Does P&O Cruises charge for children?

P&O Cruises child pricing in simple terms

When families start planning a holiday at sea, one of the first questions is whether children cruise free or whether extra charges apply. Does P&O Cruises charge for children? The short answer is yes, but the way charges are structured often surprises first-time cruisers. P&O Cruises uses a fare model that blends base cruise pricing, age-based policies, and mandatory fees, rather than a single flat “child price.”

This article explains exactly how child pricing works on P&O Cruises, what parents really pay for, and how to plan a cost-effective family voyage without hidden surprises. The insights below are based on long-standing industry practices, public policy disclosures, and widely accepted consumer travel standards. Where precise figures vary by sailing, the guidance focuses on how to evaluate value rather than chasing short-term promotions.

Child fares and family cruising basics

P&O Cruises markets itself as family-friendly, especially on ships with dedicated kids’ clubs, family cabins, and school-holiday itineraries. However, “family-friendly” does not always mean “free for children.”

How P&O Cruises defines a child

P&O Cruises categorizes guests by age rather than by dependency status.

• Infants and toddlers are usually defined as under two years old at the time of sailing.

• Children generally fall between ages two and 17.

• Adults are 18 and above for pricing purposes.

This classification matters because it affects not only the base fare but also safety regulations, cabin occupancy rules, and onboard services.

What parents actually pay for children

Children typically pay a reduced cruise fare, not a zero fare. In most cases, parents pay:

• A discounted base cruise fare for the child

• Mandatory port taxes and government fees

• Any optional onboard spending (shore excursions, specialty dining, babysitting services)

The base fare discount can be substantial, especially when a child shares a cabin with two full-paying adults. That is why many families perceive children as “sailing free,” even though required fees still apply.

How child charges vary by cruise type and itinerary

P&O Cruises operates voyages departing mainly from the UK, along with longer international itineraries. Child pricing can feel different depending on where and when you sail.

UK-based cruises and family sailings

UK departures, particularly during school holidays, are designed with families in mind.

School holiday pricing realities

During peak school holiday periods, demand for family cabins increases sharply. As a result:

• Child discounts may be smaller than off-peak sailings

• Family cabins sell out quickly, limiting low-cost options

• Promotions are less frequent but more predictable

While children are rarely free during these weeks, the value often lies in included kids’ clubs, entertainment, and meals, which can offset higher upfront costs.

International and longer itineraries

Longer voyages and fly-cruise packages follow a similar pricing structure but introduce additional variables.

Taxes, port fees, and international rules

On international itineraries, children are subject to the same government-mandated fees as adults. These charges are not controlled by the cruise line and can include:

• Port handling charges

• Security fees

• Regional passenger taxes

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data suggesting that these fees are waived for children on any P&O Cruises itinerary.

How to reduce the cost of cruising with children

Families who plan strategically often find that cruising offers strong value compared with land-based holidays, even when children are not free.

Practical ways families save money

Experienced cruisers use a combination of timing, cabin choice, and onboard planning to manage costs.

The real value of included kids’ clubs

P&O Cruises includes supervised kids’ clubs for different age groups at no extra charge. These programs:

• Operate throughout the day and evening

• Are staffed by trained youth coordinators

• Reduce the need for paid childcare or babysitting

For parents, this inclusion alone can justify the child fare, especially on longer sailings.

Choosing the right cabin configuration

Cabin selection plays a major role in child pricing:

• Inside or standard balcony cabins often offer the best child discounts

• Family cabins and suites provide space but usually cost more per person

• Pull-down beds or sofa beds allow children to share at lower rates

Comparing cabin layouts before booking can result in significant savings.

Step-by-step approach to booking with children

Booking a family cruise is easier when approached methodically.

Step-by-step planning checklist

1. Identify school holiday or off-peak travel windows

2. Compare per-person pricing rather than headline deals

3. Check cabin occupancy rules for your chosen ship

4. Confirm what is included for children onboard

5. Budget separately for excursions and extras

Following these steps helps avoid assumptions that children cruise free and prevents last-minute cost surprises.

Frequently asked questions?

Do children cruise free on P&O Cruises?

Children usually receive discounted fares rather than sailing completely free. Taxes and fees still apply.

At what age does a child start paying on P&O Cruises?

Children typically pay a fare from age two onward, although infants may still incur fees.

Are port taxes charged for children?

Yes, port taxes and government fees generally apply to all passengers regardless of age.

Do kids eat free on P&O Cruises?

Main dining venues and buffet meals are included for children, similar to adults.

Are kids’ clubs included in the cruise fare?

Yes, supervised kids’ clubs are included and organized by age group.

Do school holiday cruises cost more for families?

Yes, demand is higher during school holidays, which can reduce available discounts.

Can children share a bed with parents to save money?

Cabin occupancy and bedding rules vary by ship, so this should be confirmed before booking.

Is babysitting free on P&O Cruises?

Group kids’ clubs are free, but private babysitting services usually cost extra.

Do international cruises charge more for children?

The base fare structure is similar, but international taxes and fees may increase total cost.

Is cruising with children still good value?

For many families, the inclusive nature of meals, entertainment, and kids’ programs offers strong overall value despite child fares.