Britannia

Britannia entered service in 2015 with the largest Union flag ever painted on a ship’s bow, a bold statement of her British identity. She is based on the same design as Princess Cruises’ Royal-class ships but fitted out for UK tastes, with a pub, British comedy, afternoon tea and Black Tie evenings. Her three-deck atrium is crowned by a striking starburst light sculpture. Dining includes Sindhu, a modern Indian restaurant, and the Cookery Club, a hands-on cooking school that debuted on Britannia. She sails from Southampton to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and northern Europe, among other regions.

Best for: British travelers who want a large, elegant ship with a strong sense of British style.

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.