P&O Cruises Fares Explained: What’s the Difference Between Select Price, Early Saver & Saver?

• Select Price gives you the most choice, flexibility and perks such as cabin selection and onboard spending money.

• Early Saver offers a great balance between value and flexibility, though with fewer choices on cabin and dining.

• Saver is the cheapest fare type but comes with the strictest terms and the least control over your booking.

Planning Your Perfect Cruise: Understanding P&O Cruises’ Fare Options

If you’ve ever found yourself comparing cruise deals and wondering why one fare costs more than another, you’re not alone. P&O Cruises makes things simpler by dividing its pricing into three types of fares: Select Price, Early Saver, and Saver.

At first glance, they might sound similar, but each comes with its own set of perks and trade-offs. Understanding these can help you choose the perfect balance between flexibility, value, and peace of mind for your next voyage.

What’s Always Included on a P&O Cruise

No matter which fare you pick, every guest enjoys the core P&O Cruises experience.

Your fare always covers comfortable accommodation, full access to entertainment and shows, delicious dining in main restaurants and buffets, use of swimming pools, and fun for the little ones in the kids’ clubs.

So, what’s the difference? It all comes down to how much flexibility you’re looking for and what kind of extras you value most.

Select Price Fare: Maximum Choice & Extra Perks

If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to plan every detail, the Select Price fare is your match made in heaven.

It’s the most flexible option, giving you the freedom to choose your exact cabin location- perhaps midship for smoother sailing or near the lifts for easy access.

You’ll also enjoy priority when it comes to dining, meaning you can choose between Freedom Dining (eat when you like between 6 pm and 9:30 pm) or Club Dining, which offers a set time and the chance to dine with the same companions each evening.

Another big perk? Select Price bookings come with extra benefits, including a choice of:

• Onboard spending money to treat yourself to a spa session or a cocktail by the pool

• Free car parking at Southampton

• Return coach travel to the port

Select Price guests also get first priority for cabin upgrades, complimentary shuttle buses in port (where available), and the flexibility to amend their booking up to 90 days before departure.

It’s the ideal choice for first-time cruisers, families, or anyone who likes knowing everything’s taken care of before they set sail.

Early Saver Fare: Great Value Without Losing Out

For those who are happy to let P&O Cruises choose a few details on their behalf, the Early Saver fare offers a smart middle ground. You’ll still get to book in advance, ideal for securing your dream itinerary, but at a lower price than the Select fare.

Your cabin will be allocated by P&O Cruises closer to the sailing date, and while you won’t have first pick of dining times, you’ll still enjoy the same fantastic food and entertainment as every other guest onboard.

Early Saver bookings also benefit from a 15% deposit, giving you time to pay off your cruise while still locking in an attractive fare.

If you’ve cruised before and know what to expect, or if you’re more interested in destinations than dining times, Early Saver gives you excellent value for money.

Saver Fare: Best for Last-Minute Bargains

If you love a good deal and can travel at short notice, P&O Cruises’ Saver Fare is where the biggest cruise deals live. These fares only appear on selected sailings, usually closer to departure, and they’re designed for travellers who are flexible about the finer details.

Your cabin and dining times will be assigned for you, and full payment is due at the time of booking. Because of the reduced price, Saver fares are non-refundable, so it’s best suited to those who are 100% sure about their plans.

While you won’t get the same perks as Select or Early Saver, you’ll still enjoy all of P&O Cruises’ onboard experiences, from West End-style shows to delicious dining and top-class service.

It’s a brilliant way to join a P&O Cruises voyage for less, especially if you spot a last-minute deal to a destination you’ve been dreaming about.

Which P&O Cruises Fare Should You Choose?

Choosing between the three fares really comes down to what matters most to you.

If you want total control over where you stay, when you dine, and how you travel, Select Price is the best fit. However, those looking for a balance of value and structure should lean towards Early Saver, while the Saver fare is perfect for flexible adventurers chasing unbeatable prices.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Whether you’re after the full VIP experience of the Select Price fare, the balance of Early Saver, or the unbeatable value of Saver, there’s a P&O Cruises fare designed for every kind of cruiser.

Frequently Asked Questions: P&O Cruises Fare Types Explained

What’s the main difference between the three fares?

Select Price gives you flexibility and perks, Early Saver gives you value with some restrictions, and Saver gives you the lowest price but no choice over cabin or dining.

Is dining included on all fares?

Yes. All fares include main dining room meals, buffets and most onboard restaurants. The difference is how much control you have over your dining time and table size.

Can I pick my cabin with the Saver fare?

No- your cabin will be allocated by P&O Cruises before you sail.

Do all fares include flights and transfers?

Yes, for fly-cruises. If your itinerary includes flights, these are included regardless of fare type.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Select and Early Saver fares follow P&O Cruises’ standard cancellation policy, with refunds depending on how close you are to departure. Saver fares are non-refundable once booked.

Can I upgrade my fare later?

Yes, if availability allows, you can upgrade from Saver or Early Saver to Select Price by paying the fare difference.

What perks do Select Price guests get?

Choice of onboard spending money, free car parking at Southampton, or return coach travel, plus priority dining, cabin choice, and shuttle buses in port.

Are there discounts for children or third/fourth guests?

Yes. P&O Cruises often offers reduced rates for third and fourth guests sharing the same cabin, depending on the cruise and fare.

Which fare sells out fastest?

Select Price cabins often go first due to the extra benefits, while Saver fares appear later as last-minute offers.