How do I plan my P&O Cruises holiday?

Planning

Last updated: 28/10/2024

Before you book

There are several things to consider before booking your P&O Cruises holiday. Here you’ll find all your options to customise your holiday as well as how to find out more about a chosen topic. 

If you're ready to book and need a helping hand? View our article ‘How to book a P&O Cruises holiday’.

Step One: Set sail for adventure - destination and ship selection

The first step on your journey is choosing where you'd like to explore. Do you crave the vibrant cultures of the Mediterranean, the breathtaking landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords or the allure of the Caribbean? We sail to a vast array of incredible destinations, so take your pick!

Visit our destinations page to find out where we sail to.

Once you've chosen your dream location, consider the perfect P&O Cruises ship to match your travel style. Do you picture a family-friendly adventure with endless activities for all ages? Perhaps an adults-only escape for pure relaxation? Our fleet caters to every preference, whether you’d like a family-friendly ship or one exclusively for adults, larger or a little more modest, all offering world-class entertainment and amenities. 

You can explore what our fleet has to offer and where each ship sails to on our ‘Meet the fleet’ page here.

Step Two: Choose your cabin - your home away from home

With your destination set and your ship chosen, it's time to select your ideal cabin. From cosy Inside, light-filled Sea view and spacious Balcony cabins to luxurious Suites, we offer a variety of options to suit every budget and travel style. 

Check out our ‘Cruise ship cabins and suites’ page to find out more about our cabin types. 

Travelling with family? We have interconnecting cabins perfect for creating a comfortable haven for everyone. Additionally, we offer a selection of accessible cabins* to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests. 

When booking Select Price online, you’ll have the option to choose the location of your cabin, including deck number and ship position.  

* To ensure we have the right fit for you, accessible cabins must be booked through our Customer Contact Centre on 0344 338 8003. 

All cabin types are subject to availability and Suite types vary by ship.

Step Three: Pricing - choose what's right for you

We offer a variety of pricing options to give you the flexibility to create a cruise holiday that perfectly suits your needs. Whether you're looking for the best value or prefer flexibility and choice, we have a price option for you.

• Select Price: gives you the most choice and flexibility, allowing you to customise your experience.
• Early Saver: offers a great price but without the benefits of Select Price.
• Saver: gives deal-seekers a last chance to get a last-minute holiday.

Step Four: Fly and cruise (optional) - seamless travel arrangements

For ultimate convenience, many P&O Cruises holidays offer fly-cruise packages. Simply choose your preferred departure airport, ensuring a seamless transition from land to sea.

Please note: if you have booked flights through P&O Cruises, transfers to and from the airport to the ship are included in your price. If you choose to book your own flights, you’ll also need to organise independent transfers to and from the ship. 

Please see our article ‘How to find flights to and from a different destination.'

Step Five: Finalise your booking and flexible payment option

Once you've made all your selections, it's time to finalise your booking. Simply fill in your personal details and payment information. We offer flexible payment options, allowing you to pay in full at the time of booking, choose a low deposit with the balance due later, or even spread the cost with convenient monthly instalments*.

*Monthly instalments payment option is not available on a Saver price or bookings made within 90 days of sailing. 

Step Six: Confirming and planning - your ships awaits!

After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with all your cruise holiday details. This is also where you can access ‘My P&O Cruises’, your online portal for managing your booking and planning your perfect holiday at sea. Here, you can explore a range of exciting shore excursions, pre-book spa treatments and even choose your dining preferences.

You should receive your confirmation email within 24 hours of booking.

Click here to see an example of what your booking confirmation might look like.

Please note: if you haven’t received your confirmation email, please ensure you check your spam folder. 

Need help finding your booking confirmation? Check out our ‘Where is my P&O Cruises booking confirmation’ article here.

Is it best to book a cruise early or last-minute?

There are benefits to booking both early and last-minute cruise holidays. 

Book early to secure your preferred cabin and dining time, and take advantage of exclusive early bird savings and pre-cruise discounts on My P&O Cruises. For spontaneous adventurers, last-minute bookings offer the thrill of unexpected escapes and potential savings, but availability is limited.

For deals on last-minute cruises, visit our page.

How late can I book a last-minute cruise?

For those who prefer a spontaneous holiday, you can book your cruising adventure no later than one day before departure. Book online or call our friendly Customer Contact Centre today.

Subject to availability. 

Still need help?

Remember, you can view our article on 'How to book a P&O Cruises holiday' if you need an extra helping hand. If you still have questions or require additional support, Contact us today on 0344 338 8003. 

You'll soon be enjoying your dream getaway with P&O Cruises. 

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