5 great cruises from Southampton

For many, sailing from Southampton is one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to start a holiday. This historic port is among the UK’s most popular, with many of the world’s leading cruise lines departing from here each year. Choosing to sail from Southampton often means skipping the hassle of airports, baggage restrictions, and long transfers. Instead, you can step on board and let your holiday begin straight away. Whether you’re travelling solo, enjoying a family adventure, or setting sail with friends, it’s the perfect place to begin your dream voyage. In this guide, we’ve highlighted five incredible cruises that combine convenience with unforgettable destinations, complete with details on their itineraries, life on board, and inspiring examples of shore excursions to help you plan your next adventure.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is renowned for its warm ambience and friendly, personal style of cruising. A firm favourite with guests who value imaginative itineraries, carefully crafted routes, and journeys to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, Fred. Olsen offers something truly special. With a fleet of smaller ships, the cruise line can reach smaller, less-visited ports that larger vessels often cannot visit. This incredible exploration of South America and Antarctica is no exception. Prepare to set sail on this once-in-a-lifetime journey, which includes stops at vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Antarctica. 

Departing from Southampton, this No-Fly 2026 Exploration of South America & Antarctica takes guests on an extraordinary 76-night circumnavigation. Your journey begins with calls at La Coruña in Spain, Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, and Praia in Cape Verde before crossing the Atlantic towards Brazil. After leisurely days at sea, enjoying the ship’s excellent facilities, you’ll arrive in vibrant Salvador. From there, the adventure continues with highlights such as Rio de Janeiro, famous for its golden beaches and the towering Christ the Redeemer, Ilhabela, Buenos Aires, Montevideo in Uruguay, and Coquimbo in Chile. You’ll then sail to Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands before cruising the awe-inspiring Antarctic Peninsula, where dramatic icebergs and extraordinary wildlife create memories to last a lifetime. On the homeward journey, marvel at the Panama Canal, explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica and Colombia, and soak up the sunshine in the Caribbean with stops in Curaçao, Antigua, and St. Maarten. A final call at the scenic Azores rounds off this remarkable voyage before your return to Southampton.

If you’ve never embarked on a longer voyage before, the idea of spending several weeks at sea might feel a little daunting, especially if it’s your first time sailing on a new ship. On board Borealis, however, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a wide variety of facilities designed to make life at sea enjoyable and rewarding. 

Leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and embrace pure relaxation aboard Borealis. Treat yourself to soothing therapies at the tranquil Atlantis Spa, where a variety of treatments are designed to refresh both body and mind. For deeper relaxation, step into the Thermal Suite, inspired by the calming traditions of a Turkish bath, and let the gentle heat melt your cares away. For some, nothing clears the mind more than staying active, and the Fitness Centre makes it easy to keep up your routine while at sea. 

Let your creativity flourish at The Olsen Art Studio, a bright and airy space where both beginners and seasoned artists can enjoy working on a diverse range of projects. Make the most of sunny days by the pool, where you can switch between lounging with your favourite drink in hand and cooling off with a refreshing dip. For the ultimate relaxation, sink into the bubbling jacuzzi and let your stresses simply melt away. Borealis also offers a fantastic choice of lounges, each with its own character. The Earth Room provides a peaceful space designed to inspire curiosity about the planet we call home, while The Botanical Room is a tranquil haven for green-fingered guests, complete with books and magazines on gardening, flowers, plant care, and more. 

In the evenings, there are plenty of ways to continue the fun. The Neptune Lounge hosts live performances ranging from music and cabaret to guest entertainers, while the ship’s lively bars and cosy lounges provide the perfect setting for a relaxed evening drink or socialising with fellow guests.

Dining is another highlight, with a range of restaurants to suit every occasion. Enjoy exquisite five-course meals in the elegant Aurora and Borealis Restaurants or a more intimate setting in The Arctic Room. The View pairs relaxed dining with sweeping ocean views and complimentary afternoon teas, while The Poolside is ideal for casual brunches and lunches. For something different, speciality venues like Colours & Tastes and Vasco serve vibrant Asian fusion and authentic Goan flavour. Guests can also indulge in traditional afternoon tea, with a premium experience available in The Observatory featuring live piano music and white-gloved service. 

When you book this unforgettable 76-night no-fly voyage aboard Borealis, you’ll enjoy full board cruising with plenty included to make your journey seamless. From elegant five-course à la carte dinners to relaxed buffet options and late-night snacks, all meals are included. You’ll also have access to the ship’s leisure facilities, complimentary tea and coffee in selected venues, and the comfort of a truly British cruise experience with English-speaking crew throughout. 

Evenings are filled with entertainment, from live music and comedians to performances by the ship’s own show company. Special moments such as the Captain’s drinks party and the Gala Buffet add an extra touch of occasion. With pound sterling as the onboard currency, there’s no need to worry about exchange rates. 

Your journey is further enriched with Fred. Olsen Signature Experiences, and thanks to the Olsen Way Promise, you can cruise with complete peace of mind. If, within the first couple of days, you feel the experience isn’t right for you, Fred. Olsen will arrange a flight home and refund your cruise fare (terms and conditions apply). Find out more about what’s included here. 

Fred. Olsen’s shore excursions are carefully designed to bring each destination to life, offering guests the chance to truly connect with the places they visit. Whether it’s stepping into centuries of history, discovering local traditions, or simply soaking up breathtaking scenery, these experiences add depth and meaning to every voyage. Excursions are thoughtfully paced and varied, with options to suit different interests and activity levels, ensuring that every guest can make the most of their time ashore. With expert local guides and well-crafted itineraries, Fred. Olsen’s shore tours turn each stop into a memorable adventure.

P&O Cruises is celebrated for its blend of British charm, modern comforts, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at home from the moment they step aboard. Trusted for generations to deliver unforgettable holidays at sea, the cruise line’s fleet of seven ships offers something for every traveller, from serene adults-only escapes to fun-filled, family-friendly adventures. Each ship is packed with incredible amenities, exquisite dining options, and entertainment to suit every mood. This No-Fly 2026 Idyllic Greek Isles voyage aboard Arcadia is the perfect choice for adults seeking a refined escape, sailing from Southampton to the sun-drenched Mediterranean. Along the way, you’ll uncover captivating destinations where ancient history, breathtaking scenery, and the relaxed rhythm of island life come together to create a truly unforgettable journey. 

Step aboard Arcadia in Southampton and begin a 19-night voyage through the enchanting Mediterranean. After a couple of days relaxing at sea, enjoying the abundance of fantastic amenities onboard, your first stop is Motril. This charming coastal town in Granada is ideally placed for exploring the Alhambra and the treasures of Andalusia. From there, you’ll sail to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, where history, culture, and cuisine come together. The journey continues with a call at Athens, commonly referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation, followed by the ancient city of Ephesus with its remarkable ruins. In Santorini, whitewashed villages and dramatic cliffs await, while Heraklion offers a gateway to Crete’s rich heritage and mythology. Upon your return, a stop at Gibraltar provides the chance to experience its unique mix of British and Mediterranean influences before you sail back to Southampton, bringing an unforgettable journey to a close. 

Life at sea aboard Arcadia feels both exciting and effortless, with endless opportunities to unwind, dine, and be entertained. 

For pure relaxation, the Oasis Spa offers unrivalled pampering, from indulgent massages and rejuvenating facials to a full range of beauty and salon services. Guests can also enjoy the hydrotherapy pool, featuring soothing jets and recliners, or find calm in the sauna and sensory steam room. Outdoors, you’ll discover two sparkling swimming pools, one with a retractable roof for all-weather enjoyment. There are also five bubbling whirlpool spas, perfect for lazy afternoons in the sun or peaceful evenings under the stars. For those who prefer to stay active, the Gym and Fitness Studio is fully equipped with Technogym machines, free weights, and bikes, plus a variety of fitness classes to help you keep up your routine.

Dining is always a highlight on Arcadia, with venues to suit every mood. The elegant two-tiered Meridian Restaurant offers refined dining, while the casual Belvedere Buffet and poolside Neptune Grill provide relaxed options throughout the day. Speciality venues elevate the experience further: Sindhu delights with Indian-British fusion cuisine, and the Ocean Grill by Marco Pierre White serves classic dishes with a contemporary twist.

When it comes to drinks, the ship offers a bar to match every occasion. Enjoy sweeping views with a cocktail in The Crow’s Nest, relax to the sound of live piano music in The Piano Bar, or savour the stylish surroundings of East Bar and Intermezzo. For something more laid-back, Spinnaker, Aquarius Bar, Neptune’s Bar, and Caffè Vivo all offer inviting settings to enjoy a casual drink with friends. 

Evenings bring no shortage of entertainment. Catch a dazzling performance in The Palladium, a grand three-tiered theatre, or enjoy an intimate film screening in The Screening Room. The Globe hosts everything from lively cabaret to late-night dancing, while The Rising Sun recreates the charm of a traditional British pub at sea, complete with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

There is plenty included to make this 19-night no-fly voyage seamless and unforgettable. Savour fabulous dining across a variety of restaurants, from five-course gala menus created by Marco Pierre White to elegant black-tie evenings. Enjoy spectacular entertainment ranging from live music to West End-style performances, and spend leisurely days unwinding by the pool, soaking in a whirlpool, or simply relaxing on deck. With no tips required and pound sterling as the onboard currency, you can cruise with ease, without worrying about extras or exchange rates. Find out more about what’s included here. 

P&O Cruises offers a wide variety of shore excursions, designed to help guests uncover highlights of each destination and make the very most of their holiday. Here are just a few examples of what you might have the opportunity to enjoy on this incredible voyage: 

A Taste of Palermo

• Duration: 4 hours
• Activity level: High

Your adventure begins with a scenic coach tour of Palermo’s key landmarks before delving into one of Sicily’s great passions, food. Along the way, you’ll sample delicious local specialities such as thick focaccia, vegetable ratatouille, and panelle (chickpea fritters), all perfectly complemented by a glass of regional wine, before returning to the ship.

Acropolis, Museum and Plaka

• Duration: 7 hours
• Activity level: High

This unforgettable excursion takes you on a guided journey through the Acropolis, renowned worldwide for its breathtaking beauty, architectural splendour, and fascinating history. Your tour begins with a walk up to the upper city entrance through the grand Propylae, before exploring the iconic ancient ruins. Afterwards, step inside the Acropolis Museum to admire an extraordinary collection of relics and artefacts that bring the past to life. The experience continues in the charming Plaka district, where you’ll enjoy traditional Greek delicacies paired with a glass of local wine, followed by free time to wander its lively streets at your leisure. 

Traditional Village of Oia and Wine Tasting

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Activity level: Moderate 

Your journey begins in the postcard-perfect village of Oia, perched high on Santorini’s cliffs and famous for its whitewashed buildings topped with iconic blue domes. Wander through narrow streets lined with charming boutiques, where you’ll find everything from stunning jewellery to ceramics and paintings, before enjoying free time to explore at your leisure. From there, travel through Santorini’s scenic countryside to one of its renowned wineries, where you’ll sample some of the island’s finest wines and experience the unique flavours that make them so special. 

Cunard is best-known for its timeless elegance, attentive service, and a sense of occasion that makes every journey feel special. For generations, the cruise line has combined tradition with modern comforts to create holidays that feel both luxurious and welcoming. On board, you’ll find world-class dining, inspiring entertainment, and plenty of space to relax. This No-Fly 2027 Canary Islands sailing aboard Queen Elizabeth is an excellent way to enjoy sunshine and sophistication, departing from Southampton and taking you to some of the Atlantic’s most captivating destinations. From the dramatic volcanic scenery of Lanzarote and the golden sands of Gran Canaria to the vibrant energy of Tenerife, this voyage offers a perfect mix of relaxation, discovery, and Cunard’s unmistakable style. 

Your journey begins as you sail from Southampton, with relaxing days at sea to enjoy the ship’s many comforts before reaching the sun-drenched Canary Islands. Explore the vibrant port of Santa Cruz in Tenerife, discover the golden beaches and lively atmosphere of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, and marvel at the striking volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote. On your return, enjoy a stop in the historic city of Lisbon, Portugal, before continuing back to Southampton. 

Life at sea aboard Queen Elizabeth is designed to be both enriching and relaxing, with an impressive array of experiences to suit every mood. 

Start with wellbeing at Mareel Wellness & Beauty, where soothing treatments, a fully equipped Fitness Centre, and a programme of fitness classes, wellness workshops, and seminars help you feel refreshed and energised. 

During the day, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities and enrichment classes. From mixology sessions and painting classes to photography lessons, there’s always something new to try. Guest speakers also bring fascinating insight on a range of topics, while the elegant two-deck library offers the perfect setting for quieter moments. 

Dining is a true highlight, with something to suit every occasion. The Britannia Restaurant offers elegant meals, while the Lido Restaurant and Wellness Café provide more casual options. For something extra special, the Steakhouse at The Verandah promises a fine dining experience. Traditional Afternoon Tea is another favourite, served with Cunard’s signature touch of sophistication. 

As evening falls, the ship’s many bars and lounges provide the perfect setting to unwind. Sip Champagne at Gin & Fizz, relax in the Garden Lounge, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Golden Lion Pub. Other refined choices include the Grills Lounge, Churchill’s Cigar Lounge, the Lido Bar, and the elegant Café Carinthia. 

Entertainment is never in short supply. Guests can enjoy West End-style productions in the theatre, live music in the Commodore Club, or a night of dancing in the Yacht Club. For those feeling lucky, there’s also the excitement of the Casino. 

There is so much included to make your voyage truly memorable. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurants, with snacks available around the clock in the buffet, plus 24-hour room service for added convenience. Entertainment is a true highlight, with comedy and drama performances, Shakespeare classics, spectacular musical productions, concerts, and recitals. Guests can also take part in dance classes, complete with gentleman hosts, or simply sit back and enjoy lavish theatre shows. You’ll also have access to swimming pools and whirlpool spas, along with Cunard’s famous White Star service in an array of elegant dining venues, bars, and lounges. With so much to enjoy every day on board, it promises something new. You can find out more about what’s included here. 

Cunard’s shore excursions are designed to complement the sense of occasion you’ll find on board, helping you make the most of every destination. Whether it’s uncovering centuries of history, experiencing local culture first-hand, or simply soaking up breathtaking scenery, each tour adds something special to your journey. With a wide choice of experiences and expert local guides, Cunard ensures that time ashore is every bit as memorable as life at sea.

Princess Cruises is renowned for combining modern luxury with enriching travel experiences, offering guests the perfect balance of comfort and discovery. On board Sky Princess, one of the line’s newest ships, you’ll enjoy elegant staterooms, a wide choice of dining, dazzling entertainment, and plenty of space to relax. This Mediterranean Adventurer voyage is an excellent way to experience the highlights of Southern Europe, sailing round-trip from Southampton. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating destinations, from the ancient wonders of Rome and art-filled streets of Florence to the sun-soaked charm of Spain and the French Riviera. With Princess Cruises’ signature service and thoughtfully designed itineraries, this journey promises an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and relaxation. 

Your exciting 14-night Mediterranean adventure begins in Southampton, with relaxing days at sea to settle in and enjoy all the Sky Princess has to offer. The first stop is in Spain, where you’ll visit vibrant Valencia, followed by Barcelona, famed for Gaudí’s masterpieces and lively boulevards. From there, explore Toulon, the gateway to Provence, and Livorno, the perfect starting point for discovering Florence and Pisa. Continue to Civitavecchia, where the wonders of Rome await, before sailing to Alghero in Sardinia. After more leisurely days at sea, you’ll return to Southampton, bringing your Mediterranean adventure to an end.

There’s never a dull moment aboard Sky Princess, where relaxation, entertainment, and endless choice come together to make every day at sea feel truly special. 

For activities and entertainment, the Princess Theater hosts dazzling productions, while the Vegas-style Casino offers plenty of thrills. Outdoors, the signature Movies Under the Stars lets you enjoy blockbuster films on a giant screen with the ocean as your backdrop. Families are well cared for with an incredible programme for kids and teens, ensuring younger guests are entertained while parents enjoy time to themselves.

Wellness and relaxation are easy to find, whether you’re unwinding in The Sanctuary, indulging in treatments at the Lotus Spa, or keeping active in the Lotus Spa Fitness Centre. The Enclave provides an exclusive retreat with thermal experiences, while swimming pools and hot tubs invite you to soak up the sunshine. 

Dining is always a highlight, with something to suit every taste. Enjoy elegant meals or grab casual bites at the International Café, World Fresh Marketplace, or The Salty Dog Grill. For something sweet, stop by Swirls Ice Cream Bar, and don’t miss the traditional Afternoon Tea. For something extra special, savour steakhouse favourites at Crown Grill, authentic Italian dishes at Sabatini’s Trattoria, seafood creations at The Catch by Rudi, or hand-tossed pizzas at Alfredo’s Pizzeria. For more unforgettable dining experiences, you can also book the Chef’s Table Lumiere or indulge in a casual feast at the Crab Shack. 

There’s plenty included to make your voyage truly memorable. Savour a variety of delicious dining options, from elegant meals to more casual choices throughout the day. Entertainment is always a highlight, with shows, music, activities, and the signature Movies Under the Stars, where you can watch films on a giant screen beneath the open sky. You’ll also have access to swimming pools and whirlpool spas, perfect for unwinding. With so much on offer, every day at sea brings something new to discover. Find out more about what’s included here. 

Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of shore excursions, each designed to help you uncover the highlights of every destination and make the most of your holiday. Here are just a couple of the experiences you might choose to enjoy on this unforgettable voyage. 

Gaudí’s Barcelona

• Duration: 5 Hours
• Activity level: Moderate

Explore the remarkable architecture of Antoni Gaudí, whose visionary designs have shaped the city of Barcelona. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll pass by some of his most striking works of modernism before visiting the city’s crown jewel, the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. Along the way, there should be time for photos and sightseeing, giving you the chance to capture the city’s vibrant atmosphere. 

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Activity level: Moderate

Step into history as you visit Pisa’s most famous landmark, the Leaning Tower, part of the UNESCO-listed Piazza dei Miracoli. Explore this extraordinary square with its remarkable architectural wonders, including the Duomo (Cathedral) and the Baptistery, each offering a glimpse into Italy’s artistic and cultural heritage. With plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and photos, it’s an excellent option for those who are visiting Tuscany for the first time. 

Celebrity Cruises is celebrated for redefining modern luxury at sea, pairing sleek ship design with exceptional service and imaginative experiences. Celebrity Apex, one of the innovative Edge® Series ships, sets the stage with stylish staterooms, outstanding dining, and entertainment that rivals the best on land. The Best of Scandinavia voyage offers an unforgettable way to discover Northern Europe, sailing round-trip from Southampton. Along the way, you’ll uncover cosmopolitan capitals, charming coastal towns, and historic ports, each with its own character, all while enjoying the comfort and contemporary elegance that makes Celebrity so distinctive. 

Departing from Southampton, your 12-night Best of Scandinavia journey aboard Celebrity Apex begins with peaceful days at sea, giving you time to relax and enjoy the ship before exploring some of Scandinavia’s most captivating destinations. Discover the design and culture of Helsinki, wander the colourful canals and historic streets of Copenhagen, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Stockholm. Step back in time amid the medieval charm of Tallinn, Estonia, and spend time in Visby, a UNESCO-listed gem with cobblestone streets and ancient ruins. After days filled with discovery, your voyage concludes in Southampton, marking the end of an unforgettable Scandinavian adventure. 

Life at sea aboard Celebrity Apex is every bit as exciting as the destinations you’ll discover. With cutting-edge design, stylish spaces, and thoughtful touches throughout, every day on board feels extraordinary. 

Foodies will rejoice at the incredible dining options available. One day you might choose to dine in one of the four distinctive main restaurants, Tuscan Cyprus, Cosmopolitan, or Normadie; the next you might prefer to visit one of the casual favourites, such as the Oceanview Café and Café al Bacio. For something extra special, speciality venues like Fine Cut Steakhouse, Eden Restaurant, Le Grand Bistro, and Raw on 5 serve everything from prime steaks and fresh seafood to imaginative, globally inspired dishes. 

Those who enjoy quieter moments will appreciate the ship’s boutique shopping, art exhibitions, and elegant library, along with fascinating talks from guest speakers. Families are well cared for too, with dedicated spaces and engaging programmes for children and teenagers. 

Relaxation comes naturally on the Resort Deck, with its pool, hot tubs, and cabanas, while the adults-only Solarium and indulgent Spa provide the ultimate retreat. Or, you might like to simply unwind on a sun lounger by the pool with a refreshing drink as you soak up the sunshine.  Guests looking to stay active can head to the modern Fitness Centre for classes or state-of-the-art equipment.

Evenings bring spectacular entertainment, the Broadway-style shows in the Theatre, live music and late-night energy at The Club. Outdoors, the Rooftop Garden offers live performances and movie screenings, while the innovative Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform suspended over the ocean, combines breathtaking views with a vibrant social atmosphere. If you’re feeling lucky, the Casino offers a touch of Vegas at sea. A wide choice of bars and lounges completes the experience. Sip handcrafted cocktails at the lively Maritini Bar, savour fine wines at Cellar Masters, or enjoy sweeping sea views from Eden Bar or the Sunset Bar. 

There is plenty included to ensure your Best of Scandinavia voyage is everything you dream of and more. Guests can enjoy world-class dishes and visit a fantastic variety of restaurants, with menus created under the guidance of Michelin-star chef Cornelius Gallagher, ensuring every meal is as memorable as the destinations themselves. Those staying in Aqua Class staterooms or suites benefit from exclusive private restaurant access, adding an extra touch of luxury. Families are also well looked after with Camp at Sea, a programme filled with engaging activities designed to keep children and teens entertained throughout the journey. With exceptional service, innovative cuisine, and thoughtful extras included, every moment on board feels truly special. 

Celebrity Cruises curates a wide selection of shore experiences designed to showcase the very best of each port. Whether you are drawn to cultural landmarks, scenic panoramas, or fascinating museums, there is something to suit every style of traveller. Here are just a few highlights that you might be able to enjoy on a Scandinavian adventure:

Copenhagen Harbor Tour

• Duration: 2 Hours
• Activity level: Mild

Your tour begins with a panoramic drive through Copenhagen, where you will pass landmarks such as The King’s New Square, the Royal Theatre, and the elegant Amalienborg Palace. After glimpsing the lively Tivoli Gardens and Town Hall Square, your coach drops you at Gammel Strand. Here, you will swap wheels for water as you step aboard a boat to cruise the canals of Christianshavn, gliding past colourful houses and historic buildings. A highlight is pausing at the famous Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen, before returning to the pier.

Panoramic Skagen

• Duration: 2.5 Hours
• Activity level: Mild

Enjoy a leisurely coach tour of Skagen in the company of an expert local guide. Along the way, you will discover the town’s distinctive light and landscape that have inspired artists for generations. Pass museums and striking architecture, admire the sweeping coastline, and stop to enjoy refreshments at a local hotel. The tour also takes in the remarkable Rabjerg Mile sand dunes, one of Denmark’s natural wonders.

Stockholm and Vasa Museum

• Duration: 3 Hours
• Activity level: Moderate

Take in the splendour of Sweden’s capital on a panoramic drive that introduces you to its highlights, including the Royal Palace and the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Continue to Djurgården Island for a visit to the world-famous Vasa Museum. Here, you will come face to face with the incredible 17th-century warship that sank on her maiden voyage, was rediscovered centuries later, and carefully restored. A true time capsule of maritime history, it is an unforgettable experience.