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How much does it cost to transfer a P&O Cruises reservation?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 18 September 2025
  • 6 min read

How much does it cost to transfer a P&O Cruises reservation?

Booking a P&O Cruises holiday is an exciting milestone, but sometimes plans change. Maybe you booked through one travel agent and want to move your reservation to another. Perhaps you need to transfer your reservation to another person due to unforeseen circumstances. This raises an important question: How much does it cost to transfer a P&O Cruises reservation?

The answer depends on the type of transfer you are making—whether it’s transferring between travel agents, changing passenger names, or moving a reservation to a different sailing date. Each situation carries its own policies, conditions, and costs.

This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about P&O Cruises’ transfer policies, including:

  • Different types of reservation transfers

  • Costs and administrative fees involved

  • Conditions and deadlines for making transfers

  • Step-by-step instructions for transferring a reservation

  • Money-saving tips for passengers who may need changes

Understanding Reservation Transfers on P&O Cruises

What Does “Transferring a Reservation” Mean?

In the cruise industry, “transfer” can mean different things depending on the context:

  1. Transferring a booking to another travel agent – moving your reservation management.

  2. Transferring a reservation to another passenger – substituting one traveler for another.

  3. Transferring your cruise to another date or itinerary – shifting your booking to a future sailing.

Each of these has separate rules and costs under P&O Cruises’ terms and conditions.

Types of Reservation Transfers and Their Costs

1. Transferring a Booking to Another Travel Agent

  • If you initially booked directly with P&O Cruises, you may sometimes request to transfer your reservation to a travel agent for management.

  • Cost: Typically, P&O does not charge a direct fee for this type of transfer. However, restrictions may apply, such as:

    • The request must usually be made within 30 days of booking.

    • The reservation must not be paid in full.

  • Once transferred, the new travel agent manages your booking, including any future payments and adjustments.

2. Transferring a Reservation to Another Passenger

This is the most common scenario passengers ask about.

  • Allowed? Yes, in many cases P&O Cruises allows you to change the name on a booking, effectively transferring the reservation to another person.

  • Cost:

    • A name change fee usually applies, ranging between £50–£100 per passenger.

    • If flights are included in the package, airline change fees may also apply (which can be significantly higher, sometimes £150–£250 or more).

  • Conditions:

    • Must be done well before departure (usually at least 7–14 days).

    • The new passenger must meet eligibility requirements (passport, visa, age restrictions).

    • Insurance must be updated, as it is passenger-specific.

3. Transferring a Cruise to Another Date or Itinerary

Sometimes, passengers cannot sail on their original date and want to move their booking to a later cruise.

  • Cost:

    • Administrative fee between £100–£200 per booking, depending on timing.

    • Any fare difference must also be paid if the new sailing is more expensive.

    • If the new sailing is cheaper, refunds are usually not given, though sometimes future cruise credit may apply.

  • Conditions:

    • Transfers to another date must usually be requested well in advance of the departure date.

    • Close-to-departure requests may be treated as cancellations, with cancellation charges applied.

Timeline and Deadlines for Transfers

General Deadlines

  • More than 12 weeks before departure – Transfers are usually possible with standard admin fees.

  • 6–12 weeks before departure – Fees may increase, and restrictions tighten.

  • Less than 6 weeks before departure – Transfers may no longer be permitted, and cancellation charges may apply instead.

Travel Agent Transfer Deadline

  • Usually within 30 days of booking and before final payment.

Passenger Substitution Deadline

  • Typically allowed until 7–14 days before sailing.

Cruise Date Transfer Deadline

  • Best done at least 12 weeks before sailing to avoid cancellation penalties.

Guide to Transferring a P&O Cruises Reservation

1: Review Your Booking Terms

Check your fare type (Saver, Select, or Early Saver). Saver fares are generally more restrictive when it comes to transfers.

 2: Decide What Kind of Transfer You Need

  • Travel agent transfer?

  • Passenger name change?

  • Cruise date transfer?

 3: Contact P&O Cruises or Your Travel Agent

Call the P&O Cruises customer service team or notify your travel agent to request the transfer.

 4: Provide New Information

  • If transferring to another passenger, submit their full legal details and passport information.

  • If transferring to a new cruise date, provide your preferred sailing options.

 5: Pay Applicable Fees

Settle administration costs and any fare differences.

 6: Get Written Confirmation

Always request updated confirmation reflecting the transfer.

Money-Saving Tips for Reservation Transfers

1. Book Select Fares

Although more expensive upfront, Select Fares usually allow more flexibility for transfers.

2. Act Early

The earlier you request a transfer, the lower the fees and the more likely P&O will allow it.

3. Use a Travel Agent

Agents can often negotiate exceptions or reduced fees with P&O Cruises.

4. Buy Travel Insurance

Insurance may cover cancellation or transfer costs if you cannot travel due to unforeseen events.

5. Avoid Last-Minute Changes

Last-minute changes are either very expensive or not possible at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my P&O Cruises reservation to anyone?

Yes, but the new passenger must meet all eligibility requirements, including passport, visas, and age restrictions.

Does P&O allow free transfers?

Generally no. Most transfers involve an administration fee, except travel agent transfers made within the allowed period.

What if I can’t travel and don’t want to transfer?

You may cancel your booking, but cancellation charges will apply depending on how close to departure you cancel.

Can I transfer only part of my booking?

Yes, you can change one passenger in a cabin while keeping the rest of the booking intact.

Are flight-inclusive packages harder to transfer?

Yes, because airlines have stricter name change policies and may impose high change fees.

how much does it cost to transfer a P&O Cruises reservation?

  • Travel Agent Transfer – Usually free if requested within 30 days and before final payment.

  • Passenger Substitution (Name Change) – £50–£100 per person, plus possible airline charges.

  • Cruise Date/Itinerary Transfer – £100–£200 per booking, plus any fare differences.

The cost depends on the type of transfer, timing, and fare type. To minimize expenses, always act early, choose flexible fares, and consider travel insurance.

By understanding P&O Cruises’ transfer policies, you can adjust your booking with minimal stress and enjoy a smooth sailing experience.

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