The hottest sailing date in the world of cruise, P&O Arvia’s maiden voyage is the place to be at sea! Departing on 23rd December 2022 from Southampton to take in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands, this is the perfect opportunity to not only see the sights and get some sun as you celebrate an early Christmas treat to yourself this winter but also be the very first cruisers to try out her fantastic onboard entertainment, check out the incredible dining venues and relax in luxurious accommodation.
Check out Arvia’s amazing maiden voyage itinerary below for all the things you can do onboard and ashore each day!
DAY 1 - Cruise departs from Southampton
As P&O Arvia is a brand-new, unique ship, the first day aboard will be full of buzz and activity as everyone has the same idea - explore the ship! Unpack and get out and about to check out all the amazing onboard venues and grab a bite to eat in the buffet. For those who like a bit of British pomp and ceremony, there’s also the famous P&O Cruises sail away parties as you cast off on your adventure!
The first evening people will still be finding their way around the ship, making the first night of dining less smooth than following nights as everyone still gets their bearings so we recommend this being the night to beat the crowd and book one of Arvia’s fantastic speciality dining venues in advance, such as the Glass House for a variety of big and small plates served with expertly paired wines by P&O Cruises food hero Olly Smith, or Sindhu, the ever-popular flagship Indian restaurant at sea.
DAY 2-4 - At Sea
As you head down to the sunny Canaries the weather will be a tad chilly the first sea day in the Atlantic breeze, so we recommend checking out the Skydome pool area with covered roof and everything you need to make a day of it. As well as hot tubs, plenty of lounge space around the main pool and stunning views out to sea, there’s also poolside bars to keep you refreshed and refilled to make a day of it such as ice cream, snacks and cocktails. For fitness fans there’s a state of the art gym as well as jogging track ideal for early risers to work up a sweat and take in the sunrise.
In the evening head to the main dining room for a classic dinner before heading back to the skydome for some late night entertainment of anything from DJs to aerial acrobat performers or simply a movie under the stars on the giant SeaScreen!
The next 2 days at sea should get progressively warmer as you head south so go for a dip check out the outside swimming pools - the infinity and panoram pools complete with swim-up bar and hot tubs with stunning views at the back of Arvia or the Beachcomber pool area. There’s also Splash Valley for the little ones. Meanwhile all the gang can have fun in the sun at the sports court, mini golf, high ropes course, deck games such as giant chess and shuffleboard or even the all-new Mission Control escape room - the first-ever escape room at sea! There’s even Childrens tea earlier in the main buffet with a special menu for little palettes such as pizza and jelly and icecream. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot everyone’s favourites Wallace, Gromit and Shaun the Sheep as you’re out and about the ship as well as have a blast as themed model making and dance classes and watch the classic Aardman films up on the big screen.
If you’re wanting some adult alone time after, make use of the kids clubs, catering to all ages from tots to teens, so you can head to the spa for a couple’s pampering session and some you time in the thermal suite, sauna, steam room and al fresco Retreat, have a lie in or chill out poolside in peace and quiet while the kids make new friends.
The Reef kids clubs
- Splashers - 2 to 4 years
- Surfers - 5 to 8 years
- Scubas - 9 to 12 years
- H2O Children's Club/ The Scene - 13 to 17 years
DAY 5 - Funchal, Madeira
This Madeiran city is a refuge for relaxation and outdoor pursuits alike. Visitors who are feeling particularly daring may enjoy diving in the clear water, surfing, and even swimming with dolphins, while others who like to take things slowly will appreciate whale watching and strolling through the lovely, lush Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and taking in the views from the Monte Cable Car.
In the evening head to Brodies, the classic British pub, for great beers and games such as darts, karaoke and quizzes. If you fancy raining the stakes meanwhile, the casino is right next door for all your classic machines and table games. If you’ve got kids, make use of the handy night nursery service (available for ages six months to four years, 6pm to 2am each night) for a proper night out aboard! In this case the Crow’s Nest is a must for night owls for live music and your favourite cocktails till late.
DAY 6 - Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Santa Cruz, the capital of Tenerife, is a vibrant community with stunning architecture, traditional tapas, and, of course, sandy beaches. Santa Cruz won't let you down whether you're searching for a leisurely afternoon spent on fine sand, are wanting to shop till you drop or keen to head to Rural de Anaga Park on an excursion for stunning mountainous scenery and exotic flora.
For a treat, stop by the Keel and Cow for the best burgers at sea and craft beer to match. Here you’re also right by the Grand Atrium for live music and stunning aerial shows with a cocktail from the convenient and cosy Amber Lounge.
DAY 7 - Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Las Palmas is much more than simply a destination for fun in the sun - it is home to one of Europe's most famous beaches as well as an abundance of historic architecture, such as Las Palmas Cathedral, and natural beauty. Explore the fascinating Elder Museum of Science and Technology, go on a hike through the breathtaking Bandama Caldera Crater, or if you're simply looking to unwind, grab a lounge chair and top off your tan on the Las Canteras beach.
As night draws in watch the latest blockbusters all the gang will love at Ocean Studios’, Arvia’s four-screen cinema complex at sea, then head to the main dining room if the popcorn wasn’t filling enough.
DAY 8 - Arrecife, Lanzarote
The cosmopolitan city of Arrecife, which serves as the capital of Lanzarote, has many historical treasures tucked away in its back alleys. Originally a modest fishing community in the 15th century, it is today home to upscale stores and shops, traditional Spanish food, a magnificent sandy beach, and stunning landmarks. There are many things to do in this rapidly developing city, whether you're here to shop til you drop or want to learn more about Arrecife's ancient past.
After dinner take your seats in the Headliners theatre for “Greatest Days”, the Official Take That Musical by Tim Firth featuring all your favourite hits.
DAY 9-10 - At Sea
After a few days of activity sightseeing, have breakfast in bed and a lie in with some room service. Then relax by the pool with a good book, check out your new favourite haunts and meet up with new-found friends. Before dinner check out Anderson’s bar for signature gin and rum cocktails complete with its very own onboard rum distillery.
As the kids go to bed the place to be at least one night during Arvia’s maiden voyage is the 710 Club. An all-new music venue exclusive to Iona and Arvia, 710 is Gary Barlow’s signature lounge where the resident band are joined by a different British talent each month to serve you top-quality musical entertainment alongside the themed cocktails to match. A must for music lovers!
DAY 11 - Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz, one of Europe's oldest continually inhabited cities, enchants every traveller who steps foot here. Through its monuments, museums, and winding lanes, its 3,000 years of history can be explored, with Cadiz Cathedral being a particular highlight. Families will adore Playa La Caleta with all they need for a full day of fun in the sun and surf while an excursion to nearby Seville is also an option for culture vultures.
As the sun goes down get the kids in the night nursery and take in the live entertainment and delicious three-course meals at the ever-popular Limelight Club. Pre-bookable in advance to make sure you get your spot, be dazzled by some of the UK’s best musical talents with meals to match.
DAY 12 - Lisbon
Lisbon, the largest and capital city of Portugal, is also one of the oldest cities in the world and makes for a beautiful cruise holiday destination with activities for every interest. This port of call offers a wealth of attractions, including historic forts, artistic neighbourhoods, and the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery. Couples will enjoy a getaway to the picturesque town of Sintra to see the castle, while families will enjoy learning about the diverse species at the Oceanarium.
Head to Headliners, the 2-level onboard theatre for a variety of live shows where classic entertainment of dance, music, cabaret and comedy meets modernity with the ingenious LED screen backdrop. Settle into your seat and enjoy the show!
DAY 13-14 - At Sea
On your last sea day before arriving home make sure you do all the activities you loved so much one last time, from the giant chess set to the high ropes course. You could also book a spot in Epicurean, Arvia’s classic and contemporary fine-dining restaurant, for afternoon tea for some classic British sweet and savoury treats with stunning views out to sea. Finally, if you didn’t manage to get all your christmas gifts for loved ones back home or souvenirs of your cruise adventure, hit the onboard shops for some duty free bargains!
The last night is also the time to head to a speciality restaurant to go out with a bang or visit your favourite eatery again for one last bite of that rustic pizza or succulent steak - till next time at least!
DAY 15 - Southampton
Head home for Christmas!
Book your place aboard Arvia's maiden sailing and see all other Arvia itineraries here.
