P&O Cruises and Thomson Travel Group are believed to be in talks about a possible alliance.
The move would give the cruiseline guaranteed distribution through Thomson’s in-house chain Lunn Poly, which already has a relationship with P&O Cruises.
One industry source said: “The move would make sense because both companies have quality brands that are well known and respected.”
Thomson doesn’t own its own ships – unlike Airtours – which would make an alliance with P&O easier to secure. Both companies refused to comment.
Meanwhile, P&OCruises’ Oriana is hosting a seven-night culinary cruise hosted by Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook presenter, Kevin Woodfood. The cruise departs on July 18 from Southampton and takes in Lisbon, Vigo and Gijon in Spain. Prices start at £956 per person.