I recently went on a P&O Cruise and was blown away by the value for money and the range of inclusions. From the moment I stepped onboard, I knew I was in for a treat. The ship was beautiful and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and attentive. But what really impressed me was how much was included in the fare – from food and entertainment to kids’ clubs and gratuities.
If you’re considering a P&O Cruise but aren’t sure what to expect or what’s included, this article is for you. I’ll take you through everything you need to know, from the different accommodation options to the dining choices, and give you tips on how to get the most out of your cruise.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or an experienced seafarer, there’s something for everyone on a P&O Cruise, and I can’t wait to share my experience with you.
- PO Cruises offers three different fares and a variety of accommodation options, including suites with added perks.
- Food is included in several dining options, with speciality restaurants available for a fee.
- Entertainment, activities, and kids clubs are provided, with some activities having an extra charge.
- Gratuities, service charges on drinks, and breakfast room service are included in the ticket price.
What’s Included in Fares
I learned that PO Cruises offers three different fares – Select Price, Saver, and Early Saver – and each fare comes with its own set of perks and options for choosing your cabin.
The Select Fare allows guests to choose their cabin number and offers additional perks like free upgrades and onboard spending money.
The Saver and Early Saver fares, on the other hand, have more limited cabin options and additional fees for certain amenities.
When comparing the fares, it’s important to consider the upgrade options. Guests who choose the Select Fare have the best chance of being upgraded for free, while those on the Saver and Early Saver fares may have to pay an additional fee for an upgrade.
It’s also worth noting that cabin selection can vary depending on the fare, with the Select Fare offering the most options.
Ultimately, it’s important to choose the fare that best fits your needs and budget.
Accommodation Options
Wow, the accommodation options on a P&O cruise are incredible, ranging from cozy inside cabins to luxurious suites complete with Champagne and chocolates. The cabins are well-designed and comfortable, with options for every budget. The inside cabins are perfect for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship and participating in onboard activities. Sea view and balcony cabins provide stunning views and a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. And for those who want to indulge in a lavish experience, the suites come with added perks like fresh fruit, Champagne, chocolates, and bathrobes.
Check out the table below for a breakdown of the different accommodation options and their amenities:
| Accommodation Options | Room Amenities |
|---|---|
| Inside Cabin | Twin beds, en-suite shower room, air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities |
| Sea View Cabin | Twin beds, picture window, en-suite shower room, air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities |
| Balcony Cabin | Twin beds, balcony with seating area, en-suite shower room, air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities |
| Suites | Separate bedroom and living area, balcony with seating area, en-suite shower room with bath, air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, fresh fruit, Champagne, chocolates, bathrobes |
No matter which accommodation option you choose, you can expect a comfortable and enjoyable stay on a P&O cruise with plenty of amenities to make your trip unforgettable. The suites are especially luxurious and offer an added level of indulgence with their extra perks.
Select Fare Perks
Select Fare offers additional perks that make your cruise experience even better. With this fare, you have the freedom to choose your cabin number, giving you more control over your living space. This means you can select a cabin closer to the amenities or with a better view. Plus, Select Fare guests may be eligible for free upgrades to higher category cabins, allowing you to enjoy more luxurious accommodations without any additional cost.
In addition to cabin selection and upgrade options, Select Fare also includes other exciting perks. Here are three examples that will make your cruise experience even more enjoyable:
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Choose your dining time: With Select Fare, you have the freedom to choose your dining time, giving you more flexibility with your schedule.
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Priority check-in: Select Fare guests get priority check-in, allowing you to skip the long lines and embark on your cruise faster.
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On-board spending money: Some Select Fare bookings come with on-board credit, which you can use to purchase drinks, excursions, or souvenirs during your cruise.
By choosing Select Fare, you can enjoy a more personalized cruise experience with added benefits that give you more freedom and flexibility.
Specialty Restaurants
Specialty restaurants on board offer a variety of cuisines, with options ranging from Italian to Asian fusion and French, providing guests with a taste of different cultures and flavors. These restaurants are available for a set fee and offer a more intimate and upscale dining experience compared to the main dining room and buffet.
Menu options at the specialty restaurants change daily, and guests can expect high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. Prices for these restaurants vary depending on the restaurant and the number of courses offered. However, the cost is typically worth it for those looking for a special dining experience on their cruise. Reservations are recommended as these restaurants tend to book up quickly.
Daily Menu Options
When I dine on a P&O cruise, I always look forward to the daily menu options in the main dining room, buffet, and casual snack bars, which offer a variety of delicious dishes catered to different diets. The daily menu variety is impressive, with something new and exciting to try each day. Here are four reasons why I love the menu options on a P&O cruise:
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Catering to dietary restrictions: As someone with dietary restrictions, I appreciate that P&O Cruises offers options for those with food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary needs.
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Changing daily: The menu options change daily, so there’s always something new to try. You’ll never get bored of the food on board.
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Range of cuisines: From Italian to Indian to British cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The international variety of dishes is always impressive.
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Quality ingredients: The food on board is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Overall, the daily menu options on a P&O cruise are impressive and offer a range of delicious dishes that cater to different diets. With something new to try each day, you’ll never get bored of the food on board.
Drink Options
One thing I love about cruising with P&O is the variety of drink options available. From refreshing cocktails to smooth wines, there’s something for everyone to wet their whistle. P&O offers an array of drinks that are included in the ticket price, such as water, tea, coffee, cordial, and milk. For those who want to indulge a little more, there are five different custom drink packages available for purchase. These packages range from soft drinks to alcoholic beverages and can be tailored to suit individual preferences.
Another great feature of P&O Cruises is that they allow guests to bring up to one litre of alcohol and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks on board. This means that guests can save money by bringing their own drinks and enjoying them in their cabin or on the ship’s deck. It’s important to note that there is a corkage fee of £20 per bottle if you choose to drink your own wine in public areas. With these options, guests can tailor their drinking experience to their own preferences and budget, making for a more enjoyable and freeing experience on board.
Room Service
I love ordering room service on P&O cruises, especially for breakfast. It’s such a treat to have a freshly made breakfast delivered right to my cabin while I’m still in my pajamas.
The room service breakfast is free of charge, which is a great perk for those who want to enjoy a leisurely morning in their cabin. However, there is a charge for room service during other times of the day, but I find the prices to be very reasonable.
It’s important to note that there is an extra charge for items from the minibar. So, if you want to save some money, it’s best to ask your cabin steward to empty the minibar so that you can store your own drinks.
Overall, I find that room service on P&O cruises is a convenient and enjoyable option for guests who want to relax in their cabin and enjoy a meal or snack in privacy.
Entertainment and Activities
Let’s explore the various entertainment and activities offered on board a P&O cruise, shall we? There’s never a dull moment on a P&O cruise, with a range of activities and entertainment to suit all tastes. Here are my top entertainment picks:
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Theatre performances: From Broadway-style shows to comedy acts, the theatre on board a P&O cruise is a must-see. There’s always a new show to enjoy, and the quality of the performances is top-notch.
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Live music: Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or pop, there’s live music to enjoy on a P&O cruise. From solo acts to full bands, there’s always a great vibe in the bars and lounges.
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Kids’ clubs: P&O Cruises offer a range of family-friendly activities, including kids’ clubs for different age groups. The Reef Children’s Club is free of charge and split into four age groups, so you can be sure your little ones are having a great time while you relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities.
With so much to do on board, it’s easy to see why P&O Cruises are a popular choice for families and couples alike. So why not book your next adventure and experience all the entertainment and activities on offer?
Service Charges
Service charges are automatically added to the ticket price on a P&O cruise, and it’s important to note that tipping staff is not required or expected.
The amount of service charges added to the ticket price varies depending on the fare type, but it’s usually around £7 per person per day.
However, guests can reduce their service charges by opting for the Select Fare, which includes service charges in the ticket price and allows guests to choose their cabin number.
It’s also worth noting that Carnival shareholders can receive on-board credit that can be used to pay for service charges.
It’s always a good idea to compare service charge policies across different cruise lines to see which one offers the best value for money.
Some cruise lines have a no-tipping policy, while others have a suggested tipping amount.
It’s important to take these policies into account when budgeting for a cruise.
Additionally, guests should remember that service charges are a way for cruise lines to ensure that staff receive a fair wage, so reducing service charges should not be done lightly.
Additional Fees and Charges
Wow, it’s frustrating to discover that some of the activities on P&O cruises that used to be included in the cost of the holiday, like access to saunas and steam rooms, now cost extra.
It seems like cruise line fees and hidden charges are becoming more common. While it’s understandable that some things come at an additional cost, it can be disappointing to find out that something you were looking forward to is no longer included.
It’s important to keep in mind that these additional fees and charges can add up quickly, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. Before booking a cruise, it’s a good idea to research all the possible fees and charges to avoid any unwanted surprises.
While PO Cruises still offer great value for money, it’s always better to be prepared and know what to expect.
Shore Excursions
I’m excited to learn more about shore excursions and what options are available on my upcoming PO cruise. One option is to book an excursion through the cruise line, which can be convenient and may guarantee a certain level of safety and organization.
However, I’m also interested in exploring on my own and finding independent excursions. It’s important to note that there may be restrictions in certain ports, so it’s important to research ahead of time and make sure that independent excursions are allowed.
Booking excursions through the cruise line can offer peace of mind and the convenience of having everything arranged for you. However, it’s also possible to explore on your own and find independent excursions. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider factors such as safety, cost, and time constraints.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide whether to book an excursion or explore on their own, but it’s always a good idea to research ahead of time and know the restrictions in certain ports.
Children’s Club
Moving on from shore excursions, let’s talk about what PO Cruises has to offer for children. As a mother who loves to travel with her family, I know how important it is to have activities that cater to children’s interests and needs. PO Cruises has an excellent children’s club called The Reef, which is divided into four age groups. The activities offered in The Reef Children’s Club are educational, fun, and tailored to the children’s age group. From arts and crafts to sports and games, the children will never be bored. As a parent, you can enjoy some alone time while your children are safely entertained and looked after.
Another great thing about PO Cruises is their free late-night babysitting service for children aged four and under. This service allows you to enjoy the ship’s nightlife and entertainment without having to worry about your little ones. The babysitting service is available from 10:30 pm to 1:30 am, and it’s a great way to relax and unwind after a fun-filled day.
To give you a better idea of what The Reef Children’s Club offers, here’s a table outlining some of the activities available for each age group:
| Age Group | Activities |
|---|---|
| 2-4 years | Arts and crafts, music, storytelling, games, outdoor play |
| 5-8 years | Sports, games, creative play, scavenger hunts, party nights |
| 9-12 years | Sports, games, pool parties, talent shows, dance classes |
| 13-17 years | Sports, games, discos, movie nights, workshops |
As you can see, there’s something for everyone in The Reef Children’s Club. It’s a great way for kids to make new friends and create memories that will last a lifetime. And with the free late-night babysitting service, parents can also have their own fun while their children are safe and happy.
Wifi and Laundry Services
When I travel on a cruise, one of the things I always consider is the availability of wifi and laundry services. PO Cruises offers wifi packages that can be purchased onboard.
There are two options: My Wifi Essential and My Wifi Ultimate. The prices vary depending on the package and duration. Wifi is available throughout the ship, but the connection speed may vary depending on the location.
As for laundry services, PO Cruises provides self-service laundrettes that are free of charge. However, for those who prefer professional laundry services, there is a fee. The price list is available onboard.
It’s important to note that laundry services may take longer during peak times, so it’s best to plan accordingly. Overall, PO Cruises offers convenient options for staying connected and keeping clothes clean while on vacation.
Booking tips and Deals
To find the best deals and save money on a PO cruise, I always compare prices from all travel agents and take advantage of the best-price guarantee.
Deals on PO Cruises can be found for as low as £40 per night, especially if you book up to 20 days before the cruise date. However, be aware that the advertised price of the cruise may not be the actual price due to fuel prices.
When booking a PO cruise, it’s important to plan how to spend on board credit before the cruise. Select Price PO cruises may offer free on board credit, and on board credit is also available for Carnival shareholders. Keep in mind that there is no refund or cash alternative for unused on board credit.
Additionally, cabins near mid-ship lifts are recommended for those with mobility issues, and smart trainers and jeans are acceptable attire for evenings.
By following these tips and comparing PO Cruises deals, you can enjoy a memorable cruise experience without breaking the bank.
Onboard Attire and Health Considerations
Now that you’ve secured a great deal on your P&O Cruise, it’s time to think about what to pack.
One important consideration is the onboard dress code. P&O Cruises has a relaxed dress code during the day, but in the evening, there are different dress codes depending on the restaurant and entertainment venue. Generally, smart casual attire is appropriate, but some venues may require more formal attire such as a jacket and tie for men and cocktail dresses for women. It’s always a good idea to check the dress code for each venue, so you don’t get caught out.
Another important consideration is vaccination requirements. While P&O Cruises does not require vaccinations for every destination, it’s always a good idea to check the vaccination requirements for the ports you’ll be visiting. Some destinations may require specific vaccinations or boosters, such as yellow fever or hepatitis A. It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor or a travel health clinic well in advance of your cruise to make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations.
By following these tips, you’ll be well prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable P&O Cruise experience.
Are there any age restrictions for the different entertainment and activities on board a PO cruise?
Age restrictions apply to some onboard shows and adult entertainment, but kids’ activities are usually split into age groups. PO Cruises aim to provide a range of engaging entertainment for all ages.
Is there a limit to the number of shore excursions a guest can book during their cruise?
I’m not aware of any limit to the number of shore excursion options a guest can book during their cruise. The booking process is simple and can be done online or through the cruise line. Enjoy the freedom to explore new destinations!
Can guests bring their own alcohol on board a PO cruise?
Oh, sure, bring your own alcohol on board a PO cruise. Just don’t mind the strict Alcohol Policy that limits it to one litre per person and bans consumption in public areas. But hey, you can still bring gifts!
Is there a dress code for the different dining options on board?
For dining on a P&O cruise, there are dress code options ranging from smart casual to formal nights. It’s important to check the daily program for specific dress requirements and plan accordingly.
Are there any restrictions on using the onboard laundry facilities, such as limited hours or availability?
The laundry facilities on board have limited hours, but I appreciate the freedom to do my own laundry. However, there are restrictions on ironing and washing items in the sink. Overall, I find the availability of the facilities to be convenient.