Can I move my P&O Cruises cruise to a different date?

Changing travel plans is a common concern for cruise passengers, especially when booking months or even years in advance. If you’re wondering whether you can move your P&O Cruises sailing to a different date, the short answer is yes in many situations—but the conditions, costs, and flexibility depend on several factors. This guide explains everything you need to know so you can make informed decisions without unnecessary stress or surprises.

P&O Cruises date change policies

P&O Cruises allows date changes under specific terms that are primarily influenced by fare type, time remaining before departure, and availability on the new sailing. These rules are designed to balance guest flexibility with operational planning, and knowing how they work can help you avoid penalties.

What types of cruise date changes are usually allowed

Most date changes are treated as booking amendments rather than cancellations, which can be beneficial if done early. Typically, P&O Cruises permits date changes when:

• The request is made well before the final balance due date

• The new cruise has availability in the same or a higher fare category

• The fare rules associated with your booking allow modifications

However, not all bookings are equally flexible, and promotional fares often carry stricter rules.

Fare types and flexibility differences

Not all fares are created equal. Understanding your fare type is essential before requesting a change.

• Early Saver or promotional faresThese often have limited or no flexibility and may require cancellation rather than amendment.

• Select or standard faresThese generally allow date changes, sometimes with an administration fee.

• Late booking or discounted faresThese are usually the most restrictive and may not allow changes at all.

If your booking documentation does not clearly state your fare type, it is important to clarify before taking action.

Timing matters more than most travelers realize

The closer you are to departure, the fewer options you’ll have. Most cruise lines, including P&O Cruises, operate on a sliding scale where flexibility decreases as sailing date approaches.

• Before final payment: highest flexibility

• After final payment but before penalty window: limited flexibility

• Inside penalty window: changes may be treated as cancellations

Being proactive is often the difference between a small fee and losing a large portion of your fare.

Fees, penalties, and real-world cost examples

Changing a cruise date is rarely free unless covered by a special promotion or goodwill exception. Understanding potential costs helps you decide whether a change is worthwhile.

Common amendment fee scenarios

While fees vary, passengers often encounter one of the following outcomes:

• Administrative change fee for early amendments

• Fare difference if the new sailing is priced higher

• Partial fare loss if penalties apply

For example, a guest who books a spring sailing and later moves to a peak summer date may pay both a change fee and a higher cruise fare due to seasonal pricing.

How to move your P&O Cruises booking to a new date

If you decide to proceed, following a structured approach can save time and reduce errors. The process differs slightly depending on how you booked your cruise.

Step-by-step process to request a date change

Before contacting anyone, gather your booking reference, passenger details, and preferred new sailing dates. This preparation speeds up the process and improves your chances of success.

Changing your cruise date through online or direct booking

If you booked directly with P&O Cruises, you may be able to request changes by:

• Logging into your booking portal

• Reviewing amendment options

• Submitting a change request or contacting customer service

Online tools are useful for early changes, but complex cases often require human assistance.

Working with a travel agent or cruise consultant

If your cruise was booked through a travel agent, all changes must usually go through them. Agents can:

• Explain fare rules in plain language

• Check alternative sailings quickly

• Negotiate on your behalf in some cases

This can be especially helpful if your situation involves multiple passengers or special arrangements.

Special circumstances that may allow exceptions

While standard policies apply to most bookings, P&O Cruises may consider exceptions in certain situations.

Medical, family, or emergency-based changes

In cases involving serious illness, bereavement, or other significant disruptions, the cruise line may offer:

• Reduced penalties

• Future cruise credit instead of cancellation

• One-time goodwill date changes

Documentation is often required, and outcomes vary case by case.

Expert strategies to protect your booking value

Experienced cruisers know that planning for change is just as important as planning the trip itself. Taking a few proactive steps can dramatically reduce risk.

Best practices before and after booking

Applying these strategies can help safeguard your investment and flexibility.

Common mistakes to avoid when changing dates

Many travelers unintentionally increase their costs by:

• Waiting too long to request changes

• Assuming all fares are flexible

• Ignoring fare differences on new sailings

• Overlooking insurance coverage details

Avoiding these mistakes often comes down to reading the fine print early and asking the right questions.

Comparison table: Date change vs cancellation

FactorDate ChangeCancellation

Cost impactOften lower if earlyCan be high close to sailing

Booking retainedYesNo

Fare difference appliesYesNot applicable

Future cruise creditRareSometimes offered

Stress levelLowerHigher

Practical tips from frequent cruisers

• Make changes as soon as you know plans might shift

• Consider off-peak sailings for better flexibility

• Keep copies of all booking terms and confirmations

• Confirm changes in writing after approval

These small actions can prevent misunderstandings and financial loss.

Frequently asked questions?

Can I move my P&O Cruises cruise to a different date without paying a fee?

In some cases, yes. Early changes on flexible fares may only require paying the fare difference, but most changes involve at least an administrative fee.

Is changing my cruise date cheaper than canceling?

Usually, yes—especially if done before the penalty period begins.

What happens if my new cruise date costs less than the original?

Generally, the difference is not refunded, but policies can vary by fare type.

Can I change dates after final payment?

You can, but fees and penalties are more likely to apply.

Does changing the date affect my cabin assignment?

Yes, cabin availability on the new sailing determines your options.

Can I move my cruise to a different ship?

Often yes, as long as availability and fare rules allow it.

Are onboard credits transferred when I change dates?

Some promotions transfer, others do not. Always confirm before approving changes.

What if P&O Cruises changes my sailing schedule?

If the cruise line initiates the change, guests are usually offered alternatives or compensation.

Is travel insurance useful for date changes?

Yes, especially policies that include “cancel for any reason” or interruption coverage.

What should I do if I’m unsure about my fare rules?

Contact customer support or your booking agent before making assumptions.