UK-based P&O Cruises has announced a series of short breaks on flagship vessel Britannia (IMO 9614036) later this year, as well as week-long cruises on the Excel-class LNG-powered new ship Iona (IMO 9826548). The cruises will depart from Southampton between June and September, sailing around the UK coast.
P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said that “given recent announcements we have every hope that our guests will be able to enjoy a holiday this summer. After the stresses and challenges of the past year everyone certainly deserves a treat and this series of cruises will provide memorable and much needed UK getaways”.
He added that “we really will look at the weather forecast each cruise and aim to take our ships where it is warm and sunny.”
Iona’s maiden season will include a seven-night maiden voyage sailing around the Scottish islands, including an anchoring off Iona.
Britannia will offer three- and four-night breaks and one six-night holiday, starting on June 27th and concluding on September 19th. Iona will be running seven-night itineraries running from August 7th through to September 18th.
The sailings will be for UK resident Covid-19 vaccinated guests only (a minimum of seven days following the second dose of the currently approved Covid-19 vaccines being administered).
All guests and crew will be required to follow enhanced health and wellbeing measures “to protect everyone on board on these cruises”. These protocols will include enhanced sanitation measures, appropriate social distancing and the wearing of masks in certain areas of the ship. Crew will also undergo a strict testing and quarantine regime as well as regular testing during their time on board.
Travel insurance will be mandatory for all guests.
2015-built, UK-flagged, 143,730 gt Britannia is owned and managed by Carnival PLC of Southampton, UK.
2020-built, UK-flagged, 184,089 gt Iona is owned and managed by Carnival PLC of Southampton, UK.