ONE of a Southampton cruise firm’s flagship liners is set to become an adults-only vessel.

From April 2019, P&O Cruises will make its sixth largest cruise liner Aurora into a vessel exclusively for those aged 18 years old and over.

The company confirmed that Aurora – which made its maiden voyage from Southampton in May 2000 – will join Arcadia and Oriana as adult ships, which “offer a relaxed way of life, stylish surroundings and a variety of bars and lounges for socialising”.

It said that due to fellow adults-only vessel MV Adonia leaving its fleet next month, it wanted to offer its customers a wider range of cruises.

P&O Cruises senior vice president Paul Ludlow said: “All our ships have the signature elements of dining, service and great destinations.

“However, P&O Cruises is all about choice, whether our guests want the fantastic range of activities and children’s clubs on our family-friendly ships or prefer the peace and serenity of our adult-only ships.

“With Aurora becoming a ship exclusively for adults, we are offering our guests even more choice which means they can choose the holiday experience that is absolutely the right one for them.”

Guests already booked on Aurora with children are being invited to re-book on one of P&O Cruises family-friendly ships – Azura, Oceana, Britannia and Ventura.

Alternatively, they can cancel and receive a full refund along with a future cruise credit.

Adonia’s final cruise will be to Barbados, leaving Southampton today.