The United Kingdom is home to some of the most accessible and scenic cruise ports in the world. Whether you’re setting sail to bucket list destinations or exploring the beauty of the British Isles, the UK offers a variety of cruise ports that cater to all types of travellers. Here’s a look at some of the top UK cruise ports, from bustling cities to quiet, picturesque harbours.
As the UK’s busiest and most popular UK cruise port, Southampton serves as a major hub for both transatlantic crossings and European cruises. This historic port city is well-connected to London and boasts excellent facilities, making it an easy choice for many travellers. From here, you can set sail to destinations around the world, from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean. Southampton is also known for its maritime heritage, with attractions like the SeaCity Museum and the historic Titanic Trail.
Cruises from Southampton.
Cruise lines sailing from Southampton include: P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruises, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Disney, Azamara, Explora.
Portsmouth is a dynamic UK cruise port with a rich naval heritage. It’s a great starting point for cruises to the Channel Islands and Europe. The waterfront is beautiful, and the city has cultural sites like the HMS Victory and Mary Rose Museum. Portsmouth blends history and modern amenities, making it a perfect choice for cruisers.
Cruises from Portsmouth.
Cruise lines sailing from Portsmouth include: Fred Olsen Cruises, Ambassador, Azamara, Silversea.
Home to the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover, this UK cruise port offers an iconic British departure point for European cruises. With its proximity to London and excellent transport links, Dover is a popular choice for both UK residents and international travellers. The port is a gateway for those embarking on short European getaways, including trips to France, Belgium, and beyond. The stunning views of the English Channel and the White Cliffs make for a memorable start to any cruise.
Cruises from Dover.
Cruise lines sailing from Dover include: Holland America, Seabourn, Fred Olsen Cruises, Princess Cruises, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, Regent Seven Seas.
London has several cruise ports, including Greenwich and Tilbury. These terminals offer easy access to Europe and beyond. London is a world-renowned city, and cruises here often start with a city tour. Attractions like the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the London Eye are just a short distance away. Departing from London combines a great city experience with a seamless cruise journey.
Cruises from London.
Cruise lines sailing from London include: Ambassador, Viking, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas.
Newcastle is a vibrant and welcoming UK cruise port located on the River Tyne. It serves as a departure point for cruises around the UK, Northern Europe, and even further afield. Known for its stunning bridges and lively atmosphere, Newcastle offers easy access to the beautiful landscapes of Northumberland and Scotland. With a rejuvenated quayside area, it’s the perfect spot to explore the city’s rich history before setting sail.
Cruises from Newcastle.
Cruise lines sailing from Newcastle include: Fred Olsen Cruises.
The maritime city of Liverpool is not only famous for it’s Beatles heritage, but it is also an increasingly important UK cruise port. With its ideal location on the River Mersey, Liverpool serves as a gateway to both European and Atlantic cruises. The city’s cruise terminal has been modernised, providing a comfortable starting point for cruises to destinations across the globe. Before you set sail, take the time to explore Liverpool’s rich cultural heritage, including the Albert Dock, the Beatles Story museum, and the Maritime Museum.
Cruises from Liverpool.
Cruise lines sailing from Liverpool include: Fred Olsen Cruises, Ambassador, Regent Seven Seas.
Bristol is an increasingly popular UK cruise port in the West of England, offering a gateway to the beautiful coastlines of the South West. The port is located near the heart of the vibrant city, which is known for its independent spirit and creative energy. Bristol’s modern cruise terminal is just a short distance from the city’s historic harbour, where visitors can explore iconic sites like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain, and the lively waterfront area.
Cruises from Bristol.
Cruise lines sailing from Bristol include: Ambassador.
Falmouth, a picturesque port town in Cornwall, provides an ideal UK cruise departure point for those wanting to explore the rugged coastline and charming villages of the southwest. The deep-water harbour is perfect for cruise ships, and the town itself is known for its maritime history and scenic beauty. From Falmouth, passengers can embark on cruises to the Mediterranean or the Canary Islands, or simply enjoy the view of the dramatic Cornish coastline as they sail away.
Cruises from Falmouth.
Cruise lines sailing from Falmouth include: Ambassador.
Belfast is Northern Ireland’s largest city and a growing UK cruise port with modern facilities. The port is increasingly becoming a key point for cruises around the British Isles and to destinations in Europe. The city offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions, from the Titanic Belfast museum to the scenic beauty of the Antrim Coast. A cruise from Belfast offers a fantastic opportunity to explore both the city’s vibrant culture and the stunning landscapes that surround it.
Cruises from Belfast.
Cruise lines sailing from Belfast include: Ambassador, Viking, Oceania, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas.
While Edinburgh itself doesn’t have a cruise port, nearby Rosyth and Leith offer convenient departure points. Rosyth is located just outside Edinburgh, with easy access to the city’s historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Leith, a vibrant district of Edinburgh, is home to a modern cruise terminal. From here, travelers can explore Edinburgh’s stunning heritage and enjoy cruises to the North Sea, Scandinavia, and the Mediterranean. Both ports provide seamless access to Scotland’s capital, making it a memorable starting point for any cruise.
Cruises from Edinburgh.
Cruise lines sailing from Edinburgh include: Fred Olsen Cruises, Silversea, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas.
Dundee is one of Scotland’s hidden gems, offering a smaller, more intimate cruise port experience. The city has become a popular point for those looking to explore the coast of Scotland and beyond. Dundee is home to the RRS Discovery and the V&A Dundee Museum. Before setting sail, explore Dundee’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene. This port provides a unique cruise experience in Scotland.
Cruises from Dundee.
Cruise lines sailing from Dundee include: Ambassador.
Greenock, located on the River Clyde, serves as the gateway to Glasgow. The port offers easy access to the Scottish Highlands and nearby islands. Cruises from here head to Scotland, Iceland, and Scandinavia. Greenock’s charming harbor is surrounded by stunning landscapes. It’s an ideal departure point for exploring Scotland’s beauty and heritage.
Cruises from Greenock.
Cruise lines sailing from Greenock & Glasgow include: Silversea, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions.
Cruising from UK ports offers an excellent way to explore some of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in Europe and beyond. With several key UK cruise ports, travelers can easily access a range of fascinating locations, from the vibrant cities of Northern Europe to the sun-soaked islands of the Mediterranean.
With these diverse and fascinating destinations, UK cruise ports are the perfect starting point for a variety of exciting adventures on the high seas. View the latest cruises from the UK online or if you want expert advice on cruises from UK ports, contact the team on 01246 819 819.
The UK has over 30 cruise ports in total. Major ports include Southampton, Liverpool, and Dover. In addition, smaller ports like Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Harwich also serve cruise passengers. As a result, the UK offers plenty of options for embarking on a cruise, whether you’re looking for a popular hub or a more regional departure point.
The busiest cruise port in the UK is Southampton, which handles the highest number of cruise passengers each year. This port, located on the south coast, serves as the home port for many well-known cruise lines. Furthermore, Southampton offers modern facilities and easy access to a variety of destinations, making it a popular choice for both short and long cruises.
It depends on your cruise itinerary. For UK-only cruises or cruises within the Common Travel Area (UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man), a passport is generally not needed, although you may be asked for photo ID. On the other hand, for international cruises, a valid passport is typically required. Therefore, it’s always best to check with your cruise line to confirm the specific requirements for your trip.
P&O Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines in the UK, offering a wide range of itineraries and experiences that cater to British passengers. In addition to P&O, other popular cruise lines include Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Each of these lines provides a unique experience, complete with excellent amenities and top-notch service.
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