
Family Friendly Sailings with P&O Cruises
Date Posted: 04/04/2024
Cruising with P&O Cruises is a rare kind of family holiday, one that blends adventure, comfort, and connection in a single horizon. Mornings begin with the soft hum of the ocean, afternoons with the splash of the pool or the promise of somewhere new. It’s laughter over breakfast, new friends made before lunch, and stories you’ll retell long after you’re home again.
Whether it’s your first time at sea or your fifth, a P&O family cruise lets everyone find their own pace, together.
Playtime, Anytime
From the moment you step aboard, the excitement bubbles over. Welcome-on-board parties set the tone, while favourite characters are ready to greet younger guests. Days drift easily between swimming, cinema sessions, and friendly football matches on deck.
For the little ones, the Splash Zone becomes their kingdom. Teenagers, meanwhile, can claim their own corner in The Scene, a relaxed hangout made for music, games, and independence (with just the right touch of supervision). And when the sun begins to set, the lights rise on spectacular shows that captivate all ages, from family-friendly musicals to movie nights under the stars.

Time for You, Fun for Them
Parents deserve a little serenity too, and P&O makes sure you find it. Children’s clubs welcome guests from six months to seventeen years, each space designed with care and creativity. Think bright nurseries, soft-play areas, pool tables, art corners, and gaming consoles.
You can unwind knowing they’re in safe hands, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a well-earned evening out. On selected ships, there’s even a Night Nursery, perfect for when you’d like to linger over dessert or slip into a late-night show, knowing your little ones are tucked up and cared for.
Dining to Delight Every Palate
Family mealtimes can sometimes feel like a challenge, but not here. On board, you’ll find an impressive mix of buffets, poolside grills, and laid-back pizzerias where everyone can pile their plate just the way they like it. From juicy burgers and creamy pasta to fresh salads and handmade pizzas, even the pickiest eaters are well looked after.
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are all included, so there’s never a need to count the cost, just the smiles around the table. And if you’re after something a little more refined, the main dining rooms serve up family favourites alongside elegant touches for grown-up taste buds.

Exciting Shore Adventures
Every port brings something new to discover: charming coastal towns, sun-dappled beaches, and cultural treasures that spark young imaginations. Whether you’re exploring markets, paddling in crystal-clear shallows, or sampling local flavours, each stop invites a fresh adventure for the whole family. P&O Cruises’ family-friendly excursions are designed for together time, with experiences that excite, inspire, and bring smiles all round. And when you’re back onboard, the fun continues with sunset views, shared stories, and plenty of laughter. Every day feels like a new chapter in your family’s holiday story, one you’ll remember long after you’ve sailed home.
Space to Unwind
After a full day of adventures, retreat to a space that feels made for you. P&O’s family-friendly cabins are cleverly designed for comfort — from practical Inside cabins to Balcony rooms with ever-changing views. Family rooms sleep up to four, with pull-down beds tucked away by morning and turned down by night.
Those celebrating something special might opt for a suite, complete with butler service, breakfast in an exclusive restaurant and all the little luxuries that make life at sea feel effortless.

Together, Wherever the Tide Takes You
A family cruise with P&O isn’t about ticking off destinations, it’s about the moments in between. The laughter echoing down the corridors, the awe of a glacier glinting in the distance, the quiet satisfaction of knowing you’ve found a holiday that suits everyone.
Because when you sail together, every wave brings something worth remembering.
Are P&O Cruises good for families?
Absolutely! P&O Cruises are tailor-made for families, with dedicated kids’ clubs, family cabins, flexible dining, and entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re sailing on Iona, Arvia, or Britannia, there’s a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and adventure, making it one of the UK’s favourite choices for family cruising.
What activities are available for kids on P&O Cruises?
There’s never a dull moment! Children can join the Reef kids’ clubs, packed with age-appropriate games, arts, sports, and themed parties. Teens have their own cool spaces to chill and make new friends, while family activities like movie nights, deck games, and splash zones keep everyone smiling.
Do P&O Cruises have family cabins?
Yes! P&O Cruises offers a great range of family-friendly cabins designed for comfort and flexibility. Choose from interconnecting rooms, spacious balcony cabins, or suites that easily accommodate families of all sizes. Clever layouts make it easy to relax together (and sneak in a little privacy, too).
What dining options are available for families?
From poolside pizza and burgers to fine dining and themed buffets, P&O Cruises makes mealtimes easy and enjoyable for all. Flexible dining times, kids’ menus, and family-friendly restaurants mean even picky eaters will find something they love.
Are there babysitting or childcare services on P&O Cruises?
Yes! P&O Cruises offers night nursery services for little ones aged 6 months to 4 years, so parents can enjoy an evening out knowing their children are in safe hands. The Reef team are trained childcare professionals who make sure everyone is happy, safe, and entertained.
What are the best P&O ships for families?
While all P&O ships welcome families, Arvia and Iona are standouts for their adventure-filled design. Think multi-storey Sky Domes, splash parks, onboard cinemas, and family-friendly dining galore. Britannia, Ventura, and Azura also offer brilliant family facilities and a more traditional British cruise experience.
Are shore excursions suitable for children?
Definitely! P&O Cruises offers family-friendly shore excursions at every destination, from beach days and waterparks to wildlife tours and cultural adventures. Each trip is designed with safety, comfort, and fun in mind, so everyone can explore together stress-free.
What entertainment is available for families onboard?
From West-End-style shows and live music to deck parties, quizzes, and cinema nights, P&O Cruises keeps the whole family entertained. There’s something for everyone, and plenty of shared moments you’ll remember long after you’ve sailed home.
How does P&O Cruises make travelling with babies and toddlers easy?
P&O Cruises makes it simple! You’ll find cots, highchairs, baby baths, and bottle-warming facilities onboard. Early mealtimes, babysitting options, and children’s pools ensure even the tiniest cruisers enjoy smooth sailing.
Why choose P&O Cruises for a family holiday?
Because every detail is designed with families in mind! With British-style comfort, world-class service, endless onboard fun, and unforgettable destinations, a P&O family cruise is the easiest way to combine relaxation and adventure. From toddlers to teens, everyone gets their dream holiday.