Last week, P&O Cruises marked a truly special moment when Arvia & Iona, arrived together in St Maarten for the first time.
In a spectacular scene at the port of Philipsburg, the two Excel-class ships berthed side-by-side. The landmark call brought crew and guests out onto decks and balconies, where Arvia’s Captain Robert Camby and Iona’s Captain Andrew Wolverson greeted one another on the quayside.
St Maarten, famous for its white-sand beaches, rich culture and vibrant food scene, is a highlight on Caribbean itineraries for both ships making this a particularly fitting location for the celebration.
“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.”
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises President Paul Ludlow.
Looking ahead, Arvia will stay in the region for her 2026 winter fly-cruise season, offering two distinct 14-night itineraries that feature popular islands such as Martinique, St Lucia, and Tortola. Iona will continue her Caribbean Winter Warmth cruise until February, after which she will travel to European destinations before beginning her Norwegian Fjord sailings in the spring.