Journey from Singapore to Southampton

Begin your Cruise in vibrant Singapore and sail through the Far East to enigmatiC Arabia, the Cultural ports of the Mediterranean and home to Southampton. Fly to Singapore and immerse yourself in the incense-wreathed temples and futuristic architecture of one of the East’s most rapidly developing megacities. Why not explore the city on a bumboat river cruise and make friends with the Merlion, Singapore’s affable mascot with a lion’s head and the body of a fish. One nights here gives time to explore at your own pace before you board P&O Arcadia, a chic and classic mid-size vessel designed exclusively for adults, to take you on your epic journey in style, with an enormous, sumptuous spa and restaurants by Marco Pierre White and Atul Kochhar. It’s a luxurious way to enjoy your 33 night voyage of discovery. Your first port of call is Port Kelang, gateway to Kuala Lumpur and its soaring Petronas Twin Towers. Next up you’ll discover Phuket, Thailand’s largest island replete with dreamy beaches. In Colombo, India’s ‘teardrop’, you’ll discover Sri Lanka’s colonial charm and lengthy, varied history. Don’t miss the chance to sample a traditional cup of tea – the leaves grown here are some of the best in the world. Sail across to the glittering cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to witness the delights of the United Arab Emirates. Manmade islands, old-fashioned souks, towering skyscrapers and graceful dhows characterise the two cities that blend ultra modern with traditional. In Khor Al Fakkan you’ll experience a different side to the UAE in the conservative Sharjah emirate, which has avoided mass tourism in favour of its bustling seafront corniche and dramatic fort. Transiting the Suez Canal, your ship will bring you to Port Said, a city on the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea. The next part of your voyage sees you sail through the magnificent Dardanelles. The natural, narrow strait is a significant waterway linking the Aegean with the Sea of Marmara, where the European and Asian continents sit face to face. This will be your route to Istanbul, where we recommend you visit the magnificent Hagia Sofia and the shimmering Sultanahmet Mosque, its interior dotted with cerulean Iznik tiles. Sailing back through the Dardanelles, Valletta is your next port of call. The island of Malta is known for its succession of rulers, including the Romans, Moors, Knights of St John and the British, meaning a plethora of historic sites such as fortresses, temples and subterranean burial complexes. The tiny capital is home to a Baroque church where you’ll find a Caravaggio masterpiece. Your final port of call is sunny Lisbon, where you can sample a fresh Portuguese custard tart amid the primrose yellow buildings and toast to your time away as you sail back to Southampton.