Plan Your Dream Family Cruise: P&O Cruises Adds Spacious Five‑Berth Cabins for Groups of Five in 2026

Published on December 9, 2025

Cruising as a family or group is about enjoying the journey together. P&O Cruises is making this easier. From summer 2026, the cruise line will introduce new five‑berth cabins across its flagship ships: Arvia, Britannia, and Iona.

This move opens up a perfect opportunity for families and friends who want to stay together in a single cabin. Traditionally, larger families had to book two rooms. Now, a single cabin can accommodate five guests, simplifying logistics and enhancing the shared cruise experience.

Why Five‑Berth Cabins Are a Game Changer

Families traveling with three children or multi-generational groups can now relax. These cabins allow parents, grandparents, or friends to stay in one shared space.

The cabins are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Guests can enjoy a combination of beds and sofa beds, often including an additional pull-down or foldable berth. Some cabins can even accommodate a cot for infants.

This means families no longer have to split into separate rooms. Sharing one cabin makes it easier to coordinate activities, meals, and excursions while keeping the whole group connected.

Ships and Cabin Options

• Britannia: Superior Deluxe Balcony cabins have been adapted for five guests.
• Arvia and Iona: Conservatory Mini-Suite cabins can accommodate five, offering ample space and privacy.

Each ship offers unique views and layouts. Balcony cabins provide scenic outdoor spaces, while conservatory suites combine light-filled interiors with cozy seating areas.

Pricing for the fifth guest will generally align with current rates for additional occupants, ensuring families can plan their budgets without surprises.

Booking and Availability

Bookings for these new five‑berth cabins opened in December 2025. As the number of cabins is limited, early reservations are highly recommended, especially for summer sailings or high-demand itineraries.

Families or groups planning a 2026 cruise should secure their cabins quickly to enjoy the benefits of staying together and avoiding the hassle of booking multiple rooms.

Benefits for Multi-Generational Travellers

Multi-generational cruising is becoming increasingly popular. Grandparents, parents, and children traveling together can now enjoy a single cabin option, which adds both convenience and value.

These cabins also appeal to groups of friends. Instead of arranging separate rooms, everyone can enjoy meals, excursions, and onboard activities together, strengthening the social experience of cruising.

Travel-Friendly Tips

1. Plan early: Limited cabins mean early bookings are essential.
2. Check cabin layout: Families with infants or elderly travelers should review accessibility and bed arrangements.
3. Budget wisely: Five-berth cabins can offer better per-person value than booking two separate rooms.
4. Consider itineraries: Larger cabins make it easier to enjoy shore excursions and onboard activities together.

For international travelers, cruise holidays also provide a safe and efficient way to explore multiple destinations without constantly changing accommodations.

Safety and Comfort Considerations

When booking a cruise abroad, check local entry requirements, visas, and port regulations. Cruise lines follow strict safety and health guidelines to ensure passenger comfort. Many ports are upgrading facilities to handle larger ships and family groups efficiently.

Travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that cabins are designed with comfort, safety, and accessibility in mind, making them suitable for both children and elderly passengers.

A New Era for Family Cruising

P&O Cruises’ five‑berth cabins are more than just a space-saving solution. They represent a shift toward inclusive, family-friendly, and group-friendly cruising.

Families can enjoy shared experiences, from watching sunrises together on deck to participating in onboard activities. Multi-generational groups can make lasting memories while staying close and connected.

For global travelers, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy a cruise that caters to larger groups, offering convenience, comfort, and value under one roof.

Whether you are planning a Mediterranean adventure, a scenic northern Europe route, or a summer getaway, these five‑berth cabins make it easier to travel together, keep costs manageable, and maximize the joy of cruising.

In short, if you’re planning a 2026 cruise, P&O Cruises’ new family cabins could transform your travel experience, making it simpler, more connected, and unforgettable.

Bon voyage to families and friends looking forward to shared adventures at sea!