Largest P&O Cruises ships make rare joint call in Caribbean 

The two largest ships the P&O Cruises fleet made a rare joint call in the Caribbean.

The two Excel class ships, each with a capacity of 5,200 passengers, docked side-by-side in the port of Philipsburg in St Maarten on Friday.

Arvia’s captain Robert Camby (left) and Iona’s captain Andrew Wolverson greeted each other on the quayside.

Arvia is midway through a 14-night eastern Caribbean fly-cruise from Barbados, while Iona is on a 35-night winter cruise from Southampton.

Arvia will remain in the Caribbean as part of its 2026 winter fly-cruise season, sailing on two different 14-night itineraries.

Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “Seeing Arvia and Iona together in St Maarten is a fantastic moment for us all at P&O Cruises. 

"The Caribbean is a hugely popular destination for our guests, and this joint call reflects both the scale of our ambition and the exceptional experiences we’re able to offer on board two of the most innovative ships ever built for the British market.”