P&O Cruises is offering a series of short breaks this summer on its flagship Britannia and week-long cruises on the new ship Iona. These cruises will depart from Southampton between June and September, sailing along the UK coast, “where the sun shines brightest.”.
P&O Cruises Chairman Paul Ludlow said: “Given the recent announcements, we are hopeful that our guests will be able to enjoy a holiday this summer. After the stress and challenges of the past year, everyone deserves a treat, and this series of cruises will offer memorable and much-needed breaks in the UK. While there is still uncertainty surrounding holidays abroad this summer, we are delighted to be able to offer our guests the ultimate UK getaway with the reassurance that we will take care of everything. We will also be monitoring the weather forecast for each cruise and aiming to take our ships to locations where it is warm and sunny.”.
"To kick off the Iona's special inaugural season, the new holiday series includes a seven-night inaugural voyage cruising the Scottish islands. The Iona will anchor off Iona, the island for which it is named, with an extended stay until sunset to enjoy magical views of the historic coastline.".
The Britannia will offer three- and four-night getaways and a six-night voyage from June 27, 2021 to September 19, 2021. The Iona offers seven-night itineraries from August 7, 2021 to September 18, 2021.
Given the advanced progress of the vaccination program in the UK, these trips on the Britannia and the Iona will be only for UK resident guests who have received the Covid-19 vaccine.
Passengers and crew will be required to adhere to the health and wellbeing measures outlined in the protocols to protect everyone on board these cruises. These measures have been developed with guidance from global medical and public health experts and scientists, and in close coordination with UK government agencies. These protocols include enhanced sanitation measures, social distancing, and the use of face masks in designated areas of the ship. Crew members will also undergo a rigorous testing and quarantine regime, as well as regular testing throughout their time on board. The protocols are subject to change, as we continue to work with our experts and government agencies to ensure all our practices evolve in line with the latest advice, with the health and wellbeing of our crew, guests, and the communities we visit remaining our primary objective. Travel insurance will also be mandatory for all guests.
Ludlow added: “Having spent most of the last year at home, being able to take a restorative and relaxing break, sitting on deck overlooking the sea in the summer sunshine and then enjoying dinner and entertainment, is certainly what we all need this year and we can’t wait to have our guests back on board.”
Cruises will go on sale on Monday, March 22, 2021.
