How much does it cost to change a cruise date with P&O Cruises?

Booking a cruise with P&O Cruises is always an exciting moment. The anticipation of exploring stunning destinations, enjoying onboard entertainment, and relaxing in luxury cabins makes the planning process worthwhile. However, life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans change. You might need to adjust your holiday schedule, push your sailing date forward, or switch to a new itinerary altogether.

This brings up an important question many travelers ask: How much does it cost to change a cruise date with P&O Cruises?

In this article, we will dive deep into the details of P&O Cruises’ change fees, their flexible booking options, circumstances where charges apply, and practical tips to minimize or even avoid additional costs. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the entire process, empowering you to make the best decision for your next holiday at sea.

Understanding P&O Cruises’ Change Policies

Why Passengers May Need to Change Dates

There are countless reasons travelers may need to alter their cruise booking:

• Work commitments or sudden schedule changes

• Family events like weddings, birthdays, or graduations

• Health-related issues that prevent travel

• Flight delays or cancellations affecting embarkation

• Financial planning needs where rescheduling works better

P&O Cruises recognizes that flexibility is key to customer satisfaction. While they do provide options for modifying your booking, these adjustments often come with specific fees and conditions.

How Date Changes Work on P&O Cruises

The Role of Your Fare Type

P&O Cruises offers different fare types, and your ability to change dates depends heavily on which one you booked.

1. Early Saver Fares – These are lower-priced options but less flexible. Changes often come with higher penalties.

2. Saver Fares – Generally allow fewer benefits and more restrictions. Date changes may be costly.

3. Select Fares – Premium fares that include more flexibility. These usually allow for some adjustments with smaller fees.

4. Special Promotions – Occasionally, limited-time offers come with very strict no-change policies.

Timeframe Before Departure

The cost of changing your cruise date also depends on how close you are to your sailing date. Typically, the closer to departure, the higher the fees.

Typical Fees for Changing a Cruise Date

Cancellation and Rebooking Model

Unlike some airlines or hotels that allow simple “date changes,” P&O Cruises often treats a change of sailing date as a cancellation of the original booking and a rebooking of a new one.

This means:

• If you change far in advance, you may only pay a small administrative fee.

• If you are close to your departure date, the cancellation penalties can be significant.

Standard Fee Structure (General Estimate)

While exact amounts vary by itinerary and fare type, here’s a general breakdown of what passengers can expect:

• More than 90 days before departure – Small admin fee or deposit loss only

• 89 to 57 days before departure – Around 50% of total fare may be charged

• 56 to 42 days before departure – 60–75% of fare charged

• 41 days or less – 100% of fare charged (no refund, full loss if rebooked)

Essentially, if you’re close to departure, it may not be financially practical to change your cruise date.

Factors Affecting Change Costs

1. Length of Cruise

Longer cruises tend to have higher deposits and penalties, making changes more expensive.

2. Cabin Category

Suites and premium cabins usually have stricter terms compared to inside or outside cabins.

3. Promotions and Discounts

Bookings made with promotional discounts or onboard credit deals often carry limited flexibility.

4. Travel Insurance Coverage

Having comprehensive travel insurance can save you from high change fees if the reason for rescheduling qualifies under your policy.

Alternatives to Paying High Change Fees

1. Use Flexible Booking Programs

P&O Cruises occasionally offers flexible booking initiatives where changes are permitted without penalties. These promotions usually appear during uncertain travel periods or special campaigns.

2. Reschedule Well in Advance

If you know you must change your date, act as early as possible. More than 90 days before departure, the costs are minimal.

3. Consider Transferring to Another Sailing

Some bookings may allow you to transfer to another cruise sailing of equal or greater value without large penalties.

4. Rely on Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with “cancel for any reason” coverage gives the most flexibility for recovering non-refundable costs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Cruise Date

Step 1: Review Your Booking Terms

Check your original fare type, deposit amount, and cancellation deadlines.

Step 2: Contact P&O Cruises or Your Travel Agent

All changes must be requested through the official P&O Cruises booking team or the agent you booked with.

Step 3: Ask About Available Options

Sometimes, instead of outright cancellation, you may be able to:

• Transfer to a later sailing

• Apply your deposit toward a new date

• Pay a reduced change fee if booked under flexible terms

Step 4: Confirm Any Charges

Always get written confirmation of the exact costs before finalizing the change.

Step 5: Secure New Booking

Once fees are settled, confirm your new cruise date and receive updated documentation.

Tips to Avoid Expensive Change Fees

• Book Select Fares if you want flexibility.

• Plan travel insurance in case of emergencies.

• Avoid last-minute bookings unless you are absolutely certain of your travel schedule.

• Use credit card perks that may include travel protection.

• Book through a travel agent who can advocate on your behalf.

FAQs About P&O Cruises Date Change Costs

Can I change my P&O cruise date for free?

Generally no, unless you booked under a special flexible promotion.

Do I lose my deposit if I change dates?

Yes, in most cases the deposit is non-refundable and may be forfeited.

What if P&O Cruises cancels my sailing?

If P&O cancels, passengers usually get a full refund or the option to rebook at no extra cost.

Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

No, cruise bookings are non-transferable. Only the passenger can rebook or reschedule.

Is it better to cancel or change?

If close to departure, cancellation may cost the full fare. If far in advance, rebooking may only result in a small fee.

how much does it cost to change a cruise date with P&O Cruises? The answer depends on your fare type, timing, and circumstances. If you act early, you may only lose your deposit or pay a small administrative charge. However, closer to departure, change costs rise steeply, sometimes equaling the full cruise fare.

The key takeaway is this: book smart and plan ahead. If flexibility is important, choose fare types that allow changes, invest in travel insurance, and stay informed about P&O Cruises’ current policies. With these strategies, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your dream holiday can be rescheduled without breaking the bank.