Traveling around the South Pacific on a P&O Cruises' ship is an exceptional way of relaxing. The vacation will be unforgettable and the sights magnificent. Being prepared with what to take can make a huge difference to the holiday experience.
The P&O Cruises Australia Fleet
P&O Cruises Australia has ships based in the South Pacific. They are the Pacific Dawn, Pacific Sun, Pacific Jewel and the Pacific Pearl. Each of these ships have an excellent deck plan found on the P&O Cruises Australia website, including photographs of the communal areas. Cruises commonly depart from Auckland, Sydney and Brisbane.
Things You Need Onboard
The P&O fleet in Oceania use electrical outlets common in New Zealand and Australia. If traveling from outside of the Pacific, you should bring an electrical outlet converter. These can be purchased onboard, but this is more expensive than bringing your own. You should also bring a multi-box / power bar, as most cruise passengers need more electrical outlets.
Your camera will be a valuable asset. However, it can be worth investing in a waterproof camera, too. Pools on board and rainy sea days are worth taking into consideration, and the peace of mind in knowing your camera is okay is worth the investment. You should also consider bringing your camera charger, spare memory cards and a laptop computer.
You will get the opportunity for a number of sea days on a South Pacific cruise withP&O Cruises. Consider bringing reading material, a sunhat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses. A sarong is also a good idea as a cover-up to avoid sunburn. Carrying a tote bag on the ship is a also good idea to carry what you need in order to avoid needless trips back to the stateroom.
Things You Need to Take Ashore
The Islands of the South Pacific islands are unique, but you can come prepared for them all. Having solid footwear is essential for traveling ashore. Although, the ship's crew will have water cooler available on the pier, you should be prepared with your own water bottle before heading ashore.
Snorkeling is a popular activity on the islands. You do not need to be a strong swimmer, as the fish will come up close to shore in the smaller islands. You can rent snorkel equipment on the ship, but it is cheaper to bring your own. Bring a pair of inexpensive aqua booties. The coral is sharp, and rocks common around the smaller islands.
Local currency is an asset, but you can use Australian currency in most ports. Small markets will set up around the port offering local products for sale. Do not buy fruits or vegetables unless you plan to eat them ashore. With the exception of Lifou Island, no fruits or vegetables can be brought back aboard your ship. However, remember that with the Vatu from Vanuatu you cannot exchange it back because of its little value.
Travel Essentials
If you suffer from allergies, bring your own soap aboard the ship. Commercial soaps can irritate your skin. Bring your own laundry detergent as well. The liquid cleansers are more effective than the powdered sort on board. Bring Australian coins for the washing machines and dryers.
Consider bringing a small first aid kit so that you won't have to purchase the items onboard. Useful items are band aids, tweezers, insect repellent, sunburn spray or aloe, calamine lotion for bites, and sunscreen. Anti-bacterial ointment and motion sickness pills can also be included in this kit.
Another travel item that you may find helpful is a band for your suitcase to identify it from others. Hundreds of passengers may be using a similar suitcase as you. A simple band can make it easier to find your gear when departing the ship and also at the airport. In addition, consider having a day pack / backpack with sturdy shoulder straps.
Sailing with P&O Cruises in Australia is a great deal of fun. Having the correct equipment packed saves a lot of stress and expense of having to find your forgotten items onboard.
