Can I transfer a reservation on P&O Cruises?

Booking a cruise holiday is an exciting moment filled with anticipation. However, life is unpredictable, and circumstances may arise that prevent you from traveling as planned. A common concern among passengers is: Can I transfer a reservation on P&O Cruises to another person or a different sailing?

The answer depends on the type of fare, timing, and P&O Cruises’ policies. Some reservations are more flexible than others, and while certain changes may be allowed, others may involve strict fees or even complete restrictions.

This guide provides a comprehensive 3,000-word overview of how transfers work on P&O Cruises. We’ll explore when transfers are allowed, what conditions apply, potential costs, and strategies to handle booking changes without losing money.

Understanding P&O Cruises Reservation Policies

Fare Types Matter

The ability to transfer a reservation depends heavily on the fare you booked:

• Saver Fare – Usually the cheapest but the most restrictive. Transfers may not be permitted.

• Early Saver Fare – Offers limited flexibility. Some changes may be possible with fees.

• Select Fare – More expensive but provides the greatest flexibility for changes and transfers.

• Special Promotions – Flash sales and discounts often come with no-transfer conditions.

Who You Booked With

• Direct with P&O Cruises – Subject to standard terms and conditions.

• Through a Travel Agent – Agents may offer additional support or flexibility when handling transfers.

Can You Transfer a P&O Cruises Reservation?

Transferring to Another Person

In most cases, you can transfer your booking to another traveler, provided you do so well in advance of departure and pay any applicable fees. This process is often referred to as a name change.

• Advance Notice Required – Transfers must usually be requested several weeks before sailing.

• Fees Apply – An administration fee is typically charged per person.

• Fare Conditions Apply – Saver fares may not allow name transfers at all.

Transferring to a Different Cruise Date

Switching your booking to another sailing is more complicated. Often, this is treated as a cancellation of your current booking and a new reservation for the new date. This means:

• Loss of deposit

• Cancellation charges depending on timing

• Possible fare differences if the new cruise is more expensive

Transferring to a Different Travel Agent

P&O Cruises sometimes allows reservations made directly with them to be transferred to a travel agent within a set number of days (often 30 days). After that, the booking remains locked with the original seller.

Costs and Fees for Transferring Reservations

Standard Fees

• Name Change Fees – Approximately £50–£100 per person (varies by cruise).

• Date Change Fees – Treated as a cancellation; penalties can range from loss of deposit up to 100% of the fare.

• Travel Agent Transfers – Typically free if done within the allowed timeframe.

Cancellation Scale (Approximate Example)

• 90+ days before departure – Loss of deposit only

• 89–57 days – 50% of fare charged

• 56–42 days – 60–75% charged

• 41 days or less – 100% charged

Steps to Transfer a Reservation

1: Review Your Fare Terms

Read your booking confirmation and P&O Cruises’ terms and conditions.

 2: Contact Customer Service or Your Travel Agent

Explain your situation and ask about transfer eligibility.

 3: Pay Applicable Fees

If allowed, you’ll need to settle the administration fee or cancellation penalty.

Step 4: Confirm New Details

Ensure all updated names, dates, and booking numbers are correct.

Step 5: Receive Updated Confirmation

Keep documentation of the transfer for future reference.

Tips to Minimize Costs When Transferring

1. Book Flexible Fares

Select fares may be pricier upfront but save money later if you need changes.

2. Act Early

Transfers made months before sailing are cheaper than last-minute requests.

3. Use Travel Insurance

If you cannot travel due to illness, injury, or emergencies, insurance may cover penalties.

4. Consider Future Cruise Credit

Instead of a direct transfer, you might apply your booking as credit toward another sailing.

5. Work Through an Agent

Travel agents often have more leverage to negotiate with cruise lines.

Alternatives to Transferring a Reservation

• Cancellation and Rebooking – Sometimes unavoidable if your fare doesn’t allow transfers.

• Future Cruise Credit – A common solution during disruptions like pandemics.

• Partial Transfers – Change passenger names without altering the whole booking.

• Selling Your Cruise – Some passengers legally transfer bookings to others, provided P&O approves.

FAQs About P&O Cruises Reservation Transfers

Can I transfer my reservation to a family member?

Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay a name change fee.

Can I transfer my booking to a different sailing for free?

No, this is treated as a cancellation and rebooking, which involves charges.

What happens if I booked a Saver fare?

Saver fares typically don’t allow transfers, making them less flexible.

Can I transfer a booking close to departure?

Not usually. Transfers must be made well in advance.

Is travel insurance required for transfers?

It’s not required but highly recommended to protect your booking.

 can you transfer a reservation on P&O Cruises?

The answer depends on what kind of transfer you want.

• Transferring to another person – Possible with fees and conditions.

• Transferring to another date – Treated as a cancellation and rebooking, which can be costly.

• Transferring to a travel agent – Sometimes allowed within 30 days of booking.

The smartest way to manage your booking is to act early, choose flexible fares, and protect your trip with travel insurance. By understanding the rules and planning ahead, you can transfer your reservation smoothly while avoiding unnecessary costs.