The Ventura cruise ship, home to more than 1,500 cabins, has proved to be a popular stalwart of the P&O fleet for many years, for a number of reasons, not least because of its comfortable and practical accommodations.
The ship, which debuted in 2008 and was refurbished in 2013 and later updated in 2023, has a range of accommodations from simple interior cabins, large balcony cabins and suites.
It is not the most contemporary vessel in the P&O fleet; nevertheless, the cabins are spacious and comfortable, which makes them popular with guests.
The décor would be described as classic rather than modern.
Here, we take a closer look at the cabin option onboard P&O Ventura.
Interior Cabins on Ventura
Inside cabins are the most affordable category on Ventura and a popular choice for couples or friends who plan to spend most of their time by the pool, on the sun deck, or in the ship's bars and restaurants.
Inside cabins aren't massive, at around 160 square feet.
In terms of sleeping arrangements, the inside cabins come with two single beds that can be set up either as a pair or twins or pushed together as a double bed.
Some inside cabins, meanwhile, can sleep up to four, with two extra 'pull-down' bunk beds from the ceiling.
The cabins offer clever storage, allowing guests to keep their luggage neatly tucked away.
Bathrooms in the interior cabins are compact but functional, usually with a small shower unit and a shower curtain.
The cabins are equipped with a small flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, a kettle, mugs with tea and coffee, and a safe.
There are two UK-style three-pin sockets, but no USB ports.
The TV is small but offers on-demand movies, some sports channels and the ship’s bridge camera feed, which becomes a kind of “virtual window” for inside passengers.
Of course, the one thing that interior cabins don't have is a window (or natural light) - and that's why they're the most affordable cabin type.
Sea view cabins
Quite similar to the interior cabins, Sea View cabins add a window or porthole, giving these rooms a view and light.
These cabins are similar in size and layout to the inside cabins, with the same twin or double bed setup, desk, wardrobe space and compact bathroom.
Some 'sea view' cabins have obstructed or partially obstructed views, and those rooms tend to be cheaper.
For many guests, these cabins provide a happy compromise between affordability and comfort.
Balcony cabins on Ventura
Balcony cabins are by far the most popular on Ventura, and they make up a large proportion of the accommodation.
These cabins are typically around 230 square feet, including the outdoor balcony space.
On the balconies, guests will find chairs (and a stool to make them loungers) as well as a small table.
The balconies are mostly private, though on some decks, some portions are overlooked by balconies above.
On certain decks, the balconies are extra-large, which can transform the way you use the cabin. Families or larger groups can book adjacent cabins, and, create an interconnecting balcony to join the two rooms together (effectively creating a suite style accommodation).
The interiors are similar to the other cabins, but some include an extra seat or a small sofa.
Storage, again, is excellent with a walk-in style wardrobe area near the cabin entrance, next to the bathroom.
Balcony cabins bring in plenty of light, fresh air, and provide a relaxing private space to enjoy days at sea.
Many guests say having a balcony elevated their whole experience, even on a shorter cruise.
Superior deluxe balcony cabins
The Superior Deluxe Balcony cabins are a step up in size, and feel more like mini-suites.
These cabins are around 310 square feet, with a proper sitting area that includes a sofa bed, a second TV and the larger balconies come with more substantial furniture.
The bathroom is bigger too, with a bathtub, shower and more storage space.
Suites and family suites
At the top end of Ventura’s accommodation offering are the Suites, which are designed like small apartments at sea.
These come with separate living and sleeping areas, dining tables, large balconies, and upgraded bathrooms that usually include a whirlpool bath and separate shower.
Guests have butler service throughout the cruise and enjoy priority boarding and disembarkation.
Ventura also has a small number of family suites which are designed for up to six people, combining two bedrooms and two bathrooms with a shared living space, making them perfect for larger families or multi-generational groups.
The very top-tier cabins are the Penthouse Suites, located at the ship's stern. These are the largest cabins on the ship, with huge balconies overlooking the wake.
Penthouse Suites are designed for those who want maximum space, privacy and luxury.
Comforts and services
Whichever cabin you choose, certain features are consistent across Ventura. Every room has a kettle and complimentary tea and coffee supplies.
The White Company toiletries are replenished as needed, and cabin stewards provide twice-daily service.
Room service is available, with a continental breakfast complimentary if ordered in advance, and other items charged at a modest rate.
Laundry is well catered for, with each deck having its own self-service launderettes with free washing machines, dryers and irons. They can get busy on sea days, but they are a must-have, especially for longer cruises.
For those who prefer not to do it themselves, there is also a paid laundry and pressing service.
Safes are free to use in all cabins, and hairdryers are provided.
We are Guests' thoughts ...
P&O Ventura's cabins may not be as modern as guests will find on newer, more expensive cruise ships, but when it comes to the things that really matter for an enjoyable trip - namely space, comfort, and practicalities - these cabins really deliver.
We enjoyed a cruise on Ventura, staying in a balcony cabin, and the ample outdoor space really elevated our holiday.
In case you missed it ...
What cabin types and approximate sizes does P&O Ventura offer?
P&O Ventura offers Interior (~160 sq ft), Sea View, Balcony (~230 sq ft including balcony), Superior Deluxe Balcony (~310 sq ft), and Suites including family and Penthouse options.
Do P&O Ventura inside cabins sleep four and what features do they include?
P&O Ventura inside cabins can sleep up to four with two pull-down bunks and include a small TV, mini-fridge, kettle with tea and coffee, a safe, two UK sockets (no USB), and a compact shower room.
What makes P&O Ventura’s balcony cabins popular with families?
P&O Ventura’s balcony cabins add light and private outdoor space, offer some extra-large balconies, and can interconnect to create a suite-style layout for families.
What suite perks and onboard services are included on P&O Ventura?
P&O Ventura suites provide separate living areas, large balconies and butler service with priority boarding and disembarkation, while all cabins get twice-daily service, complimentary in-advance continental breakfast room service, and free launderettes.
