P&O Cruises announces today that it will offer a series of summer UK getaways. The brand will offer short cruises on its flagship, Britannia. Additionally, it will offer week long cruises on its new ship, Iona. These summer cruises will depart from Southampton between June and September, sailing around the UK coast, “where the sun shines brightest”.
Iona is P&O Cruises’ first Excel class ship. This new LNG-powered ship has a 5,200-guest capacity; it will be the largest ship built for the UK market. Iona will feature enhancements to already successful signature venues from the existing fleet, as well as some new features of her own.
“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. Whilst there is still uncertainty about holidays abroad this summer, we are delighted to be able to offer our guests the ultimate escape here in the UK with the reassurance that we will take care of everything. Also, we really will look at the weather forecast each cruise and aim to take our ships where it is warm and sunny.”, said P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow.
Britannia will offer three and four night sailings and one 6-night sailing running from June 27, 2021 through to September 19, 2021. Iona will offer seven night itineraries running from August 7, 2021 to September 18, 2021.
As the start of Iona’s maiden season, the ship will sail a 7-night cruise around the Scottish islands. Iona will anchor off Iona, the island after which she was named. Here, guests will enjoy a celebratory extended stay until sunset for magical views of the historic shores.
These sailings will be for UK residents only. Further, all guests will need to be vaccinated for COVID-19. Guests will need to show proof of vaccination and the dates given at the terminal prior to boarding. While there is no age restriction on this series of UK coastal cruises, all guests must meet the vaccination policy. All other P&O Cruises sailings currently on sale do not require guests to be vaccinated at this time.
In addition to vaccination, all guests and crew will need to follow enhanced health and safety measures. These protocols include 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. Further, travel insurance will also be mandatory for all guests.
“As we have spent the majority of the last year at home, to be able to have a restorative and relaxing break, sit on deck with a sea view in the summer sunshine and then enjoy an indulgent dinner and show – it’s certainly what we all need this year and we cannot wait to have our guests back on board.”
These cruises go on sale on Monday, March 22, 2021 at 8.30am.
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