Both P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises have announced they are to offer a series of short UK coastal cruises departing late this summer.

Sailing from Southampton, the short breaks and week-long holidays will be available to UK guests only and will go on sale later this month, the cruise lines revealed yesterday.

Described by P&O Cruises as ‘the ultimate escape staycation’, the summer sailings will visit UK coastal waters. Details of dates, fares and what guests can expect to experience onboard will be announced later this month.

“Whilst holidays here in the UK will be the first to become a reality we will, of course, gradually see the return of international travel but first we want guests to be able to enjoy a proper summer holiday at sea with the best in relaxation, entertainment and dining choice,” said P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow.

“We hope that the UK ‘ultimate escape’ staycation option will have wide appeal and we will do our utmost to make it a very special time. There really will be something for everyone and the opportunity to spend precious and much-longed for time with family and friends,” said Ludlow.

While P&O Cruises is yet to confirm which ships will be cruising in the UK this summer, Princess Cruises will welcome guests aboard Regal Princess and Sky Princess; two of its MedallionClass ships.

Tony Roberts, vice president Princess Cruises UK & Europe, said: “Recent announcements from the UK Government on the roadmap to the end of lockdown has given us all optimism that we will be able to have a summer break.

“When restrictions are lifted, it is clear that holidays in the UK will be the first to restart before the gradual return of international travel. We are eager to welcome our guests back onboard as soon as it is safe to do so. By offering a series of short UK breaks, we can provide guests with a relaxed holiday at sea so they can enjoy a much-needed getaway.

Both Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises offer guests booking by 30 April 2021 the option to cancel up to 30 days prior to sailing for voyages departing through 31 October 2021, receiving cancellation fees back as a future cruise credit. The new confidence policies apply to the soon-to-be-released summer 2021 UK sailings.

Speak to your Cruise Expert today on 01246 819819 to register your interest for new 2021 summer cruises and be the first to find out more when details are released later this month.

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