P&O Cruise Line Aurora – Deck Plans, Entertainment and Cruising Tips

We’ve always been big fans of cruising, whether it’s the beautiful ports, incredible food and entertainment or the endless views of the ocean as you sail. Cruises provide something for everyone and having been on a number of cruise lines; we have found ourselves gravitate more towards P&O in recent years. The fact they have a kettle in the cabin is the first big reason for us, but also, they appear to be the best for people with specific dietary requirements.

Now we had heard that P&O offered adult only specific ships, and they are the Aurora and Arcadia. So, when we saw an itinerary to Norway and the Baltics in July 2026 on the Aurora. It felt like a sign that it was time to experience cruising without kids. Being in our 40’s and having no kids of our own, this felt like a great option. We will preface this by telling you that P&O have begun to introduce family friendly cruises on these ships during busier seasons. If adult only is important to you then make sure you establish that before you book your itinerary, it should state adult only in the description.

Aurora is much smaller than the cruise lines other ships, and one of the oldest. But it recently had a refurb and being smaller means less passengers to deal with. Within this guide we’ll bring you everything you need to know about the ship and our personal perspectives. We’re not stating that we’re expert cruisers, but we have been on a number of cruise lines, around various parts of the world and more importantly sailed on a variety of P&O ships. Hopefully that adds some weight into our opinion on the Aurora, but we know that everyone is different and you may read varying views on other sites.

As with many of our other P&O cruises, we sailed from Southampton and used CPS (Cruise Passenger Services) to park in the port. We have a full guide on Southampton Cruise Parking, which covers everything you need to know and saves you time, so you can focus on planning shore activities. We have used the alternative of booking into a hotel and keeping the car there during the cruise, but in all honesty, we love parking at the cruise port. It really helps when you disembark the ship on that final day and can simply walk to your car and begin the journey home. Rather than waiting for a taxi to take you to the hotel and the faff that all of that brings.

We’re always a little nervous about a new P&O ship but we must admit that with this one, even more so. The fact it is much smaller than the other ships, we worried that we would be bored. Also, we had been told by a friend that you could feel the ship moving a little more. As to whether we were right to be worried, we’ll delve into within this guide. But so we don’t leave you hanging, there were many pro’s and con’s to the ship, many of which we didn’t expect.

Our guide on the P&O Aurora, will explore everything from the deck plans, food and drink, to the entertainment. Hopefully once you’ve read this, you will have everything you ever need to know. We would recommend that you bookmark this article if you’re yet to do the cruise, because it maybe a handy guide for when you’re on the ship and not sure of something.

If this is your first ever cruise and you’re wondering what to take with you, then have a look at our ‘What to Pack for a Cruise – List of Cruise Essentials’. Although this doesn’t delve into everything you’ll need such as socks and underwear, it does provide you with an extensive list of items which will make your cruise that little bit more comfortable.

Arrival at Southampton for Parking and Embarkation

We’ll briefly go through our experience of parking and the bag drop process in Southampton, because you may be sailing on the Aurora but not from there. If you’re looking for something a little more in depth, then remember we have a guide on Southampton Cruise Parking, which covers everything you need to know. But because Southampton is such a busy port for P&O, it’s worth us giving you a little information on the process we went through to board the ship.

Southampton docks covers quite a large area, with four cruise terminals, so it’s easy to get yourself a little lost. But the area is well sign posted and you will have been informed by the cruise line which dock you should head towards.

During our cruise we used the terminals parking providers called Cruise and Passenger Services (CPS). We have used them a number of times in Dover’s cruise port and although they’re a little more expensive than other parking providers, they’re incredibly convenient because your car is kept within the terminal area during your cruise.

The whole process is easy, simply display the print off document emailed to you from CPS on your dashboard before you arrive at the dock, and you will be guided to their section of the terminal. Once directed to their processing spot, we simply parked up, gave them our keys and removed our luggage. We would always recommend that you take pictures of your car before you leave, although CPS will do the same. It’s then a short walk to the terminal across the pedestrian crossing, where you will hand over your luggage.

Because Aurora is a smaller ship, it tends to sail from the Mayflower Cruise terminal at Southampton. P&O are very streamlined when it comes to their boarding process, so being in a smaller terminal didn’t mean more queues. In fact, it was probably the quickest check in we have ever experienced.

Unlike Dover, which has one luggage drop off area, there is actually a system in Southampton meaning you will generally get your luggage on the ship much faster. Outside the terminal itself there are three drop off points, where staff were waiting to take our bags. The first time we went through Southampton it was so busy we simply asked someone where to go. This time because we had a later check in, the whole area was quieter, and it was easier to work out.

As you reach the drop off points you will see coloured squares with numbers on them. The numbers indicate the decks, so you need to head to the drop off point which has a coloured box displaying your deck number. The staff member will then take your luggage, and you can head towards the terminal entrance.

At the entrance you will be asked to show your boarding pass, so staff can determine which queue you should join. Make sure you arrive at your allotted time only, because you will end up having to wait. We saw a lot of people standing in a queue outside because they had arrived early, but as we got there at our allotted time, we simply walked in.

The terminal is pretty self-explanatory, and you will be directed by various members of staff. Just make sure you have your boarding pass available before you enter the terminal, because you will be asked repeatedly to show it to staff throughout the process.

After going up a set of escalators, we joined a queue to check in and once we reached the desks, were asked for our boarding passes and passports. Check in was fast and painless, mainly due to the fact we had done most of the work when we completed the online check in; such as adding our pictures.

Once check in is complete then it’s the usual security process, which is the same as you would do if you were going through airport security. So that would include removing watches, belts, wallets, keys and taking laptops out of your bag and placing them in the tray.

After that you’re done, then you can head up the gangway and your holiday begins.

Security Checks on Aurora

Whenever we cruise, we always find it easier after boarding to head straight to our muster station for the security briefing. Then once you’ve finished you can head to lido, grab some food and enjoy your vacation.

The security briefing was incredibly easy on P&O Aurora, we simply went to the muster station which was on our boarding pass. Once reaching the designated area which is clearly sign posted, we had our boarding pass scanned and a member of staff explained what we had to do and where we should go in cases of emergency. They do recommend that once you leave your muster station and gain access to your room, that you watch the full safety briefing which is available on the TV in your cabin.

Unlike some of the other cruise lines we’ve travelled with, you can head to your cabin straight away. The room cards can be found in an envelope at the cabin door, and you will use them to get in and out of your room. But also to charge any drinks or purchases to your cruise account. Cash is not accepted in any of the bars, restaurants, or shops onboard.

P&O is alike many other cruise lines where your luggage is left outside your cabin door. You normally have to wait a couple of hours for your cases to arrive. So, make sure any items you need are in your hand luggage, such as medications and even a change of clothes if you want to use the lido deck and pools.

Aurora Ship Statistics and Deck Plans

Year Built – 2000

Number of State Rooms – 981

Passenger Capacity – 1,868

Staff/Crew Capacity – 850

Length of Aurora from End to End – 886 Feet (270 Meters)

There are 13 decks on P&O Aurora, but guests don’t have access below deck 4 which is where you will find the medical centre. 4 also tends to be the deck which is used to disembark on port days. Most of the facilities such as restaurants, bars and theatres can be found on decks 5, 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13. Cabins are spread throughout the ship and can be found on decks 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

Related Guide – Things to Do as Soon as You Get into Your Cruise Cabin

Unlike other P&O ships the pools are spread out a bit, with one being at the back of the Aurora on deck 8 called the Terrace Pool. Then you have two on deck 12 with the Crystal Pool in the centre of the ship under a retractable roof and the Riviera Pool which is closer to the back of the ship.

As you can imagine the restaurants can be found in various locations around the ship. The key ones being the Horizon Buffet on deck 12 and the main dining restaurants which are Medina and Alexandria, both being found on deck 6. Aurora has a small number of speciality restaurants, they are Sindu and the Glass House on deck 8, and the Beach House on deck 12.

Bars seem endless, but unlike the larger ships which have an atrium bar, there isn’t one on the Aurora. It’s funny we expected to miss it, because we tend to use the atrium bar a lot. But there were plenty of other options, depending on whether you were looking for a quiet drink or to enjoy the entertainment. Alike other P&O ships, Aurora has a Crows Nest Bar at the top front of the ship, with incredible sea views. Instead of the popular Brodie’s bar they instead have Champions, which is a little louder than the others and close to the casino. For entertainment you have the Masquerade Bar and Carmen’s, where you can dance the night away to the ship’s bands or singers. If you prefer peace and quiet then there is Andersons or Charlie’s Bar and of course each swimming pool has its own bar (Terrace, Riviera and Crystal Bars).

The fitness room is on deck 11, Oasis Spa on deck 12 and sports facilities such as ball courts and golf nets can be found on deck 13. They even have a promenade walkway which goes all the way around the ship on deck 7, which is wonderful to experience on sea days.

Aurora P&O Cabins

We’ll start off by giving you an idea of what cabins are available on the Aurora and then we’ll go into the room that we stayed in, which was an inside cabin.

The types of cabins currently available are.

Inside Cabin

• You have Standard, Larger and Accessible Cabins
• Cabin sizes are approximately between 150 and 225 sq. ft.

These are the cheaper cabins on the ship, which tends to mean they are smaller than the others. But this doesn’t mean that they won’t accommodate everything you need, including a comfortable place to lay your head.

Sea View Cabin

• Standard, Single, Larger, Obstructed and Accessible Cabins
• Cabin sizes are approximately between 210 and 307 sq. ft.

For the cruisers who like a window view but can’t afford a balcony cabin, then a sea view room is a great option. This will flood natural light into your cabin and provide those calming views of the ocean, or a first glimpse of that day’s port. It offers a similar but more spacious layout to the inside cabin, which is ideal if you’re only using your room to rest.

Balcony Cabin

• Standard, Deluxe, Single and Accessible Cabins
• Cabin sizes are approximately between 211 and 300 sq. ft.

For those who like to spend time in peace and quiet, then a balcony cabin is a great option because you can enjoy spectacular views in the comfort of your own room. Having an outdoor area in the cabin will really enhance your holiday experience, because it adds a space where you can sunbathe or simply relax and read, without the noise from other passengers.

Suite Cabins

• Mini Suite – Cabin size approximately 382 sq. Ft

The mini suites are perfect for those looking for luxury on a smaller scale. Not only can you enjoy a full-size whirlpool bath, but there’s a range of luxurious premier toiletries and a spacious lounge area which is ideal to relax after a busy port day.

• Suite – Cabin size approximately 534 sq. Ft

This is a cabin which offers pure VIP treatment including butler service, spacious accommodation, a superior bathroom with a full-size whirlpool bath, inclusive room service and breakfast every day in an exclusive restaurant.

During our cruise in July 2026, we stayed in an inside cabin and had family members who were in a balcony cabin. Unlike other P&O ships where you find a huge difference in the rooms, we actually preferred the inside cabin. The balcony cabin we saw had a bath instead of a walk-in shower and everything about the room was a little cramped. Even the balcony didn’t feel worth the additional cost, because it was quite small and uninspired. If sunlight and views are essential to your cruising vacation, then maybe consider the Sea View Cabin instead and save some money.

We’ll focus on an inside room, because it tends to be what most people choose when they book their cruise. Because the Aurora is an older ship, we expected the cabin to be huge. We have to admit we were a little disappointed at first, but in reality there was plenty of space once we put our cases away.

Our room had two single beds, a small couch, tea making area, dressing table, plus plenty of wardrobes and draws. The bathroom was quite spacious and had a walk-in shower with a curtain. In fact, it was one of the better bathrooms we have had on a cruise ship, with small cupboards that hide away all your toiletries. Within the shower you will see a shampoo and body wash dispenser, then in the sink area you will find liquid soap and tissues. We found that the shower itself wasn’t that powerful and our family members in other rooms stated the same. It was fine for a general shower, but not the best if you are washing long hair.

There was plenty of wardrobe space and shelves throughout the cabin, which made it easier to settle in. Plus, there was various lighting, meaning you could have bright lights or dimmed options. Close to the wardrobes you’ll find the safe which is opened and closed using a 4-digit pin. Then there is one of our favourite things about P&O ships, which is the tea and coffee making facilities. Being able to make a brew in the morning without having to leave your cabin is wonderful. If all of this isn’t good enough, then you have a fridge which is perfect for drinks or snacks. Our big tip with the fridge is to try and keep the outer door slightly open, this allows the heat generated by the fridge to escape and the interior to remain cool.

The negatives to Aurora’s inside cabins was the lack of plugs, with only one being available on the dressing table. Thankfully we carry a multi socket with us, but if you are relying on what’s available on the ship then you may struggle. Also, the TV is awful, especially if you have been on other P&O ships and see what they have on offer. Aurora’s TV is very old skool, where you basically have to watch whatever is available. On other ships you have a library to choose from and can watch whenever you want, which is a wonderful thing to have when you opt to chill in your cabin.

One of the main problems with our cabin was the taste of water from the taps. We have cruised on P&O many times and love having a kettle in the room, with easy access to tea making facilities. The fact we can fill the kettle from the bathroom tap, makes it easy to brew up whenever we like. But sadly, this wasn’t the case on the Aurora, mainly because the water tasted awful. It meant if we wanted a hot drink, we had to go to the Horizon restaurant on lido deck. We asked for the kettle to be changed because there was rust inside at the bottom and so we thought it may have been that. But even when it was changed the water tasted chemically and ironically, we all had bad tummies during our cruise, even though everyone eats very different foods. This may not be a problem for you, but it is something to be mindful of.

Overall, the room was fine, although we much preferred the design of our inside cabin on the P&O Britannia. After the initial disappointment with the size of the room, we realised that it was actually perfect for what we needed. There was plenty of storage, both hanging and draws, plus lots of hangers. If you need more then the cabin stewards can normally bring extra wire ones.

Related Guide – P&O Britannia Cruise Ship – Deck Plans, Entertainment and Cruising Tips

Sadly, the frustrations were big for us, especially the water situation. We had been excited about the TV option as well, having seen what P&O offer on other ships. But the fact we couldn’t choose movies or TV Shows was a huge disappointment. Then add in the fact that the TV would constantly glitch or completely stop working, made it even more annoying. Again, this may not be an issue for you if you’re going to spend most of your time outside of the cabin.

As with most cruise lines, you will be introduced to your cabin steward on the first day. They will tidy up your room daily if you wish them too, for example making up your bed or bringing fresh towels. Depending on your length of cruise they will even change the bedsheets about a week in. There is a magnetic sign in each room, which can be put on the door to indicate whether you want the room cleaning or if you’re resting.

Horizon – Ship and Entertainment Information Sheet

During your time on the cruise, you’ll need to keep up to date with a lot of information. Whether it’s about the entertainment on the ship, the ports, or general requirements. Since Covid 19 we have seen the introduction of more cruise apps, but P&O have retained the paper-based information leaflets. There’s is called Horizon and it is left outside your door the evening before. There is an online version of the Horizon sheet on the My Holiday P&O App, but it’s a little awkward to read.

Horizon provides everything you need to know during your cruise, including the following.

• The Ports – This includes the arrival time and the latest time to be back on board. Also, information on the port including currency exchange, postage, people to contact if you have any emergencies on shore, if you require your passport ashore and details of any shuttle bus services.
• Details on Clock Changes – Due to the fact you’re probably sailing through time zones, you will need to be made aware of any clock changes. This was detailed at the bottom of the Horizon leaflet.
• Dress Code – During our cruise we had a number of formal nights, which tended to be held on sea days. Horizon will have a section which details whether the dress code is black tie or evening casual and what that means.
• Deal of the Day – Throughout your cruise there will be various deals within the shops, whether it’s on jewellery, clothing, or perfume.
• Entertainment – Most of the Horizon leaflet covers the entertainment on the ship. This includes everything you can find in the theatre, bars, spa, photo gallery, gym, shopping and Lido deck. You’ll find that entertainment will be shown in order of time, with most activities starting at 7am and ending late. We’ll explore what entertainment is available further on in this guide, but it includes shows, quizzes, and classes.
• Restaurant Opening Times and Other Facilities – You won’t have detailed lists of what is on offer in every restaurant, because this will change each day. Horizon does have an additional pull-out section, which has the restaurant opening and closing times. On this you’ll also see the opening times of the bars, shopping, and other onboard services. It’s a handy piece of paper which you can fold and pop into your pocket.

P&O’s Horizon was incredibly useful during our cruise, and we just got used to carrying it around. They covered everything we needed and so much more, just make sure you throw it in your bag as you leave the cabin.

The ‘My Holiday’ P&O App

P&O currently have the My Holiday app available to all passengers, and it is here that you will find everything you need to make your cruise more comfortable. We still recommend keeping the paper-based Horizon leaflet with you, because it has everything you need, and the app is a little awkward.

To log into the My Holiday app, you need information such as the cabin number and booking reference. Then head to the P&O site, make sure your data is off, but plane mode and Wi-Fi are on. Don’t worry you won’t be charged anything by the cruise line, this is a free service.

When you’re on the cruise ship and you log into the My Holiday app, you’ll see the following.

• Dining – Within this section you will see what restaurants are available, and there will be sample menus for that day.
• Shore Experiences – Provides you with the opportunity to see what excursions are available and gives you the ability to book. You can filter on the app by elements such as the port, activity level, duration and then sort by price. If you like what you see, then simply book and it will be added to your cruise account.
• On Board Account Summary – Although you don’t want to spend your holiday worrying about money, it is important to keep an eye on your onboard account. With P&O when we bought a drink, we handed them our room card, and they simply gave it back to us and brought the drink. Now we found this a little unusual because on other cruise lines you are expected to sign a receipt to prove you have received the drink. Because of this we did regular checks of our account to make sure that all the information was correct. It would be difficult to remember at the end of the vacation what you had or had not bought, so makes sense to look throughout. On the first screen you are shown the total transaction amount, but there is an additional section which displays a drilled down version.
• My Diary – This section displays anything you have booked during your trip including excursions and restaurants.
• Loyalty and Cruise Sales – This is a virtual section specifically to discuss your P&O loyalty and explore any future cruise bookings. We would recommend that you actually go to the sales desk which is on deck 5 should you have any questions.
• Medical Assistance – Should you require information on who to call if there is a medical emergency, then this section provides the details. It includes the medical centre which is open every day on deck 4.
• Spa – For those of you considering using the spa but you’re wondering what is available, then you will find this section useful. It holds the Oasis Spa treatment menu in full, but sadly there are no prices on there so you would need to contact the spa itself for further details. It’s here you can also find the fitness schedule within the gym.
• Entertainment – Now this is where we would expect to see a full list of the daily entertainment, but instead it can be found under the ‘Horizon’ section.
• Drinks – This was actually quite handy because we didn’t need to ask for a menu at any of the bars, we simply went on the app, and it was there. Basically, this shows you every menu for every bar, including prices.
• Holiday Essentials – As well as essential holiday information including health and safety tips and things to be aware of during your trip. This section provides a ships guide and a map of each deck, including where you can find all the available facilities. Holiday Essentials is also the area that you will find the room service menu which includes breakfast, daytime bites, night-time nibbles, and drinks.
• Internet Packages – We couldn’t see much information in this section, but from looking online there are two packages to choose from. The first is ‘my Wi-Fi essential’ which is the cheaper of the two and ideal for simple browsing, email, and social media. There’s also ‘my Wi-Fi ultimate’ which gives you faster connection speeds and is perfect for browsing, email, social media, streaming of music and movies, and video chat. You can choose both as a cruise plan option or opt to pay per day.
• Horizon – Although you would expect the entertainment information to be in the ‘Entertainment’ section, it is in fact within Horizon. When you tap on it, you’ll basically see a digital version of your Horizon information sheet.

If you are more of a visual person, we also have a video walk-through of the My Holiday App on our YouTube channel.

Entertainment and Activities on P&O Aurora

One of the reasons that people love cruising, is for the incredible entertainment you will see onboard. We’ve seen high-quality entertainment on many of the cruises we have taken, so would Aurora offer something similar? Aurora has the Curzon Theatre where all the headlining shows and performances take place. But there are various bands, singers and acts located around the ship. We’ll explore a little of what was available in each room when we sailed, but obviously this may change.

Curzon Theatre

Theatres on most cruise ships tend to be the hub of entertainment, so it makes sense to start here. The Curzon Theatre can be found on the front of deck 7 and it was one of the nicer ones we have been in. Curzon Theatre is very reminiscent of the old-style theatres at home, with plenty of bright red seating surrounding a large stage. It was quite comfortable, with decent leg room and great views of the stage from every angle.

Unlike some of the other P&O ships where you have to pre-book, you simply turn up to the Curzon Theatre and grab a seat. Because the shows are popular you must turn up early, especially if you’re picky about where you want to sit. During our cruise there were two shows each night, and they were at 8.30pm and 10.30pm.

There is no drinks service in the theatre, but you can take them in. Most of the shows we went to see were packed, with the Headliners Theatre Company performing a variety of themes. On top of that you had special guest performances, which on our cruise included singers, comedians, impersonators, and illusionists.

The shows that we saw, were pretty much the same as we have seen on other P&O ships over the last few years. We personally didn’t find the quality to be as good as the other ships, but it was still decent overall. Aurora seemed to have more specialised acts, which meant they would only appear a couple of times during the entire cruise itinerary. We didn’t mind this at all, because we enjoyed some great bands playing 60’s and 70’s music, comedians and performers such as jugglers.

We’ll admit to getting a little bored with the theatre towards the end of the trip, but we could see there was a decent variety offered throughout. You may struggle if you’re on the later dining slot in the main restaurant, which is 8.30. This is bang on the time of the first show and it means you only have the 10.30 option left, which is a little late for us.

Carmen’s

Towards the back of the ship on deck 7 is Carmen’s, which was our favourite spot for onboard entertainment. There was more space and quite a chilled atmosphere, and we enjoyed the entertainment there. The house band Pulse regularly played there and although it wasn’t the best band we have seen on a P&O cruise ship, you could still enjoy it (bear in mind that band members will change). In Carmen’s you’ll find a large stage and dance floor, bar and drinks service with plenty of chairs, including comfy sofas. It’s the ideal place to head if you’re looking to have a dance, or you simply want to sit at the back and enjoy the music. When there are specialist shows on it can get busy, so you’ll want to ensure you are there in plenty of time. They even use this room for things such as sporting events, where they have a big screen available.

As with the theatre, entertainment will vary each day, and you tend to find a few things on each night. During our cruise Pulse played a few times each night and themed their act, from 70’s hits, rock classics, one hit wonders and Motown to name a few. You will sometimes see specialist acts from the Curzon theatre, perform additional shows within Carmen’s. So, if you missed them the first time or you didn’t fancy being crammed into a theatre, then keep an eye on the Horizon sheet.

Champions Bar

Found next to the casino and towards the back of deck 7 is Champions Bar. Now for those of you who regularly cruise on P&O ships, you’ll know that most of them have a Brodie’s Bar which tends to be the hub of quizzes and sporting events. Interestingly there is no Brodie’s on Aurora, but Champions is the closest thing we found on there. It’s basically themed as a sports bar, with memorabilia dotted around, but it’s also a bit of a thoroughfare for people moving to and from Carmen’s. In all honest it felt like Champions was just shoved there as a bar option for the casino, rather than a chilled drinking experience. There are a few booth style seats next to the windows, with nice views of the promenade walk and ocean. But the rest of the seating is basically chairs and tables with the odd sofa thrown in.

We cruised with Aurora during a busy sporting time with both the World Cup 2026 and Wimbledon being in full swing. So, most of the events were shown in Champions and because it’s such a small area, seating would fill up fast. On occasion there were quizzes, but most activities such as this were held in the Masquerade Bar, because it was bigger and better suited.

You’ll find pretty much the same drinks as you would in all the other bars, but sadly Champions doesn’t do hot drinks. Again, this wasn’t our favourite bar, in fact we only sat there two or three times. It just felt like you were in the way of people passing through and wandering around the ship, which isn’t a relaxing experience.

Anderson’s Bar

Another bar found on deck 7, located closer to the front of the ship, Anderson’s is themed on an English-style country club lounge. The best way to describe Anderson’s design is elegance, with plenty of comfortable seating options, wood panelled walls, an ornate fireplace and beautiful bookcases.

As with Anderson’s Bars on other P&O ships their specialist drink is gin, including their own Marabelle Gin and themed gin flights. We even saw gin tasting sessions during our cruise, but they are only available at an additional cost. Basically, Anderson’s is a great option for pre-dinner cocktails or an evening nightcap, but you won’t find much in the way of entertainment there.

The Crow’s Nest

Positioned at the front of the ship on deck 13 is the Crows Nest, which was our favourite bar on the ship. The views from this bar cover the entirety of the front of the ship, so on sea days you will witness endless ocean and during port days you can enjoy where you have docked.

It’s quite a large space filled with chairs and sofas, but also a central band area where you will see a piano. This gives you an idea as to the kind of entertainment you can find there. Through the day it’s a very quiet location and people use it to read and relax, but at night you have a mixture of classical pianists or a band. They tend to play more upscale music to suit the ambiance of the Crow’s Nest, whether it’s classical, jazz or even big bands from the 30s and 40s.

During formal nights you are expected to wear a jacket to enter the Crow’s Nest and it’s the perfect place to relax with a cocktail and take in the spectacular views.

Masquerade Bar

Located in the middle of deck 7 is the Masquerade Bar, which is the ideal spot for a drink, dance or bit of trivia. This large space tended to be the main location for all the quizzes on the ship and was a hub of entertainment. P&O are one of the few cruise lines that still offer ballroom dancing tutorials, and you will see them daily in the Masquerade Bar.

You tended to find the karaoke was held there and occasionally party events where music was played from a certain category or decade. They even had one of the silent discos in the Masquerade Bar, with the other being held in the Crystal Pool and Bar area.

Within the bar there is plenty of seating and waiter service, but we prewarn you that it can get busy. So, if there’s anything you really want to take part in or watch, then make sure you get there early.

Vanderbilt’s

This room is set up purely for those of you looking to play games, whether its cards, board games or jigsaws. There are a number of tables and chairs set up around the room, with jigsaws already available for passengers to complete. It’s a lovely quiet room, so idea if you’re looking for a spot of peace as you play dominoes or even fill in a crossword.

The Playhouse

This is a room which you normally wouldn’t head to, unless you’re interested in watching a movie or seeing a performer. It’s pretty much a smaller theatre and there is no bar or waiter service. Some of the larger P&O ships have their own cinemas, but Aurora is an older vessel, so they have utilised the Playhouse. You will find there are two or three viewings of some of the latest movies every day during your cruise. We personally didn’t see any films during our trip, mainly because they were on at odd times which made it difficult. But it may be a great way for you to spend the evening, just grab some snacks from the cruise shop and get comfy.

Swimming Pools – Lido Deck

On P&O Aurora there are three swimming pools, and they can be found on deck 8 and 12. The Terrace Pool and Bar on deck 8 is at the back of the ship and offers little in the way of entertainment. But is a great pool if you simply want to relax, sunbathe and enjoy the pool.

The other two swimming pools are on deck 12, the first being in the middle of the ship. This is a huge space known as the Crystal Pool, because of the large glass roof above it. The square pool is in the centre and there are plenty of sun loungers all around, as well as a bar with waiter service. This area has two levels with the pool and bar on the lower, above there are more tables and chairs, as well as ping pong tables. It’s a beautiful space on the ship, especially if you’re sailing with incredible views, as we had down the Norwegian Fjords. But if the sun is out then it can get pretty hot, because you’re basically surrounded by glass. The pool was a nice temperature and there is a hot tub next to it, so you can warm up if it is a little cooler.

Related Guide – What to Pack for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

If you walk from the Crystal Pool towards the front of the ship, then you find the Riviera Pool and Bar. This is an open-air pool, again offering plenty of sun loungers and waiter service. Both pools were busy during our cruise, whether it was sunny or cooler; especially the Crystal Pool.

When it comes to entertainment the Crystal Pool was a well-used location. Not only is this where you will find the sail away, but also quizzes, silent discos and many of the on-board bands would perform on occasion. Because of the size of the room, it was a little loud so just bear that in mind.

If you’re up late and enjoy a little star gazing, then make sure you take a moment and sit on the upper level and enjoy being out at sea. It’s a perfect bucket list memory and the ideal spot to take a moment and appreciate where you are in the world.

The Casino

Most of the cruise ships we have been on are American chains such as Carnival, where the casino area is huge. On most P&O ships the casinos tend to be much smaller, and when we looked through the Horizon sheet there was very little listed in there for additional entertainment. Found on deck 7, Aurora’s casino was quite compact in size, but then it is a small ship whose passenger age range tends to be older. There were a few slot machines and a couple of casino tables, but it feels as though the casino is just shoved into an unused area, rather than it being a purposeful space.

You have two ways to deposit and play in the casino and that is by adding it to your cruise account or using money. You simply add your cruise card to any slot machine, and it will direct you on the depositing options.

Additional Facilities

The Photo Hub – Pick Up Pictures

You’ll know when you’ve found the Photo Hub on deck 8, because you will randomly come across a number of screens on the wall. This is where you can access any pictures taken during your cruise. We prefer this to other cruise lines who have photographers roaming the ship taking photos of people. The ones on P&O aren’t as bothersome and you will rarely be asked if you want your picture taken, if at all.

To check your photos simply tap on the Photo Hub screen and type in your cabin number. Any pictures that have been taken will appear and they can be purchased and printed. Charges for printing those pictures will be confirmed and added to your cruise account.

Pictures normally take 24 hours to be uploaded, so we recommend waiting until the following day to take a look. Within the Photo Hub area, they also sell camera gear and accessories such as memory cards and presentation options for your prints. You can also book a private photo shoot with an onboard photographer around scenic areas of the ship. Although this is something we have never done, family members have and the results were beautiful.

Library

Found on deck 13 at the front of the ship, you will see the library right next to the Crows Nest Bar. It’s very similar on other P&O ships such as the Britannia and we assume it’s so you can borrow a book and relax in the Crows Nest as you enjoy a drink. Cruise ship libraries can be very hit and miss, because they tend to be books that have been left by other passengers. But we must admit that there was a great selection on Aurora, including some of the classics.

The many bookshelves are labelled into various categories such as fiction and non-fiction. You will even find a couple of large chairs there to sit and read, but every time we went in someone was sat snoozing.

If you want to get your books when you’re on the ship, then our advice is to go first thing when you board. The selection can reduce significantly a few days into your trip and leave you disappointed.

Borrowing a book is incredibly easy, you simply pick the one you want to read and once you have finished, there is a drop off box where you can return it.

Uganda Room

This room isn’t exactly an entertainment space, but we like to cover everything, and you may be interested. Next to the Crows Nest Bar on deck 13 is the Uganda Room, which is a space for celebrations such as weddings and vow renewals. The rooms’ theme is navy, grey and gold, which is ideal for elegant events. We didn’t see any events during our cruise, but we have on other ships such as the Iona. The flowers and layout of the room was absolutely stunning, so it’s a great option if you’re a cruiser who is looking to celebrate with your true love.

If you’re thinking of having your celebration on the Aurora, then P&O have a dedicated team of specialists. They will explore what it is you’re looking for and aim to make the process stress free. P&O offer various packages, but our advice is to contact them for more details on pricing.

Shopping

Aurora is quite a small ship, so we didn’t expect there to be much in the way of shopping. The types of shops are pretty much what you would expect to see on any cruise ship. They are located on deck 6 and 7, closer to the front of the ship. There is a shop specifically for duty free items such as alcohol and cigarettes, then you have another for perfume, aftershave and makeup. The perfume shop leads through to the jewellery section, where you will find a stunning collection of watches. You also have ladies’ jewellery, with items such as bracelets, earrings and necklaces, in pretty much every type of gemstone you can find.

There is another shopping section which specialises in clothing, handbags and some P&O specific apparel. You have the usual clothing brands such as Ted Baker, FatFace and Barbour, with quite a decent range when you consider that this is a smaller vessel. Sometimes they have special offers on cheap items such as handbags or watches, but you may also find souvenir items from the ports you are visiting during your cruise. Next to the clothing section is the Emporium, which is a corner shop style area, where you can buy snacks such as crisps, sweets and biscuits. They also stock some medical essentials, toiletries and everyday holiday items you may have forgotten. We will prewarn you that the prices are insane, and you’re better stocking up on snacks when you’re ashore.

Just remember that during port days the shops are closed, so you will only have access during sea days or in the evenings as the ship moves from one port to the next.

Art Gallery

On all the other cruises we have been on, there tends to be an art gallery somewhere on the ship, which is surprisingly popular. Auroras can be found on deck 7 between the Masquerade Bar and Champions Bar. It’s basically just the corridor space between both of the bars, but it gives you an opportunity each day to see the range of artwork available for sale.

The art gallery is operated in partnership with Clarendon Fine Art, and you will see a variety of styles and artists. This includes contemporary, pop and fine artists such as Banksy, Damien Hirst, Fabian Perez and Mr. Brainwash. There is very little under a thousand pounds, but we saw a few sales during our cruise and some of the artwork was beautiful; we loved Fabian Perez’s work. There is a small desk area where you will find an employee who can help, should you have any questions about the art or you wish to purchase a piece. You will see the odd piece of artwork in other places on the ship, if you’re interested.

This art gallery isn’t as standout as some of the others we have seen on P&O, but it’s still worth walking through and looking at what is on offer. Although you may be shocked at some of the prices.

Shore Experiences

Opposite the shops on deck 6 you will see the Shore Experiences area, where you can discover what excursions are available during your cruise. There is a destination booking desk where you will find dedicated excursion staff throughout the day.

Remember that there is a section on the My Holiday app which is specifically about excursions. You can book there, with the cost being added to your cruise account. But if you have any questions or you’re unsure about a particular excursion, then we would recommend going and speaking to the Shore Experiences team.

Not only can you book excursions, but you can fill out a request form, and someone will get back to you. You can also pick up your tour tickets, but they are normally delivered straight to your cabin. From our experience we found the prices of excursions on P&O to be reasonable, especially for European city breaks.

Loyalty and Cruise Sales

We’re going to be honest; we didn’t really spend much time in this area, because it was on deck 5 next to the reception. On other P&O ships the reception desk is normally in the atrium where there is a bar. But due to Auroras age and size, there is nothing else on deck 5 other than the reception, Loyalty and Cruise Sales desk and a few chairs for guests to relax in.

For those of you enjoying your cruise, you may be thinking about the next one. Well P&O have provided their guests with the ideal opportunity to sit down with an expert and explore what itineraries are available. If you see something you like then they can help you book, so that you have something to look forward to once your current cruise is sadly over. You can also check your Peninsular Club loyalty tier benefits and see if you’re entitled to anything extra during your cruise.

As you enter the cruise sales area, there are brochures which detail the itinerary of each P&O ship for the next couple of years. We also saw a sign which displayed the discounts, if you booked another cruise during your current one. Now we like to be honest, it wasn’t anything amazing and we prefer to use SeaScanner for our bookings.

Sports Facilities

You can find the majority of sports facilities on deck 13, and although Aurora doesn’t offer as much as the larger ships, there’s still a decent range. If you’re looking to pass the time, then you have the basketball court which is also used for 5 aside football, cricket and pickle-ball. Next to the basketball court are small golf hitting cages, where you can practice your swing without losing the balls overboard. There are ping pong tables in the Crystal Pool area and traditional deck games such as shuffleboard and deck quoits.

Finally, there is a walking and running track on deck 7, which is a little unusual when you compare it to the modern cruise ships who offer stand-alone options. The track is a wraparound promenade, and you literally circle the ship with small corridors at the front and back to keep you safe. We love to use these tracks during sea days to get our steps in. Sadly, every time we went on Aurora, parts of it were closed making it difficult to complete a full lap.

The Gym

This won’t be everyone’s priority when they cruise, but you may be surprised to know that the gym is a popular spot on most ships. During our cruise we went to the gym a few times and it was always busy.

You can find the gym on deck 11 and when you compare it to the size of the ship, the workout facilities are pretty impressive. They offer a range of machines including treadmills, cross trainers, rowing machines, weights machines, and an extensive free weights area. All the equipment seemed to be of a high quality, and you can enjoy views of the pool area as you work out. There were plenty of towels available and hygiene wipes to ensure the equipment was clean for you to use.

If you want to take your exercise a step further, then you could always pay for a personalised fitness session with one of their instructors. They will show you around the gym and help you work out a routine, using the equipment available to get the body you have always wanted.

Within the Horizon guide you will see additional classes held in the fitness area such as yoga and Pilates. Sadly, these are not included in your cruise and as such come with an extra cost. At the time of our cruise it was £15 for one class, which we personally feel is quite expensive and you tend to find that there are very few people who attend.

The Oasis Spa

We will admit that we didn’t use the Oasis Spa ourselves, but we spoke to the staff there, had a walk around and have researched what is available. They have a salon area, dressing rooms, treatment spaces, plus a spa and sauna. Within the treatment area they offer an incredible range of spa favourites including facials, massage, acupuncture, nail and hair treatments, and men’s grooming.

The spa is on deck 12 and you will find prices on their reception desk, but we would recommend you keep an eye out for offers in the Horizon information sheet. During our trip there was a Shellac nail special, discount on hands and nail treatments, and men’s grooming, to name a few. Obviously, port days are quieter in the salon area, so if you prefer the peace then stay away during sea days.

Having sailed on a variety of cruise lines, we feel that P&O’s prices are reasonable. Yes, it’s still expensive compared to land-based salons, but not excessively. If you fancied a treat then the Oasis Spa on Aurora offered nice, relaxing vibes and there is a spiral staircase which leads to the gym and fitness room below.

The idea of doing laundry maybe the last thing on your mind when you’re on holiday, but you’d be surprised by how many people use laundrettes on cruise ships. There are plenty of back-to-back cruisers around, which is a term used for people who do two more cruise itineraries consecutively.

Related Guide – What are Back to Back Cruises?

There are 3 self-service laundrettes for passengers on Aurora, and they are located on decks 5, 9 and 11. Facilities are free to use and include washing machines, sinks, tumble dryers, irons, and ironing boards. The laundrette we visited was huge and the machines looked modern and clean, so we felt happy to use them. Opening hours are 8am to 10pm but they may be closed in some of the ports, so maybe leave your laundry time to a sea day. Within the laundrette itself we couldn’t find anywhere to purchase washing powder or fabric softener, so bring your own. We use Dr. Beckmann laundry detergent sheets, because they are easier to carry and they wash your clothes really well.

Bouquet Delivery

If you’re cruising due to a special occasion, such as a wedding anniversary or birthday. Or you simply want to tell someone how much they mean to you, then why not buy them beautiful flowers for their cabin? During your stay on the Aurora, you can place an order by filling in their form and putting it in the Florist Drop Box at reception. Their form gives you the opportunity to provide special instructions or a message you want to add on the bouquet. The flowers will then be delivered to the cabin specified on the form. You have a variety of options from a single rose to luxury bouquets or a dozen red roses, to name a few.

Aurora Bars and Drinks

There are plenty of bars available on P&O Aurora, with each offering a different atmosphere to accommodate all their guests. To order a drink you grab the attention of a server, tell them what you want and then give them your room card. They will have a tablet which is used to make the drinks order and swipe your card, before handing it back to you. Unlike many other cruise lines we have sailed with, everything is electronic on P&O and as such you will not be given a receipt or asked to sign for your order. Because of this we would always recommend that you regularly check your cruise account to make sure that the right charges have been applied. It can be difficult to remember at the end, so it would make sense to monitor as you go.

This list of the bars on Aurora will provide you with a general idea of what is available, and the type of drinks you’ll find in each.

Champions Bar

Champions is themed on a sports bar but rather than being an actual room, it can be found in a corner near the casino. We’ve described it in more detail within the entertainment section, but you’ll find lots of chairs, sofas and booths to relax as you watch one of the many TV’s showing sporting events.

When it comes to drinks, there is a large range available including British beers and ciders such as Fullers London Pride, Old Speckled Hen, and Black Sheep Ale; then your usual wines, soft drinks, cocktails and spirits. Sadly, they do not serve hot drinks there, but you can always grab one from Raffles Coffee Bar on deck 8 and take it with you to Champions.

Anderson’s Bar                  

This English style Bar is a staple drinking spot on P&O cruise ships, because of their signature gin brand called Marabelle Gin. This large bar space offers elegance and comfort, with a decadent surrounding of wooden panelling and ornate décor. There is plenty of comfortable seating and it is the ideal place for a relaxing drink, away from the hustle and bustle of the other passengers. During our time on the ship, we spotted gin tastings and masterclasses held in Anderson’s, but they will be at an additional cost. As you can imagine there are other drinks available within the bar area, such as beers and wine, but take a moment to check out the spirits range and the cocktails, which have been specially designed by mixologists to bring a unique twist and flavour.

The Crow’s Nest

You will find the Crow’s Nest on deck 13 at the front of the ship, and it’s here you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the port or ocean. The whole room provides a combination of comfort and class and a range of chairs and sofas throughout this spacious bar. During the day it’s relatively empty, but it will get busy at nighttime because it is essentially the ships piano bar.

If you spend time there in the day then you can wear shorts and flip flops, but you will be asked to leave and change as it leads up to 6pm. On Gala Evenings you are required to wear more formal clothing, which is indicated by a sign near the entrance of the bar. Drinks are similar to the options elsewhere on the ship, with a range of beers, wine, and soft drinks. If you’re a cocktail fan then make sure you check out what is available in the Crow’s Nest, because they have a small selection of vintage style options such as a Ruby Rose Punch or a Plum Sherbet Gimlet.

Masquerade Bar

Although rarely used in the day, the Masquerade Bar on deck 7 transforms from a cosy pub into a vibrant nightclub during the evening. There is plenty of seating and waiter service, where you can enjoy amazing music whilst drinking beer, cider, wine, spirits or a tasty cocktail. Masquerade Bar is also the main location for the many quizzes held during your cruise, and it’s the perfect spot. So, if you’re looking for lots of atmosphere during your cruise evenings, then this maybe your favourite spot. For those after peace, then we recommend elsewhere because it can be quite loud.

Carmen’s Bar

Found at the back of deck 7 and the home of P&O’s house band known as Pulse, this is a great spot for entertainment throughout the night. Alike many of the other bars throughout the ship, there is plenty of seating which is quite comfortable and waiter service. Because the room is quite large, if it is busy then you may wait a while for your drink, so maybe grab one from another bar before you arrive. But they have the usual drinks such as beer, cider, wine, spirits and cocktails, which you can enjoy as you dance the night away.

Raffles Bar

Although this space feels like it is simply tables and chairs, thrown into a walk-through area on deck 8. Raffles Bar is in fact the onboard coffee spot, where you can enjoy a range of Costa Coffee drinks, smoothies or various teas. They also have a cabinet of tasty desserts for those of you with a sweet tooth. Everything at Raffles Bar comes at an extra price, even the cakes. During our research we discovered that Raffles also serves handcrafted cocktails, liqueurs and after dinner drinks. We visited a few times to enjoy a coffee, and it was a nice spot to simply sit and relax. It was one of the quieter areas on the ship, so ideal if you’re eager to sit and read in peace.

Pennant Bar

This beautiful spot on the aft of deck 12, provides passengers with the chance to enjoy a drink whilst taking in the wake at the back of the ship. There is a large bar area because it serves both the Pennant Bar and Beach House restaurant. You will find similar drinks to the other bars, such as beer, wine, cider, spirits and cocktails. Although there is no entertainment here, it is an ideal spot to take a moment and enjoy endless ocean views.

Charlie’s Bar

Charlie’s is right next to Andersons Bar and is considered a stylish piano and champagne bar. Located on deck 7 we found this spot odd, mainly because it didn’t seem like a bar just a gathering of chairs. It is only the baby grand piano which will make you look again and realise this is an actual entertainment space. In reality it is just a space you’ll walk past and pay little attention to, because it’s pretty small and doesn’t have much of an atmosphere.

From researching we are told that you can order champagne and caviar from Charlie’s, as well as quality bubbly and upscale treats. There is a pianist playing in the area on occasion, but again because it is small you may find it hard to get a seat.

The Glass House

This is predominantly a restaurant found on deck 8, which has been headed up by the award-winning wine expert Olly Smith. You can enjoy their impressive wine menu, with samples and wine flights being available to purchase.

Pool Bars

Whether you’re relaxing in the pool or sunbathing to top up that tan, you’re never too far from one of the deck bars on P&O Aurora.

Terrace Bar – deck 8

Riviera Bar – deck 12

Crystal Bar – deck 12

Each bar offers an incredible range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, especially those tasty cocktails to put you in the holiday mood. What we love about the deck bars on the Aurora, is that they have been placed in the best locations for guests to enjoy spectacular views. You will find servers wandering around taking drinks orders, so if you don’t want to move from your sun lounger then you don’t have to.

Restaurants on P&O Aurora

Food is quite an important aspect on any cruise ship, because all your meals will be made on there. So, you need to make sure you’re catered for and that it is high quality. P&O know the importance of this, so they offer a wide range of dining spaces and restaurants throughout the Aurora. Some of these are included in your cruise and others have an additional charge, but we’ll go through each to give you an idea of what they offer.

Horizon Restaurant

We thought we’d start with the buffet restaurant on deck 12, because for most guests this is where you’ll spend most of your time eating. Horizon works the same as most buffet restaurants in that you grab your plate and cutlery and then wander around and help yourself to whatever food you’d like. There are a number of food stations during lunch and in the evening. You will see a soup and bread area, salad selection, vegetarian and vegan, desserts (both hot and cold) and finally the main buffet area which has at least ten items. This will change every day, but you will see regulars such as fries, white rice and vegetables. They even have themed nights like Mexican or Asian, which helps add a little variety to your meals.

Breakfast includes the usual cooked items such as eggs, bacon, and beans, plus continental with cereals, pastries, and fruits. There is a good range of fruit juice and even smoothie drinks in the morning too.

In comparison to other cruise lines the food on P&O tends to be better, but we must admit that we struggled on the Aurora and didn’t rate it at all. We had people in our party with food intolerances and although P&O claim to cater for everyone, there was very little to eat on some days. If you do have food preferences or intolerances then you will be glad to know that on all P&O ships in the Horizon restaurant, they label each menu item and on the back of the label is a full list of ingredients. This makes it ten times easier to work out yourself what you can and cannot eat. There is a small section for allergen products such as plant-based milks, vegan cheese and butter or gluten free bread and dressings.

Horizon is essentially the place to eat, if you want to be a little less formal when you dine. Plus, it gives you phenomenal sea views to make your meal even more relaxing.

We have been on huge P&O ships such as the Iona, and we know the variety that can be offered by this cruise line. Because Aurora is a much smaller ship we didn’t expect a lot, but honestly our entire party struggled. We’ll prewarn you that P&O food is always incredibly salty and oily, even their vegetables. If you’re not limited by allergies, intolerances or personal choices, then you may find it easier than we did. Thankfully the ingredients list makes life much easier, and if you’re really struggling talk to one of the staff in the yellow apron and they may be able to help. There are additional products such as Vegan bacon and sausage, which are cooked if requested.

Related Guide – P&O Iona Cruise Ship – Deck Plans, Entertainment and Cruising Tips

Main Dining Restaurants

There are two restaurants on the Aurora, the first being Medina which is on deck 6 in the middle and Alexandria at the back of the ship. Medina is used for the passengers who have timed dining, which is at either 6.30pm or 8.30pm. Alexandria is used for freedom dining which means that there are no set mealtimes. Both restaurants are used for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and evening meals. We were given a mealtime of 8.30pm, which was a problem as the first theatre show was at the same time. Because of this and the fact it was a little later than we usually eat, we ate most of our meals in the Horizon buffet.

Food will vary each day with a starter, main and dessert being offered to guests, but on black tie nights you may enjoy extra courses such as an amuse-bouche.

The Beach House

At the back of the ship on deck 12 next to the Pennant Bar, you will see an area sectioned off and it is here you will find The Beach House. It is a pop-up dining venue with a separate reservations desk, and you can book it on your My Holiday app. Because of where The Beach House is positioned, there isn’t really a dress code and as such you can go in your casual clothes. Of course, this doesn’t include beach wear such as swimming outfits.

The Beach House is a speciality dining option and as such you have to pay an additional supplement. It is inspired by Latin America and Caribbean cuisines, including plenty of comfort foods and hearty dishes. Within that additional charge you will receive a three-course meal. You will notice that on the menu depending on the item you choose, there may be an additional charge. This tends to be foods such as steaks and expensive fish like lobster.

The Beach House is one of the more affordable speciality dining options and as such it can be busy, so we would advise that you pre-book.

If you are looking for something a little different from the main dining room or buffet, then you may want to try The Beach House. The portion sizes are decent, and the food is a little fancier than the main restaurant. This is ideal for those of you looking for quality food, without having to dress up to the nines.

Lido Grill

Next to the Crystal Pool and Bar on deck 12 is the Lido Grill and Ice Cream section. The grill is a popular spot during the day, because you can enjoy stone baked pizzas, hot dogs, burgers and fries. Food comes in a cute basket as if you were in a diner, so it’s easy enough to carry back to your sun lounger and enjoy. Pizza is served by the slice, but you can request a whole one. Lido Grill is ideal if you start to get hungry, but you don’t want to leave or change out of your swimming gear.

Next to the Crystal Bar is an ice cream section which serves a range of flavours, including gelato and sundaes. You will even find ice lollies available, but these and the ice creams all come at an additional price.

The Glass House

This restaurant can be found on deck 8 and is ideal if you’re looking for a light bite, with a lunchtime tipple to match. Alongside the beautiful food is a selection of wines chosen by wine guru Olly Smith and there are over 32 to try during your vacation.

There are supplemental charges for this restaurant, depending on your menu choices. They also have trio plates where you’ll be served three dishes for a specific food item, for example beef, chicken, pork, seafood and even vegan. If you have a sweet tooth then take a look at the three-piece sweets, where you can enjoy three taster desserts themed from the Very Berry, British Retro or Global Fusion categories.

Sindhu

Found on deck 8 is the Indian inspired Sindhu restaurant, which is the ideal spot if you’re looking for a relaxing atmosphere and something a little different. As you can imagine this is a supplementary restaurant, with the menu for Sindhu being designed by Michelin star chef Atul Kochhlar who drew inspiration from his native India. This means your taste buds will be delighted by an array of rich spices, delicate flavours, and wonderful aromas, all in sumptuous surroundings.

Room Service on P&O Aurora

Cruises can be hard work and tiring, especially if you have back-to-back ports. So, you may get back to your cabin and simply want to rest, rather than having to get ready to head to a restaurant. This is where room service comes in handy, because you can relax in your room and wait for food to be delivered to your door. There are additional charges added to the order, but it’s not too extreme. Also, you can always nip up to the buffet and bring food back to your room. Food categories include baguettes, light bites, large plates, wraps and healthy options. There are even desserts and sweet treats available if you fancy something a little naughty. Room service is available around the clock, but after 11pm the menu is smaller.

If you’re after breakfast, then fill in the card and hang it on your door before you go to bed and the next morning the crew member will knock with your order. For other meals simply call room service and place your order and they will bring it to you.

Special Dietary Requirements

During our first full day on the ship, we received a call from one of the special dietary team explaining what we needed to do if we wanted to book in the restaurant. Basically, if you have any allergies or intolerances and you want to book into any of the restaurants onboard. Then you will need to pre-book your meal 24 hours before, by going to the restaurant and picking what you want to eat. This will give the chef plenty of time to make the adjustments to the dishes before you arrive. Most vegetarian options in the main restaurants can be made vegan relatively easy. We were informed that P&O offer a full menu of vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and low sugar dishes.

Within the Horizon restaurant there are knowledgeable stewards wearing a yellow ‘can I help you?’ apron who will be happy to help and explain the ingredients. But most of the buffet options will be labelled as to whether they are gluten free, veggie or vegan, and then on the back there should be a full list of ingredients. One member of our party is vegan and soy free, so you can imagine how limiting this can be when they travel, but they still managed to find options most days, even if it was just salads.

The Peninsular Club

The Peninsular Club is P&O’s loyalty scheme, and it is based on the time you spend on P&O cruise lines. For every night you earn 10 loyalty points, and they will be applied at the end of your holiday. By spending 15 nights or more on board any P&O cruise ships, you will earn 150 points and as such will automatically become a Pacific tier member of the club.

There are six tiers, with each bringing more rewards, and you move through them simply by cruising with P&O. Benefits include onboard discounts, a champagne voucher, priority arrival time allocation and a welcome on-board reception.

Our Aurora Top Tips

• During our cruise there was shuttle transport available at most ports, it really depended on how close the main town was to the port entry. If there is a shuttle bus offered by P&O, then just be aware that you will be charged to use it. You will find information about the shuttle bus and the price in the Horizon magazine, but we generally paid five pounds each way. For most ports you will be required to show your boarding card before you get on the bus, and it will then be scanned so that the charge can be added to your cruise account. There is the odd exception, where you may be required to pay in local currency, so make sure you have some handy. Not all cruise lines offer shuttle buses, but it’s great for passengers who have issues with mobility.
• Some cruise lines have the swimming towels in your cabin, but on P&O Aurora you will find them by the pools.
• During our research before the cruise, we were informed that you can bring on alcohol when you first board the ship. The amount allowed is a litre bottle of wine or champagne per person (this can be split across different bottle sizes but must not exceed one litre) or unlimited alcohol-free drinks. When we were onboard, we noticed that you could purchase a bottle of spirits for your room and the price was incredibly reasonable. As we visited the various ports, we bought local beers and wine, which we then brought back with us onto the ship. Obviously, they need to be scanned by security, but we didn’t have any problems. This maybe a European allowance, because we have been told that many cruise lines do not allow it in American or Caribbean ports.
• Aurora offers a free newspaper called Britain Today, which you can pick up from reception on deck 5. It’s not a full newspaper, just a drilled down version they have created and printed off. Inside you will find world news, sports, celebrity gossip and entertainment. Nearby there will also be an additional sheet which has a crossword and Sudoku puzzle on it. The answers to both can be found on the following days sheet.
• Our biggest advice would be to spend time the night before going through the Horizon magazine, more specifically the ‘shipboard information’ at the back. This will provide information pertinent to the ship itself, but more importantly to the port you’re visiting. You can find out whether you need to take your passport with you, if there is a shuttle bus service, whether there are any strikes or local issues you need to be aware of and information on crew drills and the dining code.
• We always recommend to any new cruisers that they take a re-usable water bottle with them. It’s ideal for both the ship and when you’re in port, because bottles of water can be pricey. It was difficult on Aurora because they didn’t have water filling stations like the other ships do. This means we had to go to the Horizon Restaurant to fill up, and staff were not happy about it. We assume because there had been a gastro bug making the rounds (so we have heard). But there was nothing in place so that we could refill our bottles until we complained and a jug was provided. Normally you could drink the water from the taps in the bathroom, but it tasted awful and full of chemicals. Hopefully they will add more filling stations in the future, but we know Aurora has had a refit not long before our cruise, so it is unlikely.
• Smoking areas on the Aurora can be found on deck 7 port side along the outer promenade. Also deck 12 which is the lido deck, on the port side forward near the outer bar areas.
• Reception can be found on deck 5 and has staff available for the majority of the day. If you need assistance but it isn’t an emergency, then stay away from reception on the first and last day of your cruise as these tend to be the busiest times.
• This is a personal one for us, but it may be relevant if you’re the same as we are. The pillows on all P&O ships are quite thick and as such we spent the trip sleeping with our neck at a weird angle, which was uncomfortable. If you’re fussy about your pillows, then we recommend you bring your own.

 

Disembarkation

Our experience of disembarking the Aurora was a really positive one, in fact it was probably the easiest we have ever had. Of course, not everyone’s experience will be the same, we chose to take our bags off with us (which not everyone can do) and we left the ship at 7am and jumped straight into our car (again not everyone can do if they’re waiting on some form of public transport).

Ultimately how you disembark Aurora, will depend on what you choose to do with your luggage the day before.

On your final full day on the ship, you will be required to cash out any casino chips and slot winnings before the casino closes. We did receive a phone call to remind us we had credit left, but that isn’t a given and is your responsibility.

Normally the morning you are leaving, you will find a paper copy of your final cruise account bill left at your cabin door. For most people the balance will be removed from the credit card or debit card you applied to your account. If you’re paying by cash, then you will need to settle your account by 8pm the evening before disembarkation.

On the day you leave, your cabin needs to be vacated by 8am. To leave the ship you must show your cruise card, which you will have used throughout the trip to enter your room and pay for drinks. You have two options when it comes to luggage and that is having it taken away the day/night before, or taking it with you as you leave.

• Taking your luggage with you – If you can, then this option is the easiest for getting off the ship and it’s the one we chose.On our cruise we had the option of disembarking Aurora between 6.30am and 8.15am. You can leave your room at any point during that time period and head to the gangway which is situated on deck 5 midship. Your card will be scanned so they have a record that you left, and you simply walk off into the terminal and head to your transportation home.
• Luggage removed the night before – You can choose to leave your luggage outside your room the day/night before and pick it up in the terminal where trolleys will be available. This is especially handy if you have any disabilities or physical struggles. Bags need to be outside your cabin before 9pm the night before, but remember to keep any medication, valuables, and fragile items in your hand luggage. We’d also recommend that you leave out a fresh set of clothes, because we have heard of a story where a man packed everything away and didn’t have any clothes for the next day. Your luggage will be offloaded once the ship has docked and grouped in the terminal by deck order. Within the disembarkation letter posted to your cabin you will find an allocated venue and time. This luggage option means you must wait until that time, or your luggage probably will not be in the terminal.

 

Don’t worry too much about disembarkation day, because our experience with P&O in comparison to other cruise lines has been a positive one. Especially when you consider how many passengers are leaving the ship; we found the process to be seamless.

Would We Recommend P&O Aurora?

We love to remain positive about our travel experiences, even if we’ve not had the best time. But we also want to be truthful to our readers and in all honesty, we wouldn’t recommend P&O Aurora. Remember that this is purely our opinion based on our experiences, and someone else could have a very different view of the Aurora. Ironically we spoke to a friend who cruises on various lines, and they too agreed it wasn’t a ship they would pick again.

We’ll start with the ship itself, which although smaller, it was perfectly adequate for the number of passengers on board. There was always a seat or sun lounger available and although the buffet area was busy at times, it didn’t feel as hectic as some of the bigger ships. The shops are small, that’s to be expected, but there are 3 pools and plenty of hot tubs to enjoy. You also have an adequately sized gym, spa and enough places to eat and drink. The theatre is one of the more comfortable we have sat in and unlike the larger ships, it didn’t feel like you had to rush and grab a seat. Then you have two ample sized restaurants and their speciality options such as the Beach House and Sindhu (which were vastly smaller than the other ships we have been on). As you can imagine with a cruise ship, there were plenty of places to grab a drink, in fact we think this was the best Crow’s Nest Bar we have seen on a P&O.

Lifts can be a huge problem on the larger cruise ships, because more passengers mean longer waiting times. This certainly wasn’t a problem in Aurora, there were plenty of lifts, and in general we only waited a few minutes. You can also use the stairs, which is easier when the ship is smaller and has fewer decks.

When we first arrived at our cabin (which was an inside room) we felt a little disappointed at the size. Normally the older the ship the better its space and design (modern ships like to cram you in). But upon reflection the cabin was a good size, there was plenty of cupboards, draws and shelves for our things and the bathroom was a great size. We felt the beds were super comfy, and the room generally seemed clean, although we like to give everything a little wipe around when we arrive.

The biggest downsides were the lack of plugs (we only had one), the water pressure in the shower, the awful water taste and rubbish television. We were so disappointed by the television, especially because we have seen what is available on other P&O ships. It was made worse by the fact that the little they did have seemed to constantly glitch, but that appeared to be a problem all over the ship. Bear in mind we cruised during the 2026 World Cup and missed some of the England games because the stream froze. This may not be a problem for you, because you prefer to do other things than chill in your cabin and watch TV. But we love to decompress a little after a busy day, and this kind of ruined it for us.

The biggest kicker was the kettle, which is one of our favourite things about cruising with P&O. Not only did the water taste chemically (which we have never experienced on another ship), but the kettle was extremely rusty. We asked the attendant if they had another and she changed it, but sadly that one broke. We love to have a brew in our cabin before we move, but with a broken kettle and weird tasting water, we had to wait until we went to the buffet area. What really baffled us, was the fact the water tasted OK everywhere else, which was a relief, because the chemical taste was incredibly strong.

Our family members had booked a balcony room, and we really didn’t think it was worth what they had paid. The balcony was tiny, room layout was awkward, and they had the usual overhead noise from the eating areas and sun loungers.

The entertainment was as you would expect from P&O, with much of it being held on the lower decks (more specifically 6 and 7). Interestingly, we saw a review for Aurora, where the writer said they were annoyed by the majority of entertainment on offer having additional costs. We understand the sentiment of that review, because many of the exercise and craft classes offered had substantial supplements. But you also had many free activities (especially if they were in the spa) which involved marketing ploys to entice you to purchase something. If you removed these from the Horizon guide, then there would probably be very little left to do in the daytime. At night you had the usual theatre shows, bands and entertainers. Some were good, some not so good, but that’s normal in the world of cruising. One of our favourite activities when we sail with P&O is the silent disco. We thought that maybe because of the age range on the ship that Aurora wouldn’t have a silent disco, but thankfully during our 16-night cruise there were two.

Because the TV in your cabin is so poor, you may want to watch a movie elsewhere on the ship and they tend to be shown in the Playhouse which is a smaller theatre or the main Curzon theatre. We didn’t end up watching any movies during our cruise because they were shown at really odd times. Sometimes it was super early in the day when you were in the port, or in the evening when the live entertainment was on.

Related Guide – What is a Silent Disco and Why are They So Popular?

One of our biggest annoyances was the food, which compared to other P&O Ships wasn’t the greatest. We have food preferences which can make it a little harder, but normally P&O are really adaptable and we eat incredibly well. But that certainly didn’t happen on Aurora, in fact the family members who came with us also felt the food was a little basic and lacked any flavour. Again, you may feel differently, so our advice would be to choose a shorter cruise for your first time, because as we experienced it can be tough doing two weeks of rice, vegetables and potatoes.

You may read this and wonder why we wouldn’t recommend Aurora and it was predominantly the food aspect, with a little of the other annoyances thrown in. It was the most money we have ever spent on a cruise, which felt disappointing when it’s the worst ship we have been on.

Staff in general were nice, and we appreciate how hard their jobs must be, day in and day out. With all of that in mind, if you’re looking for an adult only ship which is easy to navigate, then Aurora may be for you.

Overall, cruising has become increasingly popular over the last few years for all ages. Not only can you enjoy exquisite food, drink, and incredible entertainment, but you have the chance to see lots of wonderful new places in one trip. We view cruising as a taster menu for countries or cities, because some locations we know we’ll go back to another time and stay for a little longer.

Should you decide to book, or you have already booked, then we wish you a wonderful time on the P&O Aurora and please tag us into your Instagram pictures, we love to see your adventures.

Related Guide – How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise: Effective Remedies to Banish that Nausea

Related Guide – What You Need to Think About When Planning Your First Cruise – Tips for First Time Cruisers