Britannia Cruise Ship 2018: A Look Back at P&O's Flagship Year
Hey there! Ever found yourself daydreaming about a fantastic cruise holiday, maybe one from a few years back that really stuck with you? Well, if you were lucky enough to set sail on the Britannia cruise ship in 2018, you were in for a real treat. P&O Cruises' flagship at the time, Britannia wasn't just a ship; she was a floating celebration of all things British, offering an experience that was both grand and wonderfully familiar. Let's take a little trip down memory lane and reminisce about what made Britannia so special in that particular year.
The Ship Itself: A Glimpse into Britannia's World in 2018
Picture this: you step aboard, and immediately, you're hit with this sense of calm elegance. Britannia, launched just a few years earlier in 2015, was still sparkling bright in 2018, feeling fresh and modern yet utterly British in her design. We're talking tasteful decor, a stunning three-deck high Atrium with a magnificent starburst chandelier that just demanded you look up, and plenty of spaces designed for relaxation and enjoyment.
She was a big ship, for sure – over 143,000 gross tons – but P&O had done a cracking job of making her feel manageable. You never felt lost, even though there was so much to explore. Whether you were lounging by one of the four pools (including the adults-only Serenity pool, a real gem if you wanted some peace and quiet), unwinding in the gorgeous Oasis Spa and Thermal Suite, or simply enjoying a quiet moment on your balcony, Britannia offered a fantastic blend of amenities. For me, the British touches really stood out – not in a kitschy way, but in the subtle design elements and the overall atmosphere that felt like a familiar, comforting hug. It was a proper home away from home, just on the sea.
Dining Delights: A Feast for Every Palate
One of the absolute highlights of any cruise, especially on Britannia in 2018, was the food. Oh, the food! P&O has always prided itself on its culinary offerings, and Britannia certainly delivered. You had your main dining rooms – the Meridian, Peninsula, and Oriental – where you could opt for fixed-time dining or the more flexible Freedom Dining. This was great because it meant you could stick to a routine if you liked, or just rock up whenever suited your evening plans.
But Britannia really shone with her specialty restaurants. Sindhu, Atul Kochhar's Indian restaurant, was a sensational experience, offering incredible flavours you just wouldn't expect at sea. Then there was The Epicurean, a fine dining venue that was perfect for a special occasion, serving up modern British cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Don't forget The Glass House, curated by the ever-charming Olly Smith, which was brilliant for wine lovers and offered delicious small plates. And for something more casual, you had the ever-popular Horizon Buffet, offering everything from full English breakfasts to international dinners. What's more, there was a great grab-and-go option for those days you just wanted a quick bite by the pool. Seriously, if you sailed on Britannia in 2018, you were spoiled for choice.
And a unique feature, one that P&O championed on Britannia, was The Cookery Club. Led by celebrity chefs like James Martin, Eric Lanlard, and Mary Berry (yes, the Mary Berry!), or the ship's own expert chefs, this was an interactive kitchen where you could actually get hands-on with cooking classes. Imagine learning to bake a perfect scone or create an exquisite dish while sailing the high seas – truly an unforgettable experience that added an extra layer of engagement to your holiday.
Entertainment & Activities: Keeping You Occupied Day and Night
You definitely wouldn't be bored on Britannia in 2018, that's for sure. The entertainment options were vast and varied, catering to pretty much everyone. The main venue, the Headliners Theatre, hosted spectacular production shows with talented singers and dancers, often with a good dose of British humour thrown in. Think West End-style performances, but with the added bonus of sea views!
Beyond the big shows, there was live music everywhere you turned. The Crow's Nest offered a sophisticated piano bar vibe, perfect for a pre-dinner drink with stunning panoramic views. The Live Lounge was the place for more upbeat music, tribute acts, and dancing. And, of course, there was a casino for those feeling lucky, a cinema showing popular films, and a host of shops for a bit of retail therapy. During the day, the activities ranged from trivia quizzes and dance classes to sports tournaments on the deck. P&O also knows its audience, so there were often lectures and workshops too. For families, The Reef kids' clubs were incredibly popular, ensuring the little ones (and teens) were well-entertained, giving parents some well-deserved downtime. It was that perfect balance of activity and relaxation, designed so you could do as much or as little as you fancied.
Cruising in 2018: Where Britannia Took Us
So, where exactly could you go on the Britannia cruise ship in 2018? Being P&O's flagship, she covered some fantastic itineraries. You'd typically find her sailing the warm waters of the Mediterranean during the summer months, taking guests to iconic cities and picturesque islands like Barcelona, Rome (from Civitavecchia), Naples, Florence (from Livorno), and the Greek Isles. Imagine waking up to a new, sun-drenched port almost every day – blissful!
During other parts of the year, she'd often head to the Canary Islands and the Atlantic Isles, offering a great escape from the British winter. And for those looking for something a bit more exotic, Britannia also undertook longer journeys, sometimes crossing the Atlantic for a season in the Caribbean, or heading north to the stunning Norwegian Fjords. These itineraries meant you could pick your perfect adventure, whether you craved ancient history, vibrant culture, or breathtaking natural beauty. P&O always made sure the shore excursions were well-organised, too, offering a huge variety for every interest and fitness level.
The Britannia Experience: More Than Just a Ship
Ultimately, what truly defined the Britannia cruise ship experience in 2018 was the whole P&O vibe. It's distinctly British, incredibly friendly, and wonderfully relaxed. You'd find a great mix of couples, families, and friends, all looking for a fantastic holiday. The service was consistently excellent, with staff who were always ready with a smile and went the extra mile to make your trip special. There was a real sense of community on board, that friendly camaraderie that just makes a cruise so enjoyable. It wasn't about flashy gimmicks; it was about genuine hospitality, comfort, and providing a top-notch holiday experience that resonated with its primarily British clientele. It felt like our ship, you know?
Fond Farewell to Britannia 2018
Looking back, the Britannia cruise ship in 2018 represented a fantastic blend of tradition and modernity for P&O Cruises. She offered everything you could want from a large, contemporary cruise ship, delivered with that quintessential British flair. If you sailed with her that year, you undoubtedly came away with some wonderful memories – whether it was a stunning sunset from the Crow's Nest, a delicious meal at Sindhu, a fun afternoon in The Cookery Club, or simply enjoying the company of fellow passengers. Britannia truly was a magnificent vessel, providing countless unforgettable holidays that year, and she continues to be a beloved part of the P&O fleet to this day. What a ship!