Can I transfer a reservation on P&O Cruises?

Transferring a cruise reservation can feel confusing, especially when travel plans change unexpectedly. Many P&O Cruises guests ask whether they can transfer their booking to another person, adjust guest names, or move a reservation entirely. The answer depends on timing, ticket type, fare conditions, and the extent of the change.

This guide explains how reservation transfers work on P&O Cruises, what is allowed, what is restricted, and how to handle real-world situations such as illness, emergencies, or name corrections. It is written to help travelers make informed decisions while protecting their investment.

P&O Cruises Reservation Transfer Rules

P&O Cruises operates under fare-specific booking conditions designed to balance flexibility with operational security. While full reservation transfers are not always permitted, limited changes may be allowed under specific circumstances.

What “Transferring a Reservation” Really Means

Many travelers assume transferring a reservation means handing the booking to someone else entirely. In practice, P&O Cruises distinguishes between several different actions:

• Changing a passenger name

• Replacing one guest in a multi-guest cabin

• Correcting spelling or legal name updates

• Transferring ownership of the entire booking

Each option has different rules and consequences.

Core Policy Overview

In most cases:

• The lead guest cannot be changed after final payment

• Partial name changes may be allowed before a deadline

• Full booking transfers are generally restricted

• Fees may apply depending on timing and fare type

Understanding these distinctions prevents costly misunderstandings.

When a Reservation Transfer May Be Allowed

Not all changes are treated equally. Some adjustments are permitted when handled early and correctly.

Name Changes vs Full Booking Transfers

A name change is not the same as a transfer.

• Name correction: Fixing spelling errors or legal name changes

• Name substitution: Replacing one guest with another

• Booking transfer: Assigning the entire reservation to someone else

Only the first two are sometimes allowed.

Name Corrections

Minor corrections are usually permitted when:

• The passport name differs slightly

• A legal name changed due to marriage or documentation updates

• The request is made well before departure

These corrections rarely affect pricing.

Guest Substitution

Replacing one guest may be possible if:

• The lead guest remains unchanged

• The request is made before final payment

• Cabin occupancy rules remain the same

Fees often apply.

Timing Matters More Than Anything

P&O Cruises policies become stricter as departure approaches.

Time Before SailingFlexibility LevelTypical Outcome

More than 90 daysHighChanges often approved

60–89 daysModerateFees may apply

30–59 daysLimitedRestrictions increase

Under 30 daysVery limitedChanges often denied

Early action significantly improves outcomes.

Situations Where Transfers Are Not Permitted

There are clear limits designed to prevent misuse or resale of bookings.

Lead Guest Restrictions

The lead guest is the primary contract holder. In most cases:

• The lead guest cannot be replaced

• Changing the lead guest is treated as a cancellation

• Cancellation penalties apply if rebooking is required

This is the most common reason transfer requests are denied.

Promotional and Discounted Fares

Certain fare types are strictly non-transferable:

• Early booking promotions

• Heavily discounted offers

• Loyalty or exclusive deals

These fares often trade flexibility for savings.

After Final Payment

Once final payment is completed:

• Changes are significantly restricted

• Transfer requests may be rejected outright

• Cancellation fees may exceed the booking value

Step-by-Step: How to Request a Reservation Change

If you believe your situation qualifies, following the correct process matters.

Step 1: Review Your Booking Conditions

Check:

• Fare type

• Final payment date

• Passenger roles (lead vs secondary)

This determines what options are available.

Step 2: Prepare Required Information

Have the following ready:

• Booking reference number

• Current passenger details

• Replacement passenger details

• Passport name accuracy

Incomplete requests delay decisions.

Step 3: Contact P&O Cruises Directly

Use official customer service channels:

• Explain the reason clearly

• Ask specifically about name substitution, not transfer

• Request confirmation in writing

Polite, precise communication improves success.

Step 4: Confirm Fees and Deadlines

Before approving any change:

• Ask about amendment fees

• Confirm whether pricing changes

• Verify the final approval window

Never assume fees are refundable.

Fees, Penalties, and Financial Impact

Understanding the cost implications helps avoid surprises.

Typical Amendment Fees

While fees vary:

• Name changes often involve a fixed administrative fee

• Repricing may occur if the fare is no longer available

• Taxes or port fees may be recalculated

Cancellation vs Transfer Cost Comparison

OptionFinancial RiskFlexibility

Name correctionLowHigh

Guest substitutionMediumModerate

Cancellation & rebookHighLow

In many cases, limited changes cost less than cancellation.

Practical Scenarios and Expert Guidance

Medical or Emergency Situations

When illness or emergencies occur:

• Documentation may be requested

• Exceptions are reviewed case-by-case

• Travel insurance becomes critical

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data guaranteeing approval for emergencies.

Group and Family Bookings

Group reservations:

• May allow limited substitutions

• Still restrict lead guest changes

• Often require coordination through a group coordinator

Travel Agent Bookings

If booked through an agent:

• Requests must go through the agent

• P&O Cruises may not deal directly with guests

• Agent service fees may apply

How Travel Insurance Affects Transfers

Travel insurance does not allow transfers, but it can protect finances.

What Insurance Helps With

• Reimbursement for non-refundable cancellations

• Coverage for illness or emergencies

• Reduced financial loss if transfer is denied

What Insurance Does Not Do

• Force cruise line policy changes

• Guarantee booking substitutions

• Waive amendment fees automatically

Insurance is a safety net, not a workaround.

Best Practices to Avoid Transfer Problems

• Always double-check passenger names before booking

• Avoid non-flexible fares if plans are uncertain

• Act immediately when circumstances change

• Keep written confirmation of all communications

• Consider insurance at booking, not later

Experienced travelers plan for change before it happens.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Can I transfer my entire P&O Cruises booking to someone else?

In most cases, full booking transfers are not permitted, especially if the lead guest would change.

Can I change one passenger name on my reservation?

Yes, limited name changes may be allowed if the lead guest remains the same and the request is made early.

Is there a fee to change a name on a P&O Cruises booking?

Yes, administrative fees usually apply, and fare differences may also be charged.

What happens if I miss the final payment deadline?

Missing the deadline may result in cancellation, making transfer options unavailable.

Can I change the lead passenger on my booking?

Typically no. Changing the lead guest is treated as a cancellation and rebooking.

Are promotional fares transferable?

Most promotional or discounted fares are non-transferable.

Does travel insurance allow me to transfer my booking?

No, insurance does not enable transfers but may reimburse eligible cancellation costs.

Can I transfer a booking due to illness or emergency?

Requests are reviewed individually, but approval is not guaranteed.

Do group bookings allow easier transfers?

Group bookings may offer limited flexibility, but lead guest rules still apply.

How late can I request a name change?

The closer to departure, the less likely a change will be approved.