Arvia

Arvia joined P&O Cruises in 2022 as the second of its Excellence-class giants, built for British holidaymakers and powered by liquefied natural gas. She is a sister to Iona with a few signature additions, most notably the Altitude Skywalk, a suspended walkway high over the side of the ship. Everything about her is tuned to UK tastes, from the pub and the curry house to stand-up comedy, a sterling onboard account and Black Tie evenings. With a vast range of restaurants and bars, she suits families and groups who want plenty of choice. Winters often see her in the Caribbean on fly-cruises from Barbados.

Best for: British families and groups, and North Americans curious about a UK-style cruise, who want a big, modern ship with lots of choice.

P&O Cruises is Britain’s best-known cruise line, designed for UK holidaymakers: prices in pounds sterling, British food, pubs, comedians and mostly round-trip sailings from Southampton. It runs big family-friendly ships alongside two adults-only ships, and gratuities are included in the fare. North Americans are welcome, but the line is built around British tastes, school holidays and sailing schedules.