P&O Cruises expands Summer 2028 deployment with record programme across 7 ships

   April 25, 2026 ,   Cruise Industry

P&O Cruises has released its most extensive summer schedule to date, placing 215 itineraries on sale across a fleet of 7 vessels for the 2028 season. The programme, operating between March and October, will include departures from Southampton alongside fly-cruise options from Malta, representing the largest seasonal offering yet undertaken by the line.

The deployment encompasses 121 destinations in 29 countries and reflects a continued emphasis on Northern European cruising, particularly itineraries to the Norwegian fjords. The schedule incorporates an expanded series of short-format departures, including numerous weekend sailings between May and September, intended to provide increased flexibility for travellers seeking access to high-demand scenic regions.

Voyages across the season are structured to extend time ashore, with 64 overnight port calls and 69 late evening departures. This approach allows access to major cultural sites, including the Acropolis of Athens, where landmarks such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike are located, as well as architectural works by Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona.

Within the programme, Arvia will operate new 14-night itineraries combining Spain, France, and the Norwegian fjords from Southampton, while Arcadia and Aurora will continue to serve the adult-only segment with sailings to destinations including Norway, Iceland, and Scandinavia, alongside selected multi-generational departures. A longer Arctic itinerary aboard Aurora, extending to Iceland and the North Cape, will include an overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Elsewhere in the fleet, Azura will feature an overnight call in Livorno, providing extended access to inland destinations such as Florence and Pisa, while Britannia and Ventura will include itineraries offering proximity to Colosseum and other sites in Rome via Civitavecchia.

The overall programme incorporates a range of voyage durations, from short breaks to extended itineraries of up to 30 nights, including transatlantic sailings to North America. Commercial incentives for early bookings include discounted fares, reduced deposits, and additional benefits for repeat passengers, along with promotional pricing for additional guests sharing accommodation.

The company has also outlined the continuation of inclusive pricing structures covering accommodation, dining, and onboard entertainment, supplemented by optional packages that bundle beverages, specialty dining, and connectivity services. These measures form part of a broader effort to position the 2028 season as both comprehensive in scope and adaptable to a range of travel preferences.