Imagine finding your soulmate, getting engaged, and tying the knot—all while sailing the high seas. But here's where it gets even more extraordinary: one couple didn’t just stop there; they’re now preparing to introduce their baby to the very ships that sparked their love story. Meet Hannah and Mitchell Still, a pair whose journey from strangers to spouses—and now parents—has been inextricably linked to P&O Cruises. Their tale is as romantic as it is unique, and it’s about to set sail into a new chapter.
It all began in September 2019 when Hannah, 25, and Mitchell, 28, from Southampton, crossed paths on the P&O Ventura during a cruise to Amsterdam and Bruges. What started as a lighthearted holiday prank quickly blossomed into something deeper. Their first date in the charming streets of Bruges and their first kiss in Ventura’s Cuban-themed nightclub—under the watchful eye of Hannah’s father, no less—marked the start of a love story that would span multiple cruises and life’s biggest milestones. And this is the part most people miss: their connection wasn’t just about romance; it was about a shared love for the sea, a bond that would shape their future together.
By 2023, Mitchell popped the question in the picturesque setting of Flåm, Norway, beside a cascading waterfall, while the couple was cruising through the Norwegian fjords on the Britannia. Two years later, in May 2025, they exchanged vows on board the Azura, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Greek Islands. The ceremony, held in the Planet Bar with the ocean as their backdrop, was nothing short of magical. Hannah recalls, ‘Walking around the ship afterward with everyone clapping felt surreal—like stepping into a movie scene.’ Even the entertainment hosts, who remembered them from their very first cruise, added to the magic by gifting them a wedding present. ‘It honestly felt like all the stars had aligned,’ she said.
Now, the couple is gearing up for their most meaningful voyage yet: their first family cruise with their three-month-old daughter, Mae. This June, they’ll set sail on the Iona, returning to the Norwegian fjords that played a pivotal role in their engagement. But here’s the controversial part: while some might argue that cruising with a baby is too much hassle, Hannah and Mitchell see it as a way to continue a cherished family tradition. ‘Cruising has always been part of my life, and sharing that with Mae feels so special,’ Hannah shared. The trip will also include extended family, making it a celebration of love, legacy, and new beginnings.
Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK & P&O Cruises, reflected on their story: ‘Hannah and Mitchell’s journey is a beautiful testament to the meaningful connections people make at sea. Our ships are designed to bring people together, create unforgettable moments, and become a part of life’s biggest milestones.’
As Hannah and Mitchell prepare to embark on this new adventure, it raises a thought-provoking question: Can a place—or in this case, a cruise ship—truly become the backdrop to a lifetime of love and memories? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you believe in the magic of such serendipitous beginnings, or is it all just a beautiful coincidence? One thing’s for sure: for this family, the sea isn’t just a destination; it’s a part of their love story.
