In a major entertainment development for the cruise industry, P&O Cruises has announced an exclusive partnership with beloved comedian and actor Jason Manford. The collaboration will see Manford's Comedy Club take to the seas for a special season aboard the cruise line's flagship vessels, Iona and Arvia, starting in May 2026.
Exclusive Performances at Sea
The unique comedy experience will be available only on selected sailings between May and October 2026, featuring popular European destinations including France, Spain, Italy, and the Norwegian fjords. Across 35 cruises, a total of 70 comedians personally selected by Jason Manford will deliver 140 exclusive shows in the intimate setting of the ships' Limelight Club.
Premium Adult Entertainment
Exclusively designed for adult guests, Manford's Comedy Club shows will feature a double bill of comedians each evening, offering bold comedy performances perfect for rounding off days spent exploring ports or relaxing onboard. Tickets will be chargeable, providing an intimate night of laughter in one of the ships' specialty venues.
The Limelight Club on both Iona and Arvia offers a cabaret-style atmosphere with premium dining, creating the ideal environment for live comedy entertainment. This partnership represents a significant enhancement to P&O Cruises' onboard entertainment offerings.
Jason Manford's Extensive Career
Salford-born Jason Manford has established himself as one of the UK's leading multi-talented performers, with a career spanning acting, presenting, and singing across both stage and screen. He has hosted numerous high-profile shows including Children In Need, The Olivier Awards, Sunday Night at The Palladium, and The Royal Variety Performance.
On television, Manford has served as a judge on ITV1's Saturday night show Starstruck and has hosted BBC One's primetime program Big Night of Musicals for the past five years. His stage credits include starring roles in West End and UK productions of Sweeney Todd, The Producers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Guys and Dolls, Curtains, and The Wizard of Oz.
A Decade of Comedy Excellence
Since its launch over ten years ago, Manford's Comedy Club has booked hundreds of comedians to entertain thousands of comedy fans across multiple venues throughout the country. From holiday parks and art centres to city nightclubs and quiet theatres, the club has built a strong reputation for quality live comedy.
"I'm thrilled to be teaming up with P&O Cruises in 2026 to take Manford's Comedy Club on the road – or rather, to sea!" said Jason Manford. "Across 35 cruises to France, Spain, Italy and the Norwegian fjords, 70 comedians handpicked by me will perform 140 shows, giving guests the chance to experience top-tier live comedy as part of their holiday."
Enhanced Cruise Experience
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "We are delighted to be partnering with Jason Manford to bring Manford's Comedy Club on board Iona and Arvia. Working with one of the UK's best-loved comedians allows us to offer our guests something truly special, which further strengthens the entertainment we offer on board."
Sample Sailings and Pricing
Example cruises featuring Manford's Comedy Club include a seven-night Norwegian fjords voyage aboard Iona and a 14-night Southampton roundtrip to Spain and France aboard Arvia. Current pricing starts from £1,229 per person based on two guests sharing an inside cabin.
The Southampton departure point offers convenient access for guests, with excellent transport links via road and rail networks, making it easy for travelers to begin their holiday with confidence. This new entertainment offering represents P&O Cruises' commitment to providing unique and memorable experiences for their passengers.
