How to pay for drinks on a P&O Cruises?

How drink payments work on P&O Cruises

Paying for drinks on a P&O Cruises holiday is designed to be simple, cashless, and transparent once you understand the system. Most guests don’t handle cash at the bar; instead, purchases are linked to your onboard account and settled later. Knowing the options before you sail helps you budget accurately, avoid surprises, and choose the best value for your travel style.

The onboard account system explained

Your onboard account is the central hub for all spending during the voyage, including drinks, specialty dining, spa services, and shore purchases charged to your cabin.

What the onboard account covers

Every time you order a drink—whether it’s a cocktail by the pool, a coffee in the café, or wine with dinner—the charge is posted to your cabin account. This system:

• Eliminates the need to carry cash onboard

• Creates a single, itemized statement

• Allows easy monitoring through in-cabin TV or the cruise app

How charges are tracked in real time

Each cabin has a unique account linked to your cruise card or wearable. When you order:

1. The server scans your card or wearable.

2. The system records the item and price.

3. The charge appears almost immediately on your account.

This real-time tracking helps guests manage daily spending and spot any discrepancies early.

Pre-cruise versus onboard payments

P&O Cruises allows some drink-related costs to be handled before departure, while others are settled during the voyage.

Drinks included in the cruise fare

Certain drinks are already covered in the base fare, particularly in main dining rooms and buffet areas at meals. These typically include:

• Selected juices at breakfast

• Water, tea, and basic coffee options

• Limited beverages during specific dining periods

Availability varies by ship and itinerary, so it’s wise to review what’s included before sailing.

Optional drink packages overview

For guests who prefer predictable costs, drink packages bundle beverages for a fixed daily price. Packages generally differ by:

• Alcoholic versus non-alcoholic selections

• Brand range and premium limits

• Daily price caps

Packages can often be purchased before sailing or onboard, though pre-purchase may offer better value.

Pay-as-you-go pricing basics

If you don’t buy a package, drinks are priced individually. Prices are clearly listed on menus, making it easy to decide in the moment. This option suits guests who:

• Drink occasionally

• Prefer specialty beverages selectively

• Want maximum flexibility

Payment methods available onboard

Once onboard, all drink purchases flow through your account, but you still need to choose how that account is settled.

Linking payment methods to your cabin

Before or shortly after embarkation, you’ll link a payment method to your cabin account.

Credit and debit card options

Most guests use a credit or debit card. This option:

• Allows automatic settlement at the end of the cruise

• Reduces the need for cash deposits

• Provides purchase protection depending on the card

Cards are authorized early in the voyage to ensure sufficient funds.

Using cash and onboard credit

While daily purchases are cashless, cash can still play a role behind the scenes.

Onboard credit and promotions

Onboard credit is a virtual balance added to your account, often through:

• Booking promotions

• Loyalty benefits

• Travel agent incentives

Drinks purchased onboard are deducted from this balance first, making it an effective way to offset beverage costs.

Smart strategies to manage drink costs

Understanding the system is only half the equation. Smart planning can significantly reduce what you spend.

Choosing the right option for your drinking style

There’s no universal best choice; it depends on habits and preferences.

Light drinkers often save money by paying per drink, especially if they mostly enjoy included beverages. Moderate drinkers may find value in a limited package or strategic use of onboard credit. Social or premium drinkers often benefit most from comprehensive drink packages, particularly on longer voyages.

Practical cost-management tips include:

• Reviewing menus on day one to understand prices

• Tracking daily spend via the app or TV

• Taking advantage of included drinks at meals

Being intentional with choices ensures you enjoy your cruise without financial stress.

Frequently Asked Questions?

How do I pay for drinks once I’m onboard?

You pay through your onboard account, which records each purchase and settles it against your chosen payment method at the end of the cruise.

Can I use cash directly at the bar?

No. Bars operate on a cashless system, but you can add cash to your account at guest services if you prefer not to use a card.

Are drink packages mandatory on P&O Cruises?

No. Drink packages are optional. Guests can choose pay-as-you-go if that suits their habits better.

Is bottled water included in the cruise fare?

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on bottled water being universally included; availability depends on venue and itinerary.

Can I share a drink package with another guest?

Drink packages are typically assigned per person and cannot be shared, helping ensure fair use.

Do prices change during the cruise?

Menu prices generally remain consistent throughout the voyage, allowing predictable budgeting.

What happens if there’s a mistake on my drink charges?

You should report discrepancies to guest services promptly so they can review and correct the account.

Is gratuity included in drink prices?

Gratuity policies vary by package and itinerary. Some packages include service charges, while individual purchases may add them automatically.

Can I see my drink spending daily?

Yes. You can review your onboard account balance and itemized charges at any time through onboard systems.

Is it cheaper to buy drink packages before sailing?

Often, pre-purchase offers better value, but the best choice depends on your expected consumption and any available promotions.