P&O Cruises has postponed the maiden sailing of its new ship Arvia by a fortnight. 

Iona’s 5,200-passenger sister ship had been due to launch from Southampton on 9 December but in a statement, on Tuesday (25 October) the line announced the delay blaming “reasons beyond our control”.

Arvia’s first sailing will now take place on 23 December with a Spain, Portugal and Canary Islands itinerary, prior to the ship repositioning to the Caribbean in January. 

“Whilst we know this is disappointing for those guests who were booked to travel on 9 December, we will not compromise on the high standards of build, interior design and service for which P&O Cruises is known,” the line added.