Relieved P&O Cruises will return to full service on Sunday when Arcadia becomes the final ship in the fleet to set sail.

The cruise line’s President, Paul Ludlow, described it as an ‘important milestone’ after two years of upheaval.

“We’re back sailing and this is certainly cause for celebration,” he said. “Sunday is an important milestone as we will have all six ships back in operation and doing what we do best.

“We are delighted to be welcoming Arcadia back to the fleet. This ship is hugely popular with our loyal cruisers and I know the captain and team on board cannot wait to sail the fantastic itineraries we have planned for this year.”

Mr Ludlow said Britannia and Azura have had ‘very successful’ seasons in the Caribbean and will spend the summer in the Med.

Meanwhile, Iona has spent her maiden winter months in the Canary Islands and northern Europe and will soon head to the Norwegian fjords.

“It is evident that our guests are reassured by the steps we have taken to protect their health and wellbeing and that they are delighted to be back on board re-igniting their passion for travel,” Mr Ludlow said.

“We all spent so long missing the simple pleasures of great restaurants, beaches and city sights that having them all now makes the holiday experience even better.”

P&O Cruises is expected to welcome its seventh ship, Arvia, in December with a debut cruise to the Canary Islands ahead of a winter season in the Caribbean.