Carriage of an assistance dog is subject to the conditions set by DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). Please refer to the DEFRA website for the most up-to-date information. As the DEFRA requirements are different from other forms of travel, it is essential owners understand the conditions that the dog must travel under.
Due to national regulations in certain ports, guests with assistance dogs may be required to remain on board. If you intend to travel with an assistance dog, please notify us in advance and at least 48 hours prior to departure.
We can only accept assistance dogs that are fully trained, and we are unable to allow emotional support dogs or any other animal to travel. Emotional support dogs are not recognised as an assistance dog by Assistance Dogs International and International Guide Dogs Federation and are not permitted on board. All assistance dogs are carried free of charge.
Once your booking has been made and your paperwork has been checked, all DEFRA conditions have been met and you have completed and signed P&O Cruises terms and conditions, we will send you a confirmation letter. This letter confirms your assistance dog has been given permission to travel and the letter must be produced at check-in. Failure to produce this letter may result in your assistance dog being denied boarding. We would also advise all owners to carry their dog's identification card, or similar, with them at all times in case local authorities require proof.
If we do not receive a completed and signed copy of P&O Cruises terms and conditions, we regret we are unable to allow your dog to travel.