Guests with impairments or disabilities

We'll work with you to make sure your cruise holiday is suitable for your needs while still being fun and relaxing.

Blind or visual impairments

You must inform us of any visual impairment at the time of booking so that we are able to identify any extra services that may need to be considered, such as providing important information in an alternative format.

At the point of embarkation, should you require an orientation tour of the ship our staff will be happy to assist, please ask Reception. Please note that our on board and excursion staff are unable to provide assistance with day to day tasks such as movement around the ship or shore, however they will be happy to assist with directions if required.

Most of our ships have Braille cabin numbers and Braille lift buttons/audio call signs. The safety and emergency drill information and some restaurant menus are also available on board in Braille.

We can provide the following cruise information in large print:

  • Safety and emergency drill information
  • Main restaurant and bar menus
  • Horizon daily newspaper

 

For guests who use their own devices and software for translation or conversion of information for blind or visual impairment, please contact Reception once on board to discuss your requirements.

Guests who are deaf or hard of hearing

You must inform us of any hearing impairment at the time of booking so that we are able to identify any extra services that may need to be considered, such as providing important information in an alternative format.

For guests who use their own devices and software for translation or conversion of information for deaf or hard of hearing, please contact Reception once on board to discuss your requirements.

All of our ships are equipped with the following enhancements for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing.

We have a limited number of wireless visual alert systems and textphones available on board. You can use the mobility questionnaire to request these; they're given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

The textphone will enable us to alert you of any emergencies and important announcements concerning your cruise. The textphone system is subject to the availability of telephone lines on board.  Please be aware, the visual alert system will reduce surface space in your cabin.

Hearing loop

We are able to offer a hearing loop facility (which requires you to move your hearing aid to the “T” position) at Southampton cruise terminals and at the Reception desks on board. In addition we also provide an ‘infra-red’ hearing support system within a large number of our theatres and show lounges - compatible headsets are available from Reception.  This system is available in the following venues:

Arcadia – The Palladium (all decks) and The Globe

Aurora – Playhouse Theatre and Curzon Theatre

Azura – Playhouse Theatre, Seascreen (via radio transmission), Malabar and Manhattan

Ventura – Arena Theatre, Tamarind Club and Havana

Britannia – Headliners Theatre, Live Lounge, Crystal Room, Studio

Iona - Headliners Theatre, The 710 Club and The Limelight Club

Should you require the use of the Infra-red system, please speak to the Production staff within the venue who can direct you to the best location in order to utilise the equipment correctly. 

Theatre shows

We are able to provide a transcript of the songs during the theatre shows for deaf and hearing impaired guests. Please request this at Reception or with a member of the production staff.

Shore Excursions 

Should you wish to book a P&O Cruises organised shore excursion, we will endeavour to work with our local agents in advance of your cruise to obtain written commentary, but this may not be possible in all instances.

Cognitive disabilities

We welcome passengers with intellectual, cognitive and developmental disabilities on board all of our ships.  We request that guests who require the assistance of a carer at home, or who require assistance with day to day living, including moving around the ship, travel with a companion to continue this assistance on board.