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Short Break - R423

5th Dec 2024 | 4 nights | P&O Cruises | Aurora

Adult Only Ship
Explore European Christmas markets
Tips Included
Choose Saver or Select Price (with benefits)
Rotterdam
Adult Only Ship
Explore European Christmas markets
Tips Included
Choose Saver or Select Price (with benefits)
Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
5th Dec 2024 Thursday
Southampton
2
6th Dec 2024 Friday
At Sea
3
7th Dec 2024 Saturday
Rotterdam
07:00
4
8th Dec 2024 Sunday
Rotterdam
13:00
5
9th Dec 2024 Monday
Southampton

Editor's Note: Aurora received an update in March 2019 that saw the ship redesigned as an adults-only vessel. Gone are the kids clubs and teen areas, in their place are 28 brand-new cabins that were added to Deck 8. Other areas benefit from refreshed carpets, soft furnishings and upholstery.

The 1,910-passenger Aurora joins Arcadia and Oriana as the line's third child-free ship, though the latter will leave the fleet in August 2019.

Aurora is one of the oldest ships in the P&O Cruises fleet (it was launched in 2000), and came out a much-needed £26 million refurbishment at the end of 2014 as the first to carry the new livery, featuring a contemporary version of the Union Flag on its bow, and a blue funnel. This may have disappointed a few P&O Cruises regulars, but it indicates the line's policy to combine a traditional British atmosphere with an up-to-date cruise experience.

New features added in the refurbishment include the Sindhu fine dining restaurant, with an Indian-fusion menu; and the Glass House restaurant and bar, with wines selected by TV presenter Olly Smith, which replaced Café Bordeaux. Both these restaurants are on P&O Cruises' twin sisters Azura and Ventura.

The buffet restaurant and Sidewalk Café were also completely refurbished and include a new Costa Coffee and Grab & Go counter and flexible "Freedom Dining" in the Medina Restaurant, plus more tables for two; and Marco Pierre White dishes on gala evenings.

The refit has transformed the public rooms and they are now bright and attractive, with exceptionally comfortable seating. But some of the rooms and corridors are distinctly chilly, and there is evidence of minor wear and tear in places, despite the refurbishment which is inevitable with a ship that is now approaching 20 years old.

There are normally two formal nights per seven-night cruise. Black tie for men predominates, although lounge suit and tie are acceptable. Low key evening and cocktail dresses are usual for the women. Those who don't want to dress up can use the cafeteria, but formal attire is required in the main restaurants. The other nights are either semiformal or smart casual, according to the ship's itinerary. Shorts and jeans aren't welcome in the restaurants.

Theatre

The Curzon Theatre (Deck 7) has a normal theatre layout with two entrances and raked seating. On our cruise we saw a comedian, a super quartet of male singers -- Viva Voce -- and a Queen tribute group -- QE2.

Daily Fun

Daily activities range from the old-time favourites such as deck quoits, shuffleboard and table tennis to line dancing and party dance classes. For card players there are whist drives and bridge, and lots of quizzes throughout the day including a pub challenge and a daily Twenty Teasers. Trivia sheets are left in the Crow's Nest to be filled in at leisure.

The Playhouse (Deck 8): is a cinema with several showings of feature films each day. On our cruise they included "Jersey Boys", "Get on Up", "Transformers: Age of Extinction" and "Hercules".

At Night

There's live music in various spots around the ship, plus nightly karaoke and a late night disco into the early hours. There are three main entertainment venues and as part of the refit all sound and lighting equipment has been upgraded.

Carmen's (Deck 7): A large show lounge where we saw the Headliners' production show, "Killer Queen in Concert". The Headliners Theatre Company is a high standard production group of professional singers and dancers presenting musical shows for P&O Cruises. On Aurora they perform four different shows on a seven-night cruise and eight on a 14-night sailing, including a welcome show. Titles of the shows give some idea of the content: "Blame it on the Boogie", "Destination Dance", "Thank You for the Music", "I Write the Songs", "Live 'n' Swinging", "My Generation" and "Killer Queen in Concert". The show lounge has certain viewing problems for people seated further back, and the fairly low ceiling limits views of the dancers' lifts. At night the Spectrum orchestra plays in Carmen's Lounge for early evening ballroom dancing and for party nights until midnight.

Aurora Bars and Lounges

With 10 bars and lounges dotted about, Aurora is unusually spacious for a medium-sized ship and the only place that was crowded on our cruise was the Crow's Nest.

Champion's (Deck 7): The main pub-style bar, with live music throughout the evening, a small dance space, and a TV screen showing sport. Champion's bar and casino have been refurbished with a new open-plan design, new furniture and improved stage area. On our cruise-instrumentalist Lyn Frederick played each night, interspersed with pub quizzes and karaoke, which takes over from 10:15 p.m. until late.

Monte Carlo Casino (Deck 7): next to Champion's is fairly small, with two roulette tables, two blackjack tables and slot machines.

Masquerade (Deck 7): is a pub by day and turns into a disco hosted by the entertainment team from 9:30 p.m., until late. Under 16s are not permitted after midnight.

Charlie's (Deck 7): is a small bar overlooking the Atrium, with music throughout the evening provided by a cocktail pianist; on our cruise the very talented Alec Negriuc.

Anderson's (Deck 7): is a large space luxuriously furnished in English country house style.

Raffles (Deck 8): Done out in British Raj style, this is a great spot for a pre-dinner drink as it's just by Sindhu.

Terrace Bar (Deck 8): is situated by the Terrace Pool and open from 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Crystal Bar (Deck 12): next to the Oasis Spa, is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Riviera Bar (Deck 12): next to the Riviera Pool, opens from noon to 5 p.m., weather permitting.

Pennant Bar (Deck 12): next to the Beach House, is open 9 a.m. until late, weather permitting.

The Crow's Nest (Deck 13): Right at the top of the ship, with panoramic views of the sea, this is the most popular bar for pre- and post-dinner drinks, with music from the Aurora Orchestra and other groups throughout the evening. It is also the spot for sail away celebrations when the weather doesn't permit them outdoors.

Aurora Outside Recreation

Pools

There's the Terrace Pool on Deck 8, (previously reserved for families), with a whirlpool and bar. The Riviera Pool on Deck 12 has a whirlpool and is sheltered from the wind by the Lido and sun decks. Three terraces full of deckchairs surround the pool. The Crystal Pool, also on Deck 1, is Aurora's largest, with a sliding, clear glass Skydome, which allows swimming in any weather. It has two adjoining whirlpools and a bar. There are plenty of lounge chairs around the deck of the pool and on the sun deck which overlooks it.

Recreation

At the stern of the sun deck there is a sports court for tennis, football, cricket and basketball. Alongside, are golf nets. Clubs and balls are provided, or you can use your own. There is also a golf simulator, with 30 different courses to choose from. The entertainment staff host a variety of tournaments. Aurora has an attractive wraparound teak promenade deck that is perfect for walking or jogging.

Sun Decks

The sun deck and other outside seating areas are very spacious compared with the size of the ship. Deckchairs seemed in new condition.

Aurora Services

The central hub of the ship is the atrium, spanning four decks and dominated by John Mill's dramatic 35 foot sculpture and water feature. The reception, shore excursions desk and shops are all located in this area. There has been an extensive shop refurbishment, and an upgrade of the photographic gallery to include more touch screen technology.

The library has relocated to the former cyb@study space adjacent to the Crow's Nest on Deck 13. It's well stocked with books and has several comfortable seats. The number of onboard computers has been reduced from 14 to 5, and they are now situated in the library. Wi-Fi is available in three package options; The Connect Package (£7.75 for 24 hours) provides social media access and internet messaging services; The Browse Package (£12.50) offers internet browsing (with the exception of video streaming), internet messaging, email and social network access; and The Works Package (£24.95) offers web browsing, including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music streaming, video calls, email, instant messenger services and social media access.

Self-service launderettes are situated on Decks 9 and 11.

Spa

The Oasis Spa on Deck 12 can be reached via a short spiral staircase off the midship stairwell on Deck 11. It's an attractive and welcoming environment and offers a wide range of treatments from facials, massage and acupuncture, to hair and nail services. Prices range from £10 for lip or chin waxing to £177 for the Elemis Absolute Spa Ritual. The Gentleman's Spa has a range of grooming services.

Fitness

The well-equipped gym on Deck 11 has a complimentary programme of relaxing, stretching and conditioning classes such as Fab Abs, Tai Chi and Walk for Wellbeing. There's a nominal fee of £7 for yoga and Pilates, and a 60 minute personal training programme costs £47, or three for £131.

A big improvement since the refit is the introduction of Freedom Dining in the Medina Restaurant, which allows you to eat where you want and when you want. There are however still the usual two sittings for dinner in the Alexandria Restaurant, and food and drink available around the clock in various parts of the ship. Food is generally good, with a wide choice of traditional and sophisticated dishes.

Free Dining

Medina Restaurant (Deck 6): Freedom Dining means you can turn up without booking at any time the restaurant is open and can usually be seated right away -- if you don't mind sharing a table. If you prefer to wait for a table for two, you get a pager and are called back, usually within a few minutes. Menus appeal to British tastes, with favourites such as roasts and hearty puddings (although lighter choices are available). Following passenger feedback, classic dishes have been returned to the a la carte menu in the Medina and Alexandria, such as prawn cocktail or egg mayonnaise to start, followed by fillet of salmon or sirloin steak and bread and butter pudding or fruit salad. The classic menu is the same each day. The five-course a la carte menu, which changes daily, might include starters of wild mushroom risotto and creamed blue cheese, minestrone or cream of potato and goat's cheese soup, main courses of roast leg of pork, braised beef in Guinness or tempura of vegetables and then sticky toffee pudding, fruit Pavlova or ice cream, followed by cheese, to finish. The Marco Pierre White menu, available on gala evenings, might include a trio of smoked and cured fish to start, chicken consommé with julienne vegetables and shaved black truffle, Champagne sorbet, Beef Wellington and, to finish, the cruise ship favourite of Baked Alaska. Open for dinner 6 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. The Medina also serves breakfast from 8 a.m.-9:30 a.m., lunch from noon to 1:30 p.m., and afternoon tea from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Alexandria Restaurant (Deck 6): There is the familiar dining system with the two sittings, one at 6:30 p.m. and second sitting at 8:30 p.m. Again, Marco Pierre White dishes are served on gala evenings, and the menu is the same as the Medina. Open for dinner 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The Lido Grill (Deck 12): replaces the Sidewalk Café and offers Costa coffee and the new "Grab and Go" counter. Open for breakfast 8 a.m. to noon and lunch noon to 4 p.m.

The Horizon (Deck 12): The self-service buffet has been completely refurbished in the recent refit with a cheerful new décor. Food and drink is available more or less round the clock, but it can be very crowded at peak times. Breakfast includes a continental option, with fruit, yoghurt, pastries and cereals. Needless to say, there is a full English breakfast that can include any combination of bacon, sausage (or a choice of vegetarian bacon or Quorn sausage), tomato, fried bread, sauté potatoes, grilled mushrooms, black pudding, plum tomatoes and baked beans. Omelettes are available to order and daily chef's specialities include eggs benedict, grilled gammon and eggs, kedgeree, corned beef hash and scrambled egg with smoked salmon. There are also themed dinners. Healthy options include smoothies, porridge, fruit salad and poached eggs on wholemeal toast. Open for Continental breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., full breakfast 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., lunch noon to 2:30 pm, afternoon tea 3 p.m. to 4.45 p.m., a themed dinner 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and late-night snacks 10:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. The self-service drinks selection includes fruit juice and special teas -- including decaffeinated and camomile.

Room Service: Room service is available 24 hours, with breakfast from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and sandwiches, snacks, pasta, burgers and other items the rest of the time. Some carry a small charge (e.g. £1.50 for chicken and bacon sandwich, £2 for smoked salmon and £3.95 for a burger).

For Fee

The refit has brought big changes to fee dining on the Aurora with unusual new menus and well designed venues, including Sindhu replacing the Library and the Glass House replacing Café Bordeaux.

Sindhu (Deck 8): One of the line's signature restaurants originally designed by Michelin-star celebrity chef Atul Kochhar (who as of 2018 is no longer associated with the line), in exotic surroundings serves an eclectic Indian fusion menu. Menu choices might include a squid salad with passion fruit chutney or spiced white crab meat with vermicelli to start, a main course of pan-fried sea bass with coconut sauce, a trio of duck or baked parcel of vegetables with tomato and fenugreek sauce with warm spiced chocolate or lavender scented yoghurt cake for dessert. There is a cover charge of £15 per person for cruises of eight days and longer, £20 for three to seven day sailings and £25 for shorter cruises. and booking is recommended. Open for dinner 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The Glass House (Deck 8): The a la carte restaurant and wine bar features house wine displays and wines selected by expert and TV presenter "Jolly" Olly Smith. Self-service Enomatic wine systems allow passengers to buy premium wines by the glass. The menu includes a selection of small plates, which are ideal for sharing, and cost £5.25 for three different dishes, such as tempura king prawns, smoked aubergine dip and garlic mushrooms. Large plates include three types of British steak, ranging in price from £5.50 to £7.50, a lobster sandwich for £5.95, trio of different sausages and mash for £4.95 and a vegetarian salad for £3.50. Desserts include a peanut butter sundae or cheese board to share for £4. The Glass House also has a private room for wine tastings and dinners. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Beach House (Deck 12): Situated within the Horizon Restaurant on Deck 12 this casual eatery replaces the Pennant Grill. There is a £5 supplement for dinner. The menu includes favourites such as buffalo wings, crispy bacon and cheese potato skins and tiger prawns to start, fillet of beef on lava rock, macaroni cheese, burgers and Cajun chicken Caesar salad for mains and desserts including cheesecake and chocolate fudge cake A few items carry an additional charge, such as £2.95 for the lava rock beef and £5.95 for lobster. Booking recommended. Open for dinner 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

There are ten different categories of cabins, ranging from single cabins to penthouse suites. They include twin and double bed configurations, plus cabins with one or two additional beds in the form of single and double sofa beds and pull-down berths. There are also a number of interconnecting cabins that are ideal for families. All 934 cabins were refurbished in the refit, with new soft furnishings and flat screen TV.

Suites have a magazine and newspaper selection, atlas and binoculars. A fruit basket, mineral water, flowers, champagne and chocolates are provided on arrival.

There are 16 wheelchair accessible cabins, well fitted for the disabled passenger and mostly close to lifts.

Bathrooms are supplied with shower gel, shampoo and conditioner, body lotion, tissues, shaver point and ample towels including large bath/pool towels and all have hair dryers. There is plenty of storage space for personal items. All suites have bath and shower. Inside cabins have shower. All outside cabins and balcony cabins have bath or mini bath and shower, apart from the following categories which have shower only: JB, LC, OA, OB, OC and OD.

Interior: Inside cabins have a large mirror instead of a window and measure approximately 137 - 181 square feet. They have wardrobe and door space and two lower beds which are convertible to a king-size bed. The bathroom has a shower and WC. There is a vanity/writing desk, TV, radio, telephone, safe, and tea and coffee making facilities. Mineral water and a pamper pack, containing shampoo, conditioner, moisturising lotion, soap and a shower cap, are provided on arrival.

Oceanview: Standard outside cabins have a picture window or portholes and measure approximately 137 - 181 square feet. They have wardrobe and drawer space and two lower beds which are convertible to a king-size bed. The bathroom has a shower, or shower over bath, and WC. There is a vanity/writing desk, TV, radio, telephone, safe, and tea and coffee making facilities. Arrivals are offered mineral water and a pamper pack.

Balcony: Balcony cabins measure from 178 - 237 square feet, including a 36 square feet balcony. They have two lower beds which can be converted to a king-size. Bathrooms have a bath with shower or shower only, and WC. There is an ironing board, trouser press and hair dryer. There is a chair and table, TV, radio, telephone, writing desk, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities and a safe. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to the balcony. Arrivals are offered mineral water and a pamper pack. Deluxe balcony cabins are provided with an atlas and binoculars and the balcony measures 39 square feet. Our balcony cabin on A Deck had twin beds, a two-seater sofa and coffee table, dressing table with large mirror, excellent lighting and concealed shelves on either side. Drawer and cupboard space was ample and well distributed. The balcony, which showed signs of wear on the side of the ship, had two chairs and a table.

Mini suites: Mini suites measure from 368 - 384 square feet, including a balcony of 57 square feet. They have a separate bedroom area with two lower beds which can be converted to a king-size. Bathrooms have a whirlpool bath, shower, twin basin vanity unit and WC, plus a luxurious pamper pack - with additional items including bath and shower gel, a vanity kit, mending kit and shoe mitt - bathrobe and slippers. There is an iron and ironing board, trouser press and hair dryer. The suites include a sofa, chair and table, TV and DVD player, radio, telephone, writing desk, tea and coffee making facilities, safe and refrigerator. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to the balcony with chairs and a table.

Suites: Suites measure from 449 - 753 square feet, including a 75 square feet balcony. The suites have two lower beds which can be converted to a king-size. Bathrooms have a whirlpool bath, shower and WC, plus a luxurious pamper pack, bathrobe and slippers. There is a walk-in dressing area with iron and ironing board, trouser press and hair dryer. The lounge has a sofa and chairs plus a dining table and chairs, and a TV, mini stereo, radio, telephone, writing desk, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities and a safe. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors lead to the balcony with loungers, chairs and table. Suites have an optional butler service.

Penthouse Suites: Upper level Penthouse Suites measure approximately 362 square feet, including a 72 square feet balcony. The lower level suites are approximately 575 square feet, including a 72 square feet balcony. They have a spiral staircase leading to the upper level bedroom containing two single beds that are electronically adjustable to create a king-size bed. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to the balcony with table and chairs. Bathrooms have a whirlpool bath, shower and WC plus a luxurious pamper pack, bathrobe and slippers. There is a walk-in dressing area with iron and ironing board, trouser press and hair dryer, and a guest cloakroom. The lounge has an L-shaped sofa and armchairs plus dining table and chairs and a bar area, with stereo system. Penthouse Suites have a butler service, magazine and newspaper selection, atlas and binoculars. The Piano Suite has a baby grand, and the Library Suite is stocked with books.

Deck 13 - Sun Deck
Deck 12 - Lido Deck
Deck 11 - A Deck
Deck 10 - B Deck
Deck 9 - C Deck
Deck 8 - D Deck
Deck 7 - Prom Deck
Deck 6 - E Deck
Deck 5 - F Deck
Deck 4 - G Deck

Best for...

Brits keen to sail with their fellow country people, who want a home-from-home atmosphere

Not the best for...

Non-English speakers; late-night partyers or those who want lots of outdoor entertainment options

Who goes on P&O Cruises cruise ships?

The line is aimed squarely at Brits, and that's pretty well the only nationality you'll find abroad at any time of year, wherever the ship is based. The demographic varies drastically depending on the type of ship and time of year. The adults-only ships tend to attract couples of 55-years plus; the family-friendly ones will attract families during the holiday periods, and then revert to 55+ couples outside of school holidays. Age will skew lower on the mini-break cruises to Europe and the Channel Islands. P&O Cruises is also aimed squarely at Middle England -- it's not upmarket and not "bucket and spade". The line is about as typically British as you can get.


Do I have to dress up on a P&O Cruises cruise?

P&O cruisers veer on the side of smart during the evening (not Cunard smart, but certainly not casual or scruffy), with casual during the day -- shorts, T-shirts, baseball caps and flip flops are perfectly acceptable day wear. On Gala nights passengers tend to make an effort and you'll see a range of clothing from ball gowns and black tie to and dark suits and long dresses and heels.


Is everything included on P&O Cruises cruises?

No, though tips are included in the price of the cruise and you won't find the rampant up charging you get on US lines. You'll pay extra for speciality restaurants, adults-only relaxation areas, the spa (treatments and thermal suite access), alcoholic and soft drinks.


What are P&O Cruises's most popular activities?

P&O Cruises does not go in for adrenaline-filled activities like the US ships, so you won't even find a climbing wall even on the largest ships, let alone simulated skydiving, dodgems or simulated surfing. Daytime activities across the fleet consist of Daily activities range from the old-time favourites such as deck quoits, shuffleboard and table tennis to line dancing and party dance classes plus plenty of quizzes throughout the day including a pub challenge.


  • Comfortable, well-appointed accommodation
  • Twice-daily cabin serviced by your cabin attendant
  • Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner onboard at buffet & main restaurants, plus pool-side snacks and a five-course Gala Dinner by Marco Pierre White
    • Tea, coffee & fruit juices also included at selected times
  • Dazzling shows, live bands, comedians and more at onboard theatres and lounges
  • Age-specific child and teens clubs on family-friendly ships (Britannia, Ventura, Iona, Azura)
  • Access to expansive gyms, equipped with Technogym machines and free weights. Selected fitness classes are included
  • Access to pools and whirlpool spas. Some pools are adult-only. Selected ships have retractable Skydomes for swimming in all weathers
  • Saunas & steam rooms in the Oasis Spa
  • Football, basketball and deck tennis in the enclosed sports court, plus access to the golf nets
  • Dance classes - pick up some new moves and learn to Salsa, Cha-Cha, Foxtrot or line dance
  • Shuttle busses in port - complimentary for all where necessary to exit the port
    • In other destinations, shuttle busses are included for Select Price holidays
    • If you have booked on Early Saver or Saver price, they will be available at an extra cost
  • Flights and transfers (on fly-cruise holidays)
  • Tips - tips are neither expected or required

Exclusively For Adults

Exclusively For Adults - cruise from £241pp

P&O Cruises ships are fabulous for adults of all ages because they provide plenty of opportunities for tranquil moments, as well as great food and entertainment. However, they reserve a couple of ships exclusively for adults only.

Meet Arcadia and Aurora

Enjoy a relaxing holiday with P&O Cruises' Exclusively for Adults ships. These ships' itineraries sail to take in a wealth of new ports of call and introduce overnight and evening calls at some of the world’s most exciting cities - we’re sure you’ll find something special to satisfy your wanderlust. Underlying all these experiences is the attentive, intuitive and thoughtful service of the Arcadia and Aurora crew. It all adds to the perfect package for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury cruise experience.

Arcadia combines the chic with the classic, a relaxed pace and stylish surroundings. She’s won the hearts of all who have sailed on her thanks to her relaxed and intimate atmosphere, classic elegance and array of features designed for pampering and indulgence. Mid-sized Aurora is a world-class ship that brings the joys of classic cruise travel to all. She was the first ship in the fleet to sport a blue funnel and the Union flag design on her bow. Best known for her world cruises, she offers an idyllic cruising experience with fine dining, superb cinema and theatre, and friendly bars.

Here's what's included with P&O Cruises
  • Comfortable, well-appointed accommodation
  • Twice-daily cabin serviced by your cabin attendant
  • Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner onboard at buffet & main restaurants, plus pool-side snacks and a five-course Gala Dinner by Marco Pierre White
    • Tea, coffee & fruit juices also included at selected times
  • Dazzling shows, live bands, comedians and more at onboard theatres and lounges
  • Age-specific child and teens clubs on family-friendly ships (Britannia, Ventura, Iona, Azura)
  • Access to expansive gyms, equipped with Technogym machines and free weights. Selected fitness classes are included
  • Access to pools and whirlpool spas. Some pools are adult-only. Selected ships have retractable Skydomes for swimming in all weathers
  • Saunas & steam rooms in the Oasis Spa
  • Football, basketball and deck tennis in the enclosed sports court, plus access to the golf nets
  • Dance classes - pick up some new moves and learn to Salsa, Cha-Cha, Foxtrot or line dance
  • Shuttle busses in port - complimentary for all where necessary to exit the port
    • In other destinations, shuttle busses are included for Select Price holidays
    • If you have booked on Early Saver or Saver price, they will be available at an extra cost
  • Flights and transfers (on fly-cruise holidays)
  • Tips - tips are neither expected or required

P&O Cruises Short Break Holidays

P&O Cruises Short Break Holidays

Here’s a flavour of some of the fantastic places you can visit on one of P&O Cruises Short Breaks. And don’t forget, they offer a wide range of exciting shore excursions at almost every port of call.

St Peter Port, Guernsey. A busy port since Roman times and one-time home of Victor Hugo, Guernsey's capital, St Peter Port, is the prettiest town in the Channel Islands with fine Georgian and Regency houses, tumbling terraced gardens, winding streets and hidden leafy alleyways. The best way to discover the true beauty of Guernsey is on foot, exploring the Ruettes - tranquil, quiet lanes that are dedicated to walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Hamburg, Germany. On the banks of the Elbe River, 70 miles inland from Travemünde, lies the city of Hamburg. Germany’s second-largest city is bursting with centuries of maritime heritage: a key Hanseatic port in the Middle Ages, today it’s an irresistibly cool blend of old and new, with a buzzing nightlife of brewhouses, cocktail bars and clubs. With more than 2,300 bridges (more than Venice, London and Amsterdam combined) and many parks (it's one of Germany's greenest cities), Hamburg is a delight to explore.

Le Havre, France. With a sweeping beach, thriving shopping centres and attractive docksides to explore, Le Havre has a lot to offer. This bustling French port serves up memorable sights from across the ages. The modern city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its spectacular post-war reconstruction by Auguste Perret. For more works of art, visit MuMa (the Museum of Modern Art) where Monet's Waterlilies float alongside many Impressionist masterpieces.

Amsterdam (from IJmuiden), The Netherlands. Amsterdam is a uniquely beautiful city with its picturesque canal network, rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Amsterdam’s neighbourhoods offer distinctive atmospheres. The city’s famous red light district in De Wallen has a unique charm and history of its own – and standing proud in its midst is Oude Kerk (the Old Church), the city’s oldest building dating back to the 1200s. Capture its true spirit by exploring the narrow winding streets, bustling bars and eclectic shops of Joordan, its fascinating old district. Visit Leidseplein Square with its street performers and ice skating rink surrounded by lovely food stalls. Amsterdam Noord, meanwhile, has blossomed into a cultural hipster hub. The charming ‘village in the city’ is a green and family-friendly place for pottering with fun activities, street markets and fresh foodie venues.

Zeebrugge, Belgium. Understand that Zeebrugge literally means Bruges-on-Sea and you immediately appreciate why this ferry port is also Belgium's major cruise port. A medieval jewel on the North Sea, the charming city of Bruges is just 10 miles away. Sometimes called the Venice of the North because of the picturesque criss-crossing canals on which you can enjoy fascinating and romantic boat rides, Bruges actually has a character all its own.

Cherbourg, France. Now officially known as Cherbourg-Octeville, having formed a union with the smaller city in 2000, Cherbourg cruise port has long been a gateway between Britain and France. Well worth a visit is Cherbourg's aquarium, allowing visitors to explore the many facets of underwater exploration. Another must see is the Gothic-style Benedictine Abbey Mont St Michel, perched on a rocky islet near the port. Alternatively simply sit at a traditional French café and enjoy a drink while watching the boats as they come and go from the harbour.

P&O Cruises Fare Types

P&O Cruises Fare Types Explained

P&O Cruises offer three different price types:

Select Price: This offers the most choice and flexibility

  • Choice of cabin location and priority for upgrades (subject to availability)
  • First priority for dining on ships offering both freedom & Club Dining, and first priority for seating time and table size for Club Dining
  • A choice of on-board spending money, car parking in Southampton or return coach travel to Southampton on round-trip cruises (applies to sailings of 7nts and above)
  • Shuttle busses in port (where they are provided by P&O Cruises)
  • Flexibility to change your booking

Early Saver: Offers a great price but without Select Price benefits

  • Available on selected grades. Your cabin number will be assigned by P&O Cruises
  • Possible upgrades (where and if available, after non-Saver bookings)
  • Your preference for desired dining style, time and table size will be noted but cannot be guaranteed
  • Flexibility to change your booking

Saver: Great for deal-seekers to get a last-minute holiday

  • Only available on selected cruises, at selected times,
  • Available on selected grades only. Your cabin number will be assigned by P&O Cruises and cannot be changed once allocated
  • Dining allocated on boarding
  • Full balance payable at the time of booking
  • 100% cancellation fee if cancelled at any time before sailing

European Christmas Markets

European Christmas Markets from £171

Soak up the atmosphere at some of the best Christmas markets in Europe

Brighten up your December as you sail in November and December to experience the Christmas markets of Europe. Sip gluhwein in the traditional markets in Germany and Belgium, shop for local crafts in the Scandinavian and Baltic offerings, or get some holiday cheer with a side of sunshine in Spain and Portugal.

Plus, cruising in the holidays is a real treat. Cruise lines make a great effort to decorate their ships and infuse the spirit of the festive season with special menus at restaurants and bars, lavish decorations, and themed entertainment. Tis' the season to be jolly, after all!

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