P&O Cruises will return to the Caribbean later this year.

Following its transatlantic crossing, Britannia will begin its series of 14-night Caribbean fly/cruise holidays from home port Barbados on 5 November 2021.

Azura will follow with 14-night itineraries from 10 December 2021.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “Our Caribbean holidays build on our very successful series of UK coastal cruises and now, following months of planning and preparation, we are ready to take our guests further afield.

“The Caribbean is unrivalled in its popularity, beauty and diversity of islands and after missing out on international travel for so long, this year guests can opt for some winter sun or celebrate Christmas or New Year in style on one of our very special Caribbean holidays on Britannia and Azura.

“Our Caribbean season, running from November through to March, is a further positive step towards our full fleet returning to service and we are looking forward to the opportunity to once again take our guests to this hugely popular and much-loved destination.”

Caribbean Tourism Organisation Chapter UK & Europe spokesperson Carol Hay added: “We are so pleased that P&O Cruises guests will be back in the Caribbean to experience everything that makes the region so very special – our white beaches, blue seas, magical culture, delicious food and above all, our warm welcome.

“The economic support that guests and crew alike provide is richly welcomed after the global downturn in visitors and we look forward to working together to sustainably rebuild tourism in the Caribbean.”

P&O recently celebrated the launch of new ship Iona. The 5,200-passenger ship departed Southampton on a seven-night maiden voyage.

The Excel-class ship – which is powered by liquefied natural gas and features the world’s first gin distillery at sea– is set to be joined by a sister vessel, Arvia, in December 2022.