P&O Cruises Mark Their 175 Year Anniversary

LONDON, November 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

In 2012, P&O Cruises celebrates 175 years of voyages, holidays and retreats all around the globe.

On the 3rd July of this year, the seven P&O Cruises ships sailed out on the ocean in a flotilla from Southampton. Thousands of people gathered at the shore front to witness the event, which served to mark a long and illustrious past of enabling passengers to circumnavigate the world with the company's affordable yet grand cruises.

P&O Cruise History

P&O Cruises has come a long way since it secured its first contract in 1837 for a weekly mail service to the Iberian Peninsula. Cruises now sail to destinations as far flung as Mumbai, Sydney and the Caribbean.

The business has moved with the times, but its objective is still to operate great value cruises on vessels designed for a variety of tastes. P&O Cruises' anniversary is more than just a celebration of the founding of the company it's also an opportunity to reflect upon the tradition of cruising which has captivated holidaymakers for more than a century and which remains so popular today.

Shipping news

P&O Cruises' ships have a great deal of history behind them. The P&O Cruises Arcadia is one such historical ship, as the name 'Arcadia' has followed the company since 1954. Today, the craft that bears that title is fully modernised and is a stately ship aimed at couples planning a romantic retreat. It boasts an extensive art collection, stunning exterior glass fronted lifts and several options for elegant dining.

P&O Criuses' ethos revolves around designing cruise ships which bring a contemporary twist to the romance which has traditionally accompanied a nautical voyage. One of its popular liners, Azura, offers a modern take on the traditional cruise holiday. This ship can be alternatively described as a five star hotel, with eleven superb restaurants serving international cuisine to passengers three times a day.

P&O Cruises have been sailing for 175 years but their popularity remains undimmed, as the chance to set sail on the ocean blue is still very much in demand. This anniversary year, families can enjoy vacations to the South Pacific, the Baltic and the Caribbean on Aurora. The mid-sized vessel is recommended for first-time sailors, and a range of child-friendly activities are provided onboard.

Cruises continue to offer a relaxing and luxurious way to travel, and with modern conveniences having been successfully incorporated into vessels over the past 175 years, reinventing the experience for new generations of passengers, the company stands in good stead to keep sailing smoothly for many years to come. To enjoy the P&O Cruise experience in this momentous year, book online with Thomas Cook.

SOURCE Thomas Cook