It is said that P&O "invented" cruising.
It offered its first pleasure voyage in 1844 and, 65 years later, introduced its first programme of modern-style cruises - First Class only with excusions arranged by none other than Thomas Cook.
P&O Cruises has been operating cruise ships for more than 160 years and combines innovation, professionalism and unrivalled experience on its fleet of four superliners that is dedicated to the British market.
The arrival of the new superliners Aurora, Oceana and Adonia are having a dramatic impact for P&O cruisers worldwide. And the new Arcadia and Artemis can only heighten the experience.
Arriving in April 2005, Arcadia, pictured above, will carry 1,952 passengers and 880 crew and have more cabins with balconies than any other UK-based cruise ship. A child-free ship, she will offer an extensive range of modern and innovative ÔlifestyleÕ experiences including: an extensive spa with couples treatment rooms; contemporary dining with Arcadian Rhodes, a unique and exclusive dining experience created by Gary Rhodes; and the New Horizon enrichment programme with guest speakers who are leading experts in their own particular fields.
And June signals the arrival of Artemis, child-free and offering an authentic cruise experience evocative of the golden age of cruising. With an intimate, 'small ship feel', Artemis is, nevertheless, spacious enough to offer all outside cabins and accommodates one of the biggest swimming pools afloat.
P&O Cruises offer predominantly British passengers the most stylish and friendly holidays afloat with destinations including the Caribbean, South America, Scandinavia, Mediterranean, Canary Islands and Round the World cruises.
It also operates the youngest fleet of superliners in the UK, with ships ideally suited to the particular itineraries they operate. Adonia and Oceana are ideal for cruise holidays in the Caribbean, with spacious sun decks and more balcony cabins than any other UK-based cruise ships. Aurora and Oriana are both designed as ocean-going superliners, equipped to accommodate passengers for longer-length voyages.