BOOKINGS for P&O’s first cruises since the pandemic flooded in today as the line reported an “unprecedented” number of sales.

The cruise giant opened bookings for its summer season of UK coastal cruises just this morning. 

The three, four and seven-night cruises, on flagship Britannia and newcomer Iona, will set sail from Southampton between June and September, and are billed as “the ultimate British break.”

Particularly popular has been Iona’s maiden voyage to the Scottish islands, including the island that gives the ship its name.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “It is very demonstrable evidence that a holiday at sea, with all that it has to offer, is a popular and much longed-for option this summer. 

“We always hoped that these domestic cruises would be popular, given the uncertainty around holidays abroad, but we have never before seen such significant and immediate demand.

“It certainly shows the effects of lockdown and everyone’s need for a holiday. Many thousands of guests have already made bookings.

“Iona’s maiden voyage to the Scottish islands is already very well sold and will be a very special cruise. 

“Where else but by sailing with us on Iona can you taste Spanish speciality tapas from Jose Pizarro, fine wines chosen by Olly Smith, Marco Pierre White’s beef Wellington and award-winning Snowflake gelato?

“And that’s before you choose from a new movie release in the boutique cinema or catch a show in SkyDome or a music set in the 710 Club. There’s certainly no other domestic holiday this year which can compete. 

“We have spent so long working towards this point and we all just can’t wait to see our ships sailing once again – it’s been a very long year.” 

You should note that these initial sailings on Britannia and Iona will be exclusively for UK residents, who must provide proof they have been fully Covid-vaccinated.

For full itineraries, Covid advice and to book see pocruises.com, call 03453 555 111 or ring a trusted travel agent.