New to cruising Cruise life

The Suite spot

A P&O Cruises Suite is more than just a place to stay – it’s an experience. We speak to Harriet Davis, a senior loyalty and cruise sales manager on Aurora, who tells us what makes a Suite so special, from breakfast to butlers.

6 min 06 Mar 2021

Editorial Team

Author

Q. If you’re sailing from Southampton, the benefits of a Suite begin on shore. Can you tell us about them?
 

A. As one of our Suite guests, you’ll be checked in with priority and welcomed into our hospitality lounge by our Loyalty team, where you can relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh pastries while you chat with your fellow guests. You’ll then be escorted by our Loyalty team onto the ship with our Ligurian tier guests, to settle into on-board life before our other guests arrive.
 

Q. And what about once guests are on board? What are some of the extra luxuries they’ll be treated to?
 

A. When you step on board, you’ll be directed to an exclusive welcome reception, where you can enjoy a selection of drinks – including a glass of bubbly – to begin your holiday in style. You’ll also be invited to breakfast where you can welcome the morning with your fellow Suite guests in the privacy and comfort of a Suite-exclusive venue. 
 

Q. What about the Suites themselves? What amenities will guests discover?

A. A Suite is the ultimate VIP experience. A bottle of Champagne will be on ice in your room, waiting to welcome you to your new home on board. While you sit in the comfort of your own lounge or breathe in the fresh air on your balcony, you can pour yourself a coffee, which are delivered on embarkation and celebration night. For ultimate relaxation, make use of your premier White Company toiletries with a dip in your whirlpool bath†, then wrap up in your luxurious white dressing gown and slippers.
 

Q. Can you tell us about the butler service? How can it enhance the Suite experience?
 

A. Your butler is your private member of the P&O Cruises team. They can enhance your stay by allowing you to sit back and relax while they make arrangements at your request. From organising your shore experiences to booking dinner in a Select Dining restaurant, your butler can make your holiday even easier by facilitating all your activities on board.
 

Q. Why is a Suite a good choice for families or groups? And for couples?
 

A. It’s great for families because of the space it offers. All our ships have Suites that can sleep up to four guests. On Azura and Ventura, we offer Family Suites that can sleep up to six with two bedrooms and two bathrooms – and that’s in addition to the lounge and balcony, which are perfect for sharing and socialising. For couples, it’s the perfect romantic getaway. Imagine soaking up the ocean views from your private balcony while enjoying a bottle of bubbly. Your cabin is a home-away-from-home with luxurious touches.
 

Q. Aurora’s recent refit included updates to the Suites. What has changed and what can guests look forward to? 
 

A. The refit has given Aurora’s Suites a fresher and brighter look. A cool blue, grey and white colour scheme reflects the ship’s style and ocean surroundings. From the new carpet and furniture to the soft furnishings and decorative touches, every effort has been made to help you feel special. Bathrooms boast showers and whirlpool baths; in the lounge, large-screen TVs give you the perfect excuse for a cosy night in catching up on your favourite shows or films.
 

Q. As a loyalty and cruise sales manager, what kind of feedback do you receive from guests who have stayed in a Suite?
 

A. Our Suite guests enjoy the VIP treatment and luxury amenities that the rooms offer. Coupled with the services of the butler, who is there to make their stay as comfortable as possible, many guests will only book Suites on future cruises.
 

Q. What advice would you give to someone who’s considering booking a Suite for their next P&O Cruises holiday?
 

A. I’d say do it! It’s the ultimate sailing experience. Having that extra space really makes a difference, whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends or family. For families in particular, a Suite can be really great value. And the little luxuries are a real treat, from breakfast in the morning to sailing out of port on your private balcony. A stay in a Suite will make your time with us all the more memorable.
 

† Some exceptions apply