Select, Early Saver, or Saver: The Crucial Differences Between P&O Cruises Fares Uncovered

• Fare Breakdown: This essential guide comprehensively breaks down P&O Cruises' three fare types - Select Price, Early Saver, and Saver.

• Flexibility vs. Cost: Dive into the benefits of all P&O Cruises' fares, from dining time choices to choice of cabin locations.

• Choosing Your Best Fit: Learn which fare is best suited for your holiday style, whether you are a first-time cruiser needing reassurance or a relaxed, last-minute traveller looking a cheap cruise deal.

Choosing the best cruise holiday for you and your family can sometimes be a bit complex. Prices vary depending on when you book, what cabin you want, where, and what other add-ons or options you are looking for.

However, when you choose to book your next great escape at sea with P&O Cruises, you can unlock a huge host of benefits when you book one of their convenient fare types: Select Price, Early Saver and Saver. But what are these fares, and what exactly is included?

In this definitive guide, learn what is included with these P&O Cruises fares, and explore whether the Select, Saver or Early Saver P&O Cruises fare is the best option for you.

What Do You Get with P&O Cruises’ fares?

When sailing with P&O Cruises, certain things are included in every cruise fare. These include cabin accommodation, all entertainment, use of the swimming pools and access to the kids clubs. You’ll also have full use of the main restaurant, buffet, and poolside dining options. 

If you’ve booked a cruise holiday that includes a flight, this will also be included in your cruise fare, along with any in-destination transfers.

The three price types offered by P&O Cruises have differences in elements such as the choice of cabin, flexibility in booking and other priorities and perks. The more flexible you are with your preferences, the better deal you are likely to find.

What is P&O Cruises’ Select Fare?

The Select cruise fare is about choice and flexibility. It is the standard price that is always available for every P&O Cruises holiday.

The Select cruise fare is suitable for people who have families or perhaps need certain elements of their holiday guaranteed, as you can choose the main aspects of your cruise when booking. It’s also an excellent option for first-time cruise guests who may want a bit of reassurance about what they will get on their first cruise experience.

What Are The benefits of P&O Cruises’ Select Fare?

• Choice of Cabin Location: You get to select your specific cabin number and location when booking, which is ideal if you prefer mid-ship (for stability), near facilities, or close to friends and family.

• Shuttle Buses: Enjoy the convenience of shuttle buses in ports when provided by P&O Cruises

• Priority for Upgrades: The Select Fare gives you priority consideration for any potential upgrades when available.

• Flexible Dining Arrangements: You also get priority on dining time and party size to suit your specific needs.

• Changing Your Booking: Enjoy the freedom of being able to change your booking if needed (subject to booking terms)

• Valuable Added Perk: Choose one of the following complimentary benefits:

  • Car parking.

  • Return coach travel to Southampton.

  • Onboard credit to spend during your cruise.

What is P&O Cruises’ Early Saver Fare?

With P&O Cruises Early Saver fares, you can find a good deal on prices if you are prepared to compromise on the choice offered within your cruise holiday.

Like the Select fare, the Early Saver fare is also always available, so you still get to book in advance and secure your holiday. However, the price may be lower because you are given fewer choices on things such as where your cabin is located and when and where you wish to dine.

What Are The Benefits of P&O Cruises' Early Saver Fare?

• Best Value Price: The primary benefit is the significantly lower price compared to the Select fare, offering great savings.

• Early Booking Security: You can secure your holiday well in advance with the Early Booking fare.

• Second Priority Upgrades: You receive second priority for any potential cabin upgrades after Select Fare guests.

• Second Priority Dining: You have second priority for dining style (Freedom or Club), seating times, and table size.

• Ideal for Experienced Cruisers: This is a fantastic option if you are a returning P&O Cruises fan who is laid back about onboard preferences and focused on achieving the best possible price.

What is The Cheapest P&O Cruises fare?

P&O Cruises' cheapest cruise fare is the Saver Fare, and it’s for those who are happy booking a last-minute cruise holiday and don’t need to plan in advance.

What is P&O Cruises’ Saver Fare?

• Cheapest Price: The biggest benefit is securing the absolute lowest price available for a P&O Cruises holiday.

• Limited Availability: This fare is only available on a limited number of cruises and at selected times, requiring flexibility on when you travel.

• Cabin Allocation: Your cabin location and number are assigned by P&O Cruises anytime up until 1 day prior to departure.

  • Third Priority Upgrades: You receive the lowest priority for any potential cabin upgrades.

• Dining Allocation: Dining options (style, time, and table size) are assigned on arrival and receive third priority.

• Booking Conditions:

  • Full Payment Required: The full balance must be paid at the time of booking.

  • 100% Cancellation Fee: A 100% cancellation fee is charged if the holiday is cancelled at any time prior to departure.

• Ideal for Flexibility: Best suited for those who are extremely flexible, happy with a last-minute deal, and prioritising cost above all other choices.

The choice of what P&O Cruises fare you should pick really comes down to whether you prioritise guaranteed peace of mind and exclusive perks with the Select Price, or the incredible value of the Early Saver and Saver fares. No matter which you choose, you're securing a fantastic holiday with P&O Cruises.