Both P&O ships will go into dry dock for their refurbishments in the coming weeks in preparation for the Christmas and New Year seasons.

P&O Cruises senior vice-president Paul Ludlow said: “We continually invest in our ships in order to create a contemporary and comfortable environment while still keeping the unique character and key features that our guests know and love.

“Those travelling on Arcadia and Oceana can look forward to new design concepts and improvements to comfort, while still enjoying the incomparable service that characterises a P&O Cruises holiday.”

Arcadia is currently undergoing a two-week refurbishment in Hamburg and is due to return to service on November 15 with a three-night cruise from Southampton to Belgium.

Arcadia’s refit has been carried out in partnership with interior design specialist RPW Design and will include refurbishment of its cabins, suites, public areas, bars and restaurants.

P&O is promising a “wow factor” for the ship’s renovated atrium and reception, including a new nautically themed wall.

Arcadia’s suites are also being “refreshed” with a new design, including new sofa beds, armchairs, coffee tables and headboards. Oceana meanwhile will enter dry dock at the end of November, when the refit will include revamping all suites and cabins, as well as introducing new flooring in its atrium, buffet restaurant, lounges, spa and gym.

The ship’s “youth spaces” will also be overhauled with new entertainment and soft play equipment, as well as updating dedicated areas for both the nursery and teenagers.

Oceana’s Terrace Bar will also be enhanced with refurbished hot-tubs, new flooring and surfaces, plus a canopy over the pool that will extend to cover the bar.

Following the refurbishment, Oceana will return to the P&O fleet for a 12-night Canary Islands and Portugal voyage departing from Southampton on December 17.