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Frequently Asked Questions 

Holidays are here and we look forward to seeing you on board. But before you arrive, here are some quick answers to popular questions, at a glance. 

Documents, flights and insurance

Do I need a passport and visa?

Everyone must have a valid passport for a cruise with an international destination, including passengers under the age of 18.  Australian residents do not need a passport or visa for any cruise that does not visit a foreign port. However, government issued photo identification is required. Queensland Proof of Age cards will not be accepted. A current Medicare card can be used for passengers under 18 years of age.

Please check with the relevant embassies about your visa requirements.

Do I need travel insurance?
Absolutely! As Australian Medicare, New Zealand ACC and private health insurance will not cover you for any medical costs on board, all cruises (even cruises that do not visit foreign ports) require international travel insurance. We strongly recommend you organise your travel insurance at the time you pay your deposit.

You should not base your insurance decision on the assumption ‘it won’t happen to me’ – accidents or illness can happen to anyone. Daily hospital bills can cost more than AUD5000 per day. For further information or to purchase travel insurance:

Australian passengers - please contact your Travel Agent or call 1300 653 852.
New Zealand passengers - please contact your Travel Agent

What if I have connecting flights?
Please ensure your flight arrives no later than 4 hours before your cruise departure time. On return, ensure your flight departs no earlier than 5 hours after your cruise arrives in port. This should help you have a relaxing cruise holiday.
Can I book my flights with you?
We offer one-way and return fares to connect with your cruise. If you book a P&O Cruises Air package you can be assured that we will look after you from the time you check-in for your flight until the time you board your cruise.
Can my family and friends farewell me?
They're welcome to wish you bon voyage from the cruise terminal. Due to security reasons, they will be unable to come on board with you.
Where can I find more information about passports, visas and vaccinations?

Passports
Australian citizens, visit www.passports.gov.au
New Zealand citizens, visit www.passports.govt.nz

For citizens of other countries, please contact your relevant national authority.

Visas
Please contact your Travel Agent, relevant consulate or embassy or an online visa service for more information.

Vaccinations
Please contact your doctor or an approved public health travel advisory service such as the World Health Organisation (www.who.org), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Smart Traveller (www.smartraveller.gov.au).

If I am booking my own flights, what arrival and departure times do you recommend?

Please ensure your flight arrives no later than 4 hours before your cruise departure time. This should provide enough time to travel to the cruise terminal and check-in for your holiday of a lifetime.

If you are flying home on the day you leave the cruise, please ensure your flight departs no earlier than 5 hours after your cruise arrives in port. This should help you to have a stress free return home from your relaxing cruise holiday.

When you are making your own air bookings, missed connections are always a possibility…so the more time you allow for unforseen delays at either end of your cruise, the better.

If you do need to make changes to your own air bookings, your chosen airline may charge fees; so check their airfare conditions when you book.

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Luggage, clothes and electrical

How much luggage can I bring?
We recommend no more than 2 bags per person. Each bag can be no bigger than 140cm x 60cm x 40cm and can not weigh more than 32kg. It is important to remember that airlines may have different luggage restrictions.
What do I wear on board?
During the day, casual clothes are suitable. After 5.30pm, smart casual clothing is required in the public lounges and restaurants or as published in the ship’s newsletter. On our cocktail nights, it’s time to get your frocks out and join in the fun! We suggest women wear an evening or cocktail dress and men wear a suit or similar (tie optional).
What types of electrical sockets are on board?
All cabins are fitted with an Australian 3 point plug or adaptor providing 220/240 volt 60Hz.
Do I need to bring a beach towel?
No, beach towels are provided for use at our on-board swimming pools and on Shore Tours.
Can I do my laundry on board?
Take advantage of our on-board laundry service (charges apply). All laundry is returned within 48 hours, or on the same day with our express service. We also offer self-service coin-operated laundrettes with ironing facilities. There is a fee charged for these services.
Should I bring my hairdryer?
Why take up extra space in your luggage, when we have a hairdryer in every cabin? For safety reasons, we ask passengers not to use their own electrical appliances on board, except electric shavers and approved medical equipment.
How many cocktail nights will there be?
On cruises up to 7 nights duration there are usually 1 or 2 cocktail nights, with up to 3 on longer cruises.
Are there theme nights on board?
Theme nights are part of the fun on board and usually feature on cruises 7 nights or more. Why not dress up and join the party! Themed accessories can be purchased on board and you will be notified of the themes through the ship’s newsletter. Such themes include: Island night, Rock night, 70's night, 80's night and Country & Western night
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Medical and Special Needs

Do I need vaccinations?
Wherever you're travelling, we recommend you have Influenza (seasonal), Hepatitis A and Tetanus/Diphtheria vaccinations. Ask your doctor to identify any specific vaccinations or health precautions required for each port of call. If you don't have correct vaccinations, you may not be able to go ashore at certain destinations.
Can I bring my medical equipment to use on board?
In most cases, yes. To ensure your medical equipment will work on board, please advise your Travel Agent or our Customer Service Team at the time of booking. We will then send you an information sheet and may ask you for more information. For safety reasons, your equipment will need to be checked prior to boarding.
Can I go on a Shore Tour if I have limited mobility?

It is usually no problem. We have a great range of shore tours and many cater for people with various levels of mobility. You will receive a shore tour booklet with your cruise documentation and this will provide you with all you need to know and more. Our helpful Shore Tour Staff are available on board to discuss individual tours.

It is important to note that access to tender ports may be restricted and this may limit your tour options or restrict access to these ports. Do not worry if you cannot get off the ship, we still have plenty of fun activities for you to do on board!

Is there a Doctor on board?
Each P&O Cruises ship has a medical centre staffed by registered Doctors and nurses, who are available during scheduled times to provide medical care. They are also available 24/7 for medical emergencies. For more information, please refer to the 'Your Health' section in our Terms & Conditions.
What if I suffer from motion sickness?
You can prepare yourself by purchasing medication before you leave home. Tablets or special magnetic wrist-bands can assist. Motion sickness can also be treated on board by the ship's doctor. Any charges from the on-board medical centre will be added to your Cruise Card and you'll be provided with an itemised account to submit to your travel insurance company.
I take medication; do I need to let you know?
Yes, all medical conditions or medication must be advised at the time of booking. We want you to be safe and comfortable on your cruise, so bring enough medication to last you until the end of your holiday. It is also a good idea to bring a few extra days supply in case of any unforeseen delays.
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Money matters

How do I pay for my cruise?

A deposit is required within 3 days of booking your cruise.

Accepted payment methods include; cash, cheque, direct bank deposit and selected credit cards, available for bookings made directly with P&O Cruises only. 

The following is an outline of provisions applicable.

  Fare Types  Cruises 18 nights or fewer Cruises between 19-27 nights  Cruises 28 nights or more

Deposit Amount
(Aged 13 years and over)

 All Fares $200 $400 $600

Deposit Amount
(Aged 12 years and under)

 All Fares $100 $200 $300
Final Payment Due
(number of days prior to departure) 		 Discounted Fares 70 70 90
Final Payment Due
(number of days prior to departure) 		 Full Fares 30 30 30

What is the currency on board?
All prices listed on board are in Australian dollars.
How do I pay on board?
Welcome to cashless cruising! All shipboard expenses are charged to your personalised Cruise Card. Your Cruise Card is linked to your on board account and can be settled with cash, traveller’s cheques or the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard or American Express. When using credit cards, we obtain pre-authorisations and some banks hold these for up to 30 days. Debit cards, Pre-paid VISA cards and Travelex VISA cash passports are not accepted onboard. Please be aware there are no EFTPOS facilities available on board our ships. ATM facilities are now available on board.
How much do shore tours cost and what can I see in each port?
Tour costs vary depending on the activity, itinerary and inclusions. Prices start from approximately AUD30 per person. You'll receive a shore tour guide and reservation form to pre-book your tours, with your cruise ticket pack. Please visit the Shore Tours section of the website for detailed prices and tours.
Do I tip while on board?
To thank the crew who provide excellent service on board, we recommend the daily amount of AUD7.50 per passenger (aged 13 years or over). For your convenience, this is automatically added to your on board account and may be adjusted or removed at your discretion by visiting the Reception Desk on board.
Where can I keep my valuables?
There are safety deposit boxes in each cabin.
What's included in my cruise fare?
Where do we start?  Accommodation, all main meals, entertainment (including production shows, guest entertainers, trivia, karaoke, dancing classes, movies and in-cabin videos), access to Children's Centres with supervised activity programmes and use of the ships many complimentary facilities such as swimming pools, gym, spas, sauna, steam rooms, table tennis, shuffleboard and library.
What are the optional extras?
Our ships are floating resorts and the options are endless! Here are some of the optional extras that can be purchased on board: shore tours, drinks, meals ashore, food from the alternative dining venues as indicated on board, bar snacks, room service, hairdressing, massage and beauty treatments, photographic services, video arcade games and some craft activities. Other services may be available at the time you sail, as we are constantly striving to enhance our product.
Can I cancel or postpone?

Although we would love to see you on board, we understand that plans can change.  Should you need to cancel your holiday, we ask that you notify your Travel Agent or our Customer Service Team at your earliest convenience. The refunds or cancellation charges that will be payable depend on the amount of notice you give us and the fare type you have purchased, as follows:

Days Prior to Departure  Cancellation Charge

DISCOUNTED FARES

181 days or more Full refund
180 - 71 days Deposit amount*
70 - 43 days 25% of total fare*
42 - 15 days 50% of total fare*
14 days or fewer 100% of total fare*

FULL FARES

31 days ore more Full refund
30 - 22 days 25% of total fare*
21 - 15 days 50% of total fare*
14 days or fewer 100% of total fare*

*Additional fees charged by airlines will be passed on to the passenger.

 

What if I don't show up for my cruise?
We're sorry if you can't make it. Unfortunately, if you don't join us on your booked cruise, no refunds can be given.
What is the legal age to purchase alcohol on board?
Passengers must be 18 years or over to purchase or consume alcohol, or gamble on board.
What if I just want to change my cruise date?

We understand that on occasion you may need to change to a different cruise. When this happens, the following policy will apply:

 

Days Prior to Departure (of original booking) Our Policy
121 days or more One free change to a different P&O Cruise
120 days or fewer Cancellation charges apply
Is GST payable?
GST is included in all domestic flights and also applies to Australian coastal cruises in the fare paid and any purchases made on board. GST is not applicable to any other cruise or purchase.
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Other info

When will I get my cruise tickets?
As long as you've given us all your personal details via your Cruise Personaliser and paid for your booking in full, your tickets will arrive as early as 50 days before you sail. This will give you plenty of time to get excited about your cruise!
Can I organise gifts and celebrations before sailing?

We can help you celebrate on board or arrange something special for a friend, a loved one or even yourself. Choose from one of our special occasions packages

Do you offer any special facilities for groups?

Yes. Passengers travelling as a group (minimum of 16 adults) have access to a number of on-board services on selected sailings, including:

  • Conference facilities
  • Live entertainment
  • Cocktail parties with canapés
  • Children's parties
  • Invitations
  • Group photos
  • Special occasion cakes

For more information, please call our P&O Cruises Customer Service Team.

Can I get married on board?
Unfortunately, we are not authorised to perform weddings on board our ships. However, we can help you celebrate a renewal of vows ceremony on board. Please contact our Customer Service Team for further details.
Can I renew my vows?
We may not have invented romance, but P&O Cruises knows how to help you celebrate your renewal of vows ceremony. Contact us for information about our packages.
Where can I smoke?
Smoking is not permitted indoors on any of our ships. This includes your cabin and private balcony. There are selected outdoor areas where smoking is permitted.
When should I book?
As soon as you can. This will make sure you have the greatest choice available. As families love to cruise, holiday periods can be very popular and sell out early. Keep this in mind, book early and get ready for the holiday of your life.
Do you offer cruises in the school holidays?
If you are taking your children, it is best to check their holiday dates. The cruises we advertise for school holidays may not fit exactly within the holiday period for all schools. So check with your school, make your booking, pack your bags and bring the children along!
Where can I find out more about my cruise booking?
We know that you are excited about your holiday, so you can logon to Cruise Personaliser to check your cruise details.
Can my family and friends come with me to the wharf?
Family and friends are welcome to share in your excitement and wave farewell from the cruise terminal. Due to security reasons, they will be unable to come on board with you.
Are there queen beds available?
Most cabins have queen beds provided the upper beds are not in use.
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Staying in touch

How do I keep in touch with home?

You’ll want everyone to know what a great time you’re having and there are a number of ways to let them know. You can make calls from the phone in your cabin, or use the ship’s computers/wireless connections to keep in touch by email and internet. Please note, access is subject to satellite coverage and charges are higher than on land.

Can I use my mobile phone on board?
Mobile phone reception is available on all our ships. A compatible mobile phone and a service plan capable of roaming internationally with Maritime Communications Partners (AS) is required. Make sure you check with your service provider for applicable charges before you depart.
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Cruise Personaliser

Crewmember tugging hat
Our free Cruise Personaliser lets you update your pre-cruise information and see a summary of your booking at a glance. 
personalise your cruise

Need Help?

Find answers to all your questions.

What payment options do I have to pay for my cruise?
Accepted payment methods include; cash, cheque, direct bank deposit and selected credit cards (1% surcharge applies). More info here.
Once onboard, how do I pay for extra items?
Multiple ways of purchasing goods onboard are available to you - from Credit Cards to cash. More info here.
I have kids. What facilities do you have for children?
Qualified staff run a great choice of awesome activities for kids of all ages, giving you the option to spend the day child-free. Here's how it works.
What's actually included in the cruise price?
Accommodation, all main meals, entertainment and use of facilities such as swimming pools, gym, spas, table tennis, children's centres (excluding late night group child-minding) and library are all included in your cruise package.
What are the different types of cabins available? What's the difference between them?
Choose from outstanding balcony cabins with ocean views, great-value internal cabins, 4-berth options to share with family or friends or outside cabins with windows. Click here for more information.

For the answers to many other questions check out our Frequently Asked Questions

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