p&o cruises help and advice centre

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Welcome to P&O Cruises. This website presents a main menu on the left hand side from where you can browse our cruises, and a toolbar menu at the top page with search, live chat, support, and profile settings.

• Skip to side menu (Press enter)
• Skip to toolbar menu (Press enter)
• Skip to content (Press enter)

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question?  Try Ask Capt'n below who is available 24/7 OR alternatively search our FAQ.

Search our FAQ here

Contact Us Forms

Please note - our call centre will be closed on Monday due to the Labour Day public holiday. Our call centre will reopen at 8am on Tuesday, 6 October

Reservations & General Enquiries:

Call from Australia: 13 24 94

Call from New Zealand: 0800 78 0716

International calls (from overseas): +612 4204 8606

Opening Times:

Monday - Friday: 8AM - 8PM AEST Saturday: 8AM - 5PM AEST Sunday : Closed

Saturday - 23 Dec 2023 Christmas Day - 25 Dec 2023 Boxing Day - 26 Dec 2023 New Year's Day - 1 Jan 2024

Media Enquiries:

For media enquiries from Australia and New Zealand please contact +61 2 8326 4111 . 

8 Tips When Going On A P&O Cruise

• Post published: December 29, 2018

P&O Cruise Tips

Going on a cruise is a very popular way to travel especially for families and retirees, and more recently, for travelers of all ages who just what to kick back and really take a good break. It is a very laid back holiday option, mainly because you don’t have to worry about transport, or booking your hotel, or finding any good restaurants in the area. EVERYTHING is already sorted for you.

When we booked our trip, we didn’t really know what to expect , all we knew was that we were travelling to Fiji on a ship. While on the trip we created a list of helpful tips when going on a P&O cruise. Some of which we wish we knew before checking-in.

Cruise Tip #1: Bring a LANYARD

As mentioned in the P&O Cruise: What to Expect blog post, you will be given a cruise card which you will be using for the duration of the trip. You then have an option to purchase a lanyard once you enter the ship, from memory it costs approximately 7.00 AUD per lanyard. However, if you booked the cruise through a travel agent, your agent might give you one prior to the trip. Thus, it is a good idea to bring your own; you get to save 7.00 AUD per person which you can use in purchasing other souvenirs or even food and drinks.

Cruise Tip #2: Bring a collapsible laundry basket or a large bag and some laundry powder

If you are travelling on a cruise for more than 4 days, it might be a good idea to bring a collapsible laundry basket alongside some laundry powder since there is a launderette available on board. There are available baskets on the ship but they are limited. As for the washing powder, you are able to purchase a small sachet for 1 or 2 AUD.

Cruise Tip #3: Take advantage of the allowed number of canned drinks

Each passenger can bring 12 canned drinks (maximum) which should be loosely packed in your hand-carry luggage. This will save you a good amount of money (cocktails cost around 13 AUD each) especially if you didn’t sign-up for any of the drinks packages.

Cruise Tip #4: Don’t bring beach towels

Beach towels are very bulky and take a lot of precious baggage space and the cruise provides an unlimited supply. Furthermore, if you use the ship’s towels you don’t have to worry about laundering sand covered towels.

Cruise Tip #5: Be prepared to disconnect.

The cruise offers internet access at a very expensive price, so unless you’re willing to pay anywhere between 19 AUD to 99 AUD for unstable internet, make sure you are prepared to disconnect. It will be a good time to catch-up on that book that you’ve started reading ages ago or maybe just connect with friends or family on the ship. Remember, there is a whole other world outside the internet. Pro Tip: Bring your Kindle.

Cruise Tip #6: The best SPA DEALS are offered in the last day at sea

During our trip we were incredibly tempted book massages but we had to weigh our priorities and our budget. On the 3 rd day, we started to receive flyers from Elemis Spa about their current promotions. It wasn’t until the last day at sea that we gave in. We paid 99 for a 50-minute Swedish massage which normally costs 149. It isn’t a huge discount and we did hesitate, but it was a decision that we didn’t regret. The massage therapists were one of the best that we’ve encountered.

Cruise Tip #7: Bring Anti-seasickness tablets

Regardless of whether you think you need it or not, it is always handy to keep some in your bag. These  anti-seasickness tablets are very helpful especially during sea days when the waters are rough and you can literally feel the massive ship rocking back and forth (this happened during the last 24 hours of our journey).

Cruise Tip #8: Buy TRAVEL INSURANCE

Just like any other trip, you must always remember to purchase travel insurance . This is not optional. Remember that you will be cruising on the open ocean for days at a time, if you get sick or injured, you have no other option but be treated by nurses and doctors on board, and it will not be cheap. The value of an insurance policy will always outweigh the cost in cases like these.

“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveller is unaware.”

Martin Buber

You Might Also Like

P&O Cruise: What to Expect

P&O Cruise: Dining On Board the Pacific Jewel

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Sign me up for the newsletter!

• Cruise Lines , P&O Cruises

P&O: All you need to know

by - 27 Jun 2018

P&O Cruises are an all-time-favourite cruise line in the UK, offering exciting itineraries to a variety of destinations. Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned expert, here is a small guide on what to expect on a cruise with P&O.

Before you sail

What does P&O stand for?

P&O is an abbreviation of the company’s full name, The Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company. Established in 1837, the cruise line was initially used to carry mail by sea, with the ‘O’ added for Oriental in 1840 as the company extended its service to Egypt and Asia.

Can I take a solo cruise on P&O?

Yes, solo cabins are offered on Azura, Arcadia, Aurora, Britannia, Oriana and Ventura. These range from Single Inside Cabins to Single Sea View Cabins and Single Balcony Cabins.

What is included in my fare?

There are three fares to choose from when booking with P&O: Select, Early Saver and Saver. With all guests receiving:

• Full-board accommodation – Dining includes breakfast, lunch and five-course dinner, meals and snacks from 24-hour buffets and informal restaurants, as well as afternoon tea – Drinks include tea, coffee, water and juices
• Entertainment
• Sports facilities – Full use of football, tennis and basketball courts – Use of swimming pools and whirlpool spas – Fully equipped gym
• Children’s Clubs – Full access to age specific children’s clubs – Night Nursery for under 5’s
• Flights – These are offered from London, with flights from other regional airports available on selected cruises – Coach transfers between the airport and ship on embarkation and disembarkation dates are also included

Do you get better deals with P&O if you book last minute or early?

With a last minute deal, you’ll be able to take advantage of a good price, but won’t have as many options when it comes to when you want to travel, your itinerary and choice of stateroom. Booking early means you’ll have more choice and you’ll often be able to take advantage of early booking savings.

How much luggage can I bring with me?

When sailing round-trip from Southampton the luggage limit is 23kg. Fly cruises are slightly different, due to the airport restrictions. With these options, your luggage limit is between 20kg and 23kg, but you will need to confirm this with your airline beforehand.

On-board your ship

What facilities are in my cabin?

Standard facilities include:

• Daily steward service
• TV, radio and telephone
• Refrigerator
• Tea/coffee making facilities
• Air conditioning
• Vanity/writing desk and chair
• Wardrobe and drawer space
• Toiletries pack (including shampoo, conditioner, moisturising lotion, soap and shower cap)

There are ironing stations in each of the laundrettes on-board P&O and a pressing service. However, ironing and ironing boards are not permitted to be brought on-board with you.

If you’re looking to charge mobile devices on-board, standard UK three pin plug sockets are in every cabin across the P&O fleet.

What’s the difference between Freedom Dining and Fixed Dining?

Freedom Dining means that there’s no fixed seating or meal times, whereas fixed dining means that you’ll have the same table at the same time each evening.

Is there free Wi-Fi on-board P&O?

All of P&O’s ships are Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to access the internet when sailing. Packages can be purchased pre-cruise or on-board, starting at £6.75 for the Connect Package.

How much does The Retreat cost on P&O?

Azura, Britannia and Ventura each offer spa packages, where you can also utilise the open-air facilities of The Retreat. These start at £20 per day, with access to the Thermal Suite also included.

Is there an adults-only pool on-board P&O?

There are three P&O ships which are exclusively for adults: Arcadia, Oriana and Aurora. Additional ships, which are open to children, also offer adult-only pools including Azura, Oceana and Ventura.

What is the dress code on-board P&O?

The dress code only applies to the evenings, during the day is the same as any other holiday. There are two dress codes on-board P&O:

• Evening Casual – Stylish resort or leisurewear including dresses or casual separates for ladies and open-neck polo shirts and long trousers for men. No trainers, football shirts or tracksuits.
• Black Tie – Ladies wear cocktail dresses, ball gowns or smart trouser suits, while men wear dinner jackets, tuxedos or a business suit.

As of January 2018, guests are no longer allowed to wear fancy dress, novelty items or inappropriate personalised clothing on-board. Swimsuits are not permitted in the lounges, interior bars, restaurants or reception areas, and a shirt and suitable footwear are required while indoors and using the buffet restaurants.

Destinations you reach

Does P&O offer world cruises?

Yes, Arcadia offers a 99-night circumnavigation of the globe sailing to 23 countries. Whilst, Aurora sails on a Grand Tour to South America, the USA and Caribbean.

P&O also offers exotic fly-cruises on a schedule that suits you, spanning 17-42 nights, and the cruise line also offers Classic Southern Hemisphere sailings where you’ll visit as many as 20 ports up to 61-nights long.

Where does a P&O mini cruise to Guernsey stop?

Mini cruises to Guernsey stop at the St Peter Port, a pretty town with fine architecture, terraced gardens and winding streets.

How much do excursions cost on P&O?

There are excursions for everyone’s budget on-board P&O, ranging from a paddle boarding experience in Bilbao (£55 per adult / £35 per child), golf on the slopes of Mt Etna (from £175) or exploring Dubrovnik by tuk-tuk (£49 per adult / £42 per child).

Book your cruise with P&O

When sailing on-board, P&O make it easy to enjoy every moment. Whether that’s relaxing, discovering a new hobby or rekindling an old one, tasting new culinary dishes or simply kicking-back with a good book – P&O have it covered.

Here at Cruise118.com we offer a variety of P&O cruises to choose from, with something for everyone to look forward to.

For award-winning service and assistance with your P&O booking, call our Cruise Concierge team on 0808 1234 118 .

•  Around the world for the 2018...
•  Princess Cruises: All you... 

No Comments

Be the first to start a conversation

Leave a Reply

Click here to cancel reply.

• Name (required)
• Mail (required) (will not be published)

• P&O Cruises ( UK )

Advice, opinions and answers!

By Megabear2 , January 6, 2023 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

Recommended Posts

Following our decision to cancel our Arvia Christmas cruise in 2023, my very generous husband has suggested I might like to spend the money on a long solo cruise in 2024 or 2025.  We have quite a large lump of money against this cruise lodged with P&O for various reasons, some moved deposits, some compensation from P&O and some cash.  Having spoken to P&O I'm informed that if I cancelled I'd only lose £353 which was the required deposit at the time of booking (25 March 2022) and the rest could be converted into FCC with a small cash refund.  I would have to spend more than £7,300 on my one move and my £353 would also be able to be transferred.

Now the help needed!

1. I have never sailed on Ventura, Aurora or Arcadia and the itineraries I'd be interested in would be on one of them.  Financially I wouldn't want to commit to more than around another £1,500 to £2,000 over the £7,300.  This limits me to inside cabins or at a push an outside on the shorter cruises.  I've sailed inside as a single on Azura, QM2, QV and QE (also had outside deck 1 cabins on the latter).  Could those who know the three ships give me their opinions on how I'd most likely fair on a longish cruise on one of these ships?  I'm very likely to take a saver to make my money stretch so know its a risk but as it's a one off chance to do this think it might be worth taking.  Are these cabins likely to be broom cupboard sized as they are on NCL? I think it will need to be double for single occupancy but just thought I'd ask.

2. With regard to FCC I've been told it is valid until August 2024.  Does this mean if I chose a cruise after that date I could not use it or does it mean I need to put it down on a cruise before then?  I've usually used my FCC almost immediately its issued so have no experience with expiry dates.

3. There are two continents I've never set foot in which I'd like to visit before my 70th birthday on 25 September 2025, South America and Australia.  Therefore the current 2024 and 2025 Aurora South America cruises and sections of the Arcadia world cruises from Australia to Southampton appeal. Question: are flights included on the WC sections? I've done far east sections on Cunard and had to buy flights but the rather confusing website info (!) seems to indicate they may be included on P&O.

4. Hopefully over the last year some of you have grown to know me a bit, I hope.  Which itineraries would you think I might like best of the possibilities! Yes, I know it's a how long is a piece of string question but once I go beyond North America or Malaysia I'm in brand new territory and advice would be extremely welcome!!  I want to see as many places as possible so port count rather than sea days is important to me. After all if I plod backwards and forwards over the Atlantic on QM2 I might as well look to do something else for this one!

Looking forward to your ideas and suggestions!

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

I took a Sydney to Singapore world segment on Aurora seven years ago. The flights were included and I flew Cathay Pacific from Heathrow via Hong Kong

Gettingwarmer

I have done Southampton to Brisbane on Arcadia with IC, two days in Sydney and then disembarked in Brisbane then 3 days in Brisbane and upgraded flights home. 

Cristaltips

We’ve done the South America cruise on Aurora and it was fantastic and I would do it again. After our last cruise on Arcadia in September, we won’t be travelling on her again. 

I've sailed in several different inside cabins aboard Aurora and they are fine. The twin/doubles have the little sofa and lots of storage space as she was designed with longer cruises in mind.

I've sailed once in a standard inside cabin on Arcadia and found it a bit dark and depressing. The larger insides are a bit better. The other option on Arcadia is the obstructed view outsides, which are roomy with a floor to ceiling window - with all or some of a lifeboat outside.

showingdiva

I spoke to P&O this morning.  To cancel an Iona fjord cruise.   Girl on the phone was lovely, but she had mentioned this.   Essentially, if I wished to  transfer, I would have had to have sailed out of Southampton within 364 days of the original booking date.

" For any bookings made prior to 3 August 2022, if you wish to reschedule your holiday, you can make one further booking transfer up to the date that the balance for your holiday is due. This is available on Select Price and Early Saver holidays. However, the new booking must be of equal or higher value and must sail within 12 months of the original departure date (or 6 months for a World Cruise, Classic Southern Hemisphere Journey, Grand Tour or Exotic Fly-cruise)."

I couldn't do this due to the restrictions in actual cruises available, so chose to walk from the original tiny deposit.   As I've said recently, I'm happy to  cruise with them again, but some of the changes, and the cost of sailing solo with them on top of the huge gulf in price between saver / select have been a huge decider compared to other cruise lines offering an identical cruise.

As for the ships, never been on Ventura, but as the veteran of many an Arcadia voyage, her balconies are a decent size compared to her fleet mates, she's good in seas.  I do, and will always love this ship.   Aurora, I find the interior a bit quirky, but nonetheless had a lovely cruise on her.

sleepingcat

We did half a world cruise, boarding in Auckland and coming back to Southampton on Arcadia in 2014.  We had an obstructed view cabin, as suggested by Britboys. (great location as the prom deck is just below).  Loved every minute of it.  P and O arranged our flights in to NZ for us for an all in price.   they were fine with us flying out to NZ a month before we boarded Arcadia. (arranged with a well known cruise TA located in Derbyshire). We also sent our evening wear/cruise wear by luggage forwarding direct to the ship, so when we boarded in Auckland, we had clean fresh clothes waiting (recommended). 

also looking at world segments for 2024 on Arcadia, as we want to go through the other canal the one we havent done yet. Good luck with your plans. 

43 minutes ago, showingdiva said: I spoke to P&O this morning.  To cancel an Iona fjord cruise.   Girl on the phone was lovely, but she had mentioned this.   Essentially, if I wished to  transfer, I would have had to have sailed out of Southampton within 364 days of the original booking date.   " For any bookings made prior to 3 August 2022, if you wish to reschedule your holiday, you can make one further booking transfer up to the date that the balance for your holiday is due. This is available on Select Price and Early Saver holidays. However, the new booking must be of equal or higher value and must sail within 12 months of the original departure date (or 6 months for a World Cruise, Classic Southern Hemisphere Journey, Grand Tour or Exotic Fly-cruise)."   I couldn't do this due to the restrictions in actual cruises available, so chose to walk from the original tiny deposit.   As I've said recently, I'm happy to  cruise with them again, but some of the changes, and the cost of sailing solo with them on top of the huge gulf in price between saver / select have been a huge decider compared to other cruise lines offering an identical cruise.   As for the ships, never been on Ventura, but as the veteran of many an Arcadia voyage, her balconies are a decent size compared to her fleet mates, she's good in seas.  I do, and will always love this ship.   Aurora, I find the interior a bit quirky, but nonetheless had a lovely cruise on her.

Now I'm confused!

My booking was 25 March 2022

My balance due date is 24 September 2023

My sail date is 22 December 2023

Are you saying I have to sail before March this year? P&O seemed to indicate I needed to transfer before 24 September not 24 March and I could cruise up to 21 December 2024.  Is that wrong information, if so no point in me even looking at 2024 holidays and I may as well just get the extras back and write off the £353.

As I didn't have a cruise in mind I didn't go into detail but just asked what would happen to everything bar the original requested deposit.

1 minute ago, Megabear2 said: Now I'm confused!   My booking was 25 March 2022 My balance due date is 24 September 2023 My sail date is 22 December 2023   Are you saying I have to sail before March this year? P&O seemed to indicate I needed to transfer before 24 September not 24 March and I could cruise up to 21 December 2024.  Is that wrong information, if so no point in me even looking at 2024 holidays and I may as well just get the extras back and write off the £353.   As I didn't have a cruise in mind I didn't go into detail but just asked what would happen to everything bar the original requested deposit.

They told me this morning that if I wished to transfer the cruise - which was due to sail on 22nd April this year on Iona to the Fjords - I would need to book a cruise that sailed before 21st April 2024.

This would be difficult as I'm booked on Virtuosa on the same fjords cruise, and also on Euribia later on in the year.  This would have reduced me to either going winter or early spring with P&O.

I have to confess that when she initially said it, my reaction was "pardon?"

Just now, showingdiva said:   They told me this morning that if I wished to transfer the cruise - which was due to sail on 22nd April this year on Iona to the Fjords - I would need to book a cruise that sailed before 21st April 2024. This would be difficult as I'm booked on Virtuosa on the same fjords cruise, and also on Euribia later on in the year.  This would have reduced me to either going winter or early spring with P&O. I have to confess that when she initially said it, my reaction was "pardon?"

Okay thanks. That fits with my understanding.  My cruise is 22 December 2023 so anything before December 2024 is okay.

I'm not too worried about the £353 "official deposit" because the remainder is as I say compensation and FCC. My main concern is that's a fair amount over the top of the £353 and I want to secure it to get ABTA protection.

I did suggest to my OH that we took an upgraded cabin on something else but he is adamant he will not sail P&O again.  Hence with the monies on account and the need to spend minimum £7300 I'm looking at these itineraries as substitute.

23 minutes ago, Megabear2 said: Okay thanks. That fits with my understanding.  My cruise is 22 December 2023 so anything before December 2024 is okay.   I'm not too worried about the £353 "official deposit" because the remainder is as I say compensation and FCC. My main concern is that's a fair amount over the top of the £353 and I want to secure it to get ABTA protection.   I did suggest to my OH that we took an upgraded cabin on something else but he is adamant he will not sail P&O again.  Hence with the monies on account and the need to spend minimum £7300 I'm looking at these itineraries as substitute.

Yes, that sounds right, you would need to be on a ship before 21st December 2024.   You have a lot more at stake to lose than I did by walking away.   But the hundreds (plus a drink package) I saved to go back on a ship I never thought I would like, but actually love, will more or less pay for my second cruise.

If my husband suggested I take a long solo cruise, I would be very very suspicious!!   

Only joking Megabear2!! 🤣 😂

33 minutes ago, Ardennais said: If my husband suggested I take a long solo cruise, I would be very very suspicious!!    Only joking Megabear2!! 🤣 😂

He's glad to be rid of me as I've only taken two holidays without him since January 2020.  Normally I spend most of February through April on a cruise or in the States visiting my friends but cvd put an end to that for a while.

He's off to Austria in March for the first time in 3 years as well - skiing if there's any snow - so I very carefully booked myself on Iona for 2 weeks on the day he comes back. That's a good start for the year ...

Because of work we've always had lengthy spells apart and when I retired we just slipped in to sending me off all over the place. Actually he gets quite a lot of flack from friends for letting me go away alone but he is excellent in telling them they're just jealous that he gets lots of peace and quiet several times a year. We are officially the odd couple but it must work as we’ve been together 45 years and married for 42.

If it works, then it works! We also have separate interests and I’ll often go off with the children for a few days without my other half and even on my own sometimes. We both need our personal space and it makes for a good reunion afterwards! 

23 hours ago, Megabear2 said: Okay thanks. That fits with my understanding.  My cruise is 22 December 2023 so anything before December 2024 is okay.   I'm not too worried about the £353 "official deposit" because the remainder is as I say compensation and FCC. My main concern is that's a fair amount over the top of the £353 and I want to secure it to get ABTA protection.   I did suggest to my OH that we took an upgraded cabin on something else but he is adamant he will not sail P&O again.  Hence with the monies on account and the need to spend minimum £7300 I'm looking at these itineraries as substitute.

Megabear there may possibly be another restriction regards a transfer.  A few years ago we wanted to transfer a longer Oceans cruise to part of a long cruise included in the world cruise type of cruises (if you see what I mean).  We were told we could not transfer to that as it was classed as a different cruise type (not in those words, but as I understood it).  So perhaps worth having another conversation with P&O to make sure that sort of restriction would not apply to you now.

Also bear in mind that if you transfer a cruise under current terms, you would not be able to transfer it again should you need to do so for some reason on the future and you may have a hefty deposit at stake at that later stage.  It can be useful having that one option to transfer a cruise which is some time in the future.

Just my thoughts,

7 minutes ago, tring said:   Megabear there may possibly be another restriction regards a transfer.  A few years ago we wanted to transfer a longer Oceans cruise to part of a long cruise included in the world cruise type of cruises (if you see what I mean).  We were told we could not transfer to that as it was classed as a different cruise type (not in those words, but as I understood it).  So perhaps worth having another conversation with P&O to make sure that sort of restriction would not apply to you now.   Also bear in mind that if you transfer a cruise under current terms, you would not be able to transfer it again should you need to do so for some reason on the future and you may have a hefty deposit at stake at that later stage.  It can be useful having that one option to transfer a cruise which is some time in the future. . Just my thoughts,   Barbara      

Thank you. Yes, I had looked at the possible problems. My husband has stated categorically he will not sail with P&O again as he was extremely upset about me being manhandled by the drunken football fan on Boxing Day - it was P&Os security response that caused him to be unhappy. To transfer the cruise I need to spend £7,300 or more and doing that on my own is very difficult. I've been looking at the US/Caribbean 28 and 35 night cruises but higher grade cabins which would allow me to meet the target money are not available.  Basically I'm stuck in a hard place.  

When my husband says no go he means it, there won't be any change in his stance.  Having thought about it overnight I'm inclined to write off the cash deposit of £373 but it rather sticks in the throat to lose the near £2,700 in compensation and gifts which were hard won. Apparently as they are attached to this booking they are affected by the transfer rules although I'm waiting to hear if they would come back as FCC if I cancel and then I could apply them to anything I wish.  If it was any time other than Christmas I would have just changed to a single farexand paid tye extra tongo alone.

To be honest if making a straightforward long cruise booking I'd not look any further than Cunard normally.

1 hour ago, Megabear2 said: Thank you. Yes, I had looked at the possible problems. My husband has stated categorically he will not sail with P&O again as he was extremely upset about me being manhandled by the drunken football fan on Boxing Day - it was P&Os security response that caused him to be unhappy. To transfer the cruise I need to spend £7,300 or more and doing that on my own is very difficult. I've been looking at the US/Caribbean 28 and 35 night cruises but higher grade cabins which would allow me to meet the target money are not available.  Basically I'm stuck in a hard place.     When my husband says no go he means it, there won't be any change in his stance.  Having thought about it overnight I'm inclined to write off the cash deposit of £373 but it rather sticks in the throat to lose the near £2,700 in compensation and gifts which were hard won. Apparently as they are attached to this booking they are affected by the transfer rules although I'm waiting to hear if they would come back as FCC if I cancel and then I could apply them to anything I wish.  If it was any time other than Christmas I would have just changed to a single farexand paid tye extra tongo alone.   To be honest if making a straightforward long cruise booking I'd not look any further than Cunard normally.

Big decisions, that extra potential loss of £2.700 worth, would persuade me to transfer as well.

On 1/7/2023 at 10:37 PM, tring said:   Big decisions, that extra potential loss of £2.700 worth, would persuade me to transfer as well.

Update: I'm told by doctor no reason not to have the jab.  Having looked at the cruises though I see there isn't a South America one in 2024!  Never mind, I'll get the jab anyway.

30 minutes ago, Megabear2 said: Update: I'm told by doctor no reason not to have the jab.  Having looked at the cruises though I see there isn't a South America one in 2024!  Never mind, I'll get the jab anyway.  

I think you will find they cannot give you the jab ethically, unless you actually plan to go somewhere that it is needed/advised.  That is on the grounds there is a risk, (even if slight), i n having the jab, so as you would not gain from the protection it may confer.  Hence there would be an overall bad effect on you, so not ethical.

28 minutes ago, tring said:   I think you will find they cannot give you the jab ethically, unless you actually plan to go somewhere that it is needed/advised.  That is on the grounds there is a risk, (even if slight), i n having the jab, so as you would not gain from the protection it may confer.  Hence there would be an overall bad effect on you, so not ethical.        

Appreciate that, I'm looking at the 65 night Caribbean in January 2024 instead and the trip takes in Mexico/Costa Rica/Panama and it seems to state these countries have some requirements? Correct me if I'm wrong please!

Could you ask to be booked on two back to back cruises if there are any that might fit in with places you want to go ? I know they say cruise usually has to be higher value but could be worth asking as two cruises together would probably be high enough value if they allow it.

I always think it’s a shame that even though P&O come under Carnival they won’t allow transfer within cruise lines in the group - seems bonkers to me ! 

Host Sharon

43 minutes ago, Megabear2 said: Appreciate that, I'm looking at the 65 night Caribbean in January 2024 instead and the trip takes in Mexico/Costa Rica/Panama and it seems to state these countries have some requirements? Correct me if I'm wrong please!

Since the yellow fever jab has to be paid for privately, I don't think there are any restrictions on having it beyond medical advice.

1 hour ago, watsonbeau said: Could you ask to be booked on two back to back cruises if there are any that might fit in with places you want to go ? I know they say cruise usually has to be higher value but could be worth asking as two cruises together would probably be high enough value if they allow it.   I always think it’s a shame that even though P&O come under Carnival they won’t allow transfer within cruise lines in the group - seems bonkers to me ! 

We got very annoyed about that a few years back when we needed to transfer a four week Oceana fly/ Med cruise.  T here were no four week cruises for the following year at the same time, but we could have changed it for two consecutive cruises given a very similar itinerary.  We were told that we could do that, but one of those cruises had to be the same price, or more than the original cruise!

I do not know if that is still in place though, so always worth asking.

2 hours ago, Megabear2 said: Appreciate that, I'm looking at the 65 night Caribbean in January 2024 instead and the trip takes in Mexico/Costa Rica/Panama and it seems to state these countries have some requirements? Correct me if I'm wrong please!

Precisely.  When we had our yellow fever jabs, we were looking at booking a last minute holiday which would have needed yellow fever coverage.  We turned up at the clinic stating we were going on the holiday, but just happened to not mention that the holiday was not booked - hence no problem, but without the holiday plans we would not have been given the jab.

3 hours ago, Megabear2 said: Appreciate that, I'm looking at the 65 night Caribbean in January 2024 instead and the trip takes in Mexico/Costa Rica/Panama and it seems to state these countries have some requirements? Correct me if I'm wrong please!

That is a lovely itinerary. I am booked on it with a friend.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 10 hours ago

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 08:11 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:43 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 01:14 AM

LauraS · Started April 26

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Life on board can be fun, exciting and very enjoyable. We’re sure you’ll make friends quickly, some of whom will become friends for life. But it can have its pressures too.

Missing home

It’s perfectly normal to miss home, especially at the start of your contract. Talk to your colleagues or line manager who will be able to offer advice and support. They’ve most likely been there too.

Sea sickness advice

If you are new to sea you may experience sea sickness. Eating starchy foods such as bread, rice and pasta, and drinking plenty of water can help to minimize this, as well as avoiding greasy and spicy foods. Don’t skip meals as it may make you feel worse. Sea sickness tablets are available from the Medical Centre during clinic hours. If bad weather is expected, it’s a good idea to take a tablet well in advance.

Need to talk about something?

If you have any personal or work-related problems you feel you can’t talk to your line manager about, you can ask to have a confidential chat with your head of department or the onboard human resources manager. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the medical team who can offer support for emotional issues.

Our care team

We have a care team to support both Guests and colleagues. The care team support in a number of different ways, for example supporting someone if there has been a bereavement or serious illness.

Wellbeing programme

We want you to perform at your best whilst at sea and so our wellbeing program is all about creating an environment on board where you can be comfortable, healthy and happy. It has 6 pillars:

• Social & spiritual – providing activities and spaces that enable you to socialise with your colleagues and practise your beliefs
• Financial wellbeing – supporting you with your financial needs
• Down time – helping you to make the most of your rest & recovery time
• Home – providing spaces & facilities to help you feel at home
• Health – promotion of both your  physical & mental health
• Culture – creating an environment where you are free to be yourself, feel supported , empowered to make a difference and able to challenge/speak up

Employee assistance programme (EAP)

This facility offers help and advice to colleagues over the phone and online – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
• Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
• 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
• Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
• 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.