Azura

Azura followed Ventura into P&O Cruises’ fleet in 2010, and the Grand-class pair still form the line’s mid-sized family workhorses, bigger than Arcadia yet far easier to navigate than Iona or Arvia. Her calling card is the SeaScreen, a giant outdoor movie screen above the main pool that shows films, concerts and major sporting events. Inside, she mixes a traditional British atmosphere, with a pub, afternoon tea and Black Tie evenings, with livelier family spaces and the adults-only Retreat sun deck. Azura has been used for Southampton departures and for Caribbean fly-cruises, so check where she is based before planning.

Best for: British families who want a mid-to-large ship with plenty of entertainment and a familiar British atmosphere.

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.