P&O Ventura is a beloved cruise ship and a true stalwart of the fleet since launching in 2008, sailing to sought-after destinations like the Mediterranean and Canary islands from Southampton. A family-friendly, mid-sized vessel that celebrates everything the modern British cruise fan looks for in a holiday at sea, with P&O Ventura you’ll find signature dining venues including the likes of The Epicurean and The Glass House, modern entertainment in the Tamarind Club and Arena Theatre, and, of course, comfortable cabins and suites.
Top Ventura Deals
The ship in numbers
What's onboard
Dining
When it comes to dining onboard P&O Cruises' Ventura, you'll be blown away at every meal time. Whether you're looking for a casual spot that all the family can enjoy, traditional dining in the main restaurants or an evening out in one of the specialty dining venues, you won't be disappointed by the array of options onboard.
Main Restaurants
Onboard P&O Ventura, guests can enjoy three main dining rooms included in their cruise fare: Saffron, Cinnamon, and Bay Tree. All three offer high-quality cuisine and attentive service, but if you're looking for a more traditional cruise ship dining experience, be sure to head to the Bay Tree restaurant for set dining every day.
Waterside Buffet
As well as the main dining rooms, guests can also enjoy the extensive buffet as part of their cruise fare. Serving up tempting dishes from around the world, even the pickiest of eaters is sure to find something they love here.
Poolside Pizzeria and Grill
Another dining venue included in your cruise fare, the Poolside Pizzeria and Grill is sure to keep all the family happy. From mouthwatering pizzas to hot dogs and burgers, this is the perfect way to stay fuelled as you lounge by the pool.
The Beach House
Available at an extra cost, The Beach House is an American-style eatery that guests of all ages can enjoy. Serving delicious grilled food in a relaxed and comfortable setting, dishes include ribs, steak, seafood, kebabs and more.
The Epicurean
For innovative creations using the finest British ingredients, the Epicurean is the place to go for contemporary fine dining onboard P&O Ventura.
Sindhu
Boasting a delectable British/Indian fusion menu, be sure to book a table at speciality restaurant Sindhu. With its welcoming atmosphere, fantastic service and tantalizing dishes, get ready for a flavour-packed meal time at this impressive venue.
The Glass House
Created by well-known wine connoisseur Olly Smith, this is the perfect venue to try some new wines and learn about pairing them with the perfect dish. From light bites in the afternoon to delicious evening meals, this speciality restaurant is perfect no matter the time of day you visit.
Sundaes
Splash out on a sweet treat to keep the whole family happy at Sundaes Ice Cream. Offering an exciting selection of flavours, as well as milkshakes, you'll want to come back and try them all.
Entertainment
As the light fades, entertainment onboard P&O Ventura shines on. Ventura's theatre, bars, and clubs offer numerous options for a fantastic night out. Whether you fancy a show, a drink in a sophisticated bar, or listening to a little jazz, you will be in for a great night, every night, onboard Ventura.
Arena Theatre
The heart of live entertainment onboard Ventura, head to the Arena Theatre for an exciting night out. From cabaret performances to West-End inspired shows, there's no better way to kick off your evening on a cruise.
Tamarind Club
With its opulent décor and comfortable seating, the Tamarind Club invites guests in for a memorable evening onboard. Home to comedy and live music, order your favourite drink and settle in for a night of amazing entertainment.
Havana
Dance the night away at the ship's Cuban-style nightclub, Havana. With a live band or DJ, as well as cabaret and karaoke depending on the night, this vibrant venue is guaranteed to get you on your feet.
Fortunes Casino
Take a spin and try your luck at Fortunes Casino. With games tables for blackjack, as well as slot machines, there are plenty of different ways for you to try and hit the jackpot.
The Exchange
If you need a break from the thrill of the casino, make your way to The Exchange, conveniently located nearby. Here you can also catch up on the latest sports fixtures on the big screens, or try out your trivia knowledge at one of the pub quizzes.
Breaker's Bar
Enjoy a drink with a view at Breaker's Bar. Situated on deck, take in the sweeping ocean vistas with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
Red Bar
Thanks to its central location, and the buzz of the nearby Atrium, the Red Bar makes for the perfect venue for a drink before or after dinner. Enjoy a relaxed tipple and get to know fellow voyagers as you soak up the sophisticated atmosphere.
Metropolis
No matter where in the world you're sailing, the innovative floor-to-ceiling video displays will transport you to some of the world's most exciting cities. Plus, with live jazz or piano music playing softly in the background, there's no better way to sit back and relax onboard.
Family
As one of P&O Cruises' family-friendly ships, it's not just the adults who can enjoy a memorable cruise on Ventura. Thanks to The Reef, children can take part in age-appropriate kids clubs where they can have fun and meet others their age:
- Splashers for 2-4 year olds
- Surfers for 5-8 year olds
- Scubas for 9-12 year olds
What's more, older kids and teens haven't been forgotten. For those aged 13-17 years, H20 is on hand. With its stylish decoration and fun activities, from video games and computers to pool tables and more, this is the perfect teen hangout onboard Ventura.
Things to do
Enjoy your cruise holiday onboard P&O Cruises' Ventura at your own pace, with so many great things to see and do on offer. From poolside lounging to sea day activities, there's fun to be had around every corner.
Pools and Whirlpools
Ventura boasts 4 different pools and 6 whirlpools, including adult-only and child-friendly pools, plus even a pool with a retractable roof meaning it's possible to swim and play no matter what the weather has in store. What's more, with deck bars located nearby, you won't have to worry about feeling peckish or needing a refreshment.
Art Gallery
Inside the ship, Ventura is home to an extensive art gallery. Showcasing up to 7,000 different pieces, why not peruse what's on offer to see if anything takes your fancy.
Shopping
Enjoy a spot of retail therapy during your cruise. Whether you'd like to pick up a souvenir to remind you of your P&O Cruises' holiday, or you'd like to treat yourself to a luxury gift, lose yourself in the onboard shops and boutiques.
Tazzine Café
Take a break from the action and head to Tazzine for a well-deserved coffee break. The perfect spot for people watching or reading a book, head here for a quiet morning or afternoon.
Daytime Activities
There's never a dull moment on P&O Ventura as you take part in the daytime activities on offer. From classic cruise ship entertainment such as trivia and dance lessons, to more unique activities including fruit carving and behind the scenes tours, make the most of your time at sea on this impressive ship.
Spa and Fitness
Ventura is a haven of contentment, giving guests the chance to truly relax and unwind during their cruise. Her Oasis Spa, salon, and gymnasium on Deck 16 will be sure to pave the way to a greater sense of well-being. You can indulge in a luxurious range of treatments and opt for a new look, all in the safe hands of Ventura's skilled therapists and fitness experts.
Equipped with a thermal suite and an endless pool, Ventura's spa offers numerous ways to revitalise and invigorate. Presenting an interesting blend of ancient traditions, alternative therapies and modern, technological advancements, Ventura's spa has the added allure of sea views. From a body wrap, to a makeover and a massage, Ventura's skilled therapists and beauticians will have you looking and feeling your very best.
Meanwhile, those who like to stay on top of their workout regime even when on holiday are sure to love the ship's gym. Kitted out with all the machines and weights you could need, as well as hosting fitness classes for those who like more social exercise, there are plenty of ways to stay fit on your Ventura cruise.
Gin Tasting Masterclass
On top of all this, every P&O Ventura cruise will feature a masterclass in gin tasting. You will receive professional advice from a gin specialist on how to make this enticing spirit, including the distinctive distillation processes. At the end of the masterclass, you'll then get a chance to taste the tantalising Marabelle Gin (along with other Salcombe Gins). Book a gin tasting masterclass on P&O Ventura for a truly remarkable experience.
Useful Information
P&O Cruises' Ventura Dress Code
During the day, there is a casual dress code onboard P&O Ventura. Depending on the season, you can wear t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sundresses, skirts, and jumpers. It is not permitted to wear swimsuits in lounges, restaurants, inside bars, or the atrium.
At night, P&O Ventura has two dress codes: Evening Casual and Black Tie. The number of Black Tie nights you have onboard will depend on your itinerary. Be sure to check your Horizon app ahead of time to ensure that you pack appropriately.
For Evening Casual nights, smart jeans, trousers, shirts, dresses and other similar attire is recommended. Tailored shorts are also allowed at the buffet, The Glass House and The Beach House. On Black Tie nights, Evening Casual is also permitted at the buffet, The Glass House and The Beach House. Tracksuits are not permitted on any evening onboard.
The dress code for Black Tie nights include suits, long dresses, cocktail dresses/ball gowns and similar formal clothing.
P&O Ventura is one of the cruise ships offering cruises that depart from the UK. To find out about the other ships departing from Southampton, see our blog post - Cruise Ships Departing From Southampton.
Drinks Packages
Discover P&O Cruises' drinks packages, including the Refresh, Alcohol-Free, Classic and Deluxe drinks packages. Offering something for all tastes, these drinks packages are bound to please.
Ventura Image gallery
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Ventura
Absolutely wonderful
The ship is getting tatty, but I gather it is having a refit soon. Main lifts are too far away from main areas. Lunch time dining was poor with little in the way of starter or main meal choices. Breakfast buffet was good as was freedom dining in the evening with Christmas dinner particularly good. The car parking was excellent, but the welcome inside the terminal was very chaotic though disembarking was excellent. Three days at sea is not a good idea and was particularly bad considering the dreadful weather conditions we had. Excursions are still far too expensive which is a shame as many are very interesting.
Food excellent,plenty of choices. hygiene excellent always cleaning making it safe. entertainment first class,probably the best of all the ships I have cruised on. staff so friendly,atmosphere is great…. My only criticism is the ship is old,and it is so noisy at night it creaks it bangs not a ship to go on for a good nights sleep. that is her only downfall p&o please fix it because we had the best cruise
No Need to Spend Christmas on your own go on a Cruises