P&O Cruises’ Exciting New Family-Friendly Options
P&O Cruises is set to make waves with a major change. From December 2026, their two adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora, will welcome guests of all ages on select sailings. This shift allows families to enjoy these smaller, traditional vessels for the first time.
More Cruise Choice for Families
Families can look forward to 20 new cruises between December 2026 and September 2027. Aurora will host 12 of these, while Arcadia will offer 8. Additional holidays for winter 2027–28 will be available from 14th October 2025. Bookings open on 7th October 2025, with Aurora’s first family-friendly voyage departing on 11th December 2026, followed by Arcadia on 21st December 2026.
This change will increase family cruise options from Southampton by 23% during the 2027 summer holidays. It provides a fantastic opportunity for multi-generational groups to travel together.
Facilities and Activities for All Ages
Both ships will cater to younger guests with special menus and facilities. Expect children’s dining options, baby-changing areas, and bottle-warming stations. Entertainment and activities will suit all ages, while maintaining the quieter, refined atmosphere that Arcadia and Aurora are known for.
Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises, explained that this decision was driven by guest demand and evolving travel trends. Multi-generational travel is on the rise, with over 30% of families cruising with at least two generations onboard. Nearly a third travel with three to five generations.
Family-Friendly Itineraries
Aurora’s new all-ages cruises include a 14-night Christmas voyage to Scandinavia departing 15th December 2026. There are also short European breaks and summer itineraries to Spain, Portugal, and the Western Mediterranean. Arcadia offers a 16-night Christmas voyage to the Canary Islands, a 14-night Northern Europe itinerary in May 2027, and a 24-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise in August 2027. Notably, Arcadia’s Norway and Iceland itinerary on 20th July 2027 will only be available to children aged 12 months and older.
Mixed Reactions from Loyal P&O Fans
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among P&O Cruises’ loyal guests. Some long-time fans of the adult-only experience are unsure about the change. However, the new family-friendly options offer exciting possibilities for those looking to travel with loved ones of all ages.
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