P&O Cruises Christmas holidays: What to expect onboard

P&O Cruises Christmas cruise holidays equal no shouting over turkey timings, no awkward silences during the Boxing Day walk and no drama about why the spare bed hasn’t been made up for Uncle Nigel.

That’s right, for anyone looking to escape festive flare-ups and embrace being thoroughly looked after in comfort and, well, joy, a Christmas cruise can be just the ticket.

What’s included on a P&O Cruises Christmas cruise?

P&O Cruises Christmas cruises serve up a ship ready adorned with a sparkling Christmas tree and festive decor (absolutely none of which involves you tussling over tinsel or ‘accidentally’ breaking that bauble your sister gave you) plus a magical children’s grotto where kids can meet Father Christmas —and this year, he’s got a surprise for every child – plus a lineup of themed activities and entertainment (OK, tinsel might feature).

It’s not all Deck The Halls action, though. Guests can also relax at screenings of Christmas films in the ship’s cinema and on cabin TVs – what will it be? Love Actually or The Holiday? – and maybe even entertaining pantomimes (it’s most definitely behind you).

Festivities stretch even further with deck parties to ring in the New Year and festive-themed afternoon teas. Guests can unwind with a mulled wine in hand at a Christmas spa session or toast the season with a cocktail crafted just for the occasion.

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How does P&O Cruises celebrate on Christmas Day?

One of the best things about celebrating Christmas Day on a P&O Cruises voyage is the freedom to make it your own. Start your morning with a chilled glass of Buck’s fizz, and from there, the possibilities are endless – Delia Smith’s cookbook doesn’t even need a look in.

Join a carol service hosted by your captain, find your spot for a traditional church-style service, immerse yourself in a jolly performance at the theatre, or, if you need a little respite from the festive hustle and bustle, escape to the peaceful Christmas-free zones.

Of course, the pièce de résistance is the Christmas dinner. The festive feast comes with turkey or a vegetarian option and is adorned with all the traditional trimmings (no comparing the roasties to your mum’s, please).

Don’t worry – Santa won’t forget you while you’re away. P&O Cruises also includes a gift for you (no questions asked about how naughty or nice you’ve been) and there’s a delightful surprise from Father Christmas for each child too, complemented by a fantastic Christmas Cake display and an intricate gingerbread village.

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P&O Cruises also offers special Christmas Market sailings for those eager to get the full festive experience when the UK’s Winter Wonderland offerings don’t quite cut it.

Get ready as P&O Cruises Christmas cruise destinations brim with a wealth of seasonal delights, encompassing sparkling ice rinks, bustling markets, cosy bars and spectacular light displays.

Just think, some of these Northern European markets have been enchanting visitors since the 15th and 16th centuries. Expect traditional nativity stalls, captivating performances and veritable treasure troves of unique artisan gifts.

For 2025, guests can enjoy a 14-night Christmas market cruise on Arcadia with overnight stays in Hamburg, Copenhagen, Oslo and Amsterdam – perfect for taking in the twinkling lights, artisan gifts and atmospheric festive spirit at leisure.

In Hamburg, keep an eye out for traditional decorations from the Erzgebirge region of Germany and intricately crafted wooden creations from the Tyrol region, painstakingly made by local carpenters and craftsmen.

You won’t go hungry either, with festive fare ranging from yummy wurst sausages, mouthwatering hot chocolate, and waffles to marzipan-covered stollen in Hamburg and hearty Glühwein.

No, Uncle Nigel, you can’t share ours.

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If you’d rather escape the cold, then P&O Christmas winter sun cruises might be for you. You can pick a Caribbean voyage that explores exotic islands but still gets you back in time for Santa’s Big Reveal, or you can escape Blighty’s bashes altogether and choose a sailing that spans the holiday.

Experience the lush landscapes and artistic charm of Martinique, in Tortol,a dive into crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. On St. Lucia, marvel at the iconic Pitons from Soufrière village and relax on Barbados’ white sand beaches or take a unique sightseeing tour on a Bajan bus.

One of the highlights this year is a 14-night sailing on Arvia, beginning and ending in Bridgetown, Barbados, with festive stops in St Kitts, Antigua, Martinique and more. With overnight stays in both Barbados and Antigua, guests can enjoy beach barbecues, snorkelling trips or simply soak up the island charm, all wrapped in a festive bow.

Bolsover Cruise Club takes care of all travel logistics, with flights available from Manchester Airport, Birmingham International Airport and London Airports.

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