Planning a cruise on Arvia? Discover some of the best things to see and do once onboard.
A little bit about Arvia
Arvia is the second Excel class ship in P&O’s fleet. With 16 guest decks and 2,164 cabins, Arvia can carry 5,200 guests.
In line with P&O Cruise’s commitment to sustainable travel Arvia, is powered by liquefied natural gas and is one of the UK’s most environmentally friendly cruise ships.
As a sister ship to Iona, Arvia will feel very familiar to many, however, there are some exciting different features.
Things to look out for on Arvia
The official Take That musical
Perhaps the most exciting new feature on Arvia, for me at least, is the news that the official Take That musical, Greatest Days, is performed onboard.
A story about music and friendship, the show follows the fortunes of five 16-year-old fangirls who reunite 25 years later and try to meet the band after one of them wins a competition for a concert. The musical is an adaptation of The Band, which toured the UK and had a short run in the West End between 2017 and 2019.
New dining options
A big part of cruising is about the food right? P&O raised the bar on Iona with the introduction of The Quays and standalone restaurants including The Olive Grove and the Keel and Cow. They’ve done it again on Arvia with some exciting new venues.
6th Street Diner
A laid-back diner, serving all American favourites. A super cool setting that will appeal to all the family. They even have a jukebox! I’m sold.
Green & Co
A chic sushi bar, with a fish and plant-based menu. You’ll be able to watch the chefs prepare your meal while taking in the sea views.
Roast carvery at The Quays
The Quays was one of the highlights of Iona for me. This vibrant area, with street food like stands, was a great spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Hook Line & Vinegar gets a special shout-out here. Surely the best fish and chips at sea?
If you love your Sunday roast then you are in for a treat on Arvia with the new Roast Carvery stand. Serving a classic roast dinner with all the trimmings this is sure to be a popular spot onboard.
Favourites from Iona and the rest of the fleet such as The Epicurean, The Olive Grove, The Glasshouse and Sindhu also make a welcome return
New bars
With seven deck bars and multiple indoor bars, it won’t be hard to get a drink on Arvia. The problem is going to be where from?
Amber Lounge
Sip a cocktail and watch the world go by in the Grand Atrium or enjoy stunning sea views. The choice is yours at the Amber Lounge. The Emerald Bar was one of my favourite bars onboard Iona and this looks just as good.
New entertainment venues
Sky Dome
The Sky Dome was a great addition on Iona and it is even better on Arvia. By day a relaxed pool area, at night it transforms into an entertainment venue that comes alive with live music, theatre productions and dazzling ariel shows.
The SkyDome’s roof on Iona is pretty impressive however Arvia takes it one step further. The retractable roof is designed to maximise guests’ time in the sun when in warm destinations.
In another difference to Iona, films and classic movies are shown the the SeaScreen.
Mission Control
Exclusive to Arvia, Mission Control is an immersive escape room experience. Choose from two one-hour adventures where you and your escape room companions will have to work together to crack the code and save the day.
The only downside is that I don’t think you’ll be able to not escape and stay onboard for the next cruise!
Altitude Minigolf
A tropical themed mini golf course with a difference. To sink your shot you’ll have to overcome water hazards, tiki huts and even the odd hippo. The nine-hole green will be open and day and night.
Altitude Skywalk
If golf is a little too sedate for you, then why not test your nerve on the Altitude Skywalk?
Designed for all ages, the Skywalk is a thrilling high-rope experience. With two routes, you can test your skills and agility over obstacles and bridges all while dangling 54 meters above the sea. Rather you than me…
Altitude Splash Valley
You’ll find fun for all the family at the Altitude Splash Valley. Cool down with water jets and shaded areas all set against the backdrop of spectacular sea views.
New pool areas
Arvia’s itineraries are focused on warm climates so it’s no surprise that the pool areas have been enhanced.
The Infinity and Panorama Pool area features two levels of loungers with two whirlpools and an infinity pool. In a first for P&O Cruises, there is also a swim-up bar where you can grab a drink while enjoying views of the wake of the ship.
The last word
Arvia looks is a great addition to the P&O fleet. With itineraries that include sailings around The Mediterranean and Caribbean she is the ideal ship if you fancy a summer holiday or a bit of winter sun.
More cruise content
- Cabins to avoid on Arvia + tips on how to choose the right cabin
- 7 things do to on Iona
- Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on Iona
Hi I went on Arvia in August and I have to say that neither my mum nor myself would book to go on it again.
We had loads of issues and we weren’t the only ones, u tried to fix it talking to staff but got nowhere always had no answers for us. Really frustrating had a mediocre experience in the end.
Hi Emma (great name!), thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry to hear it wasn’t the best. Have you got any more cruises booked? Emma
Can you ask to sit with different people each night at dinner? On Princess cruise last year we were able to do this.
Hi Sue, Yes I think you can share tables. Just ask at the restaurant/dining room when you are onboard. Have a great cruise. Emma
I’m a solo traveller for the 1st time on Arvia March 2023, I was on Iona with a friend last November and loved it, can’t wait to board Arvia
Hi Beverley, thanks for your comment. Great to hear you had a good time. I’m tempted to book a cruise on Arvia too, looks even better than Iona (and that’s saying something). Enjoy your cruise. Emma