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What is included in a P&O cruise fare (UK, 2026 guide)

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-10-21 · 11 min read

Couple on deck of a P&O Cruises ship at sunset looking over the sea

Planning a 2026 holiday with P&O Cruises? This UK guide explains what your fare typically includes (accommodation, dining, entertainment and activities) and what you’ll likely pay extra for (drinks, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, spa and shore experiences). It also covers fare types, budgeting tactics and decision tables for different traveller styles.

If you’re asking what is included in P&O cruise fare, you’re not alone. It’s one of the biggest planning questions UK travellers face before booking. The short answer is that your fare generally covers your accommodation, main dining, entertainment and a broad programme of onboard activities, with optional extras like drinks, speciality dining, spa treatments, Wi‑Fi and shore experiences charged separately. The precise inclusions can vary by ship, itinerary and the fare you choose, so use this guide as a planning framework and always confirm the details on P&O’s official site before you pay your balance in 2026.

A typical P&O fare bundles your cabin, main dining, entertainment and many daytime activities into one price, then lets you add extras like drinks, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, spa and shore experiences if you wish. Always check your specific sailing and booking confirmation for the final word.

What your P&O fare usually covers

According to P&O Cruises’ official information, the core of your fare is the cruise itself: your cabin accommodation, a choice of included dining options, entertainment in venues like theatres and lounges, and access to pools plus an extensive roster of onboard activities. This is the foundation of the cruise holiday and is what many UK travellers mean when they say a cruise is “great value” compared with piecing together a hotel, meals and shows on land. However, even within these headline inclusions, the exact line-up of venues, show formats and activities can vary with the ship you choose, the itinerary and the time of year. Editorial view: think of your fare as an excellent full-board base with plentiful entertainment baked in—then layer on optional extras to suit your style and budget.

Cabin accommodation for the duration of your cruise
A choice of included dining options (for example, main dining rooms and selected casual venues)
Theatre-style and lounge entertainment scheduled by the ship
Access to pools and general recreation areas on board
A programme of onboard activities curated by the ship’s team
Port charges and taxes applicable to your itinerary (normally wrapped into your fare)
Embarkation and disembarkation services in the homeport (fly-cruise arrangements vary—see below)

Note: Specific venues and activity lists differ by ship and sailing. Always check your booking confirmation and the official P&O pages for your cruise.

What costs extra on a P&O cruise

P&O’s official pages separate what’s included in your fare from items usually purchased on top. Common extras include most alcoholic and premium soft drinks, speciality dining venues with a cover charge, spa and salon treatments, shore experiences booked through the cruise line, Wi‑Fi/internet packages, photos, laundry, retail purchases, casino play and any medical services you might need on board. These items are optional and entirely up to your preferences. Traveller-dependent preference: some guests keep extras minimal and lean into the included dining and entertainment; others treat the ship as a resort and add packages, treatments and several excursions. Either approach is valid—just plan your budget accordingly and confirm current pricing and terms directly with P&O before sailing.

Drinks beyond any included options (alcoholic beverages, speciality coffees, premium soft drinks)
Speciality dining venues and tasting experiences
Spa and salon treatments, and any paid wellbeing experiences
Shore experiences (ship-run excursions) and private tours ashore
Wi‑Fi/internet packages and call roaming costs
Photos and photo packages
Laundry and pressing services
Retail purchases and art auctions
Casino play and gaming tournaments
Medical consultations or medicines supplied by the ship’s medical centre

Tip: Build a simple category list for your party. If an item’s “nice to have”, assign a flexible budget cap in £ and track it on board.

Dining on P&O: included vs speciality

P&O differentiates between included dining and speciality dining with an extra charge. Included dining typically features the main dining rooms and selected casual venues, giving you a wide choice each day without paying more. Speciality restaurants, chef’s tables or other premium experiences are optional chargeable add-ons. The precise line-up and booking rules can vary by ship, so check your specific sailing. If you’re eyeing one of P&O’s newest ships, our Iona-specific overview highlights how to think about what’s included versus paid experiences on that class of ship: see What’s included on Iona (2026) and Iona restaurants and dining (2026). For a broader cross-line refresher, you may also find What is included in a cruise fare (UK) helpful for context, though always defer to your P&O booking confirmation for the final word.

Drinks and packages: how to decide what you need

P&O separates most drinks from the base fare. Many guests buy drinks as they go; others prefer the predictability of a drinks package if available on their sailing. Package contents, pricing and availability can change, so confirm the details on your P&O booking portal before purchase. For deeper background from a UK perspective, see our guides: P&O drinks packages 2026 – full guide and Are P&O’s drinks packages worth it?. Editorial assessment: packages can be good value for travellers with steady, daily consumption across soft drinks, speciality coffees or alcoholic beverages; they’re less compelling if your party drinks very little or prefers mostly included options during meals.

<table><thead><tr><th>Traveller type</th><th>Package likely to help?</th><th>What to check on your booking</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Tea/coffee sippers, minimal alcohol</td><td>Often no; pay as you go may cost less</td><td>Which non-alcoholic drinks are included in dining venues; per-drink menu prices</td></tr><tr><td>Couple enjoying daily wines/cocktails</td><td>Possibly yes if daily consumption is consistent</td><td>Daily drink limits, included categories, any sharing rules and service charge treatment</td></tr><tr><td>Family focused on soft drinks and mocktails</td><td>Varies; can help if teens want regular sodas/milkshakes</td><td>Child/teen package options, inclusions, terms and any excluded items</td></tr><tr><td>Port-intensive itinerary with many long days ashore</td><td>Often no; you may not use package enough</td><td>Number of sea days vs port days; your typical ashore schedule</td></tr><tr><td>Sea-day-heavy cruise where you relax on board</td><td>More likely yes</td><td>What counts toward package, venue availability, opening times</td></tr></tbody></table>

Entertainment and activities: plenty included

P&O’s fare includes theatre-style shows and a wide range of daytime and evening activities. While the line-up shifts between ships and seasons, you can expect a busy programme with live music, hosted activities and decktime staples. Objective fact: the official “What’s included” and “Cruise dining/Onboard activities” pages position entertainment and activities as core parts of the fare. Traveller-dependent preference: some guests plan their evenings around headline shows; others prefer quieter lounges or deck strolls. Both are “free” paths within the included experience—build your schedule to suit your mood.

Wi‑Fi and connectivity: usually an extra

Internet access is generally a paid add-on with P&O, with packages and speeds varying by ship and sailing. Because coverage, pricing and terms can change, check your specific voyage on the official site before purchasing. Money-saving approach: download films, playlists and ebooks at home; set apps for offline use; and decide whose devices truly need an onboard plan. If you only need the occasional message or email, topping up with a small package (if available) or using free Wi‑Fi ashore may be more efficient. Always consider your mobile provider’s roaming terms before using mobile data in port.

Shore experiences: ship tour or DIY?

Shore experiences sold by P&O are optional and priced separately. Ship-run excursions offer convenience and curated itineraries; independent touring can be cheaper or more personalised, but it requires more planning and timekeeping. Editorial assessment: choose ship tours if you prize simplicity or if the port involves significant travel inland; go DIY in compact ports where the sights are close and you’re comfortable navigating. Either way, build a buffer for returning to the ship on time and confirm tender or docking arrangements for your specific call (these can affect your timings).

Spa, gym and wellbeing: what to expect

P&O’s spa and salon treatments are optional extras. Access to fitness facilities and any thermal or relaxation areas can vary by ship and may carry a fee; check your voyage details. Traveller tip: if a thermal area pass is available and you plan to use it daily, compare a multi-day pass with pay-per-visit costs before you decide. If you simply want to stay active, pack gym kit and walking shoes—many guests count onboard laps and port walks as their no-cost wellbeing routine.

Service charges and your onboard account

Cruise lines handle service charges and gratuities in different ways, and policies can change. Before you sail with P&O in 2026, read your booking confirmation and the official help pages to see how service is handled on your specific cruise, including any automatic charges or tips on bar bills and packages. To understand the topic from a UK perspective, see our explainer: Can you remove gratuities on a P&O cruise?. Objective advice: set alerts or check your onboard account regularly via the app or kiosks so there are no surprises on the final morning.

Flights, transfers and joining/leaving your ship

For fly‑cruises, P&O’s official “joining and leaving your ship” information explains how flights and transfers are handled. Do not assume they are included by default—arrangements can differ by fare and itinerary. When comparing options in 2026, check whether your chosen package includes flights, whether transfers between airport and ship are provided, and what baggage limits apply. If you’re arranging flights independently, allow extra time cushions for delays and verify embarkation cut-off times on your booking.

Fare types overview: Select Price vs Saver (and why it matters)

P&O offers different fare structures, commonly including options such as Select Price and Saver-style fares. The trade-offs—such as flexibility, cabin allocation rules, promotional add-ons or other conditions—are explained on the official “Our prices explained” page and can differ by sailing. Editorial guidance: decide first what matters most to you (flexibility, choice, or the lowest headline fare), then read P&O’s fare descriptions for your exact cruise. For a UK traveller’s perspective on typical differences, see P&O Select Price vs Early Saver—but always defer to the fare wording in your 2026 P&O booking for the specifics.

<table><thead><tr><th>Priority</th><th>Often a better fit</th><th>What to verify on P&O’s site</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Predictability and specific preferences</td><td>A fare with more defined choices and benefits</td><td>How cabin assignment works, any date-change rules, onboard credit or extras</td></tr><tr><td>Lowest headline price</td><td>A Saver-style fare</td><td>Allocation timing, change/cancellation rules, any limits on preferences</td></tr><tr><td>Promotional inclusions (when offered)</td><td>Whichever fare shows the inclusion you value</td><td>Promotion terms, applicable dates, and whether it applies to your cabin type</td></tr><tr><td>Flexibility if plans shift</td><td>A fare with more flexible conditions</td><td>Fees, deadlines and refund/transfer terms for your sailing</td></tr></tbody></table>

Budgeting for a P&O cruise: a smart UK framework

Rather than guessing at a grand total, build a category budget for your party in pounds. Start with what’s included (fare covers your accommodation, main dining, entertainment, pools and activities), then assign optional pots: drinks, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, spa, excursions, retail, photos and a contingency for surprises. Editorial assessment: port-intensive holidays usually drive higher spend on shore experiences and lower spend on drinks; sea-day-heavy voyages often flip that pattern. Check your itinerary and sea-day/port-day balance to set realistic caps, and keep an eye on your onboard account mid-cruise so you can adjust.

Map your itinerary: count sea days vs port days—this drives onboard vs ashore spending.
List extras that matter to you: drinks, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, spa, excursions, retail, photos.
Set a per-category cap in £ and note who in the party is covered (e.g., adults vs teens for soft drinks).
Decide on any packages only after reviewing what’s included on your specific booking and your daily habits.
Pre-book what can sell out (popular excursions, speciality dining slots) to avoid last-minute premium choices.
Download media and switch apps to offline mode to limit Wi‑Fi needs.
Check your onboard account every couple of days; reallocate budget if one category is running hot.
Keep a small contingency pot for unexpected costs (e.g., a must-do tour that appears last minute).

Traveller-type recommendations (editorial)

Different travellers value different parts of the fare. Below are editorial suggestions to help UK guests shape spend without losing the magic of a cruise. Remember, these are preferences—there’s no single “right” way. Families may get great value from included dining and entertainment while budgeting for soft drinks or kid-friendly excursions. Couples often blend included meals with one or two speciality “date nights”. Solo travellers tend to value connectivity and low-fuss dining. Multigenerational groups benefit from early planning so everyone understands what’s included, what’s extra, and how shared costs will be handled. For a ship-specific lens on a large, modern vessel, see What’s included on Iona (2026).

<table><thead><tr><th>Traveller type</th><th>Likely budget hotspots</th><th>Strategies to stay on track</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Families with children</td><td>Soft drinks, snacks, simple shore trips</td><td>Use included dining as your default; consider a soft-drinks plan if available and worthwhile; choose short, child-friendly excursions</td></tr><tr><td>Couples on a short break</td><td>Speciality dining, cocktails, spa time</td><td>Pick one or two treat experiences; balance with included venues on other days; pre-book spa only if you’ll truly use it</td></tr><tr><td>Solo travellers</td><td>Wi‑Fi, coffees, low-key excursions</td><td>Plan an essential connectivity package if needed; leverage included activities to meet people; choose DIY walks in easy ports</td></tr><tr><td>Friends’ getaway</td><td>Bars, late-night snacks, sea-day lounging</td><td>Compare a drinks package vs à la carte based on real habits; schedule included lunches; split a speciality dinner across the trip</td></tr><tr><td>Explorers on port-heavy itineraries</td><td>Excursions, transport, entrance fees</td><td>Prioritise a few must-do guided tours; go DIY in easy ports; keep onboard extras light on port days</td></tr></tbody></table>

Sources and verification (checked 21 October 2026)

Objective facts in this guide are based on P&O Cruises’ official pages current at the research date. P&O’s prices, packages, promotions, ship facilities, dining arrangements, flights and transfers can change. Always verify your exact sailing, fare and booking terms directly with P&O before payment.

See official P&O sources in 2026 (open in a new tab):
- https://www.pocruises.com/help-hub/centre/booking-a-cruise/prices/whats-included
- https://www.pocruises.com/our-prices-explained
- https://www.pocruises.com/new-to-cruising/whats-included
- https://www.pocruises.com/deals/promotion-terms-and-conditions
- https://www.pocruises.com/onboard-activities/cruise-dining
- https://www.pocruises.com/essential-information/joining-and-leaving-your-ship

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included on a P&O cruise?

Yes—P&O’s official pages state that your fare includes a choice of dining options such as main dining rooms and selected casual venues. Exact venues and meal formats vary by ship and itinerary, so check your booking details. Speciality restaurants, chef’s tables or premium experiences generally carry an extra charge. For a ship-specific view of a large, contemporary vessel, see our Iona guides: What’s included on Iona (2026) and Iona restaurants and dining (2026).

Are drinks included on P&O, and do I need a drinks package?

Most alcoholic and premium soft drinks are typically charged separately. Whether you need a package depends on your habits and the package terms for your sailing, which can change. Review your booking on the official site before you buy. For detailed UK guidance, see P&O drinks packages 2026 – full guide and Are P&O’s drinks packages worth it?.

Is Wi‑Fi included in a P&O cruise fare?

Wi‑Fi is usually an optional extra. Packages, speeds and pricing can vary by ship and sailing. If you only need occasional connectivity, you may save by using a small plan (if offered) and relying on offline downloads. Always check the current options and terms for your exact cruise on the official P&O website before purchase.

Are gratuities included on P&O?

Service charge policies can change and may differ by sailing. Read your booking confirmation and the official help pages for how service is handled on your specific cruise, including any automatic charges on bar bills or daily service charges if applicable. For more context, see our explainer: Can you remove gratuities on a P&O cruise.

Are flights and transfers included on P&O fly‑cruises?

It depends on the package you choose. P&O’s “joining and leaving your ship” pages explain arrangements for flights and transfers, which can vary. Do not assume inclusion—check your individual booking, including any airport-to-ship transfers and baggage allowances, before you pay.

What entertainment is included on a P&O cruise?

P&O’s fare includes theatre-style entertainment and a wide mix of daytime and evening activities. Specific shows and line-ups vary by ship and itinerary. Treat the published examples as illustrative, not guaranteed, and confirm details for your cruise in the app or daily programme once on board.

Do I have to pay for shore excursions on P&O?

Yes—shore experiences sold by P&O are optional and charged separately. You can also explore ports independently if you prefer. Consider a ship tour for complex or long-distance sights and DIY exploration for walkable towns. Always keep an eye on time and verify tender/docking details for your specific call.

What is speciality dining on P&O, and is it worth it?

Speciality dining refers to optional restaurants or premium experiences that charge a cover fee. Whether it’s “worth it” is subjective—many guests enjoy one or two speciality meals as a treat while relying on the included venues for everyday dining. Check menus, cover charges and cancellation terms for your sailing, and consider booking popular slots early.

Can a P&O cruise be all‑inclusive?

Your base fare is not all‑inclusive. Occasionally, promotions or packages may bundle certain inclusions, but these vary and are subject to change. Refer to P&O’s current “Promotion terms and conditions” and your booking confirmation in 2026 to see exactly what’s included on your chosen fare.

How do I keep my onboard spend under control with P&O?

Use included dining as your default, decide early whether a drinks package suits your real habits, download media to limit Wi‑Fi needs, pre-book only high-priority excursions, and check your onboard account every couple of days. Create simple £ caps per category (drinks, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, spa, excursions) and stick to them. For broader context on inclusions across lines, see What is included in a cruise fare.