Southampton, located on the southern coast of England, is a busy departure port for cruises offering a range of exciting itineraries. Whether you’re strolling along the historic streets of Old Town or exploring the picturesque surrounding areas, Southampton serves as a gateway to some of the most fascinating destinations in Northern Europe and beyond.
When is the best time to cruise from Southampton?
Cruises from Southampton operate year-round, with a variety of options available depending on your preferences. The summer months, from May to September, are particularly popular, offering pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. This is an ideal time to explore the stunning Norwegian fjords, the breathtaking landscapes of the Baltic region, or embark on a Mediterranean adventure. The beauty of sailing from the UK means that for many you will avoid the need to fly, meaning that cruising from the UK can often be a more affordable option, especially during the summer months when flight prices are higher. For those seeking a winter getaway, cruises to the Canary Islands or the Caribbean are excellent options, providing a welcome escape from the chilly British weather. Alternatively set sail on one of Cunard’s festive transatlantic sailings to New York and discover how the Big Apple transforms during the holiday season.
Which cruise lines sail from Southampton?
Southampton serves as the home port for several renowned cruise lines. P&O Cruises, a British cruise company, offers a range of itineraries departing from Southampton, including trips to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, and the Caribbean. Cunard, famous for its luxurious ocean liners, operates from Southampton, providing elegant voyages to iconic destinations like New York and the Mediterranean. Other cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International, also offer departures from Southampton, providing a wide selection of itineraries to suit different travel preferences.
Where do cruises from Southampton go to?
Cruises from Southampton offer diverse itineraries that allow travellers to explore a multitude of fascinating destinations. From the breathtaking beauty of the Norwegian fjords to the captivating cities of the Baltic Sea, there is something for everyone. Discover the stunning landscapes of the British Isles, visit the cultural hubs of the Mediterranean, or embark on a transatlantic journey to iconic destinations like New York. For those seeking warmer climates, cruises to the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, or even the Caribbean provide the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and experience the vibrant cultures of these regions.
Which terminal will my cruise depart from in Southampton?
There are five different cruise terminals in Southampton, the specific one your cruise will depart from will depend on the cruise line and itinerary you have booked. Always ensure you double-check which terminal your particular sailing is departing from as this can change depending on how many ships are in port on the day of departure. Your embarkation information will be listed on your final travel documents from your cruise line.
Mayflower Cruise Terminal – Berth 106: This terminal is the largest and most frequently used, accommodating a variety of cruise lines, including P&O Cruises and Cunard.
City Cruise Terminal – Berth 101: Situated in the Western Docks, this terminal is mainly used by Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International as well as smaller ships such as Fred Olsen.
Ocean Cruise Terminal – Berth 46: Located in the Eastern Docks, this terminal serves as a departure point for larger ships of P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line.
QEII Cruise Terminal – Berth 38/39: Situated at Dock Gate 4, this terminal caters to cruise lines who are part of the Carnival Corporation such as Cunard, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line.
Horizon Cruise Terminal – Berth 102: Accessed via Dock Gate 10, this brand-new terminal was built as a joint venture between MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, although sister companies Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises will likely also use this terminal.
Where can I park if I am going on a cruise from Southampton?
There are two main parking operators in Southampton, which one you choose will depend on which cruise line you are sailing with.
ABParking provide secure, on-site car parks located within the port itself and serve Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Fred Olsen, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Saga and Disney Cruise Line.
Cruise & Passenger Services are the official parking operator for P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess Cruises. If you have booked a P&O Cruises Select Fare or Cunard Fare you may be able to choose car parking as your selected benefit, details on how to book this will be given within your booking confirmation.
Holiday Extras offers affordable car parking in Southampton, with options ranging from dockside parking to off-site parking which will require a short transfer to the docks. You may also want to consider booking a pre-cruise hotel which offers long-stay parking. Browse Holiday Extras for a selection of hotels which offer parking for the duration of your cruise as well as transfers to and from the port. If you are travelling by car this can often be the most convenient and comfortable way to begin your cruise holiday.
How can I get to Southampton by coach?
Eavesway Travel‘s Cruiselink service allows passengers from across the UK to travel to and from Southampton in order to set sail on their next cruise holiday. Services depart from the North West as well as the North East & Yorkshire and are available to passengers of Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Fred Olsen, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises and MSC Cruises.
Passengers booking a P&O Cruises Select Fare or Cunard Fare can benefit from included coach transfers. Details of how to book these will be given within your booking confirmation.
How can I get to Southampton by public transport?
To travel to Southampton by public transport, there are several options available depending on your starting location. Here’s a general guide on how to get to Southampton from major cities in the UK:
From London:
– Train: South Western Railway operates regular train services from London Waterloo station to Southampton Central station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
– Coach: National Express offers direct coach services from London Victoria Coach Station to Southampton Coach Station. The journey duration varies, but it’s typically around 2 to 3 hours.
From Birmingham:
– Train: CrossCountry trains operate services from Birmingham New Street station to Southampton Central. The journey duration is around 2.5 to 3.5 hours with a transfer at Reading or Basingstoke.
– Coach: National Express provides coach services from Birmingham Coach Station to Southampton Coach Station. The journey duration can range from 3.5 to 5 hours.
From Manchester:
– Train: TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast operate train services from Manchester Piccadilly station to Southampton Central. The journey duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours with a transfer at Reading or Basingstoke.
– Coach: National Express runs coach services from Manchester Coach Station to Southampton Coach Station. The journey duration is around 6 to 7 hours.
From Bristol:
– Train: Great Western Railway operates train services from Bristol Temple Meads station to Southampton Central. The journey duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
– Coach: National Express provides direct coach services from Bristol Coach Station to Southampton Coach Station. The journey duration is typically around 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
These are just a few examples, and there may be other routes available depending on your starting location. We would always recommend checking the websites of train operators (e.g., South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast) or coach companies (e.g., National Express) for specific schedules, fares, and any updates or changes to the services before booking.
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