The Best Family P&O Cruise Ships: 5 Must Visit Vessels For Fun-Seeking Families
They might be known as the “pioneers of the sea”, but do you know about the best P&O family cruise ships giving fun-loving groups more holiday memories to cherish?
The best family cruise ships make going on a voyage into the unknown with your kin something to behold.
Experiencing a family cruise holiday with P&O sees you taking an expedition into an all-encompassing adventure, teeming with activities, delicacies from far-flung corners of the world and mountains of memories for all.
This endeared British brand puts family needs at its heart, offering tailored comfort for chill-seeking adults and adrenaline-packed joy for young explorers. But what makes them so good at delivering familial holiday bliss? And, with adults-only ships in the P&O fleet too, which family-friendly vessels do you need to know about?
We’ve got all the answers.
Why Are P&O Cruises Good For Families?
When deciding on the perfect family-friendly cruise, a combination that balances catered comfort for adults and exploratory joyrides for youngsters is crucial. This balance forms the cornerstone of the P&O Cruises offering.
Firstly, we need to mention that P&O often offers discounted or free places for children. Which, for busy parents trying to get the best deal, is an absolute winner.
Even though the brand tends to attract couples, they are equally popular with families. Cruise ships designed by P&O aren’t just glamorous floating hotels; they serve as microcosms of family joy, offering carefully curated experiences tailored to satisfy every age group.
Plus, while we’re on the subject of target audiences, we should also mention that the vast majority of passengers on a P&O cruise are British. Perfect for families who are new to cruising and trying to adjust to their sea legs and navigate a different environment. You’ll find that regular cruisers love helping out newbies with insider info and deck maps.
There are a plethora of other reasons why P&O is excelling in family cruising, from family-friendly itineraries to awesome onboard activities, but we’ll tell you more about those shortly. Now we need to tell you more about those vibrant vessels.
Overview of the Best P&O Cruise Ships for Families
P&O Cruises have been able to offer a kaleidoscope of experiences through their five best ships for family cruises. Without further ado, let’s unveil the quality quintet:
1. P&O Arvia
Arvia might be the newest member of the P&O fleet, but that hasn’t stopped her from forging a reputation as one of the most loved family cruise ships. Now Britain’s biggest cruise ship, this colossal beauty can house a staggering 5,200 passengers along with a super helpful crew of 1,800.
Personalised with grandeur, her 15 decks are home to about 2,610 cabins, as well as swim-up bars, infinity pools and the striking retractable SkyDome. Away from the pools and bars, parents with pickier eaters in their clan need not worry either; Arvia’s 30 bars and restaurants are sure to have a mouthwatering option for all.
Wrapping up comfort and thrills into one generous package, awaiting unravelling by families seeking remarkable shared tales to embellish their album of life.
- Average prices: £1,200 to £3,000.
- Cruise destinations: The Mediterranean and Caribbean.
- Accommodation options: P&O Arvia has a cabin for every kind of traveller, from cosy Inside cabins with all the essentials, to light-filled Outside rooms, to stylish Balcony cabins where you can sip coffee with ocean views. For the ultimate upgrade, the ship’s new-style Suites add a chic lounge space and floor-to-ceiling glass that brings the horizon right into your room.
- Cruise highlights for kids: Splash pool, deck games, whirlpool.
- Cruise highlights for parents: Oasis spa/couples’ treatment rooms, casino.
2. P&O Iona
There are another 15 fun-filled decks to be considered on Iona. Launched in 2021, Arvia’s older sister offers a staggering array of itineraries to popular locations like Northern Europe, the Norwegian Fjords and the sun-soaked Canary Islands, all sailing from Southampton.
Ideal for family cruises from Southampton, Iona is similar to her sister in that she boasts the same passenger capacity, 30 bars and restaurants and four super swimming pools. But with two more entertainment venues, there are even more opportunities to blow your little explorers‘ minds with awesome stage performances and high-flying acrobatics.
- Average prices: From £250 to £1,800.
- Cruise destinations: Norway, Spain, France and the Canary Islands.
- Accommodation options: On P&O Iona, you can pick a snug Inside cabin designed for simplicity, a Sea View room that frames the waves or a breezy Balcony cabin for al fresco lounging. The ship’s Suites blur the line between indoors and out, giving you a private haven that feels open to the sea.
- Cruise highlights for kids: Kids’ clubs, SkyDome with live characters and performances.
- Cruise highlights for parents: Ship spa, Gary Barlow’s 710 Club with live music.
3. P&O Britannia
Previously Britain’s largest cruise ship, before losing her crown to her younger sister (ouch!), Britannia has been a symbol of British heritage and innovation at sea since her inception in 2015.
In that time, she has perfected an inviting ambience that leaves adults contented and sparks up children’s curiosity alike. Kids will love The Reef, a supervised club with zones for different age groups, from toddlers to teens. It’s packed with fun activities, from arts and crafts to video games. For family bonding, there’s giant chess, shuffleboard and even mini-golf.
Plus, there’s dazzling entertainment, including magic shows, musicals and even a silent disco for unforgettable family nights on board.
- Average prices: £1,200 to £5,000+.
- Cruise destinations: mostly the Caribbean, but also Spain, Norway and the Canary Islands.
- Accommodation options: You’ll find various options, from practical Inside cabins that keep things simple, to airy Balcony cabins where sliding doors open onto your own slice of ocean breeze. For those craving a little luxury, the spacious Suites add indulgent touches like a private lounge, enhanced bathroom, generous balcony and even butler service, making them the ultimate at-sea retreat.
- Cruise highlights for kids: Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep characters, live shows and kids’ clubs.
- Cruise highlights for parents: Gin tasting, cooking classes and shopping.
4. P&O Ventura
Ventura is a brilliant choice for families dipping their toes into cruising. The ship boasts a wide range of family-friendly activities, from those kids’ club options to sports courts and pools where little explorers can splash about while parents relax nearby.
You can also choose to end each new sea day in a super wholesome way with movie nights under the stars. Alternatively, you might want to continue stoking the fires of familial competition by joining in with deck games.
As with the other ships in the range of top family P&O cruises, Ventura offers flexible meal options. From casual spots like the buffet restaurants to more elevated venues, complete with dedicated children’s menus, for those times when you want to treat yourselves while keeping them happy.
- Average prices: £1,200 to £3,000+.
- Cruise destinations: Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands and Morocco.
- Accommodation options: Inside cabins give you plenty of room while being pocket-friendly, while Sea-view rooms let the ocean sneak in through the window. Breezy Balcony cabins are perfect for post-sunrise coffee with a view. For those craving a real indulgence, the Suites (including Family and Penthouse options) deliver spacious retreats with plush perks, like butler service and whirlpool baths.
- Cruise highlights for kids: Live theatre shows, games and dance classes.
- Cruise highlights for parents: Oasis Spa.
5. P&O Azura
Last but certainly not least on our list of the best family P&O cruise ships is Azura. Another fantastic option for family adventures at sea. Like her sister ship Ventura, Azura is packed with activities to keep everyone entertained.
There are also four pools on board, including family-friendly options, where kids can splash about while parents relax. Alternatively, you also have the SeaScreen open-air cinema for film watching of an evening. Meanwhile, those in search of quieter moments can head for the onboard library, which is replete with leading titles to enjoy.
- Average prices: £900 to £4,000+.
- Cruise destinations: The Canary Islands and the Mediterranean.
- Accommodation options: Compact Inside cabins keep things simple, while oceanview Outside and Balcony cabins bring the outdoors in, perfect for soaking up sea views. If you’d like extra comfort, the Suites go all out with butler service and champagne on ice, turning your cabin into a private haven at sea.
- Cruise highlights for kids: Kids’ clubs and live Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep characters.
- Cruise highlights for parents: Bars and spa treatments.
Adventures Ashore: Family Excursions to Remember
When you embark on family cruise holidays aboard these P&O vessels, the ship-bound amenities are only half the story. Choosing the right cruise for you is also about selecting dazzling destinations that you know they’ll love.
With a staggering choice of P&O cruise itineraries for families, you’re free to explore artistic cultures, unique cuisines and rich histories.
Imagine mazing through Mediterranean alleyways, each turn revealing enchanting surprises! Or picture hiking across real-life fjords a la Anna and Elsa from Frozen on a Norwegian exploration. Alternatively, perhaps the ecstatic vibrancy of the Caribbean is more your calling.
The blend of sophisticated onboard experiences seamlessly fuses with soul-stirring journeys to create a truly unforgettable holiday experience. Relish the opportunity to etch brand-new memories every time you wake up on these fun-filled seafaring extravaganzas.
Nurturing Environmental Awareness and Adventure
Another positive aspect of cruising as a family with P&O (that you may not have thought of) is their commitment to coupling the excitement of journeying across seas with responsible travel ethics. They expertly manage the intersection where pleasure meets preservation, introducing families to a guiltless luxury holiday experience.
Nestled within these floating palaces is an opportunity for parents and children alike to understand our planet’s beauty and nurture meaningful environmental awareness.
P&O ensures the spirit of exploration aboard their vessels thrives in harmony with the bountiful oceans beneath, establishing thoughtful initiatives onboard their fleet.
Which P&O Family Cruise Should You Choose?
You might now find yourself drawn towards the exquisite world of P&O cruises. But a question comes floating in from whispering waves: “Which ship should my family board?”
The answer to that question lies in the destinations each vessel sails. Picking the right itinerary for your family depends on your unique preferences. But don’t worry, we won’t leave you high and dry there.
If you click on the banner below, we’ll tell you about some of the top P&O family cruise itineraries that we’re sure your clan will love! Then you’ll know everything you need to decide on your next family cruise.
FAQs
Which P&O ships have family suites?
All five of the above-mentioned cruise ships have family suites aboard: Ventura, Arvia, Iona, Azura and Britannia.
Which is the best P&O cruise ship to go on?
It really depends on what kind of holiday you’re after. Arvia and Iona are the newest ships, packed with modern features and innovative cabins, ideal if you love fresh dining concepts and plenty of entertainment. Britannia offers a stylish, slightly more refined feel, while Ventura and Azura bring a classic cruising experience with a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly touches. If you want cutting-edge design, go for Arvia or Iona; if you prefer a more traditional P&O vibe, Britannia, Ventura or Azura are great choices.
How much does a cruise cost for a family of four?
This depends heavily on the cabin style you choose, but it can range from as low as £1,300 to £5,000+.
Which P&O ships allow children?
All five of the above-mentioned cruise ships allow children aboard.
Where do P&O family cruises sail from in the UK?
These ships depart the UK from Southampton.
Which P&O cruise ship is best for families with babies and toddlers?
For families with little ones, Ventura and Azura are often the top picks. They offer family-friendly cabins, kids’ clubs for toddlers, baby-changing facilities and flexible dining options, making it easier for parents to relax while keeping the little ones entertained. Britannia is also a strong choice, with dedicated family areas and plenty of space for strollers.
Which P&O cruise ship is best for young children?
Iona and Arvia shine with vibrant kids’ clubs, fun pools, family-friendly shows and engaging activities. Ventura, Azura and Britannia also cater well, offering dedicated play areas, splash zones and family dining options to keep little ones happy.
Which P&O cruise ship is best for teenagers?
For teens, Iona and Arvia are the standouts, with dedicated teen zones, gaming areas, sports courts and evening entertainment suited to older kids. Ventura, Azura and Britannia also cater to teens with fun activities, pools and casual hangout spaces, though the newest ships tend to offer the most modern teen-friendly features.
Which P&O cruise ship is best for families with accessibility needs?
For families needing extra accessibility, Britannia, Ventura and Azura are strong options. They offer wheelchair-accessible cabins and bathrooms, lifts to all decks, adapted dining areas and wider corridors.
