What to Do 4 Weeks Before Your P&O Cruise
- George and Dan
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
The countdown’s on – just four weeks until your P&O Cruise! If you’re wondering exactly what to do 4 weeks before your P&O Cruise, don’t panic – we’ve got your back.
This is the perfect time to get everything sorted so you’re not rushing at the last minute. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifteenth, there are a few essential things to tick off your list right about now – and we’re here to walk you through it all in plain English.
Let’s get stuck in…
✨ 1. Log in to My P&O Cruises
Start by logging into My P&O Cruises and making sure your booking is all up to date. From here you can:
• Check in online (once it opens – more on that below)
• Add your travel insurance details
• Book shore experiences
• Order extras like spa treatments or celebration packages
This is your cruise planning HQ, so it’s good to get familiar with it early.
🏞️ 2. Book Shore Experiences Early
Now’s the time to make sure all your shore excursions are booked. Hopefully you’ve already done this – but if not, don’t wait any longer. Use My P&O Cruises or Get Your Guide to book asap.
Some of the most popular ones – like the Flåm Railway in Norway or a highlights tour of Rome – can and do sell out.
If you’re planning to go ashore independently, now’s also a great time to do your research. Use Facebook groups, cruise forums, and port guides to get a feel for what’s on offer at each stop.
🛂 3. Check Your Passport & Travel Docs
Have a quick look at your passport. Make sure it:
• Has at least 6 months’ validity left after your return date
• Matches the name on your cruise booking
Depending on where you’re sailing, you might also need a visa or travel form – especially if you’re heading outside the EU. Check with P&O or GOV.UK if you’re unsure.
🎁 4. Order Onboard Extras
Want to celebrate a birthday or just treat yourself onboard? You can order things like:
• Champagne and chocolates
• Spa treatments
• Room decorations
• Celebration packages
All of this can be done via My P&O Cruises or your travel agent – it’s much easier to sort it now rather than faffing about once onboard.
📥 5. Download Our Cruise Packing List
If you’re anything like us, packing can be one of the most stressful bits! But don’t worry – we’ve made it simple.
👉 Download our free Cruise Packing List here – it’s packed with everything you’ll need, including:
• Essentials
• Cruise clothes (including formal night ideas)
• Cabin bits
• Tech must-haves
• Seasickness remedies and more!
Tick things off as you go and save yourself a last-minute panic.
🚗 6. Sort Out Travel to the Port
Ensure your travel plans to the port are sorted. Hopefully you’ve already done this, but if not – get cracking!
If you’re sailing from Southampton:
• If you’ve got parking, you should already have it booked
• If not, get it done ASAP – we recommend CPS Parking for convenience
• Book coach transfers via P&O if needed
• Or consider a pre-cruise hotel stay nearby to start your trip off stress-free
Check out our Southampton parking guide here.
If you’re flying to meet your ship, double-check flight times, luggage allowances, and transfer arrangements.
🗺️ 7. Do a Bit of Port Research
This is one of our fave parts of cruise prep – planning what you’re going to do in port. Whether you’re sightseeing, hitting the beach, or just hunting for the best gelato, it’s good to have a loose plan.
We use:
• Cruise Facebook groups (search groups by your Cruise number)
• Google Maps
Even just knowing how far the port is from the city centre can make a big difference to your day.
Check out our port guides here.
❓ FAQs About What to Do 4 Weeks Before Your P&O Cruise
Can I check in for my P&O Cruise 4 weeks before?
Not quite yet – online check-in opens 21 days before your cruise, and closes at 10pm GMT the night before. Make sure your My P&O Cruises account is set up and ready.
When should I book P&O Cruises shore excursions?
You can book shore experiences as soon as your balance is paid, but we always recommend getting them sorted at least 4 weeks before to avoid disappointment.
What documents should I print before my P&O Cruise?
Once check-in opens (at 3 weeks before), you’ll be able to print your boarding passes and luggage labels from the My P&O Cruises portal.
Do I need travel insurance for a P&O Cruise?
Yes – travel insurance is mandatory for all guests and must include cruise cover. You’ll need to upload the details to your booking before you sail.
What do I need to download before my P&O Cruise?
Grab the My Holiday app for onboard planning and also download our free Cruise Packing List to make packing a breeze.
✅ Final Thoughts
So there you have it – your guide to what to do 4 weeks before your P&O Cruise. It’s all about getting ahead now, so that the final few days are chilled, not chaotic.
Check out what to do 3 weeks before your cruise here, including when check-in opens, printing your travel docs, and more!
Got a question? Leave a comment or join our community on Facebook at P&O Cruises – Cruise Hacks, Tips, Questions and Answers.
George & Dan
Cruise Escapes – Helping you cruise smarter
This blog may contain affiliate links, this means that if you book a cruise or purchase an item via one of the links we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
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