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.
Skjolden
DAY 410 Jul 2024
Skjolden is a picturesque village in Vestland County, Western Norway. It’s part of the Lustre municipality, and located at the head of the Sognefjorden, the longest navigable fjord in the world, making the sail there a spectacle in and of itself. With a small population of only 300 inhabitants, if the busyness of a major city is what you're looking for, you're in the wrong area; on the other hand, if you want peace and quiet together with a breathtaking landscape, you're in the perfect spot. With 3 national parks at its doorstep (Jostedalsbreen, Breheimen and Jotunheimen), alongside a variety of other attractions, you’ll have an unforgettable stop in Skjolden.
Things to do in Skjolden:
Wittgenstein Lodge
The Wittgenstein family was one of the most powerful in the Austro-Hungarian monarchy in the second part of the nineteenth century. Hochreit, Karl Wittgenstein's hunting lodge, was furnished by Hoffmann in 1907 and is situated in a lovely area directly on the lake. Inside, feel like you've been transported back in time as you discover the historic future from the early 19th century.
Åsafossen
A stunning waterfall that is reachable on foot from the cruise port, the Asafossen waterfall is simply stunning. Measuring 180m, this impressive attraction rushes down the slope across the street from Vassbakken Kro & Camping in Skjolden. And over the years, Sherpas from Nepal have strengthened and protected the ascent to the waterfall, making it quite simple to walk up to it.
Skjolden Llamas
If you’ve ever wanted to meet or walk llamas, you’re in for a treat. At this scenic farm you can opt to walk along the lake and get to know these amazing animals. And with the farm being located just 500 metres from the centre of Skjolden, it’s perfectly located for those wanting to stay closer to the ship.
Alesund
DAY 511 Jul 2024
The artistic, quirky and historic town of Alesund is not only a great stop off on your way to explore the Geirangerfjord, but a hidden gem in itself. Boasting unique Art Nouveau architecture throughout the town, you'll find an abundance of boutiques, bars and eateries surrounded by the backdrop of the picture-perfect Sunmore Alps. Whether you're on a leisurely stroll through town or enjoying outdoor excursions, Alesund is an unforgettable port of call on a Norwegian Fjords cruise.
Things to do in Alesund:
Storhaugen
If you’re looking for beautiful panoramic views of Alesund and scenic walks, Storhaugen park is a must visit. A picturesque green space high above the port town, you can take in sights of the quaint town centre, alongside Sunnmoresalpane mountain range and Sula.
Fisheries Museum
Whether you want to learn about the captivating fishing history of Alesund or you’re simply looking for an activity that’s a little more unique, the centrally located Fisheries Museum is just the ticket.
The Art Nouveau Town
Wonder through the beautiful town and discover all of the breathtaking Art Nouveau buildings, from houses to churches. A picturesque walk, there are often tours offered around the area, which will inform you all about the history of Alesund, alongside the captivating architecture.
Akureyri
DAY 713 Jul 2024
The town of Akureyri, sometimes known as "The Capital of the North," is located in North Iceland's Eyjafjörur fjord. It is about 62 miles (100 km) from the Arctic Circle, and is the second-largest urban area in Iceland, home to roughly 19,500 people. There are several attractions in this picturesque town, from the Akureyri Botanical Gardens to the Akureyri Museum and Zipline that soars high above a river.
Things to do in Akureyri:
Akureyri Botanical Gardens
Opened in 1957, the Akureyri Botanical Gardens is situated within the Eyjafjord, and has an array of greenery, from trees to perennials and shrubs. A beautiful park to wall around, it’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing activity during your stop off in the port town.
Akureyri Museum
Within easy reach of the centre, the Akureyri Museum portrays the life of past inhabitants of the area, from photographs to artefacts. Offering two permanent exhibitions showcasing the ‘early times’, this extraordinary museum will transport you back in time and immerse you into the culture of Iceland.
Akureyri Zipline
If you’re looking for an activity that’s exhilarating from start to finish, look no further than the zipline. An activity that takes up to 2 hours, you’ll soar over the rustling river and steep cliffs, taking in the incredible surrounding scenery. Also giving you an opportunity to enjoy a light hike, this fun activity is any adrenaline-seeker’s dream!
Grundarfjordur
DAY 814 Jul 2024
Located in the west of Iceland, on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, is the town of Grundarfjörur. It is positioned halfway between the sea and several mountain ranges. It has been twinned with the French town of Paimpol since 2004 and has an estimated population of 872. There are several popular attractions located close to the town, including the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and mountain range, including the Kirkjufell viewpoint that grants incredible views out towards the sea.
Things to do in Grundarfjordur:
Kirkjufellsfoss
Within a short walk of the port is the incredible Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls. A photographic hotspot, this iconic waterfall is located next to the Kirkjufell mountain, and makes for a fantastic walk whilst in the town of Grundarfjorur.
Kirkjufell
Spanning an incredible 463 metres, the Kirkjufell mountain range is located on the north coast of Iceland. A distinctly shaped mountain, it’s a popular place to visit whilst in Grundarfjorour and the town’s main landmark.
Kirkjufell Viewpoint
Another main attraction of the town is the Kirkjufell viewpoint - where you can see incredible views of the mountain and the surrounding area. With lush greenery in the summer and a wintery landscape in the colder months, this viewpoint is a spectacular sight to see.
Reykjavik - Overnight onboard
DAY 9-1015 Jul 2024
Home to some of the most striking buildings you'll ever see, Reykjavik is a small city that packs a powerful punch. Take a dip in one of the many geothermal pools to truly relax, or enjoy a refreshing hike in the great outdoors. A visit to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church is a must for architecture enthusiasts, though a simple walking tour around the city will see you discovering stunning designs and street art. Don't forget to leave room for the outstanding local cuisine, from fresh seafood to grilled meats.
Things to do in Reykjavik - Overnight onboard:
National Museum of Iceland
Step back in time in this fascinating museum located in the heart of the city. Built in 1863, it’s home to a variety of exhibitions showcasing the enthralling history of Iceland, from its maritime past to artefacts capturing the life of original settlers within the country.
Harpa
Situated in the centre of the city, Harpa is an extraordinary concert hall that features a distinct design with coloured glass surrounding its exterior. Host to a range of concerts, conferences, plays, opera performances and more, it’s a must-see when in the city.
Blue Lagoon
Arguably one of the most beloved attractions in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. Located less than 45 minutes from the city, it has a geothermal spa that’s bright blue. Onsite there is also a cafe, a massage room, restaurants and more to enjoy throughout your time there.
Cork (Cobh)
DAY 1319 Jul 2024
As you sail into Cobh, be sure to get out on deck to admire the stunning views of the rugged coastline. As the gateway into the quaint town of Cork, this cruise port has one of the world's largest natural harbours and an abundance of picturesque scenery which you can explore on guided tours. As well as this, you can discover the fascinating maritime history of the town through museums, monuments and galleries.
Things to do in Cork (Cobh):
Cork City Gaol
One of the most iconic and historic landmarks in Cork is the Cork City Gaol. Housed in a beautiful, castle-like building, this 19th century jail has a fascinating history; which you can learn about with a tour of the jail.
Fitzgerald’s Park
A public park in the centre of Cork, located next to the Cork Public Museum, Fitzgerald’s Park lies on the banks of the picturesque River Lee and was opened in 1902. Spanning 12 acres, it’s filled with beautiful flora and fauna, which can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Nano Nagle Place
A tranquil landmark in the centre of Cork, Nano Nagle Place is a restored convent that now houses community, education and spiritual projects. Within the building, you’ll find a museum, walled gardens, a shop and more.
Southampton
DAY 1521 Jul 2024
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.
What's included
Included
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Tips
P&O having a no tipping policy. Since May 2019 they removed the automatic daily service charge so you no longer have to worry about tips onboard.
Onboard spend *
Choose Free onboard spending money when booking a select price P&O cruise which can be spent in onboard shops, on spa treatments, speciality dining & more!
Parking *
Choose Free port parking when booking a select price P&O cruise. This is the best value if you're driving to the port. This can be booked by contacting Cruise & Passenger Services Ltd at www.candps.com/parking no later than 35 days prior to departure.
Port taxes & fees
No suprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price
*Included depending on the fare selected.
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Choice of fares
Inside Cabin
£1,374pp
Outside Cabin
£1,682pp
Inside Cabin
£2,197pp
Balcony Cabin
£2,567pp
Outside Cabin
£2,689pp
Balcony Cabin
£3,089pp
Suite Cabin
£4,087pp
Suite Cabin
£8,171pp
Saver Fare
+ £0 pp
Saver fares are for people who want great value but don’t mind where their cabin is located or what time they’ll be dining.
Meals, entertainment & accommodation
Inside Cabin + Saver Fare
£1,374 pp
Select Fare
+ £274 pp
Select fares are for people who like to have more choice and flexibility. Know exactly what to expect when you get on board.
Meals, entertainment & accommodation
Choice of free onboard spend, free parking or coach transfers
£70 Onboard spend
Choice of cabin number and location
Choice of dining time & table size
Priority for complimentary cabin upgrades
Flexibility to change your booking
Complimentary use of shuttle buses in port (where provided)
Some teas, coffees and soft drinks will be included but alcoholic drinks are extra. A drinks package can be added after booking. The cost is approx £40 per person per day.
Wifi
To browse the internet you can either pay-as-you-go or buy a Wi-Fi package. Wi-Fi packages cost between £6 - £25 per day. Contact us after booking to add this to your package.
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.
Specialty 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.
Transfers (home ↔ airport/port)
We can help organize flights, coach transfers, taxis 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.
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.
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.
Customer reviews for Aurora
4.3
Based on 157 reviews
Cabin
4.4
Service
4.4
Excursions
4.2
Dining
4.4
Activities
4.2
Value for money
4.4
Entertainment
4.2
Excellent cruise ship, very clean, all staff excellent, entertainment on the whole first class. The one downfall was the resident duo pulse who were not the usual standard for a pulse P&O group apart from them a very good cruise all round excellent well done P&O and your hard working staff who were always happy to help. Thanks.
couple
6-10 cruisesBalcony
19 Nov 2023
This was a last minute booking for the cruise. We had booked a similar cruise in 2020 before Covid so this was an itinerary we were interested. The price was excellent and it was nice getting excited with only two weeks to departure. Booking was very simple and the website easy to use.
The cruise was everything we wanted. Some ports were better than others but all very enjoyable.
The ship is lovely. We liked the atrium and the shows were all excellent.
Food overall good and certainly plentiful.
Will definitely book again for a different itinerary.
couple
2-5 cruisesBalcony
17 Sep 2023
Lovely adults only boat well laid out but maybe starting to look a little dated compared to more modern ships. Food choice excellent and entertainment was good and the excursions we did were excellent. The pools were cold considering August should not be that cold and several jacuzzis not working. We used the spa for a massage which was nice but spa was not as posh as others we have visited. Overall was a good cruise a few niggles but good value and drinks are fairly priced on board unless you drink a bucket load each day no need to buy a drinks package tea coffee water freely available and juice in the morning for breakfast all included. A pint £5.40 cocktail circa £7.50 and Prosecco £6.50 a glass so sensible. We stopped at Porto & Lisbon which are outstanding locations to visit.
couple
6-10 cruisesInside
5 Sep 2023
Great experience, really looked after by the crew! Balcony cabins are definitely the way to go!
couple
2-5 cruisesBalcony
5 Sep 2023
Further information
Onboard
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.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.