P&O Cruises Arcadia: Inside adults-only ship from dining to entertainment

Arcadia, P&O Cruises over-18s ship, has been a fleet favourite for some time… but change is afoot.

Following a mini refurbishment in spring 2023, guest areas now include new balcony furniture, new chairs in cabins and new furniture on the ships’ open deck areas.

However, a wider refit will take place in November 2024 as P&O Cruises embarks on a multi-million-pound investment in both its adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora (scheduled for refurbishment in April 2025).

As part of the makeover, the Neptune Pool on Arcadia will see considerable investment in new lounge chairs, sofas, tables and armchairs.

Let’s have a look at what else passengers sailing on P&O Cruises ship Arcadia – available to book via Bolsover Cruise Club – can enjoy.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Dining

Arcadia is home to 15 restaurants and bars, with foodie options ranging from the refined five/six-course menus at Meridian Restaurant to casual, diverse dining at Belvedere Buffet. Explore exclusive experiences at The Ocean Grill and Sindhu, featuring exquisite steaks and seafood, and authentic Indian cuisine with a British twist, respectively.

Which restaurants are included on Arcadia?

Meridian Restaurant

The Meridian Restaurant [above, right] boasts a two-tiered layout and elegant decor. Experience the unique ambience and conviviality of the main dining room, offering a nightly five-course menu (six courses on Celebration Nights).

Belvedere Buffet

At the Belvedere food court, relax in informal dining any time of the day or night, with a diverse selection from Oriental and Italian to bistro-style dishes and a deli counter.

Neptune Grill

Satisfy your cravings with a variety of snacks, including burgers, hot dogs, and fish and chips.

Arcadia Specialty Restaurants

The Ocean Grill

Exclusive to Arcadia, The Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White serves up steaks and seafood using the finest ingredients, skillfully prepared and presented with Marco Pierre White’s distinctive flair.

How much is the Ocean Grill on Arcadia? insert price

Sindhu

Indulge in authentic Indian cuisine with a British twist at Sindhu. Delight in dishes such as pan-seared duck breast with aubergine fritters, lobster with seafood biriyani, and cardamom bread and butter pudding.

How much is Sindhu on Arcadia? insert price

Room service

Don’t want to leave your bed? Dine within the comfort of your cabin no matter the time of day. Arcadia room service offers meals, desserts, snacks, and drinks. A nominal supplement applies to each item, except for breakfast, which is included in your holiday package.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Bars & Drinks

Experience a diverse range of venues aboard as you sit back with a drink, from the serene ocean views and live jazz of The Crow’s Nest to the intimate melodies at The Piano Bar and the colonial-inspired charm of East Bar. Arcadia bars all offer a charming spot for pre or post-dinner drinks.

The Crow’s Nest

Head to the Sun Deck to indulge in serene ocean panoramas by day and unwind to live jazz and cabaret nights after your meal.

The Piano Bar

Nestled in the heart of the Promenade Deck, this intimate space [above, right] offers a captivating view of the artistically crafted glass ceiling. With its cosy vibe and resident pianist, it’s an ideal spot for melodic conversations.

East Bar

Sky Deck’s colonial-style gem is adorned with Martin Williams’ artwork depicting Asian travels. As the sun sets, its warm glow sets the mood for pre-dinner drinks before you head to Sindhu restaurant.

Spinnaker

Evoking a yacht’s sophistication, this Arcadia bar, positioned between Intermezzo and Meridian, features contemporary decor, porthole-style mirrors and a treasure trove of maritime memorabilia. Conveniently located, it’s a go-to spot for pre or post-dinner tipples.

Intermezzo

An exclusive Champagne and cocktail haven draped in soft lighting from sheer curtains – the perfect backdrop for a memorable night.

The Rising Sun

Step into the charm of an English pub within The Rising Sun [above, left], where entertainment options such as jukebox tunes, karaoke, live music and sporting events keep the lively atmosphere going while you enjoy the ever-changing views outside.

Aquarius Bar

A tranquil oasis on Lido Deck, offering both respite from the sun with its stools and refreshing cocktails and the convenience of staying by your deck lounger.

Neptune’s Bar

With the Skydome’s protection, Neptune’s Bar ensures uninterrupted enjoyment by the Neptune Pool, rain or shine, offering a cosy spot to unwind and socialise.

Caffè Vivo

Embracing a snug vibe with leather sofas, high tables and wooden floors, Caffè Vivo provides an array of treats, smoothies, fresh juices and a lunch menu to satiate varied tastes throughout the day.

Do P&O Cruises do a drinks package on Arcadia?

Yes, there are four different drinks packages available to choose from when you sail on Arcadia – and all come with a 10 percent discount (when purchased before your holiday via My P&O Cruises right after booking your cruise and up to three days before departure).

Alternatively, you can buy the packages on board during the initial two days of your holiday but onboard purchases do not qualify for discounts.

P&O Cruises drink packages

Refresh Drinks Package – £10.95pp per day
This package offers a wide selection of soft drinks.

Alcohol-Free Drinks Package – £24.95pp per day
Whether you crave coffee, prefer soft drinks or love indulging in hot chocolate, this P&O Cruises drink package offers a diverse range of hot and cold soft drink options.

Classic Drinks Package – £44.95pp per day
This package includes everything from the Refresh and Alcohol-Free packages, extending to a tempting selection of spirits, wines and classic cocktails.

Deluxe Drinks Package – £54.95pp per day
The most generous package; from cocktails to spirits and a wide spectrum in between, the Deluxe drinks package expands on all the offerings of other P&O drinks packages and then some!

Arcadia drinks packages are available on cruises of five nights or more and must be purchased for every day of your cruise. Each adult assigned to the same cabin must purchase the same drinks package. Guests are allowed up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day, per package.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Entertainment

What theatre shows are on Arcadia?

From dazzling song and dance showcases by Headliners Theatre Company to the mind-bending magic of “Astonishing”, and the captivating musical tale of Burt Bacharach in “Magic Moments” there are plenty of cool shows to soak up on Arcadia cruise ship. Plus, don’t miss the whimsical wonder of “Mr Tickerton’s Clockwork Circus” for an evening of unique entertainment.

On the Horizon

Headliners Theatre Company invite you to their premier show as they take you on a journey, bringing your cruise programme to life through an eclectic mix of song and dance.

WaveLength

P&O Cruises’ new interactive gameshow, Wavelength, has been launched it across the fleet since its success onboard Arcadia and Aurora. Created exclusively for P&O Cruises, it virtually stars TV and game show host, Ben Shephard, and is fun for the audience and contestants alike.

Astonishing

Prepare to be amazed by this spectacular magic and illusion show created by Stephen Mulhern and Jonathan Wilkes – you’ll be left thinking, ‘How did they do that?’.

Magic Moments

Magic Moments tells the story of the life and music of Burt Bacharach. The Arcadia theatre show features 25 of his best-loved songs, Burt’s 50-year collaboration with Hal David and reveals the stories behind some of their multi-award-winning songs.

Mr Tickerton’s Clockwork Circus

Roll up, roll up for a night at the big top! When Mr Tickerton’s Clockwork Circus comes to town, you are guaranteed a fantastic night’s entertainment. Expect a theatrical circus like no other, led by the enigmatic Mr Tickerton.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Activities

From refreshing poolside dips and fun activities like archery and dance classes to the glamour of Monte Carlo Casino and the peace of the library, there’s an array of activities catering to every interest and mood during your Arcadia P&O Cruises cruise.

What is there is do on Arcadia cruise ship?

Go for a swim

Arcadia hosts five whirlpool spas and two pools, one featuring a retractable roof – an ideal spot for a refreshing dip while taking in the scenery.

Play games

With energy to spare after exploring onshore, delve into new sports like archery or tee off in the golf nets. Engage in friendly family competitions with giant chess, table tennis or shuffleboard all within the cost of your cruise fare.

Dance away

Step onto the dance floor and groove to your heart’s content with P&O Cruises dance classes led by expert instructors. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill while having a blast.

Shop ’til you drop

Discover an expansive selection of items onboard, from jewellery, fragrances and tech gadgets to beverages, keepsakes, snacks and travel essentials. Explore British and international brands like Estée Lauder, Ted Baker, RayBan, Joules, Chanel, Tissot, Tanqueray and more, all offering savings equivalent to VAT compared to UK high street prices or RRP. As a member of our Peninsular club, enjoy additional discounts of up to 10 percent on your purchases.

Escape to the library

Most P&O Cruises ships boast their own serene libraries – a haven for bookworms. Relax with a book or borrow from the collection throughout your holiday. Computers are also available for connectivity if you’ve left your device behind.

Admire art

Explore Whitewall Galleries, showcasing art from contemporary artists to 20th-century masters. Engage in seminars, exhibitions and exclusive VIP events during your cruise. Purchase artwork using onboard credit and enjoy convenient delivery options.

Sit back and relax

Circular room The Globe radiates warmth with subtle lighting, offering a cinematic experience, art auctions, late-night cabarets and live music for an entertaining evening.

Try your luck

Elevate your evening post-dinner or show at the lavish Monte Carlo Casino. Adorned in rich fabrics and featuring roulette, blackjack, poker tables, and over 40 slot machines, it exudes glamour and excitement.

Does Arcadia have a cinema?

Yes, the Screening Room is a 30-seat boutique cinema – Arcadia’s dedicated space for watching films onboard. Arcadia’s cinema is found on the starboard side of the Promenade Deck, aft of the forward lifts and adjacent to the Horizon Suite.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Spa & Wellness

The Oasis Spa aboard Arcadia features a hydrotherapy pool and thermal suite, boasting steam rooms, saunas, ‘experience’ showers and heated ceramic beds for ultimate relaxation.

Fancy a glow-up? The salon boasts a team of stylists, aestheticians and makeup specialists catering to your grooming needs while the Barber Shop provides tailored services including haircuts, deep cleansing shaves and medi-spa treatments for gents.

For those looking to keep fit while away, Arcadia’s free-to-use Gym and Fitness Studio – open daily from 8 am to 8 pm – is equipped with cutting-edge Technogym gear such as Skillmills and Skillrows, along with free weights and exercise bikes.

For a more communal fitness experience, join a fitness class designed to suit various interests and abilities, spanning from calming meditation sessions to high-energy spin classes and beyond.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Cabins

From wallet-friendly inside cabins to the serene outdoor retreats of Balcony Cabins, luxurious indulgence in Mini-Suites, and VIP treatment in spacious Suites, there’s an accommodation choice tailored to your cruise experience among P&O Cruises’ Arcadia cabins.

Inside cabin

A practical, budget-friendly choice without a window offering a comfortable space to rest while enjoying all the ship amenities during the day.

Balcony Cabin

Enjoy the sea breeze and your private outdoor oasis with a Balcony cabin – an ideal spot for a serene breakfast or quiet sunbathing.

Mini-Suite

Experience luxury without the full suite features – indulge in a whirlpool bath, premier toiletries, Champagne or freshly brewed coffee, and relax in the spacious lounge.

Suite

Elevate your holiday with VIP treatment, including exclusive butler service, spacious quarters, a deluxe bathroom with a whirlpool bath, inclusive room service, daily breakfast in a private restaurant and all the amenities of a Mini-Suite.

P&O Cruises Arcadia: Itineraries

What is happening to P&O Cruises Arcadia?

Arcadia is due for a makeover in late 2024, with P&O Cruises spending millions of pounds to modernise and improve the cruise ship.

When was P&O Arcadia last refurbished?

Arcadia was last refurbished in 2017, with a refresh in early-mid 2023.

Is P&O Arcadia an adult only ship?

Yes, is one of two adults-only ships in the P&O Cruises fleet, alongside Aurora.

Is P&O Arcadia being taken out of service?

Arcadia will be out of action during its time undergoing dry dock refurbishments in late 2024.