P&O ships become smoke-free zones

P&O has announced that three of its cruise ships are set to go smoke-free, in a bid to become more family-friendly.

Oceana and Ventura will become no-smoking boats along with the adult-only ship Artemis, those taking a cross-channel ferry trip abroad later this year may be pleased to know.

Managing director Nigel Esdale said: "Since Britain went smoke-free in July 2007 the British public has become accustomed to being in a smoke-free environment."

He added that becoming a cigarette-free environment will help give P&O passengers, especially children, a "cleaner and more pleasant environment in which to enjoy their holiday on board".

Mr Esdale quoted a Department of Health report, which revealed that 76 per cent of the public are in favour of the smoking ban.

However, smokers will still be able to enjoy a cigarette on the privacy of their cabins' balconies.

Ferry travel is not only getting better for non-smokers - according to Daily Telegraph journalist Sophie Butler taking a boat abroad can also save families money.