Choosing a cabin on a P&O cruise ship feels distinctly British—classic comfort with a touch of luxury. While other cruise lines chase sleek, modern designs, P&O sticks to warm, inviting spaces made for relaxation. With unique options like single balcony cabins, Conservatory Mini-Suites, and massive wraparound balconies, there’s something for everyone.
Not all P&O cabins are created equal. Some are spacious—perfect for a relaxing escape, while others? Not so much. As any seasoned cruiser will say, the right cabin choice can make or break the cruise experience. Choose the right one, and you’ll enjoy a dream vacation in British style. But pick the wrong one? You’ll feel like you’ve booked a broom cupboard at The Ritz.
With so many options, how do you pick the best cabins and avoid the worst?
I’ve compiled this list of P&O cruise ship cabins and ranked them based on countless cruiser reviews, personal experience, and studying deck plans. I’ll help you navigate through the best and worst cabins so you can make the right choice.
P&O Cruise Cabins from Worst to Best
Not all P&O cruise cabins are created equal. The “best” or “worst” depends on your budget, expectations, and travel style. Some love a cozy inside cabin, while others need a sprawling suite. But a few cabins? Cruisers consistently warn against them. Here’s what to know.
Would You Book a Balcony That Everyone Can See Into? (Deck 8 Standard Balcony Cabins)
A balcony sounds like the perfect place to unwind—until you realize you’re on display. Deck 8 balconies on Iona and Arvia sit along the promenade, meaning constant foot traffic right outside your cabin. The deck has standard and deluxe balcony cabins and some Conservatory Mini-Suites. The general online consensus? Avoid Deck 8.
Many cruisers mention feeling exposed, with some even keeping the curtains shut for privacy. One guest shared that they hardly used the balcony because people kept glancing in. Others described the cruise experience as like living in a goldfish bowl. Another cruiser said the cruise line should describe them as patio cabins, not balcony cabins.
Another issue is that some Deck 8 cabins have Infinity Whirlpools in front of them or sun loungers, both impacting views and privacy.
For a better alternative, choose a higher-deck balcony for unobstructed views and better privacy. Note: Deck 9 balconies are partially visible from the promenade.
Sleepless Nights Ahead: Cabins Above or Below Noisy Public Areas
Cruising with P&O offers passengers a quiet retreat at sea—unless your cabin is under or over the pool deck, buffet, or theater. Cabins above the Headliners Theatre on Deck 8 can also be noisy, making them a poor choice for light sleepers. Cabins beneath the pool deck and buffet suffer from dragging sun loungers, scraping chairs and early morning commotion.
Cruise passengers share waking up at 5.30 a.m. to the sound of the crew moving furniture or rolling carts. Others said that thumping bass from evening performances disturbed their peace, and sometimes daytime rehearsals were noisy. Not ideal for light sleepers.
The best option is to choose a midship location, ensuring that staterooms are above and below your cabin. Also, avoid cabins near elevator banks and stairwells as they are high-traffic areas at busy times.
Solo Travelers Love These…Until Nighttime (Inside Single Cabins)
P&O Cruises inside single cabins are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers on all P&O ships except Aurora. However, with the smallest ones measuring just over 130 sq. ft., the living space can feel claustrophobic. Also, some inside solo cabins are near noisy crew service areas and elevator banks. With luggage, the space feels tighter.
Some cruisers report that sleeping can be a problem due to cabin location and the feeling of claustrophobia. That said, P&O has more spacious solo inside cabins on newer ships, so it’s worth checking deck plans. Some cruisers prefer the pitch-black because they sleep better.
Although solo inside cabins are a hit with singles, many solo cruisers suggest booking a double occupancy cabin.
Obstructed Views: When Your Balcony or Window Feels Like a Letdown
A balcony or oceanview cabin should mean stunning sea views. But in obstructed-view cabins, you’ll find yourself staring at a lifeboat, metal framework, or partial obstructions. For example, the lifeboat roofs on Deck 8 on Britannia or Deck 4 on Arcadia are in line with the top of the balcony rail. At least you still get ocean views.
The worst obstructed view cabins must be Deck 8 on Ventura. Apart from being above the Arena Theatre, the views from many cabins are blocked entirely. Some cruisers share how they regret paying extra for a “view” when all they saw were pulleys and lifeboats.
While some still get decent sunlight, others feel claustrophobic and not worth the price. One guest shared they “paid for a balcony but felt stuck behind a wall.” Before booking, check deck plans carefully or ask on cruise forums—some obstructed cabins still offer decent sightlines, while others have virtually no view.
Too Much Motion? Avoid These High & Forward Cabins
Forward-facing cabins may offer the same views as from the bridge, but high-deck cabins feel every wave. If you suffer from motion sickness, they’re not ideal. Some passengers describe their experience as like a rollercoaster when the sea was rough. Others shared how they barely slept because of the ship’s movement.
Another issue with forward-facing balcony cabins, like those on Iona, have restricted views and strong winds. The balconies have metal railings partially blocking the view, and some passengers say that it was impossible to sit outside when the ship was sailing at full speed.
A better alternative if you want stunning views is to book an aft-facing cabin—still some movement, but not as much as in a forward cabin.
Extra Space, But Forget Privacy (Corner Balcony Cabins)
Corner balcony cabins seem like a fantastic upgrade—more space, wider views, and a great spot to relax. But many cruisers found them lacking privacy, as the angled design leaves you exposed to neighbors, including the deck above. One guest said they couldn’t relax and felt like they were on display the entire cruise.
If you prioritize outdoor space on your cruise, consider an aft-facing balcony cabin. These often come with larger balconies and better privacy, and you get stunning wake views as a bonus.
Sheltered Balconies: Cozy or Claustrophobic?
P&O’s sheltered balconies are a hit or miss, depending on where your cruise takes you. Many say they are perfect for cool-weather cruises, offering wind protection and added privacy. However, the solid steel walls can leave some feeling boxed in and claustrophobic.
Regarding shade, whether the sheltered walls are a bonus or not depends on the passenger. Some shared that they couldn’t sunbathe on their balcony when cruising the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. For shade-lovers, that was a big plus.
P&O Iona has sheltered balconies on Deck 5 cut into the hull of the ship. If you prefer unobstructed views and open-air freedom, opt for a standard or aft-facing balcony. But if you’re sailing to Norway or Iceland in cooler months, a sheltered balcony is ideal for spending time outdoors.
P&O’s Most Unique Cabin: The Conservatory Mini-Suite
Conservatory Mini-Suites are unique to P&O Iona and Arvia ships. The balcony cabins feature a sunroom, creating a lounging area between the cabin and balcony. Sleeping up to four cruisers, the extra space is great for families and groups, as well as the additional seating and social area. Floor to ceiling glass doors open to the balcony.
However, the Conservatory Mini Suites on Deck 8 are best avoided. These are on the promenade deck, making privacy an issue. One guest noted, “Lovely, but we barely used the conservatory due to the constant stream of passengers walking past. We wished we’d been on Deck 9.”
The Most Stable Cabins for a Smooth Sailing (Midship Balcony Cabins)
The most popular balcony cabins on P&O ships are in the ship’s center on Decks 9 to 12. These accommodations provide the smoothest ride and less movement than forward, aft, or cabins on higher decks. However, because of their popularity, midship balcony cabins cost more and are in high demand.
It’s advisable to check deck plans carefully, as some balconies on Iona and Britannia are tiny. If all midship cabins are booked, low-deck oceanview or inside cabins also offer stability at a lower price while keeping movement to a minimum.
The Rarest Find at Sea: Single Balcony Cabins
Cruising solo? With P&O, you don’t have to settle for single-occupancy inside or oceanview cabins. Arcadia, Arvia, Britannia, Iona, and Aurora ships all have balcony cabins for single occupancy—something rarely found at sea. These cabins are perfectly sized for one, with a comfortable bed, full bathroom, and a real balcony.
Many solo travelers rave about the experience, with one sharing, “Finally, a balcony just for me—without the single supplement!” However, these cabins are extremely limited—around 12 to a ship—and they sell out fast.
If all the single balconies are booked, consider a solo oceanview cabin or, sometimes, a double occupancy balcony cabin may only be slightly more expensive.
Deluxe Balconies: More Space Without the Suite Price
If you’re looking for extra cabin and balcony space without the suite price tag, a Deluxe Balcony Cabin is a great choice. These cabins offer a larger interior, extra seating, and a more spacious balcony—ideal for longer cruises. They’re also in a midship location, meaning they have a smoother ride and are close to elevators.
Many guests say the added comfort is well worth the slightly higher price, with one noting, “It felt like a suite without the cost.”
The Best View on the Ship? Aft-Facing Balconies
If relaxing on a balcony with the ship’s wake stretching to the horizon is your idea of the perfect cruise, book a cabin with an aft-facing balcony. Depending on the ship, you have a choice of a standard or deluxe balcony with some of the best unobstructed views onboard.
Aft cabins with balconies are also perfect for privacy, as there are only eight or so on each deck. One cruiser shared: “It’s the most relaxing spot on the entire ship, just like having a retreat.” With no hallway noise, no people walking past, and unbeatable views, most say it’s worth every penny.
However, you may feel a slight engine hum, and sometimes, soot can drift onto the balcony.
Wake-Up to the Best View: Suites with Aft Wraparound Balconies
The hidden gem on P&O cruise ships must be the aft suites with wraparound balconies located on port and starboard sides. Cruisers describe how they love relaxing on the spacious balconies, enjoying panoramic ocean views, and admiring sunrises or sunsets. You also get plenty of privacy away from the prying eyes of neighbors.
Despite their prime locations, some guests say that there is some engine vibration and hum when docking or sailing at speed. However, these are minor details. Also, there are only two of these suite types on each deck, so availability is limited.
P&O Suites That Feel Like a Country Home (Not a Floating Hotel)
P&O’s suites offer classic British elegance—think comfort over flash. Each suite has plush furnishings, warm decor, and a homely feel, like more of a luxurious countryside retreat than a high-rise hotel suite. These cabins come with larger balconies and separate living areas, and some are on two floors with a spiral staircase.
Premium perks make the upgrade worthwhile if you love space and VIP service and are prepared to pay premium rates. Perks include the following:
- Butler service for unpacking, dining reservations, and more
- Exclusive breakfast at the Epicurean (or Glass House on Aurora & Arcadia)
- Whirlpool bath in most suites
- Champagne and chocolates on arrival
- Priority boarding and disembarkation
- Daily fresh fruit, luxury toiletries, and a pillow menu
- Complimentary room service and in-suite dining from the main restaurant
Suite types by ship
Mini-Suite: A smaller suite option offering extra space, a seating area with a sofa, and a larger balcony. While Mini-Suites don’t include butler service or a whirlpool bath, they still offer most of the premium suite perks. It’s a great choice to get more space without the full suite price tag. Ships: Arcadia and Aurora.
Conservatory Mini-Suite: Exclusive to Iona and Arvia, these unique suites feature a semi-private sunroom leading to the balcony. These cabins provide extra seating and a light-filled space, though some mention that the reduced privacy on promenade decks feels like a trade-off.
Family Suite: The spacious living areas feature separate sleeping areas, two bathrooms, and a large balcony on the port or starboard side of the ship. The front location means the balcony has forward-facing and side views. Ships: Deck 9 on Azura and Ventura.
Family Sea View Suite: Located near the front of the ship with forward-facing views, these suites sleep up to four and offer spacious living areas with large ocean-facing windows. No balcony, but it is perfect for families needing extra room. Ships: Deck 8 on Arvia, Iona.
Standard Suite: A step up from a balcony cabin, these suites feature separate sleeping and living areas, a spacious balcony, and priority perks. The layout varies by ship, with Arcadia offering some of the most spacious options. All P&O cruise ships.
Penthouse Suite: P&O’s most spacious and luxurious suites, with split-level layouts on Aurora. These feature the most extensive private balconies in the fleet, ideal for enjoying the ultimate comfort at sea. Cabins feature an L-shaped sofa, armchairs, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and balcony furniture. They also come with the heftiest price tag. Ships: Azura, Ventura, Aurora.
A Proper British Welcome: Tea & Coffee in Every Cabin
P&O Cruises knows a proper British holiday isn’t complete without a good “cuppa tea.” Most cruise lines only offer coffee makers in suites—not P&O! Every cabin, from inside staterooms to suites, comes with a kettle, tea, and coffee-making facilities. Many cruisers appreciate this touch, with one mentioning, “I’d really miss my morning tea if there weren’t a kettle.”
Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only Ships (Aurora & Arcadia)
For a quieter, more refined cruise, P&O’s adults-only ships—Aurora and Arcadia—offer a child-free cruising experience. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, elegant lounges, and enrichment activities without splash zones, kids’ clubs, or wild water slides. Many couples, solo travelers, and older cruisers say the peaceful vibe makes a huge difference.
Final Thoughts: How to Pick the Right Cabin on P&O Cruises
P&O cruises offer one of the most unique sea vacation experiences, and picking the right cabin type makes all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to snagging the right cabin:
- For privacy: Avoid Deck 8 balconies on Iona & Arvia.
- To avoid motion sickness: Book midship, lower deck cabin for stability.
- Solo traveler: Grab a single balcony cabin before they sell out.
- Kid-free cruising experience: Book a cruise on Aurora or Arcadia.
- For space: Deluxe Balconies or Family Suites give more room without suite prices.
Whichever cabin you choose, P&O’s classic British charm and thoughtful design will make your cruise a memorable experience. Choose wisely, put the kettle on to make a “cuppa,” and remember—Keep Calm and Cruise On!!
Related articles:
