Aurora, P&O Cruises’ smaller adults-only ship.
Photo: MacdonaldAndy
Licence: CC BY 4.0
CruisePing verdict
Aurora is P&O’s best choice for adults who value small scale, traditional cruising and a loyal onboard community more than modern attractions.
Aurora Cruise Ship at a Glance
| Cruise line | P&O Cruises |
|---|---|
| Ship class | Aurora class |
| Entered service | 2000 |
| Gross tonnage | 76,152 GT |
| Length | 270 m |
| Guest capacity | 1,874 |
| Crew | 850 |
| Included dining | 4 |
| Alternative / speciality dining | 3 |
| Swimming pools | 3 |
| Hot tubs / whirlpools | 4 |
| Library | Dedicated library |
| UK departures | Regular |
Best suited to
Adults, couples and solo travellers wanting P&O’s smallest current ship, traditional cruising, a friendly atmosphere and longer no-fly itineraries.
Think carefully if
Families, passengers wanting extensive modern dining or attractions, and anyone who prioritises abundant balcony cabins or new-build design.
The Aurora cruise ship is P&O Cruises’ smallest current vessel and one of its two adults-only ships. That immediately changes the holiday: fewer than 1,900 guests, more traditional public rooms and a stronger emphasis on conversation, sea views, dancing, talks and familiar cruise routines than on giant attractions.
Aurora is not the best P&O choice for everyone. Her age shows in places, balconies are less plentiful than on newer ships and passengers seeking extensive casual dining or a resort-style pool deck will find more choice on Iona or Arvia. Her strength is that she feels like a ship rather than a floating leisure complex.

