P&O Cruises has confirmed its 2026 “Food Heroes” program, revealing a special selection of sailings hosted by celebrated culinary names in Great Britain.
According to a press release, the curated schedule will feature nine “Food Heroes” cruises in total, including two sailings with chef Marco Pierre White, four sailings hosted by wine expert Olly Smith and two cruises with Spanish restaurateur José Pizarro.
P&O said that the announcement also marks a major milestone, as Marco Pierre White celebrates 20 years of working with the brand in 2026.
The partnership with the chef is said to have played a defining role in shaping the line’s current dining experiences at sea.
“Food has always been at the heart of the P&O Cruises experience, and our ‘Food Heroes’ program brings that to life in a way that’s authentic, entertaining and genuinely distinctive,” said Carnival UK & P&O Cruises President Paul Ludlow.
“Celebrating Marco Pierre White’s 20th year with us, alongside José Pizarro and Olly Smith, is a powerful moment for the brand, and the all-star sailing in 2026 will be something truly special for our guests,” he added.
Ludlow emphasized that cruises aren’t just about food and drink, but about the stories behind the menus, which are said to be inspired by destinations and experiences.
The flagship sailing of this year’s program will see all three “Food Heroes” together for a cruise that is described as “a unique opportunity to experience the very best of P&O Cruises’ food and drink talent.”
Across the themed sailings, guests can expect a program of exclusive experiences designed to bring P&O Cruises’ culinary proposition to life.
The cruises include special menus and celebration nights curated by Marco Pierre White, as well as hosted tastings, intimate talks and immersive events led by Olly Smith and José Pizarro.
Nine “Food Heroes” sailings will be offered in 2026, with departures scheduled to take place on selected dates between March and September onboard the Iona, the Arvia,and the Britannia.