https://my.pocruises.com/api-mc/mc-getCruiseSummary/v1

Family time is precious and holidays are treasured. We’ll make sure the extraordinary memories you create together will last a lifetime. P&amp;O Cruises holidays come with world-class dining and sensational entertainment included and family holidays are packed with even more exciting experiences.&nbsp;

Find out here all you need to know if you are planning to travel with us pregnant.

family cruises

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/select-2026

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/select-2027

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/select-2028

2026

2027

2028

OFFER ENDS 26 AUGUST 2025

Please correct the errors below and try again.

You’ll shortly receive an email from us to confirm your sign up. Please click on the link contained within this email to start hearing more from us. If you are unable to find this email in your inbox, please check your junk mailbox.

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/forms/email-offer-signup-form

Title* 

First name*

Last name*

Email address*

Email Offer Consent

Your dream cruise might only be an email away...

A P&amp;O Cruises holiday is perfect for families, offering unbeatable value and variety to keep everyone happy, at all ages. With a staggering choice of dining and entertainment, there are non-stop activities, sports, games, cinemas and swimming pools. With all-day children's clubs, kids' tea, a night nursery and flexible clubs for teens, what's not to love? And that's just on board. Don't forget you have exploration and adventure ashore in all of the exciting locations you discover together, with half price under 12s and under-2s being free*.
*The price of shore experience tickets for children between the age of 2-12 years old will be 50% or less of the value of the respective adult ticket price at the time of booking. Infants aged under 2 years old can accompany an adult free of charge. There may be age restrictions on certain shore experiences. Shore experience ticket prices may vary depending on the time or place of booking and tickets are subject to availability. For more information, please see our terms and conditions at <a href="https://prod.author.carnivalukgroup.com/content/po/master_website/en_GB/my-cruise-tcs.html">https://www.pocruises.com/my-cruise-tcs.</a> Pricing may be reviewed and withdrawn at any time.

Are cruises good for families?

When it comes to dining we lay on a special early tea (time and location will be confirmed once on board) with children’s favourites to suit younger tastes. If you prefer the relaxed, informal buffet is available from early morning to late evening and has a wide selection of dishes. Or if you’d rather all dine together in the Freedom and Club dining restaurant, that’s great fun for families too.

Are there any special dining options for children?

Yes! A special children's tea will always be available in one of your ship's restaurants, but we do ask that parents/guardians are there to supervise. Full details of locations and menus will be available on board. And, usually, children’s tea parties happen between 17:00 and 18:30, although, times may vary.

Are there designated meals for children?

Please do! *We can provide Hipp Organic baby food jars [Stage 1 (4 months +) and Stage 2 (7 months +)] in an assortment of savoury and dessert flavours. We’ll also happily puree or mash adult food from the main restaurant menu for your little toddler. If you have a younger baby or prefer an alternative brand, please provide your own. Also, please advise our Customer Contact Centre before you sail if you have any specific requests.&nbsp;
*Please note: baby food must be requested a minimum of 8 weeks before sailing. We also cannot supply guests with baby food on bookings made within 8 weeks of the departure date.

Can I request food for babies and infants?

We want every child to have a great time in our children’s clubs, in an environment where everyone is supported and cared for. To attend our clubs, children must be able to manage their personal care needs independently (unless they are of pre-school age) and join in group activities without one-to-one supervision or additional support.&nbsp;
We have participation guidelines in place to help parents and guardians decide whether the children’s club is suitable based on the level of support we can provide in a group session.
If the children’s club seems the right environment for your child, please provide as much information as you can when registering them. Our Youth team on board will use our guidelines when discussing your child’s needs with you and will make the final decision on whether the club setting is appropriate at that time.

Do you cater for children with disabilities in the children's clubs?

If you are travelling with children or teenagers, our family prices on Arvia, Azura, Britannia, Iona and Ventura offer generous reductions, utilising the extra beds that are contained in a number of cabins, though this family reduction can vary by cruise. Infants aged 1 year and under will also pay a reduced rate, which will remain the same no matter which cabin grade is booked, from Inside cabin all the way up to a Suite.&nbsp;
Please note, if a child is booked into a lower berth (i.e. the first two beds in the cabin), there isn’t a reduced rate and the standard double rate for the cabin will be charged.
Please check our <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise#start=0">Find &amp; Book</a> page or call our Customer Contact Centre for the reduction amount of a specific cruise.

Do you pay full price for a child on a P&O Cruises holiday?

Every child (6 months-17 year olds) must be registered before they can book or attend any sessions in The Reef or Scene. You can register each child 14 days ahead of your holiday at <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/my-pocruises">My P&amp;O Cruises.</a>
You can book a session once on board. If there is a high demand for a session then we unfortunately cannot guarantee a place for every child. Sessions can be booked from 8:30am the day before via <a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pocruises.com%2Fmy-holiday&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSophie.Bushby%40carnivalukgroup.com%7C9b649f4eed684092761b08dc73635fcf%7C9e37b9e905de4906b089536f19689074%7C0%7C0%7C638512117859968463%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hO7vTh5Jeb6l09tW7BhvqT%2FL7S8A1WnSaWdRS%2FciSdY%3D&amp;reserved=0">My Holiday</a>.
Please note that those wanting to attend the 13-17 rooms are not required to pre-book their sessions but must register.
Please ensure you read the <a href="http://www.pocruises.com/essential-information/code-of-conduct/childrens-club-behaviour-policy">children's club behaviour policy and participation guidelines.</a>

How do I register my child for the P&O Cruises kids' clubs?

If you’re travelling with children or teenagers our family prices on Arvia, Azura, Britannia, Iona and Ventura offer generous reductions, utilising the extra beds that are contained in a number of cabins. In twin cabins these extra beds are pull-down beds which your cabin steward will stow away by day (please note in selected Arvia, Azura, Britannia, Iona and Ventura cabins there are sofabeds instead; see deck plans for details). To calculate the family price, the first two occupants pay the adult price for the grade concerned minus any applicable savings, then add the reduced price for a child/teenager aged 2-17. Family reductions can vary by cruise, so talk to your travel agent or call our Customer Contact Centre for the reduction amount of a specific cruise. Azura, Britannia and Ventura have a number of cabins that can accommodate a travel cot for an infant aged over 6 months and under 2 years. In these cases you pay the rates available from our Customer Contact Centre. There are limited infant, child and teen places available on all cruises. It is advisable to book as soon as possible if intending to take advantage of the family prices offer. Please note family prices are not available on the first two occupants or on single occupancy. Please note there is limited availability for cabins with additional occupancy. For more information call our Customer Contact Centre on 03453 555 111 (local call charges apply).

How much are family cabins on P&O Cruises ships?

Please remember children will need their own passports. If you choose a cruise that departs and returns to Southampton, there are no restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring. So long as you can fit it comfortably into your cabin then you’re welcome to bring as many essentials as you like. This means that prams are welcome, as is a favourite travel cot, as many supplies as you need and, of course, any favourite toys to make your little ones’ holiday as enjoyable as yours. If your children are going to use the children’s facility then it would be great to bring their own water bottle which they can use in the clubs.

What do we need to pack for a family cruise?

We always try our best to offer as much assistance as possible, but we’re unable to accommodate requests for: any alternative baby food brands to Hipp Organic baby food jars.
*Please note: baby food must be requested a minimum of 8 weeks before sailing. We also cannot supply guests with baby food on bookings made within 8 weeks of the departure date.

What don't you provide for children?

In some ports it is necessary to anchor off shore rather than alongside the dock or quay. When this is the case, we use a tender to take you ashore. A tender is a small vessel that carries around 100 guests. In order to board the tender, please note that you will be required to use steps (up to 20cm/8 inches high) and navigate the gap between the platform and the tender (of up to 45cm/18 inches).&nbsp;
In the interests of safety, we require all guests wishing to use the tenders to have sufficient independent mobility to negotiate steps and traverse a gap of up to 45 cm/18 inches. Anyone wishing to board the tender will need to demonstrate this ability via a mobility test prior to tender embarkation by stepping unaided over a distance of 45 cm/18 inches. Children who are unable to step across a gap of this size will be permitted to use the tender service provided their parent/guardian is able to demonstrate that they can carry or pass them safely across the mobility test gap.&nbsp;

What is going ashore by tender and can children do this too?

All children between the ages 2-12 inclusive are required to wear a safety wristband whilst onboard the ship.&nbsp; The wristband is issued at check in and must be affixed prior to boarding. Once onboard the wristband should not be removed.&nbsp;
This wristband indicates the Muster Station that the child has been designated to. In the event of a child being separated from their parent during an emergency, the information on the wristband will assist the crew in re-uniting them as quickly as possibly at the correct muster station.&nbsp;

What procedures are on board for children during an emergency?

We would ask parents and/or guardians to remember that there are other guests on board and for this reason a few of the lounges and public rooms are exclusively for adults. Please note that guests under the age of 18 must travel with a parent or companion aged 18 or over. We are unable to carry babies under the age of six months on any of our holidays, or under one year for B225/A, B306/A, B326/A, B406/A, K301/A/B, K305D, K306/A, K321/A/B, K405D, K406/A, N233, N302, N306, N401, N403. This is due to the remote itineraries and number of consecutive days at sea. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel in a cabin without a guest who is 16 or over. Children using the designated pools must be under the supervision of their parent/ guardian. All parents/guardians are responsible for the behaviour of their children. We also ask parents and guardians to note that children under 16 must not be left unaccompanied on the ship whilst at a port of call.

What restrictions should we consider on a P&O Cruises holiday?

We know children love to be active and explore, so all of our activities and facilities have been designed to be child-friendly. Each of The Reef’s rooms feature secure door entry systems and in the Balcony cabins there are protective balcony nets, available on request. There are check in and check out procedures for the 6 months -17 year olds. All our Reef rangers have extensive experience of planning and facilitating activities for 6 months -17 year olds, as well as having enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks. In the unlikely event that you need them, our on-board medical centres are fully equipped and staffed by qualified doctors and nurses. For every child’s enjoyment and safety we have a strict child to staff ratio within The Reef/Scene.

What safety precautions are there for families?

The children’s clubs are open every day and will operate a number of sessions throughout the day. In addition, a night nursery is also available from 6pm to Midnight. Opening times may differ across the fleet depending on the time of year. Check <a href="http://my.pocruises.com/">my.pocruises.com</a> for full details.&nbsp;
Children's club session durations can vary between 2-5 hours and there is no limit to how many sessions children attend (subject to availability). For exact sessions, check My Holiday once you are on board.

When and how long do children's clubs run?

We have five dedicated family-friendly cruising ships, giving you a large variety to choose from when making your selection:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/arvia/overview">Arvia</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/iona/overview">Iona</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/britannia/overview">Britannia</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/ventura/overview">Ventura</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/azura/overview">Azura</a></li>
</ul>
Maybe you want to look through the sky dome on one of our biggest fleets ‘Iona’ or take a dip in one of Britannia’s four swimming pools?
Whatever you choose, our ships hold an amazing atmosphere and bring that homely feel wherever you sail.

Which ships are family friendly?

FAQs for your family cruise

Acccommodation

All family-friendly cabins have been carefully designed to maximise space by day and create flexible sleeping arrangements by night, perfect for families and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pocruises.com/group-travel">group travel</a>. Iona and Arvia offer a great choice of accommodation for families, including two special family suites at the front of the ship. See below to read more about our options and prices.

A great choice of accommodation for families

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Conservatory Mini-suite with balcony doors open"}}

Great news! If you’re a family of five, you can now holiday together in one cabin, subject to availability. We’ve introduced a limited number of five-berth options with Superior Deluxe Balcony cabins on Britannia and Conservatory Mini-suites on Arvia and Iona. And if you’re keen to try one of our smaller ships, Arcadia and Aurora now offer cruises for all ages.

Family holidays you can all get on board with

Family with kids walking on tropical beach at sunset. Cute little kids running with parents. Travel with kid. Summer vacation on sea shore. Family holiday with children. Water sport fun.

Looking for even more holiday choice? We’ve launched exciting cruises for all ages on Arcadia and Aurora which are sure to have something for every age to enjoy. From Sail Away parties to silent discos, band nights to arts and crafts, life on board is packed with fun-filled experiences to write home about.&nbsp;

Shot of an adorable little girl having a fun day at the beach with her parents and grandparents

Children aged 12 and under pay half the adult ticket price for shore experiences, and under-2s go free!*
We offer a range of hand-picked family-friendly shore&nbsp;experiences designed to make exploring exciting for&nbsp;every age. We make it easy for parents and fun for&nbsp;kids. So why not fuel your appetite for family&nbsp;adventure in stunning cities and new destinations&nbsp;together? *&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pocruises.com/my-cruise-tcs">T's &amp; C's apply</a>.
Already booked?&nbsp;<a href="https://my.pocruises.com/mycruise/login">Log in to My P&amp;O Cruises</a>

New to cruising?

A family of 5 whooping with joy on the beach. A road trip to the coast, especially enjoyed by the youngest boy and mother. Arms raised and laughing, the youngest boy is laid back on the legs of his father. Oldest son looks amused by the scene.

Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays 2025

Best Cruise Line for No Fly Cruise Holidays 2025

Best Cruise Line for Customer Service 2025

Sign up to hear from us

There are refreshments available at the Southampton cruise terminal and plenty of seating to make you comfortable.

Are there refreshments available at the Southampton cruise terminal?

Depending on which cruise you choose, you usually have at least one day at sea before you get to the first port. That means you have at least a full day at sea to get used to your ship and have as much fun as you can squeeze in.

How long does it take to get from Southampton to the first destination? 

Southampton welcomes more than four million visitors each year and is easily accessible from major UK cities by rail, road and air. It’s entirely up to you. You might prefer to drive and park at or near the cruise terminal. Parking at the terminal needs to be pre-booked. Alternatively, why not hop on a coach or train and let someone else do the driving while you relax. And if you live further away, you could always fly into Southampton airport and grab a taxi to the terminal.

What are the transfer options to get to Southampton docks?

There are no size limits for liquid toiletries on P&amp;O Cruises holidays from Southampton. This means you can bring all of your favourite full size toiletries. We allow guests to bring 1 litre of wine or champagne, per person, on board.

What is the liquid allowance on a P&O Cruises holiday departing from Southampton? 

Great news! You’ll be pleased to know that Arcadia, Arvia, Aurora, Britannia, Iona and Ventura sail from Southampton to wonderful destinations all over the world. So take your pick of our Southampton cruises and set sail.

Which ships sail from Southampton docks?

Get to know us

https://www.pocruises.com/frequently-asked-questions

https://www.pocruises.com/request-a-brochure

Support

https://www.pocruises.com/manage-my-booking

https://www.pocruises.com/deals/promotion-terms-and-conditions

https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations

https://www.pocruises.com/new-to-cruising/whats-included

Useful links

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/privacy/cookies

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy

https://www.pocruises.com/company-information

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/consumer-protection

https://www.pocruises.com/essential-information/safety-and-security

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/booking-terms-and-conditions

Footer Bottom

Stay connected

sm-Facebook

sm-Instagram

sm-Youtube

sm-Pinterest

AbtaLogo

AtolLogo

https://www.pocruises.com/account/my-details

https://www.pocruises.com/account/my-preferences

https://www.pocruises.com/login/pay-balance

https://www.pocruises.com/my-account/brochures/request-a-brochure

Avatar menu

On board

Discover cruising

Help

https://www.pocruises.com/deals/cruise-deals

Family cruise holidays

Family cruises to suit all

A great choice of accommodation for families

Family holidays you can all get on board with

Cruises for all ages

Don't just take our word for it...

Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays 2025

Best UK Cruise Line 2025

Best Cruise Line for No Fly Cruise Holidays 2025

Best Cruise Line for Customer Service 2025

Best Ocean Cruise Line 2024

Ocean Cruise Line of the Year 2024

Some of our favourite family cruises

Travelling while pregnant?

Save on shore experiences

Save on shore experiences

New to cruising?