Last week we launched our P&O Cruises summer 2022 holidays offering more than 150 holiday choices from Southampton as well as Mediterranean fly/cruises.
One week on we’re delighted to share that the number of bookings we’ve taken has exceeded expectations and certainly shows our Guests’ desire to be cruising once more!
We caught up with Paul Ludlow to find out more…
What’s been the reaction to us putting 2022 cruises on sale a week ago?
Paul: Extraordinary – in fact, it surpassed all expectations and is one of the best we have ever seen. It just goes to show the effectiveness of our range of attractive early booking incentives. Both trade and consumer demand has been high, demonstrating that guests are absolutely determined to look forward to a holiday of a lifetime with us and have confidence in cruising more generally.
What do you attribute this to?
Paul: We have all faced extended periods of lockdown, including the current restrictions in England, and it seems there is real desire to plan future holidays with us and people are happy to make bookings well in advance of their travel dates.
Which cruises are proving to be most popular?
Paul: Aurora and Arcadia have done extremely well, as has Iona’s second summer in the Norwegian fjords but we have seen strong demand for all ships. Our sailings from Southampton are selling spectacularly well, proving the enduring appeal of hassle-free departures from our home port.
What is driving the interest?
Paul: Undoubtedly our tempting range of early booking offers which are making our 2022 holiday even better value for money. Travel agents have also got strongly behind the launch as they recognise the opportunity to generate sales after the unprecedented period we have all been through this year.
Can we sustain the early demand?
Paul: While it is still early days, I am extremely optimistic about the future and know our Guests can’t wait to sail with us again.
What are you most looking forward to?
Paul: That’s easy, I cannot wait to see our ships full of happy Guests and our crew doing what they do best which is providing wonderful holidays and memories. I also cannot wait to be back in the office and to see everyone in person. There has been so much sustained hard work this year, even in the face of so many challenges, I want to thank everyone in person for their achievements and for maintaining their passion and spirit.