It is said that P&O "invented" cruising. It has been operating cruise ships for more than 160 years and combines innovation, professionalism and unrivalled experience on its fleet of five ships dedicated to the British market.

It offers predominantly British passengers the most stylish and contemporary holidays afloat with destinations including the Caribbean, South America, Scandinavia, Mediterranean, Atlantic Islands and Round the World cruises.

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.

The arrival of a fleet of new superliners has had a dramatic impact for P&O cruisers worldwide. And the new Ventura, the largest and most innovative ship to be built for the British market arriving in 2008, can only heighten the experience.

Arcadia, pictured above, carries 1,952 passengers and 880 crew and has more cabins with balconies than any other UK-based cruise ship. A child-free ship, she offer an extensive range of modern and innovative 'lifestyle' 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 Artemis, also child-free, offers 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.

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.