P&O Cruises will mark the full return of its entire fleet on Sunday 27 March.

Arcadia will depart for the Canary Islands, representing the line’s final ship to return to service following its pause in operations during the height of the pandemic.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “We’re back sailing and this is certainly cause for celebration. Sunday is an important milestone as we will have all six ships back in operation and doing what we do best.

“We are delighted to be welcoming Arcadia back to the fleet. This ship is hugely popular with our loyal cruisers and I know the captain and team on board cannot wait to sail the fantastic itineraries we have planned for this year.

“Britannia and Azura have had a very successful season in the Caribbean from Barbados and will spend the summer in the Mediterranean.

We are delighted that with Arcadia’s return to service this coming Sunday, our full fleet will be sailing again.

Here’s our president, Paul Ludlow, with a message for our guests. pic.twitter.com/9KHME14T5s

— P&O Cruises (@pandocruises) March 21, 2022

“Iona has spent her maiden winter months in the Canary Islands and northern Europe and will soon head up to the spectacular Norwegian fjords for the summer of scenic cruising and thrilling adventures.

“It is evident that our guests are reassured by the steps we have taken to protect their health and wellbeing and that they are delighted to be back on board re-igniting their passion for travel.

“We all spent so long missing the simple pleasures of great restaurants, beaches and city sights that having them all now makes the holiday experience even better.”

P&O Cruises has also launched its 2024 summer programme.

New ship Arvia, which joins the fleet in December 2022, will offer two different 14-night western Mediterranean itineraries, each with six ports of call.

Meanwhile, Iona will continue to spend the summer season in the Norwegian fjords for seven-night itineraries