Explore the Mediterranean this winter with Celebrity Cruises, with DOUBLE CASHBACK, plus LOW £75PP DEPOSIT and EXCLUSIVE ONBOARD CREDIT when you call our cruise experts – 01246 819819
Here in the UK, we’re lucky to have some of the most accessible and scenic cruise ports in the world. Across the British Isles, cruisers have so many options to choose from when it comes to where they can board the cruise of a lifetime.
Read MoreHere in the UK, we’re lucky to have some of the most accessible and scenic cruise ports in the world. Across the British Isles, cruisers have so many options to choose from when it comes to where they can board the cruise of a lifetime.
Across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, cruise lines connect our small nation to the entire globe, so let’s take a look at some of the most popular ports across the country, highlight some top cruises from UK ports, and answer some frequently asked questions.
It’s the busiest cruise port in the UK, so let’s kick things off in Southampton. Serving 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 Southampton, you can set sail to destinations around the world, from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean. The city is also known for its maritime heritage, with attractions like the SeaCity Museum and the historic Titanic Trail making it a great place to explore either before or after a cruise.
Cruise lines sailing from Southampton include:
Famed for its rich naval heritage, Portsmouth is home to one of the UK’s most dynamic cruise ports. The city’s waterfront is beautiful, and guests can discover a range of cultural sites like the HMS Victory and Mary Rose Museum. If you want to extend your holiday, Portsmouth is a city that blends history and modern amenities.
Portsmouth is a great starting point for cruises around the British Isles and across Northern Europe, making it an easy choice for history lovers and those looking to discover a different side to familiar ports and cities.
Cruise lines sailing from Portsmouth include:
Home to the world-famous White Cliffs, Dover offers an iconic British departure point for a wide variety of European cruises. With its proximity to London and excellent transport links, Dover doubles as a popular choice for both UK residents and international travellers.
This port is a gateway for those embarking on short European getaways, including trips to France, Belgium and beyond. Sailing away from Dover is extra special, as the stunning views of the English Channel and the White Cliffs make for a memorable start to any cruise.
Cruise lines sailing from Dover include:
In London, you’ll actually find several cruise ports, including Greenwich and Tilbury. Of course, London is a world-renowned city, packed with famous attractions like the Tower of London, Big Ben and the London Eye.
London’s terminals offer easy access to Europe and beyond. Departing from here, you can sail to sunny ports across the Mediterranean as well as to the impressive Norwegian Fjords. Departing from London combines a great city experience with a seamless cruise journey.
Cruise lines sailing from London include:
Bristol is an increasingly popular UK cruise port in the West of England, located near the heart of the city, known for its independent spirit and creative energy. This modern cruise terminal is just a short distance from the historic harbour, where visitors can explore iconic sites like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain and the lively waterfront area.
Offering a gateway to the beautiful coastlines of the South West, Bristol offers itineraries across Europe, from the sunlit shores of Spain to the cooler cultural hubs of Tromsø and Narvik along the Norwegian coast.
Cruise lines sailing from Bristol include:
Nestled on the famous River Tyne, Newcastle is a welcoming UK cruise port that offers easy access to the beautiful landscapes of Northumberland and Scotland. Known for its stunning bridges and lively atmosphere, Newcastle boasts a rejuvenated quayside area in the perfect spot for exploring the city’s rich history before setting sail.
Serving as a departure point for cruises around the UK, the Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe and even further afield, Newcastle is the perfect place for sailing to ports across Denmark, Germany and more.
Cruise lines sailing from Newcastle include:
The maritime city of Liverpool is not only famous for its Beatles heritage. It is also an increasingly important, modern UK cruise port that provides 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.
With its ideal location on the River Mersey, the city serves as a gateway to both European and Atlantic cruises. Popular destinations from Liverpool include the sunny Canary Islands, Italy and Malta.
Cruise lines sailing from Liverpool include:
Belfast is Northern Ireland’s largest city and is home to a growing UK cruise port with modern facilities. It offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions, from the Titanic Belfast museum to the scenic beauty of the Antrim Coast, and a cruise from Belfast offers a fantastic opportunity to explore both the city and the stunning landscapes that surround it.
This port is increasingly becoming a key point for cruises around the British Isles and to destinations in Europe. Additional exciting itineraries include transatlantic sailings and voyages heading north to explore the Arctic.
Cruise lines sailing from Belfast include:
While Edinburgh itself doesn’t have a cruise port, nearby Rosyth and Leith offer convenient Scotland departure points. Rosyth is located just outside Edinburgh, with easy access to the city’s historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, while Leith is a creative district and home to a modern cruise terminal.
From these ports, cruisers 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.
Cruise lines sailing from Edinburgh include:
Dundee is one of Scotland’s hidden gems, offering a smaller, more intimate cruise port experience. The city has become a popular spot for those looking to explore the coast of Scotland and beyond, home to the RRS Discovery and the V&A Dundee Museum. Before setting sail, be sure to explore Dundee’s rich history and cultural scene.
Cruise lines sailing from Dundee include:
The UK has over 30 cruise ports in total, offering plenty of options for embarking on a cruise, whether you’re looking for a popular hub or a more regional departure point.
Typically, cruise lines will require guests to bring their passport regardless of where their ship is sailing. Even for UK cruises, this is necessary to ensure the ship can detour if needed during the itinerary.
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, offers modern facilities and easy access to a variety of destinations, making it a popular choice for both short and long cruises.
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 Cruises, other top cruise lines include Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Get ready to book your next cruise getaway with all of the major cruise lines available here at Bolsover Cruise Club. If you need help booking a cruise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. A member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Discover a cruise from the UK that visits some of the most exclusive ports in the world. Browse Bolsover Cruise Club’s variety of cruise destinations and start looking forward to a cruising adventure you’ll never forget.
