When most people think about a European cruise, they immediately picture the Mediterranean, with embarkation ports like Rome or Barcelona. While these are wonderful options, they're only part of the story. One of Europe's best-kept cruise secrets is the United Kingdom.
From the UK, you can sail in almost every direction. Whether you're dreaming of exploring the British Isles, cruising through Norway's breathtaking fjords, discovering Iceland, visiting the Baltic capitals, travelling to France and Spain, or even sailing into the Mediterranean, the UK offers an incredible variety of itineraries.
Better yet, getting there has never been easier.
A Comfortable Start to Your Vacation
For Atlantic Canadians, direct daytime flights from Halifax to London Heathrow have made travelling to the UK much more enjoyable.
Instead of boarding an overnight flight, trying to sleep sitting upright, and arriving exhausted first thing in the morning, you can fly during the day, arrive in London in the evening, enjoy dinner, settle into a nearby hotel, and wake up refreshed and ready to begin your adventure.
Travellers departing from Toronto and Vancouver also enjoy direct flights to London. While the journey is longer, the additional flying time often provides a better opportunity to rest before arriving.
It's a much more relaxing way to begin a European vacation.
Why Not Turn Your Cruise Into a European Vacation?
One of the greatest advantages of sailing from the UK is that London is right on your doorstep.
Instead of flying in and boarding your ship the next day, consider arriving a few days early—or extending your holiday after your cruise.
Even one day allows you to experience some of London's most iconic landmarks:
- Big Ben
- Buckingham Palace
- Tower of London
- Westminster Abbey
- The London Eye
Tower Bridge, London, England / photo by Gin & Tonic travel
Have another day?
Stroll through Covent Garden, explore one of London's world-class museums, visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum, or enjoy the modern waterfront atmosphere of Canary Wharf.
History lovers may wish to take a day trip to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, or the beautiful Roman city of Bath.
If you have a little more time, hop aboard a train to Cardiff, Wales, where magnificent castles, dramatic coastlines, and Welsh culture await.
After all...
Why rush home when Europe has so much more to offer?
Cruises in Every Direction
One of the reasons UK cruise ports continue to grow in popularity is the remarkable variety of itineraries available.
Depending on the cruise you choose, you could sail:
⚓ South to France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and the Mediterranean.
⚓ North around Scotland, Ireland, and the beautiful British Isles.
⚓ Farther north to Norway's spectacular fjords, Iceland's volcanic landscapes, or even the Arctic on longer voyages.
No matter what type of vacation you're dreaming about, chances are there's a cruise itinerary that's perfect for you.
The UK's Three Most Popular Cruise Ports
The UK has several cruise ports, but these are the three we most often recommend because they offer excellent cruise options and are easy to reach from London.
Southampton
Southampton is the UK's largest and busiest cruise port, offering an incredible range of itineraries throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, the Canary Islands, transatlantic crossings, and even world cruises.
Getting There
- Train: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from London Waterloo to Southampton Central, followed by a short taxi ride to the cruise terminal.
- Private Transfer: Approximately 2 hours from central London or Heathrow Airport.
- Rental Car: A great option if you'd like to explore southern England before your cruise.
Our Favourite Cruise Lines from Southapton
We've sailed many cruise lines over the years, and these are the ones we most often recommend because we've experienced them ourselves and have confidence in the vacation they provide.
- Celebrity Cruises – Modern luxury with exceptional dining, service, and itineraries.
- Royal Caribbean International – Ideal for families and active travellers seeking plenty of entertainment.
- Cunard – Timeless elegance and the iconic transatlantic experience aboard Queen Mary 2.
- Disney Cruise Line – Disney magic combined with outstanding service for guests of all ages.
- Oceania Cruises – Small-ship luxury renowned for exceptional cuisine, immersive itineraries, and destination-focused experiences.
- Princess Cruises – Relaxed, destination-focused cruising with excellent value and enrichment.
Cruising from Southampton On Celebrity APEX. Photo by Gin & Tonic Travel
Dover
Located beneath England's famous White Cliffs, Dover is an excellent departure port for Northern Europe, the British Isles, and select Mediterranean itineraries.
If time allows, visit the spectacular White Cliffs or explore historic Dover Castle before boarding your ship.
Getting There
- Train: Approximately 1 hour from London St Pancras to Dover Priory, followed by a short taxi ride to the cruise terminal.
- Private Transfer: Approximately 2 hours from central London or Heathrow Airport.
- Rental Car: Ideal if you'd like to include Kent—the "Garden of England"—in your vacation.
Our Favourite Cruise Lines from Dover
- Holland America Line – Classic cruising with destination-rich itineraries and exceptional service.
- Seabourn – Intimate ultra-luxury voyages with personalized service and an all-inclusive experience.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth combines rich maritime history with a vibrant waterfront atmosphere.
Home to the Historic Dockyard, HMS Victory, and the Mary Rose Museum, it's a wonderful place to spend a day or two before setting sail.
Getting There
- Train: Approximately 1½ to 2 hours from London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour or Portsmouth & Southsea stations.
- Private Transfer: Approximately 2 hours from central London or Heathrow Airport.
- Rental Car: Perfect if you'd like to explore Hampshire or England's beautiful south coast before boarding.
Our Favourite Cruise Line from Portsmouth
- Virgin Voyages – Adults-only cruising with a fresh, modern approach, exceptional dining, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Our Final Thought
The itinerary may be what inspires you to book your cruise, but how you begin your vacation can shape the entire experience.
Instead of rushing from the airport to the ship, why not spend a few days discovering one of the world's great cities before you sail? London—and the surrounding areas—offer the perfect opportunity to ease into your vacation before setting off to explore Europe.
Whether your dream is the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, the Mediterranean, or the British Isles, a UK departure combines an incredible cruise with an unforgettable land vacation.
At Gin & Tonic Travel, we've experienced many of these cruise lines ourselves and would love to help you find the itinerary that's perfect for you.
