With P&O Cruises, tips are included in the price of your holiday, so you won't be charged extra for this when onboard. If you wish to show extra appreciation, you are welcome to do so at your discretion.
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Port Fees & Taxes
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Wi-fi
To browse the internet you can either pay-as-you-go or buy a wi-fi package for the duration of your trip. See the packages below.
Essential Wi-Fi Package£18.00 Per day
Ultimate Wi-Fi Package£24.00 Per day
Drinks
Some teas, coffees and soft drinks will be included but alcoholic drinks are extra. Drinks packages aren't offered on cruises less than 5 nights but drinks can be bought individually from the bars.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Excursions
P&O offer a fantastic range of shore excursions. You can see which excursions are available after booking the cruise via your P&O account. Alternatively, check out our partner Venture Ashore.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise unless you choose this option as your Select Fare benefit.
Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port/airport aren't included unless you choose this benefit as part of the Select Fare.
If you don't choose this we can help organize coach transfers, taxis, limos etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
Ship Facilities
Aurora - By P&O Cruises
Good for couplesFormalInformalLarge Ship
Year: 2000
·
Refurbished: 2019
·
10 Decks
·
Max capacity: 1950 people
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Aurora
4.5
Based on 344 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
5
Activities
4
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
The theatre shows were very entertaining and professional. They were only slightly let down by the high sound volume. Officers and most of the crew were friendly, helpful, and enthusiastic, with a sense of pride and confidence in their ship. However, the dining room servers were not as pleasant or energetic as those on other P&O cruise ships. A good many of the staff around in the buffet and, generally, the ship in general appeared to perhaps need a lot of training and were unable to answer simple questions. One receptionist at the spa, when asked about barbering while she was at her terminal, could only tell me I had to book it myself. Two days later, when I arrived with my daughter, the same receptionist turned to her and asked what she could do for her. My daughter did not say anything, as she knew it was me who wanted a haircut. Having discovered the other assistant was not ready to work on her terminal, I turned to the receptionist, who was typing on her terminal (my daughter remained silent, looking at me), and started asking her about the appointments and whether she could handle them for me. She turned to my daughter, completely ignoring my request and asked her if we were together. Needless to say, as this was the second encounter, I no longer wanted to deal with her and did not book. P&O lost a sale.
In the room, the TV channels were not clear and pixelated. Also, the shower can only deliver lukewarm water. We informed the steward, and he said he would take care of it. Unfortunately, after a day, it went back to how it was, without actually improving. The balcony door knob was loose and difficult to unlock.
The bar waiter in the lounge next to Sindhu could barely understand the alcohol content of the beers. I asked for the highest alcohol beer, and he informed me that they only had 4%. When I insisted that there were 5. 5% or higher in the restaurant, he said he would ask, came back, and said they have 4. 7%. In the end, he brought one that was only 4. 3%, which I had to reject, even though he had opened it.
Sadly, we were informed that on the last day, we would not dock in Zeebrugge, due to weather conditions in Southampton. This was very disappointing as it was the place we most wanted to visit (Bruge).
group
6-10 cruises
2 Dec 2025
Enjoyed our cruise on Aurora. Staff are fantastic. Food was lovely. Entertainment was often not what we would choose but others seemed to like it. Cabin was comfortable and well maintained by the steward
couple
10+ cruises
29 Nov 2025
This was my first cruise and therefore no preconceptions. Aurora is a lovely ship, so clean and in great condition for her age. The crew work so hard to keep her looking good, inside and out. Restaurant crew were lovely and so hard working and made the holiday a fantastic experience. Aurora had a force 9 gale to contend with and did it beautifully. A little rocky at times bu5 so worth the adventure. I cannot fault the itinerary. We went to Hammerfest and it snowed so for me that was great. The choice of places to visit were good although I found Alta not so good. Nothing there of much interest.
Sea days were fantastic. I didn't want the Internet package as I wanted to cut off from what I couldn't do anything about and that was the best thing for me.
The bonus was that the northern lights made an appearance at least 4 nights in a row and that was awesome. All in all, Aurora the ship gave me a wonderful holiday. I also recommend Iglu cruises to book through. Very helpful and informative all the way. Thank you!
group
1 cruise
29 Nov 2025
Aurora is a lovely ship, she is well looked after and the staff are first class.
I would definitely recommend this ship
On your cruise, you have two dining options - "Club Dining" and "Freedom Dining". If you book an Early Saver Fare/Late Saver, your dining time will be assigned and noted in your cabin upon embarkation. If you book a Select Fare, you can choose your dining time, but this option is not available on Iona, and only Freedom Dining is offered.
Freedom Dining allows you to dine at any time between 6:00 PM and 9:30 PM, and tables are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, with sizes ranging from two to eight people.
Club Dining, on the other hand, has a fixed seating plan with two sittings - either at 6:30 PM or 8:30 PM. The same table, waiters, and fellow diners will be reserved for you every night for the duration of your cruise. This option is not available on Iona.
P&O offer various meal options to accommodate the dietary requirements of their guests. The following diets can be accommodated on all ships: Vegetarian, Pescatarian (fish), Low/No fat, Low salt/No salt, Lactose intolerant/Dairy-free, Gluten/Wheat-free/Coeliac, Low cholesterol, Diabetic, and Kosher, and Vegan. If you need any of these dietary options, please contact the Customer Contact Centre before your sailing date. Once on board, make yourself known to the Headwaiter or Restaurant Manager to ensure that your dietary needs are met.
Cruises in and out of Southampton have no restriction on how much baggage you take, although please bear in mind that your cases must be stored within your cabin. For handling purposes, please ensure that each piece of luggage weighs no more than 23kg. When flying to/from the ship, both the charter and scheduled flight luggage restrictions vary. Please visit the Flights page of your Cruise Personaliser online to confirm. If your airline allowance is greater than 23 kilograms, we ask that no individual item of luggage weighs more than 23 kilograms, in order to be safely handled by the ship’s crew.
P&O has a relaxed dress code during the day but there is a dress code in effect from 6 pm in bars and restaurants for those over 18. There are two dress codes - Evening Casual and Black Tie. The Cruise Personaliser will inform you of the number of nights for each dress code during your trip, so be sure to check beforehand. Men should wear a buttoned shirt or polo for Evening Casual, and a tuxedo, dinner jacket, dark suit, national dress, or uniform for Black Tie. Women should wear smart separates for Evening Casual and cocktail dresses or ball gowns for Black Tie.
Iglu Cruise has a team in place to provide necessary assistance to make your holiday run smoothly. If anyone in your party requires medical or mobility assistance, notify your Cruise Specialist at the time of booking or as soon as possible if circumstances change after booking. The Special Assistance Team will email a form 6-8 weeks before departure, which must be completed and returned.
Travel Requirements
All passengers (including all children), should hold their own full 10-year (5 years for children) British Citizen (GBR) passport. The passport should be valid for at least 6 months past your expected return date to the UK, as this is often a criteria for entry to certain countries.
All UK guests are required to purchase comprehensive travel insurance for their P&O cruise holiday. The policy must provide medical and repatriation coverage of at least £2 million, including cover for emergency evacuations and COVID-19 related medical expenses. The insurance must also cover travel, cancellation, curtailment, and any existing medical conditions, either globally or at minimum in the countries being visited. Travel insurance documents will be checked at the terminal and must be valid for the entire trip. Boarding will be denied without proper insurance coverage, at the guest's expense.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
Festive France & Belgium from Southampton, 15 December 2025 (4 nights)
Your itinerary
Southampton
DAY 1
15 Dec 2025
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Zeebrugge (tours to Bruges)
DAY 2
16 Dec 2025
Pocket-sized, picturesque and perfect for a romantic getaway, Bruges is easily accessible, especially for cruises departing from the UK. With Gothic and neo-Gothic architecture throughout the quaint streets and canals, there's plenty of history and culture to discover. Visit the Markt and Belfort's stunning views over the city, the Groeninge Museum for early Flemish art, and enjoy a boat ride around the canals for a scenic city tour.
Things to do in Zeebrugge (tours to Bruges):
The Belfry of Bruges
In the heart of Bruges, Belgium, there lies a mediaeval bell tower known as The Belfry. The belfry, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks, once held the municipal records and a treasury., along with acting as an observation station for spotting fires and other hazards. You can now climb the Belfry and take in incredible views of surrounding Bruges.
2be Beer Wall
Housing over 780 beers, a shop and a bar, the 2be Beer Wall is a hugely popular attraction in Bruges. Boasting a modern feel and a unique selection of Belgian beers, alongside merchandise- such as tankards.
Minnewater
If you’re looking for a tranquil activity whilst in Bruges, head to the Minnewater lake. A picturesque lake that’s aligned with benches, and beautiful buildings dotted along it, it’s the perfect place to sit and take in the breathtaking surroundings; and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the centre.
At Sea
DAY 3
17 Dec 2025
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Cherbourg
DAY 4
18 Dec 2025
Boasting a fascinating maritime history and an abundance of classic French eateries and boutiques, Cherbourg offers something for cruisers of all interests. At the Citè de la Mer you'll discover the tragic tale of the Titanic, while at the Liberation Museum you'll learn of Cherbourg's liberation from Nazi control in 1944. Don't forget to visit the Old Town to enjoy fresh seafood and other delicacies throughout the day.
Things to do in Cherbourg:
Ravalet Castle
The Ravalet castle was built in the sixteenth century by Lord Ravalet and is situated in a magnificent park on the outskirts of the city. Built in a Renaissance style, there's a beautifully manicured French garden, a mandala garden, a greenhouse and an island prairie to explore. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon whilst in Cherbourg, this impressive castle showcases the beauty of French architecture.
Trinity Church
Lying within the mediaeval city of Cherbourg, the Basilique Sainte-Trinite is one of the most historic buildings within the walls, and has many pieces within it that have been listed; such as the baptismal fort that dates to the 14th century. With a capacity of 3,000, this impressive church is filled with magnificent art pieces.
Art Museum
Rated as one of the most important collections in Normandy, the Thomas Henry Museum (Musee des beaux-arts) is home to around 300 different artworks, dating back to the 15th century. A significant museum within the city, its unique collection of Millet artworks is fascinating to discover.
Southampton
DAY 5
19 Dec 2025
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Essential Wi-Fi Package
£18.00 Per day
This is the straightforward option that offers you all your satellite internet essentials. The ESSENTIAL package is ideal if you want to stay in touch via email and social media. And you'll also be able share your holiday highlights via text and images. Best for Web browsing, Email, Social media, texts and images (no videos).
How to book
P&O Wifi packages are available to purchase after you have booked the cruise via your MyCruise account. Alternatively, once you’re on board, simply use the free Wi-Fi to access internet.pocruises.com and follow the easy on-screen instructions.
Terms and Conditions
Internet plans are satellite reception permitting. The prices shown are per day, based on one plan. You may use multiple devices on one plan, but you can only use a single device at any one time. If you wish to use multiple devices simultaneously, you will need to buy additional plans. Discounts are available for multi-device plans and plans on cruises of 16 nights or more in duration.
Ultimate Wi-Fi Package
£24.00 Per day
This is your ultimate way to stay in touch, with faster connection speeds than the ESSENTIAL package. Select the cruise plan option, paying just once for quality satellite access for email, video chat, browsing, social media and streaming of your favourite movies or music, every day of your holiday from the moment you purchase. Or pay per day for the same access options, on the days that suit you best.
How to book
P&O Wifi packages are available to purchase after you have booked the cruise via your MyCruise account. Alternatively, once you’re on board, simply use the free Wi-Fi to access internet.pocruises.com and follow the easy on-screen instructions.
Terms and Conditions
Internet plans are satellite reception permitting. The prices shown are per day, based on one plan. You may use multiple devices on one plan, but you can only use a single device at any one time. If you wish to use multiple devices simultaneously, you will need to buy additional plans. Discounts are available for multi-device plans and plans on cruises of 16 nights or more in duration.
AI review summary
Food
Many customers expressed appreciation for the excellent food quality and variety in the buffet and dining rooms.
Cruise
Many customers appreciated the cruise, describing it as excellent, great, amazing, and everything they wanted.
Staff
Many customers remarked that the staff on the ship were friendly, helpful, and provided excellent service.
Ship
Many customers raved about the ship, describing it as small, comfortable, and friendly. (Frequency: 10/10)
Aurora
It was observed by customers that Aurora is a lovely ship, with amenities ideal for adults only.