P&O Azura carries four swimming pools, six outdoor jacuzzis and a dedicated adults-only area called The Retreat. The pools range from the large main Aqua and Coral pools on the Lido deck to a quieter stern pool and a family-focused Splash Pool for children. Azura is a Grand-class ship launched in April 2010, carrying up to 3,597 passengers across 14 decks. This guide covers the location, dimensions and features of all four pools, the adults-only facilities, and practical tips for getting the most from them on a sea day.
- Azura has four swimming pools: Aqua Pool and Coral Pool (both on the Lido deck), Terrace Pool (Riviera deck, aft) and Splash Pool (Aqua deck, family-focused with paddling pool).
- The Aqua Pool measures 11m × 4.6m with a depth of 1.6–2.2m; the Coral Pool is 10.5m × 4.6m at the same depth. Both have two jacuzzis each.
- The Retreat is an adults-only sundeck with bubbling whirlpools, cabanas, sun loungers and a juice bar — no extra charge, but separate from the main pool decks.
- Azura has no waterslides. The ship suits those preferring a traditional cruise pool layout over a waterpark-style deck. 6 outdoor jacuzzis total.
The Four Swimming Pools on P&O Azura: Locations and Specifications
Aqua Pool and Coral Pool (Lido Deck)
The two largest pools are located on the Lido deck and are the focal point of Azura’s outdoor space on sea days. The Aqua Pool is the bigger of the two, measuring 11 metres long by 4.6 metres wide, with a depth of 1.6m at the shallow end and 2.2m at the deep end. It has two adjacent whirlpool jacuzzis and is served by the Aqua Bar, which offers drinks and snacks poolside. The Coral Pool is fractionally smaller at 10.5 metres by 4.6 metres, the same depth, and also has two jacuzzis. The Coral Pool is typically the busiest of the four, as it sits in the central area of the deck with the most surrounding sunbathing space and the most bar and food options nearby. On busy sea days in warm weather, both Lido deck pools can become crowded; the best strategy is to use them before 10am or after 4pm when the majority of passengers are occupied elsewhere.
Terrace Pool (Riviera Deck) and Splash Pool (Aqua Deck)
The Terrace Pool is located on the Riviera deck at the aft (rear) of the ship, offering views over the stern and the ship’s wake. It is smaller and quieter than the two Lido pools and is a popular option for passengers who want to avoid the busier central area. The aft position means it receives more wind in rough weather and less shelter from the ship’s structure — it is best suited to calmer conditions. The Splash Pool occupies the Aqua deck and is positioned adjacent to the ship’s children’s clubs — a deliberate placement that makes it convenient for families with younger children. It includes a paddling pool for toddlers and is the most family-oriented of the four. Azura does not have a waterslide — the Splash Pool is the extent of the dedicated family water facilities.
The Retreat: Adults-Only Sundeck
The Retreat is Azura’s adults-only area — a private sundeck with bubbling whirlpool pools, sun loungers, private cabanas, and a dedicated juice bar. There is no surcharge to use The Retreat beyond the standard cruise fare; it is reserved for adult passengers (18+) only. The area forms part of the broader spa deck, positioned away from the family pool areas. It counts among the ship’s six outdoor jacuzzis. For passengers who want a quieter pool experience away from families and children, The Retreat is the most practical option, though it is not a swimming pool — it is a jacuzzi-and-lounging area. The main swimming pools on the Lido deck are open to all passengers regardless of age.
P&O Azura Ship Guide: Key Facts and What to Know Before You Book
Ship Specifications
Azura entered service in April 2010, built by Fincantieri at its Monfalcone shipyard in Italy. The ship has a gross tonnage of 115,055 GT, a length of 290 metres and a beam of 36 metres, with 14 decks. Passenger capacity is 3,096 at double occupancy, rising to a maximum of 3,597, with a crew of 1,226. It was christened by ballet dancer Darcey Bussell at Southampton on 10 April 2010. Azura is the only Grand-class ship to feature a ‘Duck Tail’ stern — a design feature visible at the waterline towards the rear of the hull. Onboard facilities include 11 restaurants and eating areas, 12 bars and lounges, a show lounge, casino, fitness centre, spa and an outdoor cinema screen. The ship operates primarily from Southampton on Caribbean, Mediterranean and Atlantic itineraries.
Pool Comparison: Azura vs Other P&O and Cruise Ships
Passengers considering Azura purely for its pool facilities should understand what it offers relative to other ships. Azura’s four pools and six jacuzzis are a solid offering for a ship of its era, but it does not include the waterpark-style features found on newer vessels. P&O’s newer flagship Iona (2021) features four pools plus a SkyDome covered swimming complex with a retractable glass roof — a significant step up for wet-weather sailings. Our guide to the MSC Virtuosa pools covers that ship’s five pools, two waterslides and rooftop infinity pool for comparison. Azura suits passengers who want a well-maintained traditional cruise pool layout with good deck space and a settled, unrushed atmosphere — it is not the right choice for those who prioritise waterslides, surf simulators or covered pool facilities.
Practical Tips: Getting the Most from Azura’s Pools
The Aqua and Coral pools become busy from around 10am on sea days in warm-weather itineraries. Early morning (8–10am) and late afternoon (4–6pm) offer the best combination of available space and warm conditions. The Terrace Pool at the aft tends to be quieter than the Lido deck pools throughout the day. Sun lounger availability on busy sea days can be competitive — arriving early is the standard solution, and most ships have a policy against reserving unattended loungers for extended periods. On port days, the pools are generally quiet as the majority of passengers are ashore. The Splash Pool is most active on family-oriented itineraries; for itineraries without a significant proportion of families, it is often underused. The Retreat’s whirlpools require no booking and are accessible throughout the day.
| Pool | Deck | Size | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aqua Pool | Lido | 11m × 4.6m (depth 1.6–2.2m) | 2 jacuzzis, Aqua bar, largest pool |
| Coral Pool | Lido | 10.5m × 4.6m (depth 1.6–2.2m) | 2 jacuzzis, busiest location |
| Terrace Pool | Riviera (aft) | Not specified | Views over stern, quieter |
| Splash Pool | Aqua | Not specified | Family pool, paddling pool for toddlers |
| The Retreat | Spa deck | Whirlpool area | Adults-only, cabanas, juice bar |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many swimming pools does P&O Azura have?
P&O Azura has four swimming pools: the Aqua Pool and Coral Pool on the Lido deck, the Terrace Pool on the Riviera deck (aft), and the Splash Pool on the Aqua deck near the children’s clubs. The ship also has six outdoor jacuzzis distributed across the pool areas.
Does P&O Azura have an adults-only pool?
Azura does not have an adults-only swimming pool, but it has The Retreat — an adults-only (18+) sundeck area with bubbling whirlpools, cabanas, sun loungers and a juice bar. There is no surcharge to use The Retreat. The main swimming pools on the Lido deck are open to all passengers.
What is the Aqua Pool on Azura?
The Aqua Pool is the largest of Azura’s four swimming pools, measuring 11 metres long by 4.6 metres wide, with a depth of 1.6m to 2.2m. It is located on the Lido deck and has two adjacent whirlpool jacuzzis and the Aqua bar for poolside refreshments.
Does Azura have a waterslide?
No. P&O Azura does not have a waterslide. The closest option for families is the Splash Pool on the Aqua deck, which includes a paddling pool for toddlers. Passengers who want a waterslide should look at newer P&O ships (Iona, Arvia) or other cruise lines with waterpark facilities.
Where is the Splash Pool on Azura?
The Splash Pool is on the Aqua deck, adjacent to the children’s clubs. It is designed for families and includes a paddling pool for younger children. It is the most family-focused of the four pools and is quieter on adult-heavy itineraries.
How big are the pools on P&O Azura?
The Aqua Pool is 11m × 4.6m with a depth of 1.6–2.2m. The Coral Pool is 10.5m × 4.6m at the same depth. Exact dimensions for the Terrace Pool and Splash Pool are not publicly specified by P&O Cruises.
What is The Retreat on P&O Azura?
The Retreat is Azura’s adults-only (18+) sundeck area, featuring bubbling whirlpools, private cabanas, sun loungers and a juice bar. It is part of the spa deck and there is no extra charge to use it. It offers a quieter alternative to the main pool decks but does not include a swimming pool.
