P&O Cruise on Pacific Explorer: Back to the 80s

Setting Sail from Queen's Wharf, Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, serves as the picturesque starting point for an unforgettable final cruise aboard P&O's Pacific Explorer.  Renowned for its stunning harbours, diverse culture, and vibrant atmosphere, Auckland sets a grand stage for cruisers eager to embark on a three-night cruise back to the 1980s.  As the ship prepares for departure, excitement builds for passengers arriving at the port, all dressed in neon, for the party cruise that awaits.  

Lucky for us our bid for a room upgrade put us in a Mini-Suite for only an extra NZD360 for the four of us.  A little bit of luxury was fabulous, featuring a separate living area, a private double balcony, a dressing room, separate toilet, and bathroom was complete with a spacious tiled shower with amazing water pressure, and a spa bath.  The upgrade also gave us P&O bath robes to use, and priority embarkation and disembarkation.  We were happy campers!!

As the Pacific Explorer gets tugged out to sea, the party begins with a Neon Sailaway Party on deck.  Bright pink, green and yellow as far as the eye could see.  Bands and DJs playing and we were off on our weekend of luxury.

Magnifique Dining Experience

Onboard the Pacific Explorer, the 3-night 80s cruise offers an extensive range of dining experiences to suit the tastes of every guest.  Four restaurants are included in the price of the cruise, the main restaurant being The Pantry, where no booking is required for the ample buffet meals on offer.  So much delicious food to choose from.  While we did not manage to secure a booking at The Dragon Lady or Angelos, due to our own delay in booking, we did dine at The Waterfront, and it was magnificent, we all ordered different meals and all thoroughly enjoyed the culinary masterpieces!

For those looking for a quick snack or a refreshing drink, the onboard bars and cafes cater to all tastes, providing light bites or cakes, and creatively crafted cocktails.  Nothing quite like lounging poolside with a Melon Splice or a Classic Margurita!  Drink prices are relative, so no breaking the bank to have a fun time on board!  As well as the main Lido deck 12 for pools, there are also other more secluded pool decks and lounging areas away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy the sunshine and breeze, and cocktails of course!

Abundant Entertainment On Board

The atmosphere onboard, for all three nights, is reminiscent of a bygone decade with an 80s themed party every night, including bands and DJs singing 80s music.  You can attend a dance lesson to learn the Thriller dance, Flash Dance or Dirty Dancing duo in preparation for strutting the dancefloor in style.  Another highlight is the bingo, and many game shows that you do not need to be a whiz to win.  As well as the multitude of included activities, you can attend paid shows and activities, for a minimal extra cost.  A handy thing, you receive a Good Times leaflet every night to show you what is on the next day, as well you can save your faves on the P&O app - but there is so much available to do you just cannot fit it all in one cruise.

A Little Casino Win Made Life Exciting!

Pacific Explorer offers an array of leisure and relaxation opportunities that enhance the overall cruise experience.  Among the various activities, the casino is open once well out at sea providing guests with a chance to engage in a bit of friendly competition while enjoying the thrill of gaming.  We thought it wise to take a bit of extra AUD cash so as not to use on board spending card at the Casino, and luck was on my side with a modest win to add a sense of excitement and joy to the cruise.

Guests can indulge in retail therapy at the ship's boutiques. From essentials to souvenirs, clothing, jewellery and accessories, shopping onboard is exciting. This experience is further complemented by the variety of bars and cafes scattered throughout the vessel.  And a visit to the Spa may also be on the cards, but make sure to book ahead if you can as spa appointments book out early.

Reflecting on the overall trip, the combination of casino excitement, poolside relaxation, shopping, and vibrant nightlife created a well-rounded getaway.  Oftentimes we even forgot we were on board a ship.  Our hearts are full with memories of our P&O Cruise, especially as Carnival's P&O Pacific Explorer will no longer be cruising from Auckland, New Zealand from March 2025.  But you can still book your Carnival cruise via Cruise Direct, which is what I shall certainly be doing for next year.