes sunshine and sea breezes? Choose a P&O Cruises Mediterranean fly-cruise in 2028, and let the world’s ancient wonders come to you.

Award-worthy destinations: Your winners

We asked you to vote for the destinations you think deserve a winner’s gong. And now, the results are in. Did your favourites come out on top?

What's new for Summer 2028

From new destinations to exciting overnight calls, our summer 28 cruise collection has a holiday with your name on it. Whether you’re dreaming of fjords, sunshine or a bit of both, here’s what’s waiting for you.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Martinique Anse d'Arlet; Shutterstock ID 737227504; Project: Adobe"}}

Martinique shore experience top tips

What makes Martinique such a magical Caribbean island? We ask our shore experience partner David Baude to tell us what he loves most about this fascinating French-influenced isle.

Sail along with Arcadia’s 2026 World Cruise

2026 Caribbean adventures, BAFTA excitement and much more | P&O Cruises

Paul Ludlow: 2026 Caribbean adventures, BAFTA excitement and much more

Woman  in yellow and red outfit photographing  Lysefjorden from Kjerag mountain

Most picture perfect places in the Norwegian Fjords

5 sense-sational holiday experiences 

Most Instagrammable places to visit in Spain and Portugal 

What's new for winter 27/28

We're going bigger, bolder and more in-depth in our next winter launch, with new ports added to our itineraries. Plus amazing new experiences both on board and on shore.

This photo taken on the island of Sommaroy, Tromso, Norway

Discovering Scandinavia

From Norway’s landscapes to Sweden’s cities, Scandinavia enchants at every turn. Join us for a holiday worthy of a fairy tale

Set your sights on Central and Northern Italy

Lush landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and iconic sights: this is the Italy of romantic films, artistic masterpieces and many a daydream. These four Central and Northern Italian ports of call will turn your reveries into reality.

Set your sights on Southern Italy

Discover the vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history of Southern Italy's most captivating ports with P&O Cruises.

Caribbean beyond the beach

Beyond the beaches, the Caribbean is a vibrant hub of music, history, food, and art. Dive into the local culture with P&O Cruises and discover the true spirit of the islands.

A Taste of Barbados is back

This Caribbean season, we’re working with local chefs in Barbados to bring guests on Arvia and Britannia a true taste of the island’s foodie culture. Want to know more? Let us whet your appetite.  

We're off to a flying start with Norse Atlantic

Come fly with Amy Hart as she soars to Barbados on our first-ever flight with our new airline partner, Norse Atlantic Airways.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"default"}}

Highlights of our 2027 summer holidays

Take a look at our unforgettable summer 2027 holidays—from sunny escapes to hidden gems. Get inspired for your next adventure!

Follow Arcadia around the world

Our Arcadia cruise ship has set sail on her 2025 epic World Explorer cruise. Follow along each month as we dive into her 99-night world cruise adventure.

You're invited to pop by...

Our travel experts will be on hand in a number of cities to answer all of your burning questions and tempt you with some exciting offers.

Your travel bucket list

Make it the year your wildest holiday dreams come true. These ten travel highlights are a good place to start – which will you tick off your list first?

Loyal P&O Cruises guest? Welcome to the club

We’ve recently added more cruises to our Peninsular Club offer, giving you more chances to save. So whether you’re new to the club, a longstanding member or just curious about how it all works, read on…

Magical castles in Scotland: history and heritage

Welcome to the enchanting world of Scotland, where history and heritage come alive amidst breathtaking landscapes. In this guide, we invite you to embark on a journey through the majestic castles and scenic wonders that make Scotland a must-visit destination. 

The 2027 Round World Cruise by numbers

From nautical miles to nights on board, Arcadia racks up some impressive stats on her 2027 World Cruise. Discover what makes this holiday one extraordinary adventure.

Explore long-duration New England and Canada cruises

What you need to know if you are considering a cruise holiday as a family for the first time from the UK. Incl. ships, on-board life and destinations!

Caribbean honeymoon destinations for sun-lovers

Have you ever wanted to follow in the footsteps of your favourite movie couples? These five romantic destinations – all of which can be visited on P&O Cruises holidays – offer the perfect chance to relive the iconic moments and soak up the amorous vibes of some of the dreamiest settings in the world.

Our new winter 2026/27 holidays are here

Want to switch your winter plans up? Whether you’re looking to ditch the grey for a bit of sun or are looking to embark on incredible experiences, we have lots of destinations that you’re sure to fall in love with. 

Celebrate with Britannia

Britannia’s 10-year Anniversary Celebration cruise is now on sale. This journey of discovery around our stunning British Isles will take in sensational cities, amazing landscapes and the best of British, on board and ashore, from 6 – 20 June 2025.

Paul Ludlow shares all the latest

After Britannia’s extensive refit, our president, Paul Ludlow, shares exciting news about the fabulous features guests can now enjoy on board. Watch Paul’s video, where he also reflects on last month’s BAFTA sponsorship and spectacular holidays in the Caribbean, and looks ahead to a summer of exciting adventures. 

Set your sights on… Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific

In a land far, far away, otherworldly landscapes and beautiful beaches meet proud cultures and epic adventures. Hop aboard Arcadia on an Exotic fly-cruise holiday to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific and live out your own enchanted story down under.

Holiday Like Never Before: behind the scenes of our latest TV ad

Find out how we created ‘frozen moments’ for our TV ad in the sun-kissed Caribbean

Paul Ludlow: Celebrating culture and community

There’s a lot to look forward to in 2024 with P&O Cruises, as Carnival UK and P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow explains... Rediscovery is on the agenda, as P&O Cruises returns to 12 ports for the first time in several years.

Woman sat on the edge of a pool in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Set your sights on… a grown-up gap year in Central and South America

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? All aboard Aurora for extraordinary adventures to a land of lush landscapes, captivating cities and bucket-list travel experiences. Start dreaming of your grown-up gap year to Central and South America today…

Get to know Ventura, the fun all-rounder

Get to know Ventura, our family-friendly, fun all-rounder. 

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Arcadia in Sydney"}}

Around the world with Arcadia

A P&O Cruises World Cruise is more than just a holiday… it’s the trip of a lifetime! Your chance to experience unique cultures, taste exotic dishes and visit the world wonders you’ve seen on TV. 

Set sail for your greatest adventure yet on a World Cruise

Things to do in Grenada

Nestled amidst the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the enchanting island of Grenada beckons travellers with a mixture of experiences that cater to all passions. 

Things to do in Mykonos

Glamorous Mykonos has it all: beautiful beaches, dazzling seas, a vibrant town and nearby mythological sites. Discover the things to do in Mykonos to spark inspiration.

Paul Ludlow: Looking ahead with rediscovery on the agenda

Cruise with ease from Southampton

Your holiday begins the moment you step onboard when you choose to cruise from Southampton. On a no-fly cruise, you can say goodbye to luggage restrictions and navigating airports. Even though you don’t take to the skies, your no-fly cruise holiday will start, and finish, on a high.

Folio Images+46 8 720 56 00info@folio.se

5 ways to do a child-free holiday in style

While Arcadia and Aurora are our ships designed exclusively for adults, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy child-free time on board our whole fleet. From exploring lesser-known destinations to taking up a new hobby, we’ve got the inside track on how to do a child-free holiday in style.

Top tips: parents travelling with children

We're incredibly proud to have been shortlisted for Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays at the 2023 British Travel Awards. Here are some top tips for travelling with children from parents who have travelled with us recently.

Paul Ludlow: Exciting Adventures Ahead

Our president, Paul Ludlow, looks forward to the many exciting adventures ahead including vibrant destinations and inspiring partners.

Lanzarote: an island full of surprises

Travel and lifestyle photographer Zoë Timmers zooms in on Lanzarote to discover an island of stunning surprises 

Wellbeing and Lifestyle Cruise Holidays

Introducing our new destination partner, Time Out

Go deeper into our destinations with Time Out's expert guides to cities across the globe

5 Chocolate Treats to Enjoy Onboard & Ashore

World Chocolate Day falls on 7 July, and what better way to get in the mood than with a sprinkling of chocolate-themed travel inspiration? Which of delicious treats will you add to your must-do list?

5 adrenaline-packed Fjords adventures

Take to the water in a RIB boat, strike out along a mountain pass or soar high above the waterways in a helicopter… the Norwegian fjords are some of Mother Nature’s finest work and a cruise holiday gives you a way to see as much of this incredible region as possible

Escape to Monte Carlo

Discover Monte Carlo, the city full of mega yachts and five-star resorts that glitter in the shadows of the Alpine Mountains.

Why choose a cruise holiday?

Whether sailing from our home port of Southampton, or hopping on a fly-cruise; famous landmarks, hidden gems, unique cultures and some of the best experiences on land and sea are all yours. Let us take you through some of the highlights of cruise holidays...

How do you pick a cruise for the first time?

With so many variables when it comes to itineraries and ships, it can be a bit overwhelming when picking your first cruise holiday.  

Big screen destinations

To celebrate the opening of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival we have taken a delve into our itineraries to see which big screen destinations you can visit on a P&O Cruises holiday.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Fiji"},"metadata_en_AU":{"alt-text":"Fiji"}}

All about Exotic fly-cruise holidays

If you’re looking to discover far-flung corners of the globe, an Exotic fly-cruise can take you on a segment of our World Cruise – flying you straight into the action. From Auckland to Aruba, Petra to Penang… read on to find out more about the places you can visit on an Exotic fly-cruise, how fly-cruises work, and how you can book your next adventure.

An exciting summer awaits

Our president, Paul Ludlow, looks forward to the many exciting adventures ahead.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Photo Taken In Amsterdam, Netherlands"}}

Six great winter escapes

Our winter itineraries offer great escapes to a fabulous range of destinations. We'll start with some sunny adventures around the globe before highlighting our top suggestions for holidays closer to home.

Set your sights on summer

Set your sights on summer and choose a sensational holiday from our new summer 2025 collection. We all know how the seasons come around in no time. Before you can say ‘Britain’s favourite cruise line’ you’ll be watching the sun set in stunning locations and waking up eager to explore. But where might you discover? Here’s a taste of what’s in store…

Landscape with Anfi beach and resort, Gran Canaria, Spain

2023 Summer Holidays

We all have different ideas of what makes a summer holiday great. For some, it’s a leisurely latte in an Italian courtyard; for others, it’s listening to the waves lap the sandy shore of a Canarian beach. No matter how you like to travel, we’ve got a holiday for you. 

Five of the best places to see flowers

The bounty of nature’s blooms are on full display in these flower-filled destinations.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Sydney harbour view"}}

Explore more with evenings and overnights in port

Here are five of our favourites, along with some suggestions on what to see and do when the sun goes down


Destination winter sun: the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are blessed with good weather and warm sunshine for much of the year, and with P&O Cruises winter 2023 itineraries taking in several of the islands in one trip, you’re sure to fit plenty of fun, sun and adventure into next year’s winter holiday.

Escape and explore

Take some well-earned time out and discover exciting destinations on a Taster Cruise holiday

At last! New cruise holidays for summer 2023 and winter 2023/24 have arrived

Two new seasons. Two new cruise holiday collections. Twice as much to look forward to.

5 ways to escape the January blues

Escape the January blues and explore many beautiful blues on a P&O Cruises holiday from the rooftops in Santorini to the colourful houses in Curacao.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"kids enjoying a Christmas market cruise"}}

Wishes come true on a festive cruise  

Give the gift of adventure and discovery this Christmas to your friends, family or yourself. Whether you choose to cruise close to home or around Norway, fly to the Canaries or the Caribbean, it’ll be a Christmas to remember for years to come. 

An Interview With Alison Clixby

Alison Clixby has been the creative eye behind the interiors of P&O Cruises and Cunard’s most stunning ships which now includes our newest ship Arvia.

Discover the secrets of Rome

Travel writer Yolanda Zappaterra explores Rome, off the beaten track. Yolanda is a travel, art and design enthusiast who writes for Time Out and Saga magazine, as well as national newspapers. 

Norway, the ultimate winter wonderland

Let it snow! Bundle up and embrace all that winter has to offer on a cruise holiday to Norway.

The best things to do in Tenerife

With year-round sunshine, dramatic landscapes and a wealth of activities to suit all tastes, Tenerife on a Canary Islands cruise offers something for everyone

Caribbean and the big screen: 5 famous filming locations

These five scene-stealing islands have enjoyed time in the spotlight, and on your next Caribbean cruise holiday, you can bask in their warming glow

Top tips for St Kitts

How do you capture the beauty and intrigue of St Kitts in a day?
We ask our shore experience partner Justin Johnson to share his best-kept secrets for exploring this enchanting island.

Six beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands

In need of a little sun, surf and sand? These Canary Islands beaches will help keep the winter blues at bay.


Hidden Gems in the Mediterranean

Time is a luxury. Nowhere is that felt more keenly than on an Aurora Mediterranean Discovery cruise, where the clock slows right down, letting you wallow in every glorious moment. 

Christmas comes early

Our popular Christmas market cruises book up quickly, so now’s the perfect time to think about organising your festive fun

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Laurentien Forest, from Quebec"}}

5 reasons to fall for the USA and Canada

There’s something enchanting about autumn in the eastern USA and Canada. The sun takes on a gentle golden glow; leaves turn from green to a riot of reds and yellows; and the air becomes crisp and invigorating. 

The 5 best things to do in the Caribbean

Guest Margaret Whittaker shares her experience of the 5 best things to do on a Caribbean cruise holiday.

5 of Europe's cosiest cities

The crunch of fallen autumn leaves as you wander pretty streets and parks... Homely cafés serving steaming hot chocolate… Galleries, museums, breweries and more. Nothing beats exploring a cool-but-cosy European city on crisp autumn day.

Should I book a fly-cruise or sail from Southampton?

If you're a first-time cruiser, you might be wondering if you should fly out to meet your ship or sail to your destination.  There's no right or wrong answer here and a lot will depend on your personal preference, but to help you make up your mind we've put together the top three reasons for choosing each one...

Grand designs from around the globe

We celebrate amazing destinations around the world and discover a colourful kaleidoscope of wonders that are easy on the eye.

4 great reasons to love the Canary Islands

Each of the Canary Islands has a distinctive character. Having fallen for their seductive charms, travel writer Yolanda Zappaterra is longing to return. In the meantime, she reveals why she loves their different personalities… Which one you will fall for?

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Cies Island Vigo"},"metadata_en_AU":{"alt-text":"Cies Island Vigo"}}

Gems of the atlantic coast

A P&O Cruises holiday to France, Spain and Portugal boasts a host of colourful and vibrant cities, as well as lesser-known gems in the Atlantic coast. Explore some of our favourite destinations — each with distinctive characters of their own…

Glories of western Italy • Things To Do

From preserved ancient cities and impressive Roman ruins to Renaissance and Baroque art and awe-inspiring architecture, western Italy is a treasure trove of antiquity and here are the best things to do in western Italy.

Five new experiences to try in the Canary Islands

Whether exploring cities by foot, kayaking through sparkling bays or splashing around in a water park, there are countless ways to take in the beauty and diversity of the Canary Islands. We have dozens of shore experiences to choose from, but these five new ones have gone straight to the top of our bucket list.

<h4>Read more about our incredible destinations</h4>

How cruise holidays bring people together

Feeling inspired?

Book your next holiday

Sail from Southampton

Request a brochure

Explore Topics

Your dream cruise might only be an email away...