How can I contact P&O Cruises by email?

When planning or experiencing a cruise, questions and issues can arise at any time—whether it’s about a booking change, special requests, or post-cruise support. P&O Cruises, one of the oldest and most popular cruise lines, offers a range of customer service channels. While many guests prefer phone calls for urgent queries, email remains a trusted and convenient way to reach P&O Cruises.

The benefit of contacting P&O Cruises by email is that it provides a written record of your request, allows you to attach supporting documents, and gives you the freedom to reach out anytime, from anywhere.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:

Why you might prefer email communication with P&O Cruises
The different email options available (direct, forms, and departmental)
Step-by-step instructions on writing an effective email
What kinds of queries are best handled via email
Typical response times and troubleshooting delays
Alternatives to email if you need urgent help

By the end, you’ll have a complete roadmap for contacting P&O Cruises by email and ensuring your concerns are addressed efficiently.

Why Contact P&O Cruises by Email?

Before looking at where and how to email, it’s important to understand why so many guests use this method of communication.

1. Flexibility

You can send an email at any hour, regardless of time zones.

2. Written Record

Emails serve as documented evidence of requests, complaints, or agreements.

3. Attachments Support

You can include PDFs, receipts, medical documents, or photos.

4. Avoid Long Hold Times

Instead of waiting on phone lines during peak hours, emails allow you to explain your concern clearly in one go.

5. International Communication

For travelers abroad, email avoids expensive international call rates.

Email Options for Contacting P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises doesn’t always publish a single generic email for all guests. Instead, they guide passengers to specific contact forms and departmental addresses depending on the issue.

1. Main Contact Form (Preferred)

Found on the P&O Cruises official website under “Contact Us.”
Functions like an email submission system.
Routes your query directly to the right department (bookings, accessibility, payments).

2. Special Needs Department Email

Guests with accessibility or medical requirements can request direct contact with P&O’s Special Assistance Team.
Typically shared after you fill out a needs request form.

3. Post-Cruise Assistance Email

After disembarkation, feedback and complaints can often be submitted via email through the Guest Relations team.

4. Travel Agent Email Pathway

If you booked via an agency, you should email your travel agent first.
They forward your query through their official P&O Cruises agent channels.

How to Write an Effective Email to P&O Cruises

Writing the right kind of email helps you get faster and clearer replies.

Subject Line Tips

Include your Booking Reference Number.
Mention the issue in a few words.

Examples:

“Booking AB123 – Dietary Request”
“Post-Cruise Complaint – Ship Ventura – July 2025”
“Wheelchair Rental Enquiry – Confirmation CD456”

Body Structure

Greeting
- Dear P&O Cruises Guest Support Team,
Passenger & Booking Details
- Full name(s)
- Booking reference number
- Ship name and sailing date
Main Query/Request
- Be concise and specific.
- Break complex issues into bullet points.
Attachments
- Mention documents if included. Example: “Attached is my doctor’s certificate for dietary needs.”
Closing
- Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your response.
Signature
- Full name, contact number, and email address.

Types of Queries Best Suited for Email

Not every issue is ideal for email. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Booking Queries

Linking reservations together.
Updating passenger names (if permitted).
Requesting invoices or receipts.

2. Special Assistance

Wheelchair rental.
Dietary requirements.
Medical equipment arrangements.

3. Payment and Balance Issues

Proof of payment.
Queries about outstanding balances.
Refund follow-ups.

4. Excursions and Onboard Services

Excursion booking confirmation.
Spa or specialty dining arrangements.
Celebratory event requests.

5. Post-Cruise Matters

Complaints.
Lost property claims.
Loyalty points updates.

Sample Email Templates

Here are some ready-to-use structures:

A. Booking Clarification Email

Subject: Booking AB123 – Cabin Upgrade Enquiry

Body:Dear P&O Cruises Team,

I am writing regarding my upcoming cruise on Britannia departing on 20 June 2025. My booking reference is AB123. I would like to check if there are any cabin upgrade options available.

Thank you for your assistance.

Kind regards,[Your Full Name][Your Contact Number]

B. Special Assistance Email

Subject: Booking CD456 – Wheelchair Rental Request

Body:Dear Special Assistance Team,

My name is [Your Name], and I will be sailing on Ventura on 12 July 2025. My booking reference is CD456. I require a wheelchair rental for the duration of my cruise.

Please let me know the availability, rental cost, and reservation process. I have attached my doctor’s note for reference.

Sincerely,[Your Full Name]

C. Post-Cruise Complaint Email

Subject: Post-Cruise Feedback – Ship Aurora – September 2025

Body:Dear Guest Relations,

I recently returned from a cruise on Aurora (Booking EF789, sailing 3–10 September 2025). While I enjoyed many aspects of the trip, I would like to provide feedback regarding the dining service on Deck 7.

Details of my experience are included in the attached document.

Thank you for taking the time to review my feedback.

Kind regards,[Your Full Name]

How Long Does It Take to Get a Reply?

P&O Cruises typically responds to email queries within 3–5 business days. However:

Peak Seasons (holiday times) may extend replies up to 7–10 days.
Urgent Issues (boarding, last-minute cancellations) should always be handled via phone, not email.

Common Problems with Email Contact

1. No Reply After a Week

Check spam/junk folder.
Follow up with a polite reminder.

2. Wrong Department

Submitting to the wrong team can delay replies. Use the website form to avoid misdirection.

3. Missing Booking Number

Without your confirmation number, staff cannot quickly locate your booking.

4. Attachment Errors

Ensure documents are in PDF, JPEG, or Word formats under 5MB.

Alternatives to Email

Sometimes, you may need faster or different methods:

1. Phone Support

Best for urgent boarding or cancellation issues.

2. Live Chat

Available on the P&O Cruises website for instant assistance.

3. Social Media

Facebook and Twitter teams often respond quickly.

4. Postal Mail

For formal complaints, letters can also be sent to the P&O Cruises head office.

FAQs About Contacting P&O Cruises by Email

Can I email P&O Cruises directly without the web form?

Yes, in some cases—but the form ensures correct routing.

Is email the fastest way to reach P&O Cruises?

No. Phone calls are faster, but email is better for non-urgent, documented requests.

Can travel agents email P&O Cruises on my behalf?

Yes, especially if you booked through them.

Do I need to include my Peninsular Club number in emails?

Not required, but including it can help identify your loyalty account.

What should I do if I don’t receive a reply at all?

Follow up via phone or live chat after 7–10 days.

P&O Cruises by email

Reaching P&O Cruises by email is straightforward, efficient, and beneficial for non-urgent matters that require clear documentation. Whether it’s a request for wheelchair assistance, a booking update, or feedback after your voyage, email provides a reliable channel with the added advantage of written proof.

To recap:

Use the Contact Form on the official P&O Cruises site for best routing.
Always include your booking reference number.
Expect replies within 3–5 business days.
For urgent matters, switch to phone or live chat.

By using email thoughtfully, you ensure smoother communication with P&O Cruises and make your cruise journey more enjoyable and stress-free.