Travelling to Southampton is easy. Located on the outskirts is the city’s airport, Southampton International Airport. Or if you’re flying into London, Southampton’s train station is situated in the centre of the city, with regular links to and from Waterloo Station.
Perhaps you’ve got some time to spare before your cruise departs? There’s plenty to keep you occupied.
Things to do in Southampton
Southampton offers lots to see and do. As the largest city in Hampshire, it is steeped in history. Much of its past relates to Southampton port, where lots of the world’s largest cruise liners dock. One such liner was the Titanic, which departed from Southampton on her ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.
Moored in the port today is Europe’s largest functioning steamship, SS Shieldhall. She was built in 1954 and has been fully restored over many years to provide a working example of the machinery typical of ships that plied the world’s oceans between 1870 and 1960. Run by volunteers, SS Shieldhall hosts educational and sightseeing outings and regularly appears at Southampton Maritime Festival. You can also take part in tours aboard SS Shieldhall, a lovely way to pass the time before setting sail, we think.
Britain’s third longest unbroken stretch of city wall can be found in Southampton. The 14th-century medieval wall protects the city’s old town and was built following a French raid to overhaul defences. Follow the walls for an informative walk through Southampton’s fascinating history. If time is limited, we urge you to check out Bargate, the impressive north entrance to the medieval part of Southampton steeped in rich heritage and captivating character. Forgotten to pack something? Or just fancy treating yourself? Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton Central is filled with over 90 major high street stores and plenty of places to dine.
Destination highlights
Southampton Cruise Terminal acts as a gateway to so many exciting destinations and with a plethora of cruise deals available, you’re truly spoilt for choice.
A Norwegian Fjords cruise is unlike any other. Steeped in fascinating history, the land of the Midnight Sun provides breathtaking fjords, ornate houses and endless flora and fauna.
Equally as beautiful, the Canary Islands have more to offer than meets the eye. Year-round sunshine is much closer than you think, so why not soak up the sun and dive into the beautiful, diverse culture that each island boasts?
Some longer cruises offer itineraries that visit the Caribbean, where you can enjoy tropical beaches and vibrant cultures.
Opting for a cruise from Southampton is a stress-free experience with a cruise type to suit everyone. No-fly cruises are the perfect way to embark on the holiday of your dreams. Take the hassle out of travelling to faraway shores and unlock the world’s most beautiful destinations on a no-fly cruise from Southampton.
Or, sail the seven seas in ultra-luxury with a 6★ cruise. Luxury cruising offers superb service, fine dining and opulent surroundings. Wherever your wanderlust leads you, an ultra-luxury cruise ship will take you there in style.
Which cruise ships sail from Southampton?
Because of the size of its port, many cruise lines sail from Southampton. P&O Cruises and Cunard are firm favourites, offering traditional-style cruising on their fleets of elegant ships while Princess Cruises provide fun for all the family with their entertainment-packed vessels.
Multi-award-winning Celebrity Cruises wow with innovative onboard experiences and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines provides a more intimate way of cruising with their smaller ships. Which will you choose?
Start your next adventure by checking out our handpicked cruises from Southampton below:
