United Kingdom Cruises

Experience the Charms of the United Kingdom with Cruise1st

The United Kingdom is a captivating blend of history, culture, and picturesque landscapes, making it a top-notch destination for any avid traveller. From the majestic castles of Scotland to the bustling streets of London, the UK offers a treasure trove of sights and experiences. Fun fact: the UK is home to the oldest working clock—Big Ben, which first chimed in 1859! A cruise to the United Kingdom allows you to explore the heart of British culture while visiting iconic cities and scenic coastlines without the hassle of constant travel. It’s the perfect way to dive into centuries of history and indulge in the rich culinary scene.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting the United Kingdom

• Cunard: With a fleet of just 4 ships, Cunard stands out with 3 ships offering itineraries to the United Kingdom, notably the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne. Renowned for their elegant experiences and outstanding service, these ships feature grandiose ballrooms and world-class dining. Most cruises embark from UK ports like Southampton or international ones such as New York. For cruisers from Australia, there's convenient rallying from Sydney too!
• P&O Cruises: P&O boasts a fleet of 7, with 6 ships making journeys to the United Kingdom. The Aurora and Ventura are popular vessels, known for their onboard activities catered to families and couples alike, featuring exquisite dining options and entertainment. Departures commonly take place from Southampton or Bridgetown, providing an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the UK.
• Holland America Line: This line features a fleet of 11, with 4 ships offering itineraries to the United Kingdom. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are top choices, famed for their culinary delights and cultural voyages that let you savour the richness of British history. Domestic departures are possible from Sydney, while most international sailings start from Rotterdam or Dover.
• Princess Cruises: With 17 vessels, Princess offers 7 ships cruising to the United Kingdom alongside their distinguished sky Princess and Crown Princess. Expect exceptional onboard entertainment and specialty dining options. For those keen on Aussie departures, you can set sail from Sydney or Brisbane; international departures occur most frequently from Southampton or Fort Lauderdale.
• MSC Cruises: MSC operates 23 ships, 4 of which have itineraries that visit the United Kingdom. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Preziosa are particularly well-loved for their luxurious amenities and family-friendly activities, including family splash parks. Expect to depart from major international ports like Southampton or Hamburg for an unforgettable journey!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the United Kingdom

• Oceania Cruises: Comprising 8 ships, Oceania has 4 that venture into the United Kingdom. The Vista and Sirena stand out for their focus on culinary experiences paired with destination immersion, ensuring guests enjoy delectable menus and local flavours. Most sailings depart from Southampton or Barcelona, letting cruisers begin their journey in style.
• Azamara Cruises: With just 4 ships in its fleet, Azamara has 3 that cruise to the United Kingdom, particularly Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. Celebrated for their immersive land experiences and longer stay in ports, Azamara allows cruisers to truly connect with the local culture. Departures through ports like Dublin and Lisbon promise a rich tapestry of exploration before venturing to the UK.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of 6, Seabourn has 2 ships offering itineraries to the United Kingdom, specifically the Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Venture. Known for uncompromising luxury and personalised service, these small ships cater to discerning guests. Sailings typically start from London or Greenock, providing unique access to both urban and scenic allure.
• Silversea: This premium cruise line features 12 ships, 4 visiting the United Kingdom, including the Silver Dawn and Silver Wind. Silversea is synonymous with all-inclusive luxury that offers world-class service and gourmet dining experiences. Departures are most common from Southampton or Copenhagen, making it simple to access the scenic coasts of the UK.

Must-Visit Harbours in the United Kingdom

• Southampton: Often the focal point for UK cruising, Southampton offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. While docked, explore the fascinating SeaCity Museum, which highlights the city’s maritime history, or take a stroll down the picturesque waterfront. The city is also a gateway to nearby attractions like the historic city of Winchester, home to the impressive Winchester Cathedral.
• Dover: Famous for the iconic white chalk cliffs, Dover is rich in history. Cruise passengers can visit the impressive Dover Castle, which overlooks the English Channel, or take a leisurely walk along the seaside promenade. Don’t forget to stop by the Dover Museum to learn about the town's history and its strategic importance!
• Belfast, Northern Ireland: This vibrant city boasts a mix of history and modern charm. Visitors can explore the Titanic Belfast museum, dedicated to the famous ship’s story, or take a Black Cab tour to learn about the city’s complex past. The lively Cathedral Quarter is perfect for tasting local cuisine and enjoying a pint of Guinness.
• Greenock: Nestled along the River Clyde, Greenock serves as a gateway to the scenic wonders of the Scottish Highlands. While visiting, consider taking a tour to the nearby Loch Lomond or the stunning scenery of Glencoe. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or lose yourself in the local shops and cafés.
• Lerwick, Shetland Islands: As the capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is a charming and quaint port. Here, visitors can explore the Shetland Museum and Archives for an in-depth view of the islands’ Norse past, or take a scenic walk along the coastline to admire the stunning vistas. Birdwatching and wildlife tours are also a treat for nature lovers!

Best Times to Cruise to the United Kingdom

Depending on the season, visiting the United Kingdom can yield unique experiences. From March to May, temperatures range from 5-15°C, presenting a lovely springtime atmosphere among blooming flowers and cultural festivities. The summer months (June to August) welcome the warmest weather, ranging from 15-25°C, with plenty of outdoor events and opportunities to explore historic sites. Autumn (September to November) offers a cool 5-15°C, where the fall colours create stunning backdrops across the countryside, perfect for harvest festivals and scenic hikes!

Cost Overview for Cruises to the United Kingdom

A one-week cruise to the United Kingdom typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,800 AUD, while two-week cruises can vary from $2,800 to $5,500 AUD. For those wanting a luxurious experience, expect costs to start around $5,000 AUD for a week and upwards of $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining aboard most cruises is included, but if you venture ashore, typical meal prices range from $20-50 AUD, while cocktails in pubs can be around $10-15 AUD. Enjoying traditional UK fare, like fish and chips, is definitely a must!

Alternative Regions to Explore

If a cruise to the United Kingdom piques your interest, consider exploring these intriguing alternatives:

• British Isles: A collection of islands filled with rich history, stunning coastlines, and abundant wildlife. It’s perfect for those looking to delve deeper into the history and culture of this captivating region.
• Scandinavia: Known for its stunning fjords and vibrant cities like Oslo and Stockholm, this region offers breathtaking natural vistas and rich cultural experiences that are sure to fascinate any traveller.
• Iceland: Famous for its dramatic landscapes, geysers, and hot springs, Iceland is perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure and striking photography opportunities. The rugged beauty is truly one-of-a-kind!
• Western Mediterranean: This region combines stunning coastal towns and vibrant cultures, where tourists can indulge in historic sights, crystal-clear waters, and delicious foods from countries like Spain and Italy.
• North Sea: With its blend of beautiful coastlines and rich history, cruising here opens the door to charming port towns and the stunning landscapes of Northern Europe.

Ready to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the United Kingdom? Let Cruise1st help you plan your unforgettable cruise! From iconic landmarks to charming villages, an adventure awaits on the high seas!