From the on-board medical team to those responsible for guest experiences and entertainment, our female crew members take on new challenges and exciting projects every day, not to mention getting the opportunity to travel to some truly incredible places. In aid of International Women’s Day on 8 March, we asked five P&O Cruises crew members for an insight into their world on board and on shore and asked them to share their best piece of advice with us.

Advice from five inspirational P&O Cruises women

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Dr Philna Dippenaar, Senior Doctor, Britannia

<h2>1.&nbsp;Dr Philna Dippenaar, Senior Doctor, Britannia</h2>
<h3>What's it like to work onboard a P&amp;O Cruises ship?</h3>
<p>I started working at P&amp;O Cruises in 2017 as crew doctor. Being a doctor and helping people has always been my dream and I am also a true traveller at heart, so a career at sea was the perfect way to combine these passions. I have worked on several of the P&amp;O Cruises ships and have made many friends from different nationalities and learnt lots over the years. It is my home away from home and has been an amazing experience. I have seen so many places across the world – more than I could ever have imagined!&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What's been your proudest career achievement?</h3>
<p>Leading Britannia’s return to service after the operational pause. It was one of the most challenging things I have ever done, and I am very proud to have been part of it. Work can be challenging in the current climate, but we all support each other and work together. There are a lot of opportunities to go ashore to explore places you have never been or just sit somewhere quiet and recharge the mind. I can see myself working at P&amp;O Cruises for a long time still.</p>


Marian Weldon, Shore Experiences Manager, Iona

<h2>2.&nbsp;Marian Weldon, Shore Experiences Manager, Iona</h2>
<h3>What is it like to work on board a P&amp;O Cruises ship?</h3>
<p>Living and working on board a cruise ship is so much more than a job. It is a completely new and different way of life. The ship is like a family; a community of people from all over the world, coming together with one main focus – to give our guests the best holiday. I truly believe that I have the best job in the world. I know lots of people who worked at sea and then went back to land for a ‘proper life’ but found they couldn’t settle and came back to work on board. Travel just gets in your bones.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What advice would you give young women starting their careers</h3>
<p>It’s ok not to have a life plan when you’re starting out. Life is short so don’t settle for a job that you’re not happy in.</p>


Sarah Delooze, Youth Manager, Iona

<h2>3.&nbsp;Sarah Delooze, Youth Manager, Iona</h2>
<h3>What do you love the most about your job?</h3>
<p>I am the youth manager on board, which means I spend most of my time in The Reef and Scene where all the fun happens. Working at sea isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s also about meeting the locals and trying to make a difference to the people and places we visit. It’s always a pleasure and a privilege to be able to visit some of the children’s homes across the Caribbean and to invite the children on board at Christmas time. I came to the role when I was looking to take a break from teaching and 16 years later, I’m still cruising. I guess I might like it!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What's your favourite P&amp;O Cruises destination to visit and why?</h3>
<p>Croatia has crystal-clear waters, breathtaking scenery and nature, and stunning towns and villages packed with history. Not to mention the delightful little cafés and restaurants where you can sit and watch the world go by.&nbsp;</p>


Kathryn Ramsdale, Director, Health Services

<h2>4.&nbsp;Kathryn Ramsdale, Director, Health Services</h2>
<h3>What's your favourite P&amp;O Cruises destination to visit and why?</h3>
<p>The sail-in to Sydney Harbour is spectacular – seeing the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge in the distance from the bow of the ship at dawn is unforgettable.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Have you any advice for young women thinking about their careers?</h3>
<p>Be patient, never stop learning, never give up and strive to be your best, not&nbsp;<i>the</i>&nbsp;best. Prior to working shoreside, I worked as a doctor and senior doctor on board. I am a qualified GP with background in anaesthetics, critical care and emergency medicine. I absolutely love to travel and explore new destinations and working at sea always appealed to me because of the combination of travel and practising medicine in remote and exciting environments. Maritime medicine requires a unique set of skills and I spent many years steering my career in different directions across the globe to ensure I was a suitable candidate.</p>


Emma Alexander, Entertainment Manager, Iona

<h2>5.&nbsp;Emma Alexander, Entertainment Manager, Iona</h2>
<h3>What's it like to work on board a P&amp;O Cruises ship?</h3>
<p>Every day is a new experience, and no two days are the same. I began my career with P&amp;O Cruises in 2008 as an entertainment officer and over the past 14 years have worked my up through the ranks. I am currently the entertainment manager on Iona, overseeing the extensive entertainment programme on board. I manage a diverse and highly talented team which is very rewarding. Life at sea certainly has its challenges – especially if there is a change of itinerary or one of our performers is unable to join us –&nbsp;yet the show must go on!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What message do you have for young working women?</h3>
<p>Nowadays anything is achievable with hard work, belief and perseverance. Find those who support you and prove those who don’t wrong.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


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Tom Parker Bowles joins our Food Heroes on Britannia

Award-winning food critic Tom Parker Bowles joins all three of our Food Heroes on Britannia's 14-night Northern Europe and Scandinavia holiday this August, for Hosted Dinners at The Cookery Club and a specially curated evening at The Limelight Club.

A taste of what’s new at Epicurean and Sindhu

We’ve updated the menus at two of your favourite on-board restaurants. Our development team tell us how it all came together and give us an inside look at the flavours you can savour on your next holiday. 

Marco Pierre White. P&O Cruises Ventura. Marco on The White Room terrace. 16th July 2010. Photography by Steve Dunlop. www.stevedunlop.com

Twenty years of culinary magic with Marco Pierre White

There’s a certain kind of excitement that comes with a milestone anniversary. This year, the air on board our ships feels even more celebratory as we mark two decades of partnership with the godfather of British cooking, Marco Pierre White. 

Holiday your way on Arcadia and Aurora

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

Dining updates: what’s on the menu for summer 2026

Hungry for something new? We’re adding more choice, new experiences and even better quality to your on-board dining experience. Find out what’s cooking…

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 

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

Stephen Mulhern’s new magic show 

We’re excited to announce that Stephen Mulhern, one of Britain’s best-loved TV entertainers, will join us at sea this summer with a residency in The Limelight Club on board Iona.

Manford’s Comedy Club: late night, adults only and laughs at sea

P&O Cruises is delighted to announce an exciting new collaboration with    Manford’s Comedy Club, bringing late night, adults only comedy shows to    selected sailings on board Iona and Arvia throughout the year. 

Unforgettable family-friendly activities in the Caribbean with P&O Cruises

Children aren’t an afterthought with P&O Cruises – they’re as valued as anyone else, with dedicated clubs and pools and a wealth of unforgettable experiences they’ll love. 

Wine tasting masterclass

Ever wondered what goes on in a wine tasting masterclass at The Glass House? Let wine expert, P&O Cruises Food Hero and masterclass host Olly Smith be your guide

Wine tasting masterclass masterclass

Captain’s picks

As first in command on Ventura, Captain Neil Turnbull has a bird’s-eye view of his ship. Here, he tells us what he loves about Ventura, the importance of teamwork in a refit and where you'll find him when he's not on the bridge.

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

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

A first look at Ventura’s refit

Ventura refit: Behind the scenes

Four ways to experience the natural beauty of the Canary Islands

You don’t have to be a geologist or a James Bond villain to get a kick out of volcanoes in the Canary Islands. These monstrous megaliths of Mother Nature are more than just stunning selfie backdrops, they’re the focus of many unique activities.

What a fantastic 2025

Sail back through 2025’s highlights with P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow

Four of Valletta’s most intriguing museums

Malta’s capital city has had a colourful history, and its storied walls are overflowing with tales of heroism and heartbreak from across the centuries. 


Time Out’s top shore experiences in the Norwegian fjords

It’s no secret that the best view of the Norwegian fjords is from inside the fjords. And on a P&O Cruises holiday, you really are in the heart of this spectacular part of the world.

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Paul Ludlow shares the latest P&O Cruises news from Aurora

Keen to hear the latest from us? We have so much to tell you about, from our principal partnership with Southampton Football Club to our sun-soaked Caribbean holidays and exciting new dining experiences. Our president Paul Ludlow shares all the news in this video, shot on board Aurora.

An insider’s guide to Time Out Market Barcelona

If you’ve never been to a Time Out Market, then firstly: what are you doing? But secondly: you’re in luck! In the summer of 2024, we opened a brand-new market in the beautiful, sun-drenched city of Barcelona

Marco Pierre White photographed by Alun Callender for P&OC commissioned by Sunday

A Masterclass with Marco in The Cookery Club

Fancy cooking alongside one of Britain’s most iconic chefs? At The Cookery Club on Britannia, you can do just that. Here’s how to whip up memories with Marco Pierre White 

Wine and travel: the perfect pairing

We catch up with Olly Smith while he’s on Arvia for a Food Heroes cruise to find out why nothing beats globe-trotting while exploring the world of wine

The story of our Pride of Britain partnership

To celebrate our partnership with The Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards, we’re delighted to present the Pride of Britain P&O Cruises Inspiration Award – a brand-new category in honour of a person or group whose work, courage, deeds and selflessness have had a positive impact on others.

Wiston Estate sparkling . Bottle
March 10, 2015
Photo Caption: 
Her Majesty The Queen, accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, officially named P&O Cruises new flagship Britannia in a glittering ceremony in which a bottle of British Wiston Estate Brut NV was broken against the hull of the 143,000 tons cruise ship.
Upholding its celebration of all things British, P&O Cruises selected sparkling wine from the Wiston Estate Winery in Sussex. A nebuchadnezzar of the Brut NV was used for the bottle smash moment itself while thousands of bottles of Brut NV and Ros, Vintage 2011 will be enjoyed during the various inaugural events that are scheduled to take place around the launch.Ê

The ceremony was compredÊby actor, comedian and TV presenter Rob Brydon who features in P&O Cruises latest advertising campaign and included the Royal Marines Band Service, the Band of the Irish Guards and English soprano Laura Wright, as well as a Strictly Come Dancing cameo show.

Britannia’s 10th anniversary

Find out about our popular flagship as we prepare to celebrate her 10 years of holiday happiness.

The latest P&O Cruises news, with Paul Ludlow

With another holiday year before us, P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow invites you to join him for some welcome winter sun. Filmed on board Azura in her winter home port, Tenerife, Paul shares some news and highlights what’s to come in 2025. His message also focuses on how we'll continue to create many more holidays like never before.

Paul Ludlow highlights what’s in store this year

Two ships, one unforgettable day

P&O Cruises excel ships, Iona and Arvia met in the Caribbean port of Tortola for the first time on Friday 24th January - a never-before-seen phenomenon.

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.

That’s a (Christmas) wrap!

Take a trip back through this year’s highlights with P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow, and let’s look ahead to 2025…

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.

Paul Ludlow in Lisbon

Our president, Paul Ludlow, looks at why Malta, our beautiful home port for Mediterranean fly-cruises, holds such a special place in our hearts. Watch Paul’s video to learn all about the exciting Maltese projects we’re involved with and how guests can enjoy an unmissable 10% off their shore experiences.

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 the latest from Malta

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.

Small ships, big adventures

See a new side of the Norwegian fjords with longer holidays on our adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora.

Britannia refit in focus

Our flagship has just returned from her refit, and with a refreshed new look and feel, she’s ready to deliver the ultimate holiday experience. Read on for a rundown of some of the highlights.

Memorable Moments in the Med

As this year’s BAFTA Television ceremony draws near, we’re sharing just a few dazzling holiday destinations you can discover with us where the stars come out… Sail out of Southampton or choose a fly-cruise to find the finest sights and tiniest islands favoured by big screen names and famous faces.  

How to bring some BAFTA glitz to your holiday

As the BAFTA Television Awards 2024 draws closer and we look forward to the star-studded ceremony, we thought we’d share some tips for how you can bring a bit of BAFTA glitz to your holiday…

Meet our leading ladies

When naming our ships, we always aim to find the perfect fit for each vessel. In honour of Mother’s Day, here are the women who have named each of our ships.

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. 

A view to dine for: Restaurants with great views on board

There are so many places on board our ships where you can gaze over the waves while you dine, from snacks to multi-course meals. Here are a few of our favourites.

Your Celebrations

A Ceremony at Sea is an unforgettable way to mark a special occasion. Thank you for sharing your memories...

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Meet more of your Holiday Heroes

Get to know Richard, Chris, Jukka, Jude, Hanna and John; the crew working hard to bring our guests holiday happiness. 

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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

Paul Ludlow: Looking ahead with rediscovery on the agenda

Paul Ludlow: Exciting Adventures Ahead

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

Arcadia & Aurora Multi-Million Pound Investment

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...

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One amazing sea day

So much is included on a cruise holiday – but don’t take our word for it. We asked guests on Arvia to tell us about the on-board activities, experiences and dining they’ve enjoyed, all without spending an extra penny.

Greatest Days: behind the scenes

Greatest Days isn't just a product of the heart-warming writing of Tim Firth The talented cast from Headliners Theatre Company have done an incredible job of breathing life into this adaptation and communicating the universal themes of friendship and love for music.

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…

Meet your holiday heroes

Get to know Kieran, Agus, Sam, Melvin and Megan; the crew working hard to bring our guests holiday happiness. 

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.

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.

Arvia Crew Stories

With Arvia’s arrival just around the corner, our incredible crew have been hard at work getting everything ship shape and ready to welcome our guests on board.

We caught up with a few of the team to hear their stories and find out what they are most looking forward to. Say hello to…

Our amazing new ship Arvia has arrived!

Arvia has arrived. Take a look at some of the fantastic experiences and entertainment you can expect on a P&O Cruises holiday with our newest ship Arvia. 

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Top 5 Caribbean shore experiences exclusive to Arvia

Soon, our newest ship Arvia will be setting sail for holidays to sun-drenched region. And at every tropical destination she visits, we’ll be offering a choice of exciting shore experiences to suit everyone – whatever your age or energy level.

4 ways to feel like a kid again on a P&O Cruises holiday

Meet Iona's artists

Our new ship Iona will showcase more than 4,600 works of art by 61 artists, making her home to the world’s largest floating art collection. Read on to meet three of the artists whose works will be featured, and find out how you can win your way to Iona’s naming ceremony and have your own artwork shown on board.

Happy days: holiday fun in our children’s clubs

P&O Cruises Youth Operations Manager Mark Price manages the youth departments and entertainment facilities for children and families across the fleet. We ask him how he and his teams give youngsters the time of their lives

Captain Dunlop's top destination picks for Iona

The Norwegian fjords are like nowhere else on earth, blending sublime natural beauty with compelling cultural wonders. Local resident and writer David Nikel shares four of his favourite destinations

Sea the world on Britannia

Britannia sails the high seas in style, combining the excitement of cruising with the sophistication of a 5 star hotel. We take a look at her many charms.

14 Days of Christmas in the Caribbean

Start a new Christmas tradition with P&O Cruises and opt for a 14-night family cruise to the Caribbean where you can enjoy a variety of activities.

Q&A with Paul Ludlow

You deserve a treat

Whether you're after a new fragrance or fancy some nice new jewellery, we have a selection of brilliant brands and products aboard Britannia.

Introducing Iona’s Captain

Behind every great holiday is a talented team of people who have worked hard to make it happen. As we plan for Iona’s 2020 launch, we’re proud to introduce you to her captain, Wesley Dunlop, who will lead Iona and her crew through her inaugural summer season in the Norwegian Fjords.

Making a menu with Marco Pierre White

We’ve recently refreshed the menu at Ocean Grill on Arcadia, headed up by P&O Cruises Food Hero Marco Pierre White. Find out how Marco and our team of experts created the mouthwatering new dishes, from inception through to the delicious results…

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Advice from five inspirational P&O Cruises women

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