maf101

Has anyone had any experience getting a compassionate refund or credit towards another cruise? The cruise was booked directly with P&O. We were due to sail on 8 April on Pacific Dawn. On the morning of the cruise my Mother had a massive heart attack. We stayed with her until she passed away the following morning. My travel insurance doesn't include cancellation.

I haven't cruised for a long time. I have 2 high need kids that I'm taking on their first cruise hence why we are doing a short sampler cruise. I felt like crying after posting in another group and getting judged about taking the kids. They are aged 6 & 8. The younger child has high functioning autism. He attends a regular school. He he has poor social skills and can get overwhelmed around crowds, noise & unfamiliar places. I want recommendations on how to avoid the noise and crowds whilst boarding. Do they give you a set boarding time? Can we leave the terminal and go for a quiet walk or something?

The older child had a parent lost a sea. I didn't know this when I booked. He has strange ideas about jumping in the ocean and finding his Father. He doesn't always think clearly and mixes reality with fantasy. He's afraid the ship will sink. I hope he'll be okay once he's on-board. I don't know if he's seen a ship before.

I can't remember how child friendly the decks are. I remember large windows providing shelter to an open deck area. I figure that should be a safe place to relax on deck. Surely I'm not the only person worried a child might climb a railing? What outdoor areas do you consider safe with kids?

What are the theme nights on a 3 night cruise? Do we need to pack anything special?

The 8 year old will be fine in the kids club assuming he can't sign himself out. I believe the 6 year old may find it difficult. Is there any way for them to contact me if he is distressed? It would be nice to have a little me time but if it's not advised, I won't do it.

Here's some pics from Pacific Sun N823 (June 11-22). It's contains some pre cruise Auckland pics as well.

Holiday Pics