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P&O Cruises Australia
P&O Cruises Australia
Fleet Count
3
No. of ships
Ports Visited
43
No. of ports visited
Cruises from $88 per day
$88
From Price per day

P&O Cruises Australia

3.9
(from 4196 verified customers)

P&O Cruises Australia has been one of Australia’s leading passenger cruise lines since 1932. The primary focus is serving the Australian and New Zealand market with well-priced, fun-filled family domestic and international cruises. P&O Cruises Australia offers a comprehensive range of cruising opportunities, from short 3-day cruise vacations to lengthy cruises taking guests to the South Pacific, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. The company has 3 ships that are permanently based in Australia all year round that depart from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

The cruise line's distinctive quirky decor and exceptional service underscore its deep understanding of what Australians look for in a holiday at sea. P&O Cruises Australia is renowned for its exclusive event tours, including the State of Origin series, the Melbourne Cup in November and food and wine cruises. P&O Cruises Australia also entertains their guests by creating various cruise themes such as comedy cruises, Aussie classic cruises and 80’s themed cruises. 

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P&O has become a household name due to the importance of family-friendly entertainment, good food and a laid-back atmosphere for their first-time cruises to seasoned cruise experts. These 3 ships, the Pacific Adventure, Pacific Encounter and the Pacific Explorer offer an array of itineraries to the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia in the South Pacific, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. 

More than 350,000 guests each year have been cruising with P&O, however, in 2025 this will sadly come to an end as of March 2025. Carnival Cruiseline will take over ownership of the brand and rebrand 2 ships, Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will proudly become Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter while the Pacific Explorer will be discontinued. The well-priced, fun-filled family vacations will continue with similar itineraries and themes. 

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Current Cruise Deals

  • P&O Cruises Summer Sale

    P&O Cruises Summer Sale

    P&O Cruises Summer Sale*
    • Cabin Location Upgrade (within cabin category)
    • Bonus $100 onboard credit per cabin
    • Reduced deposit of $49 per person
    • Valid for new bookings on selected sailings on either Value or Value Plus fares
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*

    Offer ends 10 December 2024. Terms & Conditions apply.

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  • P&O Cruises Aussie Classics

    P&O Cruises Aussie Classics

    Australia's homegrown cruise line celebrates with the Aussie classics!
    • Pacific Adventure departing Sydney with Aussie Classics sailings
    • Pacific Encounter departing Brisbane with Classic Aussie Rock sailings
    • Pacific Explorer departing Melbourne with Classic Aussie Beach Party sailings
    • On sale now - valid on either Go, Value or Value Plus fares
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    Themed cruises are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Easter Holiday Cruises

    Easter Holiday Cruises

    Don't miss out on your Easter & School Holidays at Sea….

    • No cooking, no cleaning, no worries at all!
    • Be healthy or indulge – or do both!
    • Hunt for Easter Eggs or relax by the pool!
    • Choose from 3 nights and longer, depending on how big a break you need

    Escape to the ocean for the Easter & School holidays!

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • P&O Cruises Short Break Comedy Cruises

    P&O Cruises Short Break Comedy Cruises

    • On sale now - short break comedy cruises
    • Enjoy headline shows every night from Australia and New Zealand's favourite comedians
    • Plus comedy workshops, interactive performances and family fun laughs
    • Valid on either Go, Value or Value Plus fares
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    • Departures available from Adelaide, Auckland, Brisbane, Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney
    Themed cruises are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • P&O Cruises 80's, 90's & 00's and Disco Glam!

    P&O Cruises 80's, 90's & 00's and Disco Glam!

    • On sale now - Fabulous themed cruise options to celebrate a special occasion or just because! Check the list of sailings below to choose your decade
    • Travel back in time to the era of hair gel and mousse and grab your Neon it's time to head to the 80's
    • Or just announced NEW! themed short breaks will include 90’s/00’s and a Disco Glam departure - celebrating all things macarena, girl bands and boy bands and all things of this era!
    • Valid on either Go, Value or Value Plus fares
    • Cruise only - including all main meals, entertainment and more*
    Themed cruises are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line*

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • P&O Cruises Melbourne Cup

    P&O Cruises Melbourne Cup

    Cruise to the most glamorous day of the year and watch the Lexus Melbourne Cup live from Flemington!
    • Pacific Adventure departing Sydney
    • Pacific Encounter departing Brisbane
    Your cruise will include:• General admission to Flemington Racecourse (upgrades available for purchase close to departure)
    • Transfers to and from Flemington
    On sale now - valid on either Go, Value or Value Plus fares

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Value Fare

    Value Fare

    The Value Fare offers great flexibility at a reasonable price

    • Flexible Payment Policy: Secure your booking with a reduced deposit, and full payment due 75 days prior to departure
    • Flexible refund policy : Cancel up to 6 months prior to the cruise departure and receive a refund from P&O
    • Free name change
    • Choose your cabin number
    • Combinable with other offers & Future Cruise Credits

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Value Plus Fare

    Value Plus Fare

    The Value Plus Fare offers inclusions, value-adds and flexibility.
    • Includes Beverage Package for the first two guests in room for sailings (Less than 7 nights soft drink package only)*
    • Includes Premium Wi-Fi Package for the first two guests in room (effective for new bookings from 15 Nov 2023)
    PLUS
    • Free name change and Choose your cabin number.
    • Flexible Payment & Refund Policy: Full payment due 75 days prior to cruise departure, or cancel up to 6 months prior to departure for a refund.
    • Combinable with other offers & Future Cruise Credits.

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign
  • Holiday Cruises

    Holiday Cruises

    Don't miss out on your Summer Holiday at Sea….
    • No cooking, no cleaning, no worries at all!
    • Be healthy or indulge – or do both!
    • Day spas, sports bars, dodgem cars – there’s something for everyone
    • Choose from 3 nights and longer, depending on how big a break you need

    Cruise ships are famous for taking the holiday season to the next level. Book your Summer cruise today and see for yourself why this is the best way to holiday!

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    View Campaign

Top 5 P&O Australia Cruise Deals

P&O Australia Fleet

Pacific Encounter

Grand-class ship launched 2002  Australian Based 

Pacific Adventure

Grand-class ship launched 2001  Australian Based 

Pacific Explorer

Sun-class ship launched 1998  Australian Based 

YOUR NEXT CRUISE
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For every $1,000 spent, we remove 5 plastic bottles on your behalf.

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Our partner ReSea is independantly certified for removing and recycling plastic.

Join the movement

We've already removed 3.9 tonnes of ocean waste plastic - equivalant to 177,170 bottles.

Onboard Experience

  • Dining

    • Dining with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Dining with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Dining with P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O deeply resonates with the Australian love for exceptional food, offering a rich tapestry of dining experiences that cater to every palate without the necessity of extravagant spending. With as many as 15 dining venues included in your cruise fare, guests can embark on a culinary journey that mirrors the diversity and richness of global cuisines right on board.

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    Waterfront Restaurant embodies the essence of traditional dining, offering sit-down meals that range from hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners, with lunch available on sea days. This venue sets the stage for classic cruise dining with a contemporary twist. Angelo’s transports you to the Italian Riviera with its exquisite Italian dishes, while Dragon Lady offers an immersive dining experience that evokes the flavors and ambiance of Tokyo. These themed restaurants provide a global dining experience that celebrates the art of cuisine from around the world. For those looking to indulge in a more specialized culinary experience, P&O's specialty dining options are tantalizing. Luke's Bar and Grill, helmed by celebrity chef Luke Mangan, marks Australia's first celebrity restaurant at sea, where guests can enjoy premium steaks, fresh seafood, and a not-to-be-missed high tea. P&O Trattoria offers a taste of Rome with its rustic, home-style Italian dishes, inviting guests to savor the simplicity and warmth of Italian cooking. Shell and Bone, another specialty dining option, delights with its focus on seafood and grill items, each dish crafted to perfection. For an intimate and exclusive dining experience, the Chef's Table provides a behind-the-scenes look into the culinary artistry aboard P&O Cruises, featuring a curated menu by the ship's executive chef. Guests can book their specialty dining experience via guest services or conveniently through the P&O App upon boarding, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining adventure.

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  • Bars

    • Bars with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Bars with P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O Cruises Australia perfectly captures the quintessential Australian experience of enjoying a refreshing beer by the water, offering an array of familiar brands along with opportunities to discover new favorites. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in the tranquil setting of the Oasis bar, or feeling lucky and ready to try your hand at the casino, there's a bar on board to suit every preference and mood.

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    For those intrigued by history and mystery, The Bonded Store offers an immersive experience reminiscent of the prohibition era's speakeasies. This hidden gem invites guests to step back in time and enjoy the thrill of discovering a secret bar, adding an element of adventure to your cruise. P&O understands the importance of convenience and choice when it comes to beverages, which is why they offer a range of drinks packages to cater to every taste, from soft drinks to premium spirits and everything in between. These beverage packages, provide guests with an array of drinking options at a fixed price, ensuring that there's something for everyone. It's important to note that beverage packages must be purchased before your cruise through Cruise Control from approximately 90 days up until 4 days before departure, these packages allow guests to enjoy their cruise with the peace of mind that comes from having everything taken care of in advance.

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  • Entertainment

    • Entertainment with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Entertainment with P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O Cruises Australia knows how to throw a party that captures the essence of fun and excitement at sea. With a packed schedule of entertainment options, P&O ensures that every night is a celebration, offering something for every taste and interest. P&O sets itself apart with its iconic themed nights, creating unforgettable evenings of fun and festivity.

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    The signature White Night at sail away is a dazzling affair where guests embrace the theme with everything from chic white ensembles to bold wedding dresses, creating a sea of white against the ocean backdrop. The Back to School night revives the nostalgia of school days with uniforms, playful antics, and a touch of innocent rebellion. The Gatsby night transports guests to the roaring '20s, complete with day activities like foxtrot lessons and fascinator making workshops to set the stage for an evening of glamour and elegance. P&O's entertainment lineup includes spectacular stage shows that showcase talented performers in dazzling productions. Comedy nights offer big laughs with stand-up performances and comedy acts that are sure to bring a smile to your face. For those looking to dance the night away, P&O's night clubs pulse with energy, offering a vibrant nightlife scene right on the ocean. Live music and piano serenades provide a more laid-back entertainment option, perfect for enjoying a drink and unwinding under the stars. For a unique cinematic experience, P&O offers movies by the pool, allowing guests to float and relax while watching blockbuster hits and classic films on the big screen. With such a diverse array of entertainment options, P&O Cruises Australia guarantees that boredom is indeed a foreign concept onboard. Whether you're in the mood for a themed party, a laugh-out-loud comedy show, a night of dancing, or a serene evening under the stars, P&O has something to make every moment memorable, fully embracing the joyful, carefree spirit of Australian cruising.

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  • Activities

    • Activities with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Activities with P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O Cruises Australia ensures that every moment aboard is filled with entertainment, offering a wide array of activities that cater to all interests and energy levels. From engaging trivia tournaments that test your knowledge, captivating art shows that inspire, laughter-filled comedy nights, to dance classes where you can learn new moves, P&O provides a rich tapestry of onboard experiences. At the heart of the action is Australia's largest adventure park at sea, where adrenaline meets the ocean.

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    Whether you're challenging yourself with the Titanic experience, ziplining across the top deck for unparalleled views, or scaling the ship's funnel with rock climbing and abseiling back down, the adventure park is designed to thrill. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, P&O hasn't forgotten the joy of leisurely activities like barefoot bowls, where you can enjoy the sunshine and friendly competition on the deck. The cruise line's dedication to providing a diverse range of activities ensures that whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys taking it easy, your days can be as full and exciting or as calm and relaxing as you wish. P&O Cruises Australia is committed to making your cruise experience uniquely yours, with opportunities to dive into new experiences, meet fellow travelers, and make lasting memories, all while enjoying the unparalleled beauty of Australia and its surrounds.

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  • Health & Fitness

    • Health & Fitness wit P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O Cruises Australia offers a sanctuary of wellness and rejuvenation through its spa and beauty salon, providing a peaceful retreat where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The spa is staffed by professionally trained massage and beauty therapists who are dedicated to helping guests find their zen, offering a wide range of treatments designed to soothe, pamper, and revitalise.

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    The onboard fitness center complements the serene spa experience with a comprehensive array of exercise options tailored to suit every fitness level and preference. Guests are encouraged to take full advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities, whether they prefer to participate in group classes or focus on individual workouts. Aqua Fitness classes onboard P&O Cruises Australia encompass a diverse workout regimen, from the high-energy punches of kickboxing and the intense pedal power of spin classes to the innovative techniques of suspension training. These classes provide a fun and engaging way to stay fit while at sea, offering something for everyone, whether you're looking to maintain your fitness routine or try something new. With P&O's spa and fitness offerings, guests have the perfect opportunity to focus on their well-being, finding balance and rejuvenation amidst the beauty of the ocean. Whether indulging in a luxurious spa treatment, sweating it out in a high-intensity class, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility, P&O Cruises Australia ensures that every aspect of your wellness journey is catered to, making your cruise vacation both relaxing and invigorating.

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  • Kids

    • Kids Activities with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Kids Activities with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Kids Activities with P&O Cruises Australia
    • Kids Activities with P&O Cruises Australia

    P&O Cruises Australia ensures that parents can relax, knowing their children are engaging in activities that are not only enjoyable but also conducted in a secure and supervised setting. With such comprehensive and thoughtfully designed kids and teens programs, P&O creates a family-friendly atmosphere where every member of the family can find their perfect kind of fun.

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    P&O has meticulously designed its ships with families in mind, ensuring that children and teens from 2 to 17 years old have a vibrant and engaging space to enjoy their cruise vacation as much as the adults do. The cruise line boasts a range of kids clubs, each managed by professionally trained staff dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and enriching environment for young cruisers. Turtle Cove (2-5 years): For the youngest guests, Turtle Cove offers a playful and creative space where they can engage in arts and crafts, enjoy theme nights, and showcase their talents in shows designed just for them. Shark Shack (6-9 years): Tailored for slightly older children, Shark Shack introduces activities that blend education with entertainment. Children can partake in scavenger hunts that spark their curiosity, craft their own jewelry, and learn new dance moves, making every day an adventure. HQ (10-13 years): Pre-teens have their own exclusive hangout at HQ, where they can step away from the adults and socialize with peers. This club offers a variety of activities, from talent shows to karaoke sessions, encouraging pre-teens to step into the spotlight and express themselves. HQ+ (14-17 years): Recognized as the ultimate retreat for teenagers onboard, HQ+ offers a relaxed and cool environment where teens can chill, make new friends, and enjoy a sense of independence. P&O provides the perfect backdrop for teenagers to explore their interests and enjoy their own space.

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  • Inclusions

    • Activities - organised & individual
    • All main meals on-board
    • Coffee, tea, milk & hot snacks
    • Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
    • Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
    • Gratuities - tipping is neither expected nor required
    • Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs)
    • Open/anytime seating & multi-venue dining
    • Service charge: Up to €0/USD12.50/AUD18 (12 & over) daily, child over 1 pay half. Ask about pre-payment.
    • Ship-shore-ship transfers
    • Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
    • Weddings, ceremonies, group events options

Customer cruise line ratings

P&O Cruises Australia average of 3.9 stars based on 4196 guest reviews

  • Overall
    3.9
  • Cabin
    4
  • Dining
    3.8
  • Entertainment
    3.9
  • Service
    4.2

P&O Australia Visited Ports

Highlights

  • Get closer to the sun and relax on one of the poolside lounges by the open air top deck pools.

  • P&O Edge is not for the faint hearted. If you’re up for some extra adventure, join the adrenalin junkies at P&O Edge Adventure Park.

  • With over 40 à la carte menu items for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Waterfront Restaurant is the modern Australian restaurant serves up a sophisticated selection of both classic dishes and cutting edge cuisine.

P&O Cruises Australia Fleet Location

P&O Cruises Australia Faqs

  • Are gratuities included?

    Gratuities are not required for P&O Australia.

  • Can I bring alcohol?

    Alcohol cannot be brought onboard.

  • Can I bring bottled water or other non alcoholic drinks?

    Each guest may bring 12 loose cans of non-alcoholic drinks inside their carry on luggage.

  • WHAT P&O CRUISE SHIPS DEPART AUSTRALIAN HOME PORTS?

    All year round P&O Australia has 3 ships that depart Australian ports. 

    Note: As of 29th March 2025, P&O will cease operations under the P&O Cruise Australia name and undergo a brand name change, and fall under their parent company Carnival Cruises. All 3 P&O cruise ships will be affected and change as follows:

  • DO P&O CRUISE SHIPS HAVE AN ADULTS-ONLY SECTION?

    Called the Oasis, this adults-only section is on all 3 of P&O cruise ships. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and settle into a deckchair with your favourite book.

  • WHAT PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES DO P&O CRUISES HAVE FOR CHILDREN?

    Every P&O Cruise welcomes children! Enjoy a budget-friendly, all-inclusive family vacation with lots of space, delicious food, enjoyable activities, fantastic entertainment and four age-appropriate kids clubs.

    ●      Turtle Cove (2 years – 5 years) - A range of games, toys and activities for kids aged 2-5 years old, which means they’re not only fun but educational too. The place for the smallest member of your family.

    ●      Shark Shack (6 years – 9 years) - From scavenger hunts, jewellery making, computer games, dance lessons and theme nights. It’s the perfect place for them to make new friends and play with kids their own age.

    ●      HQ (10 years – 13 years) - The ultimate chill zone where they can make new friends, play video games, check out movies and sing their hearts out at karaoke sessions.

    ●      HQ+ (14 years – 17 years) - Specially created for 14-17 year-olds so the teens can leave their little brothers and sisters behind and chill out with people their own age at their own special lounge to play video games and watch movies. 

    Note: As always, there are a limited number of places available in our youth centres and entry is on a first come first served basis.

  • ARE THERE THEME NIGHTS EXPECTED ON BOARD P&O CRUISES?

    Themed cruises and event nights are one of the highlights of P&O cruises. To name a few themed cruises:

    Comedy Cruise, Disco Glam Cruise, 80’s, 90s, Country and Aussie music themed Cruise, Melbourne Cup Carnival Cruise, Food & Wine Cruise, Christmas Cruise and New Year’s Eve Cruise.

    P&O Event Nights:

    Island Night: All ages are welcome. Island Night features on all cruises 7 nights or longer from 4 June on Pacific Explorer, 17 June on Pacific Adventure and 22 June on Pacific Encounter.

    Gatsby: Frock up and party on, this high-end cocktail party is complete with themed music, entertainment and classic cocktails. On cruises 3 nights or longer (unless otherwise advised).

    Bianco: Dress in your most dazzling white attire and dance the night away at Bianco, The P&O White Party. Kids and adults of all ages are welcome to attend the party. There is also a special Kids White Out Party. On cruises 3 nights or longer (unless otherwise advised).

  • DO P&O CRUISES HAVE DRINK PACKAGES?

    P&O has 5 drinks packages with the option to purchase onboard or pre-purchase in the Cruise Control app, ranging from a pre-purchase price of $15 AUD to $119 AUD per person, per day.

    The Soft Drinks Package, Alcohol-free Drinks Package and Spring Water Package are available to all guests on any cruise. 

    The P&O Drinks Package and P&O Plus Drinks Package are available to guests 18 years and over, on cruises of seven nights or more, excluding Melbourne Cup and Australian Open cruises.

  • WHAT TYPE OF POWER POINTS ARE ONBOARD P&O CRUISE SHIPS?

    All guest rooms are fitted with at least one Australian 3-point socket providing 220/240 volts at 60Hz.

  • DOES P&O CRUISES HAVE A 2024 CHRISTMAS CRUISE?

    P&O Christmas Cruise 2024 departs Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne as this will be their last Christmas Cruise available before P&O undergoes a brand name change. 

  • WHAT DISABILITY OPTIONS DO P&O CRUISES PROVIDE?

    Since P&O Cruises Australia does not offer nursing or carer services onboard, they are unable to offer daily personal care. You must make arrangements for a companion or caretaker to travel with you on your trip if you need help with any aspect of your daily life. Wheelchairs are not always available for use on board the ship; they are usually saved for dire situations. If a wheelchair is needed for the entire cruise, we advise passengers to bring their own. Since doorways differ in size from room to room, please let your Clean Cruising Consultant know as soon as possible. We will need to know the measurement to make sure it can fit through the doorway.

  • I HAVE A MEDICAL CONDITION, CAN I STILL TRAVEL ON A P&O CRUISE?

    Absolutely! We recommend telling your Clean Cruising consultant about any medical conditions, medications or special requirements you have when you complete your booking. Clean Cruising also recommends that you bring a couple of extra days of medication just in case. 

    Note: Clean Cruising strongly recommends you visit your GP to confirm if a P&O cruise is something you can safely attend. 

  • DO YOU NEED A PASSPORT TO BOOK A P&O CRUISE?

    Australian citizens, including minors, are required to present a passport or a government-issued picture ID when going on a domestic cruise.

    All passengers on international cruises (to places like the South Pacific, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Singapore) need to have passports that expire six months after the date of the cruise return.

  • Wi-Fi AND MOBILE COVERAGE ON P&O CRUISES?

    P&O offers three distinct plans for high-speed internet access through Starlink, depending on your preferred method of connectivity. While on your cruise, use social media, make calls, check your email, or stream your favourite shows.

  • DOES P&O CRUISES HAVE AN ONBOARD APP?

    You can download the P&O Cruises App from the App Store or Google Play. 

  • HOW DO YOU PAY ONBOARD P&O CRUISES?

    Pay your bill with cashless cruising! All onboard expenses are charged to your personalised cruise card, allowing you to sign for all your onboard purchases, this card is linked to your debit/credit card and can also be loaded with cash at onboard kiosks. Your cruise card also acts as your room key plus a security pass to leave and re-board the ship at ports of call. The currency onboard P&O Cruises Australia is all in Australian dollars AUD.

  • HOW DO I BOOK MY SPECIAL OCCASION ON P&O CRUISES?

    Special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and honeymoons can be celebrated on board. Please speak with your Clean Cruising consultant if you're celebrating a special occasion while onboard or planning your cruise to celebrate.

  • HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING ON A P&O CRUISE, WHAT ARE THE RESTRICTIONS?

    P&O Cruises recommends no more than 2 x 23 KG bags per person and no bigger than 140cm x 60cm x 40cm.

  • P&O CRUISE SHIP LOCATION FINDER, WHERE IS MY P&O CRUISE SHIP?

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