England Cruises

Explore the Rich Tapestry of England with Cruise1st

With its remarkable blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, England is a fantastic destination for cruisers! From the iconic Big Ben in London to the charming streets of Bath, every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered. Did you know that England is home to more than 1,500 castles? Imagine sipping tea in the shadow of these historical landmarks or stroll through some of the world’s most beautiful gardens. Cruising to England offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal choice for your next holiday.

Major Cruise Lines Offering England Itineraries

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard operates 3 that sail to England, including the renowned Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne. These ships are famed for their luxurious ambience, formal dining experiences, and world-class entertainment, setting a high standard for cruising. Most Cunard sailings to England depart from Southampton or New York, creating an excellent gateway for Australian cruisers planning their adventure to the English shores.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 6 dedicated to navigating to England, with Aurora and Ventura leading the charge. Known for their welcoming atmosphere, these ships provide a fantastic mix of holiday fun and relaxation. Cruises typically set sail from Southampton or Bridgetown, making it accessible for international travellers wanting to explore England’s captivating sights.
• Princess Cruises: Among the 17 ships in their fleet, Princess has 7 that visit England, including the Sky Princess and Crown Princess. Both ships excel in offering unique cultural experiences and diverse dining options. Departures from England usually occur from Southampton or Fort Lauderdale, making it easy for cruisers to step into the charm of England from various ports around the globe.
• Holland America Line: This line features a fleet of 11 with 3 ships sailing to England, such as the Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. Known for their exceptional service and enrichment programmes, Holland America ensures guests enjoy every moment of their cruise. Cruises generally depart from Sydney for domestic passengers or international ports like Rotterdam and Dover for international guests looking to experience England’s rich heritage.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: With a fleet of 2, Ambassador operates both ships—Ambition and Ambience—to England. These are perfect for those looking for a more intimate cruising experience while exploring the famous coastlines and natural beauty. Departures are most common from Tilbury (London) and Liverpool, setting the stage for an authentic British getaway!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to England

• Oceania Cruises: From its fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 4 that offer itineraries to England, with the Vista and Sirena leading the way. These luxury ships are acclaimed for their culinary offerings, featuring top chefs and dining experiences. Most departures to England occur from Southampton or Barcelona, allowing cruisers to indulge in the delights of the Mediterranean before diving into the charm of England.
• Seabourn: This luxury line features 6 ships, with 2 making their way to England, including the Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Venture. Renowned for luxurious service and small-ship intimacy, these cruises create an unparalleled sailing experience. Most often, the departures occur from London or Greenock, providing guests with options for a splendid start to their English adventure.
• Silversea: With a total of 12 ships, Silversea has 4 sailing to England, with Silver Dawn and Silver Shadow leading the fleet. Their focus on personalised service ensures that every guest feels like royalty on board. Departures typically happen from Southampton or New York, making the journey to England as fantastic as the destinations themselves.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 3 ships that frequently visit England, including Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Known for immersive experiences and longer port stays, these cruises provide ample time to explore all things English. Departures commonly occur from Southampton or Lisbon, making England accessible to various cruisers from around the globe.

Top English Harbours to Visit

• Southampton: As one of the largest ports in England, Southampton is not only a departure point but also a vibrant city worth exploring. Cruise visitors can tour the historic Tudor House Museum, stroll through the expansive parks, or visit the SeaCity Museum, which focuses on the city's maritime heritage.
• Dover: Famous for its iconic White Cliffs, Dover offers a mix of history and spectacular scenery. Cruise passengers can enjoy visits to Dover Castle, explore the Secret Wartime Tunnels, or take a scenic walk along the cliffs to marvel at the breathtaking views of the English Channel.
• Liverpool: Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool boasts a thriving cultural scene. Visitors can tour the Beatles Story museum, visit the Tate Liverpool art gallery, or simply enjoy a walk along Albert Dock, lined with shops and restaurants that celebrate the city's rich maritime history.
• Tilbury (London): This historic port is located close to London, providing easy access to the capital’s attractions. Passengers can take a quick trip to see iconic sites such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the bustling markets of Camden. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the famous Big Ben!
• Portland: Nestled on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, near Weymouth, Portland is perfect for outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the scenic coastline or take in the views from the Portland Bill Lighthouse. This area is also great for sailing, diving, and bird-watching, offering something for everyone.

When to Cruise to England

England is a delightful destination throughout the year, but each season brings its own unique charm. From January to March, temperatures are relatively cool, usually between 5-10°C, making it a quieter time to explore the historical attractions without large crowds. April to June features warmer weather ranging from 10-20°C, ideal for sightseeing, garden visits, and outdoor activities. From July to September, you can expect summer temperatures between 15-25°C, perfect for enjoying coastal locations and vibrant festivals. Finally, autumn (October to December) brings picturesque fall colours with temperatures around 5-15°C, along with the opportunity to explore charming Christmas markets and seasonal events.

Cost Overview for Cruises to England

A week-long cruise to England usually costs between $1,800 and $2,600 AUD, while a two-week journey might range from $3,600 to $4,800 AUD. For luxury cruisers, expect costs starting around $5,000 AUD for a week-long cruise and potentially reaching $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining options abound, and while meals are typically included on many ships, local dining can run from $20-50 AUD per meal, with drinks in pubs or restaurants averaging around $10-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to England, check out these alternative regions that might pique your interest:

• Celtic Coast: This beautiful area is known for its dramatic cliffs, rich maritime history, and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for those who want to explore rugged coastlines and charming coastal towns.
• British Isles: Extended cruises around the British Isles offer a chance to explore historical sites, charming villages, and majestic scenery from England to Scotland and Ireland—perfect for travellers fascinated by diverse cultures and geography.
• Scandinavia: Renowned for its stunning fjords, vibrant cities, and rich heritage, a cruise to Scandinavia allows you to explore majestic landscapes and intriguing cultures.
• Western Mediterranean: For those seeking sun, culture, and adventure, the Western Mediterranean showcases destinations like Spain and France, boasting beautiful coastlines and lively towns.
• Adriatic Sea: With breath-taking views and historic towns like Dubrovnik and Venice, cruising the Adriatic Sea presents an exquisite blend of culture, history, and stunning scenery.

Ready to embark on your English adventure? Cruise1st is here to help you navigate the best itineraries and make lasting memories on your journey to England’s enchanting shores!