How to Pay for Drinks on P&O Cruises

Understanding how to pay for drinks on a cruise is an essential part of planning your onboard budget. For travelers sailing with P&O Cruises, the process is designed to be simple, cashless, and easy to manage, whether or not you choose to purchase a drinks package. Knowing how P&O Cruises drink payment works helps avoid confusion, manage spending, and enjoy the cruise experience with confidence.

Drinks on board are not included in the standard cruise fare unless you have purchased a beverage package. This means guests need to be familiar with the P&O onboard payments system, how charges are applied, and how to review spending during the cruise. By understanding these details in advance, guests can focus on enjoying their holiday rather than worrying about unexpected costs.

Understanding the P&O Cruises Cashless System

P&O Cruises operates a fully cashless payment system onboard. This means that guests do not use physical cash or cards at bars, restaurants, or lounges when purchasing drinks. Instead, all purchases are charged to an onboard account linked to each guest’s cruise card.

The cruise card acts as both a room key and a payment method. Every time a drink is ordered, the charge is automatically added to the guest’s onboard account. This system streamlines service and ensures smooth transactions throughout the ship.

Setting Up Your Onboard Account

Before you can pay for drinks on P&O Cruises, you must set up an onboard account. This is usually done during the check-in process, either before sailing or on embarkation day. Guests are required to register a payment method, such as a credit or debit card, to secure their onboard account.

Once the account is active, all drink purchases are recorded electronically. This allows guests to enjoy drinks anywhere on the ship without needing to carry cash or cards.

How P&O Cruises Drink Payment Works at Bars

When ordering a drink at a bar or lounge, guests simply present their cruise card to the crew member. The drink is prepared, and the charge is posted directly to the onboard account. In most cases, guests may be asked to sign a digital receipt to confirm the transaction.

This process applies to all bars, restaurants, poolside venues, and entertainment areas. Understanding this P&O Cruises bar payment system helps guests feel comfortable ordering drinks throughout the ship.

Paying for Drinks Without a Package on P&O Cruises

Guests who do not purchase a drinks package pay for drinks individually using their onboard account. Each drink has a set price, and these prices are listed on bar menus throughout the ship.

Paying for drinks without a package on P&O Cruises allows flexibility, especially for guests who drink occasionally. Charges accumulate during the cruise and are settled at the end of the voyage using the registered payment method.

Reviewing P&O Bar Charges During the Cruise

One advantage of the onboard payment system is transparency. Guests can review their P&O bar charges at any time during the cruise. This can usually be done through the ship’s interactive systems or by visiting guest services.

Monitoring spending helps guests stay within budget and avoid surprises when the cruise ends. It also allows travelers to adjust their habits if they notice higher-than-expected drink expenses.

Using a Drinks Package as a Payment Method

For guests who purchase a drinks package, the payment process works slightly differently. When a drink covered by the package is ordered, no individual charge is added to the onboard account.

The system automatically recognizes that the drink is included, making the process seamless. If a drink exceeds the package’s price limit, only the difference is charged to the onboard account.

Understanding Package and Non-Package Transactions

Guests with a drinks package may still see some bar charges on their account. This usually happens if they order drinks not included in the package or premium options priced above the package limit.

Understanding this distinction helps guests interpret their onboard statements accurately and ensures clarity when reviewing final charges.

Payment Methods Accepted on P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises onboard payments rely on pre-registered methods rather than cash. Guests typically use major credit or debit cards to secure their onboard account. In some cases, alternative payment arrangements may be available depending on the sailing.

Since all drink purchases are charged electronically, guests do not need to worry about carrying money while onboard.

End-of-Cruise Settlement Process

At the end of the cruise, all drink purchases and other onboard expenses are totaled and charged to the registered payment method. Guests usually receive a final statement showing a breakdown of charges.

This automated settlement process ensures accuracy and eliminates the need for manual payments on disembarkation day.

Tips for Managing Drink Spending Onboard

Managing drink spending starts with awareness. Guests who plan to pay per drink should familiarize themselves with typical prices and consider how often they order beverages.

Checking the onboard account regularly allows guests to stay informed and make adjustments if needed. This proactive approach makes the cruise experience more relaxed and enjoyable.

Special Considerations for First-Time Cruisers

First-time cruisers may be unfamiliar with cashless systems and onboard billing. Understanding how to pay for drinks on P&O Cruises in advance helps reduce uncertainty.

Once onboard, most guests find the system intuitive and appreciate the convenience of not handling cash or cards.

Paying for Drinks in Restaurants and Dining Venues

Drinks ordered in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants are handled the same way as bar purchases. Charges are added to the onboard account unless covered by a drinks package.

This consistent process across venues makes it easy to understand how cruise drinks payment works throughout the ship.

Room Service and In-Cabin Drinks

Drinks ordered through room service are also charged to the onboard account. Depending on the package terms, some drinks may be included, while others incur additional charges.

Guests should review menus carefully to understand what is covered and what will appear as a bar charge.

Payment Policies for Multiple Guests in a Cabin

Each guest typically has their own onboard account linked to their cruise card. This allows individual tracking of drink purchases, even when sharing a cabin.

For families or groups, this system ensures clarity and avoids confusion over who ordered what.

Why P&O Cruises Uses Cashless Payments

The cashless approach enhances efficiency, safety, and convenience. It speeds up service, reduces the risk of lost cash, and provides clear records of spending.

This system is widely appreciated by guests once they become familiar with how it works.

Final Thoughts on Paying for Drinks on P&O Cruises

Learning how to pay for drinks on P&O Cruises is an important part of cruise planning. Whether guests choose to pay per drink or use a drinks package, the process is designed to be smooth and straightforward.

By understanding the onboard payment system, reviewing charges regularly, and choosing the option that fits their lifestyle, travelers can enjoy their cruise without financial stress and focus on making the most of their time at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pay for drinks on P&O Cruises?

All drinks are paid for through a cashless onboard account linked to the cruise card.

Can I pay cash for drinks on P&O Cruises?

No, P&O Cruises uses a cashless payment system for all onboard purchases.

How are bar charges added to my account?

Each drink ordered is automatically charged to your onboard account when you present your cruise card.

What happens if I have a drinks package?

Drinks included in the package are not charged individually, while excluded items are billed to your account.

When do I pay the final drink bill?

All onboard charges are settled automatically at the end of the cruise using the registered payment method.