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How do I do online check-in on P&O Cruises?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 18 September 2025
  • 7 min read

How do I do online check-in on P&O Cruises?

P&O Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines in the UK, offering unforgettable experiences on the seas. Whether it’s a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a group adventure, preparing for your cruise is just as important as the journey itself. One of the first steps in your cruise preparation is online check-in.

Online check-in allows passengers to submit their travel documents, personal information, and cruise preferences before arriving at the port. Completing this process early can save time, reduce stress, and even help you secure preferred dining times and cabin arrangements.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about online check-in on P&O Cruises, including step-by-step instructions, required documents, troubleshooting, benefits, and frequently asked questions.

Why Online Check-In is Important

Online check-in is more than just a formality. It plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth embarkation experience.

Benefits of Online Check-In

  • Faster BoardingCompleting check-in online reduces the time spent in queues at the port. You can go directly to security or boarding if everything is in order.

  • Secure Travel DocumentsBy submitting passport and visa information ahead of time, P&O Cruises ensures compliance with immigration requirements.

  • Cabin and Dining PreferencesPassengers can select dining times, make special meal requests, and indicate cabin preferences when they check in online.

  • Personalized Cruise ExperienceOnline check-in allows you to provide special requests for celebrations, accessibility needs, or additional onboard services.

  • Compliance with Travel RegulationsCompleting online check-in ensures all necessary documentation is verified, avoiding last-minute complications at the port.

Requirements for Online Check-In

Before you begin the online check-in process, you’ll need a few essential items and details.

Essential Documents

  1. Booking Reference Number – Found in your confirmation email.

  2. Passport or ID Information – Valid for international travel.

  3. Visa Documents – If your itinerary requires visas for any port of call.

  4. Travel Insurance Details – Some cruises may request your policy information.

  5. Emergency Contact Information – Name, phone number, and address.

Technical Requirements

  • Internet-enabled device (computer, tablet, or smartphone)

  • Valid email address

  • Access to the official P&O Cruises website

Guide to Online Check-In

Completing your online check-in is a simple process if you follow these steps carefully.

 1: Log in to Your Booking

  1. Visit the official P&O Cruises website.

  2. Click on “Manage My Booking” or “My Account.”

  3. Enter your booking reference number and surname.

This step ensures that your reservation is retrieved and linked to your profile.

2: Review Your Booking

Once logged in, carefully review your reservation details, including:

  • Cabin type and location

  • Passenger information

  • Sailing dates

  • Dining preferences

Make any necessary corrections to ensure accuracy.

 3: Complete Personal Information

You will be prompted to provide or confirm personal details, including:

  • Full name (as it appears on your passport or ID)

  • Date of birth

  • Nationality

  • Passport or ID number

  • Expiry date of documents

Accuracy is crucial because discrepancies can cause delays at embarkation.

 4: Add Travel Documentation

Upload or enter information for all required travel documents. This may include:

  • Passport scan or photo

  • Visa details (if applicable)

  • Travel insurance information

Ensure the documents are clear and legible to avoid verification delays.

 5: Set Dining Preferences

P&O Cruises allows you to choose your preferred dining arrangements during online check-in:

  • Traditional Dining – Pre-assigned times with the same table each evening

  • Freedom Dining – Flexible times based on availability

  • Special Requests – Dietary needs, allergies, or special meals

Confirm your selections carefully.

 6: Emergency Contact Information

Provide contact details for someone not traveling with you. Include:

  • Name

  • Relationship

  • Phone number

  • Email address

This information is crucial for safety and emergency communication.

7: Pre-Pay Onboard Expenses (Optional)

Some passengers choose to pre-load their onboard account during online check-in. This allows for easy payments for:

  • Drinks packages

  • Specialty dining

  • Shore excursions

  • Spa treatments

This step is optional but highly recommended for convenience.

Step 8: Confirm and Submit

Once all information is completed, carefully review your entries. After confirming accuracy:

  • Click Submit to complete online check-in

  • You should receive a confirmation email or digital receipt

  • Some cruises allow printing or downloading your boarding pass

Tips for a Smooth Online Check-In

Complete Check-In Early

P&O Cruises generally opens online check-in up to 30 days before departure. Completing it early ensures smoother boarding.

Double-Check Document Accuracy

Even minor errors in passport numbers or names can cause issues at the port.

Keep Digital Copies

Save all confirmation emails and digital boarding passes for easy access.

Contact Customer Service if Needed

If you encounter problems, P&O Cruises customer service can assist with document uploads, booking corrections, or technical issues.

Ensure Browser Compatibility

Use updated browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari for best results. Avoid mobile apps if they do not fully support document uploads.

Common Issues During Online Check-In

Even with a step-by-step guide, passengers sometimes experience challenges.

Error Messages

These may appear due to:

  • Incorrect booking reference

  • Network or server issues

  • Missing or incompatible document formats

Incorrect Passport or Visa Information

Double-check the spelling, numbers, and expiration dates.

Technical Glitches

Clear browser cache, restart your device, or try a different browser if the system isn’t responding.

Special Circumstances

  • Group bookings or linked reservations may need manual check-in

  • Medical or accessibility requirements may require phone verification

Special Considerations for Families and Groups

Online check-in can be particularly helpful for families and groups:

  • Link Reservations – Ensure everyone in your group is checked in together

  • Cabin Assignments – Request cabins near each other

  • Dining Coordination – Secure tables for the entire group

  • Shared Travel Documentation – Upload multiple passports or visa documents in one session

These steps help avoid confusion and streamline boarding for large parties.

What Happens After Online Check-In

Once you complete online check-in:

  • Your information is verified by P&O Cruises

  • Boarding passes may be emailed or made available in your online account

  • Cabin, dining, and onboard preferences are processed

  • You can proceed directly to security or check-in counters at the port

Completing online check-in does not guarantee priority boarding but significantly reduces wait times.

FAQs About P&O Cruises Online Check-In

How early can I check in online?

Online check-in typically opens 30 days before departure.

Do I need to print my boarding pass?

Some cruises require printed boarding passes, while others accept digital versions on mobile devices.

Can I make changes after submitting check-in?

Yes, minor changes like dining preferences or emergency contacts can usually be updated online.

What if I booked through a travel agent?

You may still complete online check-in, but consult your agent if you experience issues linking reservations.

Is online check-in mandatory?

While not always mandatory, it is highly recommended for faster boarding and smoother processing.

Can I upload multiple passports for a family?

Yes, P&O Cruises allows uploading documents for all travelers in a single booking.

Online check-in on P&O Cruises is a convenient and essential step for a smooth start to your cruise journey. By submitting travel documents, setting preferences, and confirming personal details ahead of time, passengers can save time at the port, avoid last-minute issues, and enjoy a seamless embarkation experience.

The key to successful online check-in is preparation: ensure all documents are correct, complete the process early, and double-check every detail. Families and groups can take advantage of linked reservations and coordinated dining to maximize comfort and convenience.

Completing online check-in not only helps streamline your boarding but also allows P&O Cruises to provide a personalized experience tailored to your needs. With careful preparation, your vacation begins stress-free even before stepping onboard.

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