Can You Take Your Dog on a P&O Cruise?

After the fun of our April Fool's blog post where we joked about cruise lines offering dog spas and pooch-friendly buffets, loads of you asked us what the real rules are about taking dogs on a cruise. So, we decided to dig a bit deeper and find out the facts. If you’ve ever wondered, 'Can I take my dog on a P&O Cruise?' – here’s everything you need to know.

Yes, But Only If Your Dog Is a Registered Assistance Dog

P&O Cruises do allow assistance dogs on board, but only on Southampton-to-Southampton sailings. These dogs must be properly trained to help someone with a disability, such as guiding, alerting, or carrying out specific tasks. Dogs used purely for emotional support aren’t permitted, as this doesn't meet the strict DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) licensing requirements.

What Counts as an Assistance Dog?

To qualify, your dog must be:

Trained by an organisation that’s a member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF),
Or, if owner-trained, accredited through the Assistance Dogs Assessment Association (ADAA).

You’ll also need to fill out paperwork, provide documentation, and wait for approval from P&O. Once everything's checked and accepted, you'll receive a confirmation letter – and this letter is essential for check-in.

Important Rules and Things to Plan For

Only allowed on round-trip cruises from Southampton – no fly-cruises or partial World Cruise sectors.
Your dog must be wearing a harness and on a lead at all times outside the cabin.
No access to swimming pools, whirlpools, kids’ zones, or food prep areas.
You must bring your own food, bowls, bedding, and any other essentials.

Toilet Time at Sea

Each ship has designated dog relief areas. These are usually wooden boxes filled with sawdust, placed in a secure location on board. Crew will show you where it is and clean it daily, but you’re responsible for cleaning up after your dog.

Tapeworm Treatment Before Coming Home

Your assistance dog must be treated for tapeworm 1–5 days before returning to Southampton. You’ll need to find a vet in port and make sure it’s all logged in the dog’s pet passport. This is vital – if it’s missed or not documented correctly, your dog could be quarantined.

If your cruise is just 3 or 4 nights, you can get this treatment done on the morning of embarkation.

Going Ashore? It’s Not Always Possible

Some ports won't allow dogs off the ship due to local laws. That means you might have to stay on board. P&O can’t control this – it’s up to the local authorities.

If you're heading to Mexico, your dog will need an ecto- and endo-parasite treatment within 15 days of arrival. This needs to be listed on their health certificate.

No Vet on Board

There isn’t a vet on board any P&O ship, and the ship’s doctor can't treat dogs. So before you travel, chat to your own vet about motion sickness, general health, and how your dog might handle being at sea.

Solo Travellers with Assistance Dogs

If you travel alone, that's totally fine – as long as you can manage daily tasks independently. Crew can help with things like getting food from the buffet, but they can't provide personal care. If you struggle during the cruise, you may be asked to travel with a companion next time.

FAQs About Can You Take Your Dog on a P&O Cruise?

Can you take any dog on a P&O Cruise?

No, only registered assistance dogs are allowed. Emotional support animals are not accepted.

What paperwork do I need for my assistance dog?

You’ll need certification from ADI, IGDF or ADAA, plus completed P&O forms and approval before you sail. You must bring the confirmation letter to check-in.

Can I take my dog ashore at ports?

Sometimes, yes – but not always. Each port has different rules, and some don’t allow animals to disembark.

What happens if I forget the tapeworm treatment?

Your dog could be quarantined on arrival back in the UK. Make sure it's done and logged by a vet 1–5 days before return.

Is there a vet on board?

No. You must speak to your vet before the cruise and carry any meds or emergency contact info with you.

Can I book a fly-cruise with an assistance dog?

No. Assistance dogs are only allowed on cruises that start and finish in Southampton.

Travelling with an assistance dog on a P&O Cruise is possible, but it takes good planning and strict paperwork. If you’ve got a certified assistance dog and are up for a bit of admin, you’ll be warmly welcomed on board. Just make sure you read all the DEFRA guidance, check the itinerary for port rules, and pack everything your four-legged mate will need.

Got more questions? Drop us a message or pop them in the comments below. We’re always happy to help.

George & Dan