Ever wondered who our P&O Cruises Food Heroes are or what happens on a Food Heroes cruise?

Spotlight on Food Heroes cruises

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<p>Food and travel are the perfect pairing when it comes to unforgettable experiences. That’s why we go above and beyond to put fabulous dining at the heart of your holiday. It’s also why we’ve teamed up with some of the best food and wine experts in the business to create menus, activities and experiences that will make your holidays with us even more memorable.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>From menus and wine lists crafted by culinary greats to live cookery demonstrations and intimate hosted dinners, our Food Heroes add an exciting and enriching dimension to your time on board. They also bring to life the cuisine of the destinations you visit, helping you to explore local flavours on ship and on shore.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>And the best thing? It’s all available above and beyond the amazing experiences that come as part and parcel of your holiday. </p>


Meet your Food Heroes

<h2>Meet your Food Heroes</h2>
<p>Naturally, our Food Heroes are experts in their field. But it’s their passion, charm and unique personalities that set them apart – and it’s what you’ll love when you meet them up close, hear their stories and learn their tricks of the trade</p>


Marco Pierre White

<h2>Marco Pierre White<br>
</h2>
<p>Learn from a legend of Great British cuisine. World-renowned chef Marco Pierre White has been pushing culinary boundaries for over 40 years and is widely regarded as having put British cuisine back on the gastronomy map. The opportunity to meet and learn from such an iconic chef is unique, but more impressive, perhaps, are the unforgettable experiences shaped by Marco’s warmth and humour when sharing his knowledge and his practical approach to making dishes you’ll love.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Across the fleet, Marco’s Celebration Night menus are a treat for all, and, as patron of The Cookery Club on Britannia, he’ll join you for masterclasses and hosted dinners. When he’s on board Arvia and Iona, you’ll enjoy live cooking demos, insightful Q&amp;A sessions and book signings.</p>


José Pizzaro

<h2>José Pizzaro<br>
</h2>
<p>Spanish flavours come alive with José. The renowned Spanish chef and restaurant owner celebrates the best local ingredients and delicious dishes in his many recipe books and TV appearances – and you can enjoy his creations for yourself on Arvia.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>You’ll love José’s bespoke tapas menu for The Glass House (with a glass of Spanish wine, of course), and don’t miss his relaxed street-food-style dishes at Taste 360. You’ll meet the maestro of fresh flavours on selected Mediterranean cruises on Arvia, where he’ll welcome you to the wonders of Spanish cuisine through live cookery demonstrations, Q&amp;As and book signings. And, when wine expert Olly Smith is also on board, don’t miss hosted tapas and wine events at The Glass House.</p>


Olly Smith

<h2>Olly Smith<br>
</h2>
<p>Good times are guaranteed when Olly is on board. The vivacious author, columnist and TV cookery show favourite loves nothing more than sharing his passion and expertise with you at wine tasting masterclasses in The Glass House. He’ll guide you through a handpicked selection, helping you to discover each wine’s terroir and unique qualities, and offer his advice on pairing wines with food to bring out the best in both. He’ll also enjoy spending time with you and answering your burning questions at Q&amp;A sessions and book signings.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>At The Glass House, which Olly heads up, you’ll enjoy exploring a wine list cherry-picked by Olly together with his favourite wine pairings for a selection of dishes. When Local Food Hero José Pizarro is also on board, Olly and José present special tapas and wine events.</p>


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Hosted dinner with Jose Pizarro in the Cookery Club on board Britannia at sea between Arrecife and Cadiz, Spain during press trip B417N.
Client: P&O Cruises.
Picture date: Saturday July 13, 2024.
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 agree. 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.

Untamed flavour on Spain’s Atlantic coast

Northern Spain, or España Verde, is a food lover’s dream hiding in plain sight. From oysters in Vigo to pintxos in Bilbao, every port tells its own delicious story.

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. 

Celebrating the Pride of Scotland

As a proud partner of the Pride of Scotland Awards, we love to see extraordinary people being celebrated for their resilience, heroics and triumphs.

Meet our home-away-from-home heroes

There are heroes on every street – and on every ship. Meet just a few of the crew members who go above and beyond for guests and for their colleagues.

Pride of Britain award pictured at Sheer Rock resort in Antigua during a cruise on board Britannia. 
Client : P&O Cruises.
Picture date: Tuesday November 26, 2024.
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 agree. 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.

Join us on our Pride of Britain Journey

As our partnership with the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards continues, we’re looking back on the past year and forward to the exceptional people and inspiring moments to come.

Red carpet revelations at the BAFTA TV Awards

From travel talk on the red carpet to memorable moments in the ceremony, the 2026 BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises was one for the books

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

Our crew’s most memorable moments

Memories are made with P&O Cruises, so we asked our crew to give us their top holiday moments that you can experience, too.

Best new family cruises for summer 2028

From all‑ages escapes to family-friendly destinations, our summer 2028 holidays are packed with unforgettable moments for every generation. What memories will your family bring home? 

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.

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.

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. 

Culture, adventure, and discovery are a shore thing in the Med

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.

Close up of woman hands with champagne glass

How to sparkle like a star on a P&O Cruises holiday

From lavish days on shore to unforgettable nights on board, here’s how to elevate your next holiday to the A-list.

Your Wellness Escape in the Norwegian Fjords

Win tickets to the BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises

Sail along with Arcadia’s 2026 World Cruise

Empowering girls and celebrating crew on International Women’s Day 

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

Legendary DJ Pete Tong to light up Arvia in Ibiza

What a fantastic 2025

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

An uplifting refit for Iona

Iona, our first Excel class ship, was in Rotterdam for her first refit, where she was treated to a refurbishment that brought some light upgrades and new features to enjoy on your next holiday.

20251020 Copyright James RobinsonFree for editorial use image, please credit: James RobinsonPride of Britain Awards 2025, Grosvenor House, LondonIf you require a higher resolution image, have any other photographic enquiries or are in any way unsure of your right to publish this image please contact James Robinson on Hello@James-Robinson.co.uk

A winning night at Pride of Britain

The stars were out in full force at the 2025 Pride of Britain Awards, but it was the winners who shone the brightest. We look back at some of the night’s most touching moments, from acceptance speeches to backstage interviews.

20251020 Copyright James RobinsonFree for editorial use image, please credit: James RobinsonAlexis Warr, Pride of Britain Awards 2025, Grosvenor House, LondonIf you require a higher resolution image, have any other photographic enquiries or are in any way unsure of your right to publish this image please contact James Robinson on Hello@James-Robinson.co.uk

Moments that matter at Pride of Britain

From smiles and styles on the red carpet to heartfelt one-on-ones with guests and famous faces, the 2025 Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises was a night to remember. Relive the magic with us through some of our favourite moments.

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.

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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.

On board with Rankin

Think you know cruising? This free photography exhibition, featuring images by Rankin, sheds new light on what it’s like to holiday on our ships – and it might just surprise you. 

José Pizarro’s Barcelona for foodies

From market eats to upscale treats, P&O Cruises Local Food Hero and renowned Spanish chef José Pizarro takes us on a tapas trail in the Catalan capital.

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.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 08: A general view ahead of the Sky Bet Championship match between Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday at St Mary's Stadium on November 08, 2025 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Teaming up together

Great news! Our special connection with Southampton FC is set to play out for another year. 

An elegant new look for Aurora

Aurora's refit is underway! Discover the enhancements that P&O Cruises is bringing to elevate your experience.

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.

P&O Cruises three year shirt sleeve sponsorship deal launch on board Britannia in Southampton.
Client: P&O Cruises.
Picture date: Friday August 2, 2024.
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 agree. 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.

Saints at Sea: kick-off!

We’re the official holiday partner of our home-port football club, Southampton FC. And we’re delighted that the football fun is set to kick off on some of this year’s school holiday cruises in the Mediterranean and the Norwegian Fjords.

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.

What’s your most memorable holiday moment?

From sailing alongside a pod of dolphins to soaking up the sunset from the infinity pool, a P&O Cruises holiday is packed with unforgettable experiences and magical moments.

Chef’s table

Meet Chef Paul Watts, the creative force behind P&O Cruises’ new menus. Discover his top dishes and the exclusive Chef’s Table dining experience onboard.

Azura and Aurora refit exclusive

Discover how SMC Design transformed P&O Cruises’ Azura and Aurora. Explore the creative vision, design upgrades, and guest-inspired details behind the refit.

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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!

Azura refit in focus

Get an inside look at Azura's refit with P&O Cruises. Learn about the exciting changes and how they will enhance your cruise holiday.


BAFTA TV Awards guest experience

Go behind the scenes with our BAFTA Prize winner experience. Learn about their day and the memorable moments they shared with P&O Cruises.

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.

General view of the P&O Cruises 'Memorable Moment' Award, the only award voted for by the public at the 2023 BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises, to be held on Sunday 14 May 2023 at the Royal Festival Hall, London, U.K. Photo by BAFTA/Scott Garfitt

The 2025 P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award shortlist

As part of our partnership with the BAFTA Television Awards, we’re proud to present the P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award, the only award to be voted for by members of the viewing public 

Paul Ludlow highlights what’s in store this year

Pride Of Britain

P&O Cruises have launched a multi-year partnership with Pride of Britain and Pride of Scotland – and proud only begins to cover it!

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…

P&O Cruises 2024 in Numbers

We've crunched the numbers and wow, what a year it's been! Have a look at how our guests have spent their time with us this year...

A refreshing new look for Arcadia

Arcadia’s ready to set sail, looking smart and stylish after her recent refit.

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.

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. 

Talent of Tomorrow: Get to know your winner

Take a look at the incredible moment when Gary Barlow crowned our winner! Thank you to everyone who has followed along this journey and to our other amazing finalists, Ky and Mercy, for giving it their all 👏

Talent of Tomorrow Journey

As the P&O Cruises Talent of Tomorrow competition hots up, we take stock of auditions day at The Academy in Southampton and find out which three young artists will be mentored by Gary Barlow on Iona before the winner is chosen by public vote.

We're teaming up with Southampton Football Club

We’re kicking off an exciting multi-year partnership with the Saints! This is our first-ever sports partnership, so who better to get behind than our home football club?

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. 

These views are better in real life

Have you ever caught yourself looking through holiday snaps and saying, ‘my camera just hasn’t done it justice’? Pretty as pictures can be, there’s nothing quite like seeing those epic, once-in-a-lifetime sights with your own two eyes. These six wonders are even more picture-perfect in person. 

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.

BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises highlights

Check out all the highlights from the BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises

Our new summer 2026 collection is here!

Summer: the season of delicious ice creams, endless sunbathing, lounging by the pool and seeking out new adventures. All of which you can do on one of our brand-new summer 2026 holidays! Take a look at some of our best highlights...

Solar Eclipse Cruises

The breath-taking beauty of a total solar eclipse can be experienced on a P&O Cruises holiday (weather permitting). Care to join us? 

The 2024 P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award shortlist

It’s back! The BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises

After a hugely successful partnership last year, P&O Cruises is once again the proud headline sponsor of the BAFTA Television Awards 2024.

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.

Join Amy Hart for the Launch of P&O Cruises Official Podcast

We’ve travelled all over the world to show you some of the most unmissable places on the planet; now we’re inviting you to come along on an exciting new adventure with us. On Wednesday 7 February 2024, we’ll be launching The Official P&O Cruises Podcast. 

A year in numbers with P&O Cruises

A lot can happen in a year, and don’t we know it! From glasses toasted over the festive period to top-ranking experiences on ship and on shore, it all adds up to a lot of holiday happiness in 2023

Paul Ludlow: Looking ahead with rediscovery on the agenda

Our new winter 2025/26 holidays are finally here!

Paul Ludlow: Exciting Adventures Ahead

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

Introducing our new destination partner, Time Out

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

King Charles at 75

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Roll out the red carpet for P&O Cruises latest partnership with Elysian Film Group

From centre stage to the big screen – we’re so excited to support Elysian Film Group as they host the world premiere of Greatest Days at Leicester Square Odeon on 15 June 2023. From seeing the incredible stage adaptation performed on board Arvia (and soon, Iona) to watching the movie for the first time on the big screen, we couldn’t be prouder to be involved with this once-in-a-lifetime event. 

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4 Reasons our new drinks packages hit the spot

P&O Cruises is giving you even more reasons to say cheers with our refreshing new drinks packages, which can be used in all the restaurants, bars and cafés on board. So, what’ll it be?

Arcadia & Aurora Multi-Million Pound Investment

P&O Cruises is Shortlisted for 2023 British Travel Awards

We’re so proud and delighted to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays & Best Cruise Line for No-fly Cruise holidays awards. Details on how to vote are available at the end of this article.

BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises

An exciting summer awaits

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

A fundraising milestone with Teenage Cancer Trust

We’ve raised an incredible £700,000 in seven years – and to celebrate, we held a special event for young people affected by cancer.

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…

P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award

We’re launching the P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award
which will be the only award to be voted for by members of the
viewing public.

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. 

We’re getting ready to name our newest ship, Arvia

As we look forward to Christmas festivities, be sure to save some bubbly for another celebration. We’re planning the most amazing event we’ve ever held, the likes of which the world has never seen. 

Spotlight on Food Heroes cruises

Discover our Food Heroes

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