P&O Cruises Cancels Easter Sailing on Aurora
P&O Cruises Faces Backlash After Last-Minute Easter Sailing Cancellation on Aurora
P&O Cruises Aurora
P&O Cruises has faced criticism after cancelling its scheduled Easter cruise aboard Aurora with less than 24 hours’ notice, leaving almost 1,900 passengers disappointed and scrambling for alternatives. The cruise, which was set to depart Southampton on the afternoon of Monday 21 April for a three-night voyage to Zeebrugge, Belgium, was called off due to delays in the ship’s ongoing refit in Rotterdam.
Passengers received an unexpected email on Sunday lunchtime – just one day before departure – notifying them that the sailing (Voyage R505) had been cancelled. The late notice, coupled with the fact that P&O’s customer service offices were closed on Easter Sunday, left many unable to get timely support or information.
Aurora, is a 25-year-old adults-only ship, had been undergoing a scheduled dry dock from 5 to 21 April 2025 as part of a multi-million-pound investment in the guest experience. The works were expected to conclude in time for the Easter Monday sailing, but the refit was not completed as planned.
A P&O Cruises spokesperson stated:
“We are very sorry but following a delay to Aurora’s refit, it is necessary to cancel Aurora’s R505 three night cruise from Southampton to Zeebrugge on 21 April. We appreciate how disappointing this is for our guests who were booked to travel.”
The cruise line confirmed that all affected passengers would receive a full refund along with a 20% future cruise credit based on the amount paid. However, some customers were left frustrated not only by the last-minute communication but also by the perceived inadequacy of the compensation, especially given the rising cost of rebooking alternative cruises.
One affected guest shared their experience anonymously, saying they had packed and were preparing to leave for Southampton when the cancellation notice arrived. Another reported being unable to get through to any staff for clarification or advice, noting the timing on Easter Sunday added to their stress and disappointment.
While Aurora remains in Rotterdam to complete its refurbishment, its next sailing is now scheduled for Thursday, 24 April. P&O Cruises has not confirmed whether that cruise is expected to go ahead without further delays.
The situation has highlighted the potential challenges cruise lines face when dry dock schedules overrun and the importance of timely communication – especially during peak travel periods such as Easter. Many affected guests have since taken to social media and online forums to share their frustration, calling for greater transparency and improved contingency planning in future.
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