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Cruises from Southampton

Open your door to europe’s wonders on a cruise from southampton.

Best Cruise Itineraries

Recommend Magazine, 14-time winner; Cruise Critic

From the Blue Lagoon in Iceland to the black-sand beaches in Greece, discover the world’s wonders on a cruise from Southampton. With various destinations, durations and dates, find the voyage that fits your schedule. Taste the flavors of the Mediterranean, tour palaces in Russia and float down dazzling fjords in Norway. Or walk in the footsteps of royalty as you visit the British Isles. The choice is yours with Princess®.

Find the Best Cruises from Southampton

British Isles Cruises

Watch history books come to life on a cruise from Southampton to the British Isles. Tour Edinburgh Castle, sip on famous stouts in Dublin and hunt for legendary sea monsters in Invergordon. Indulge in homemade scones and jam on a visit to a local cottage. Or relive the glory days of the world’s most beloved boy band on a trip to Liverpool. Discover lands full of mysteries and mythologies, only with Princess.

Mediterranean Cruises

Laced in history and romance, the Mediterranean is a traveller’s playground. On a cruise from Southampton, find your passion amidst the canals of Italy or on the sun-drenched shores of Greece. See lands sculpted by volcanoes on the Canary Islands. Or walk in the footsteps of gladiators past at the Colosseum, and explore the archeological ruins of Pompeii — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Scandinavia & Baltic Cruises

Hear about tales and tsars from centuries past on a cruise from Southampton to Scandinavia and the Baltic. Get up close to historical treasures like Viking ships in Oslo and Kronborg Castle in Copenhagen.

Norway & Iceland Cruises

Experience tranquility and natural beauty on a cruise from Southampton to Norway and Iceland. During an overnight stay in Alta, search for the Aurora Borealis while sipping on hot chocolate. Come face-to-face with Europe’s largest glacier as you sail down the iconic Norwegian Fjords. Or take a dip in Reykjavik’s Blue Lagoon and rediscover your sense of wonder. See for yourself why it’s called the land of fire and ice.

Transatlantic Cruises

Relive the golden age of ocean travel on a Transatlantic cruise from Southampton. Unwind at sea and jump into adventure at each destination. Choose from voyages that take you through the British Isles to the Land of Fire and Ice — Iceland. Or visit ports in Spain and France as you make your way to North America on a cruise from London by way of Southampton. Indulge in the best of land and sea with a Transatlantic cruise from Princess.

Canada & New England Cruises

Travel through time as you sail to Canada and New England on a cruise from Southampton. Walk in the footsteps of Paul Revere, hike through Acadia National Park and indulge in crab cakes and fresh-caught lobster along the way. Bask in the coastal beauty of Prince Edward Island, and spend two days exploring the French influences of Quebec City on a 24-day voyage to the Northern seaboard and back.

What to Know About Cruises from Southampton

Discover the city’s history, wander through its countryside and revel in its unique coastal charm on a cruise from Southampton.

Southampton at a glance

• Language:  English
• Currency:  Pound Sterling (GBP)
• Time Zone:  Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Docking:  Your cruise from Southampton docks at the Port of Southampton, approximately 1.5-2 hours from London.
• Attire:  We suggest dressing in layers as temperatures fluctuate throughout the year and even throughout the day. This includes a light shirt, sweater and jacket.
• Transportation:  While taxis are available around the city, you can also get around by bus or train.

Things to do in Southampton

Admire the Neoclassical architecture of this charming port city as you stroll past historic gems like the Tudor House or Saint Michael’s Church. Shop at the ultra-modern Westquay, home to an assortment of shops and restaurants. Or drive to the countryside and learn about the mystery of Stonehenge before boarding your cruise from Southampton.

Ships that cruise from Southampton

Our Princess fleet includes some of the best MedallionClass®-enabled cruises from Southampton. Find the comforts of home along with the luxuries you deserve on board all of our ships. Discover what makes our fleet so unique.

Star Princess®

Sun Princess®

Sky Princess®

Majestic Princess®

Caribbean Princess®

Emerald Princess®

Island Princess®

Regal Princess®

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

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EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Cruises from Southampton in 2024, 2025, 2026

Cruises from southampton allow you to experience some of the best cruising experiences that you can possibly have as this port is home to many of the world's leading cruise lines in the uk and departures year around take you to any number of destinations. your cruise from southampton, uk could take you to destinations such as the caribbean, the mediterranean, around the uk, to northern europe or even a full cruise around the world., the best cruise deals from southampton.

Cruises from Southampton are a great way to explore the world without having to use any airport. A great way to start your holiday in a relaxed fashion you can travel to Southampton the day before your cruise and stay overnight in the large number of hotels and then embark your ship at your leisure the day that you sail. What better way to start your holiday than with a leisurely embarkation and to your favourite spot on your ship.

A cruise from Southampton around the UK allows you to explore close to home or perhaps take a mini cruise for a short break. Staycation cruises from Southampton have grown in popularity and give a great chance to explore the coastlines on our doorstep. Slightly further away, you may wish to cruise from Southampton to the Baltic or the Fjords where you can see some amazing wildlife, scenery and cities. Cruises from Southampton to these destinations tend to be between 7-14 days.

Cruises from Southampton to The Mediterranean sail all year-round and range anywhere from 10 days to over three weeks in the winter months and are available on a range of cruise lines and ships and catering for all customers. Make sure you visit Gibraltar, Barcelona and the Italian coasts for a great contrast in destinations. Or sail a bit further to the Adriatic and Greek Islands to see some beautiful coastlines.

Further still you can cruise from Southampton to the Caribbean or even that ultimate voyage, an around the world cruise from Southampton . All this and more are easily accessible from Southampton.

A Christmas cruise from Southampton is also a great idea. With a number of cruise lines and destinations to choose from there's sure to be something for you.

Cheap cruises from Southampton are often available and sold close to departure date.

Explore car parking, hotels and directions with our guide to Southampton Cruise Terminal .

Read more with our Cruise Destination Guides

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Cruises from Southampton

Southamptom, england port information.

A cruise out of Southampton unlocks all kinds of incredible destinations, from French and Spanish wine country to Norway’s majestic fjords. But this charming port is also a great destination in and of itself. Spend some time getting to know it before your holiday – you won’t be disappointed. If you have a soft spot for mediaeval history, you’ll find plenty of interesting sites here. Like Bargate, a gatehouse that dates back over a thousand years to Norman times. Or visit St Michael's church on Castle Way – built in the 11th century, it’s home to ancient Norman artefacts and relics. Then, fast forward a few centuries at the Tudor house in St Michael’s Square, which served as the home of a wealthy merchant family in the 15th century. Today it’s a museum that showcases exhibits featuring nearly a thousand years of local history.

National Language: 

Currency Accepted

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Port Address: 

Southampton SO15 1HJ, UK

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Southampton Cruise Deals

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THE BEST CRUISE SHIPS

Get ready to max out on memories from Southampton. Chase adventure on a 7-night ocean getaway cruising on Anthem of the Seas in summer 2024. Looking for some shorter cruises? In summer 2025, Independence of the Seas will feature short cruises as well as our traditional 7-night itineraries.

ANTHEM OF THE SEAS

Independence OF THE SEAS

Destinations, the majestic norwegian fjords.

Embark on a breathtaking fjord cruise through Norway, discovering its towering ice-capped cliffs, crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls. Wander awe-inspiring channels and inlets, explore picturesque villages and hike to memory-maxing vistas in the Land of the Midnight Sun.

EXPLORE NORWAY

THE BEST OF THE CANARY ISLANDS

Cast away to the Canary Islands, Spanish gems beloved for their year-round sunshine, striking landscapes and rich multi-cultural influences. With each island offering its own form of natural beauty – from the moonscapes of Lanzarote and the ancient laurel forests of La Gomera to Gran Canaria’s spectacular beaches – there is something stunning for every outdoor enthusiast.

EXPLORE THE CANARY ISLANDS

Mediaeval to Modern Northern Europe

From the Art Deco taverns of Brussels and the mediaeval streets of Bruge to the iconic buildings of Rotterdam, witness architectural wonder on your cruise from the UK.

EXPLORE EUROPE

What royal caribbean ships sail from Southampton?

In 2024 Anthem of the Seas will be sailing from Southampton, England in the summer season. In 2025, Independence of the Seas will be sailing from Southampton sailing to new destinations as well as additional short cruises.

What is included in a royal caribbean cruise from Southampton?

Delicious dining options for every meal, and snack, of the day with plenty of variety for everyone. Entertainment like nothing you've ever seen on stage, ice, water and in the air. Our award-winning Adventure Ocean℠ kids' program and Teen Programs. Plus record-breaking and heart-racing slides, rides and activities you'll only find on Royal Caribbean.

When is the best time to book a cruise from Southampton?

When it comes to when to book, you may be wondering: does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to procrastinating? Planning ahead is a great way to nab big savings, as Royal Caribbean® often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. Also, the closer you get to your preferred sail date, availability goes down, usually driving prices up. The net-net: booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great cruise deal, while waiting entails some risk. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in isn’t sold out yet!

Where is the port of Southampton?

Pier Terminal

101 Berth, City Cruise Terminal

Southampton S015 1HJ

On selected 2024 sailings only: 26 May, 28 June, 12 July, 19 July, 2 August, 11 August, 2 October, 14 October

Horizon Cruise Terminal

Berth 102, W Bay Road

Southampton, SO15 1AW.

Royal Caribbean Directions to Southampton, England Cruise Terminal:

From London Heathrow Airport

Take A3113 from the airport to M25 (M25 is the London Orbital Freeway).

Follow signs for M3 at junction 12 - join M3.

Head south following signs for Southampton and Southampton Docks.

On leaving the M3, take the M27 following signs Southampton Docks.

At junction 3 – join M271 and continue to follow signs for Southampton Docks.

The ship name and terminal will be displayed on road signs along the perimeter road.

From London Gatwick Airport:

Take A23 from airport to junction 9a.

Join the M23 driving to junction 7.

Join the M25 following signs for M3.

Join at junction 12.

Join M3 and head south following signs for Southampton and Southampton Docks.

On leaving the M3 take the M27 following signs for Southampton Docks.

At junction 3 – join M271 and continue to follow signs for Southampton Docks. Dock Gate 10 is the entrance to the terminal area.

Rail Transportation

From London Waterloo Station:

Direct Train Service is available on Southwestern Railway from London Waterloo to Southampton Central Station.

Approximate journey time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

Timetable information can be obtained online www.rail.co.uk .

Round trip fare from London Waterloo station is approximately £35.

The terminal is approximately 15 minutes by taxi from the Southampton train station.

Approximate cost for taxi journey is £8.

Parking Information

Parking at the Port of Southampton can be arranged in advance only by calling locally at +44 870-085-6030. There is very limited space available for cars not holding an advance reservation. For directions to the “Long Stay” parking facility, follow the above directions, however enter the Southampton Docks through Dock Gate 8.

* All rates and prices are subject to change.

** Royal Caribbean is not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles.

What destinations do you visit in a cruise from Southampton?

There are many different destinations you can sail to from the port of Southampton. Our top destinations include: the Norwegian Fjords filled with its towering ice-capped cliffs, crystal-clear waters amd cascading waterfalls; the Canary Islands , Spanish gems beloved for their year-round sunshine, stricking landscapes and rich multi-cultural influences; and Northern Europe where you can witness architectural wonders.

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Best cruises from Southampton, England

Southampton is the largest city and a major port in the county of Hampshire, England.

The trend of luxury cruises that start from Southampton began in the middle of the 19th century.

Many renowned cruise ships can be seen here.

The cruises which depart from Southampton head to a variety of destinations, which keeps changing every month.

Best cruises from Southampton

We present below our favourite ten cruises that sail out from Southampton.

1. Crystal Serenity

Cruise Line: Crystal Cruises

Crystal Serenity was first launched in 2003 and then refurbished ten years later – in 2013.

The multimillion-dollar renovation made it one of the best cruises setting sail from Southampton.

This cruise now has modern and luxurious accommodation under the Crystal Penthouses category.

All staterooms on this Crystal Cruises ship have an attached balcony.

Too much sun? Why don’t you relax in your cabin, with flat-screen TVs and mini fridges? Or have a long, comfortable soak in the bathtub.

The Penthouse comes with Jacuzzis and personal butlers, making it one of the top cruise experiences.

Spend a lazy afternoon in the herb garden on the lido deck, basking in the beauty of fresh lavender and olives.

For the more active, there are language classes, wine, and food tasting sessions.

With a guest capacity of 1,070 and 655 crew members, the Crystal Serenity offers impeccable service.

There are twelve restaurants.

Your cruise itinerary can also include a visit to the ship’s Feng Shui spa, the casino and their five bars and lounges.

Size of Ship: Medium Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.4 Health Rating: 4.5 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Friends

2. Seven Seas Explorer

Cruise Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The most impressive feature of Seven Seas Explorer Cruise ship is its crew-to-guest ratio.

Accommodating up to 748 passengers, it has almost as many crew members, making it one of the top cruises when it comes to hospitality.

When you are not experiencing the delectable cuisine at one of the seven on-board restaurants, you can lounge in the private luxury of your suites.

Make use of marble bathrooms, sprawling verandas, and walk-in closets.

Venture out and sample cooking lessons, relax by the pool or retreat to the library.

Night-time entertainment includes casino games, theatre shows at the Constellation Theatre and cocktail lounges.

Sail all over Europe in one of the all inclusive cruises of the Seven Seas Explorer.

Size of Ship: N/A Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.4 Health Rating: 3.5 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Friends

3. Celebrity Silhouette

Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises

From sunny Caribbean Islands to snowy fjords of Norway, the Celebrity Silhouette has a diverse cruise itinerary.

With a passenger capacity of 2,886, this is the second largest cruise ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet.

There is one crew member assigned to roughly three guests, so don’t worry about lack of service on this affordable cruise.

Instead, indulge in various activities from seminars to comedy shows.

Get your children engrossed in an Xbox game and use that time to relax at the frozen cocktail bar or the wine bar.

The Silhouette is one of the top cruises thanks to the sprawling rooftop Lawn Club.

It features an art studio, dining venues and The Alcoves, which are private cabanas that can be added to your cruise deals on additional payment.

Size of Ship: Large Price of Tickets: Moderate Overall Rating: 4.25 Health Rating: 5.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Groups, Families with Children

4. Oceania Marina

Cruise Line: Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises’ Marina is one of the top cruises that depart from Southampton. 800 crew members cater to 1,250 passengers, ensuring personalized service.

Ports of call of these cruises starting from this English port include destinations in Europe, South America, and the Caribbean.

Enjoy a packed cruise itinerary that includes the Canyon Ranch spa, a library, casino, nightly shows, cooking demos and seven restaurants.

Don’t miss sampling the Asian fare at Red Ginger, a highly recommended dining venue.

Depending on the cruise package you opt for rooms can include balconies, complimentary champagne, and in-room iPads.

Size of Ship: Medium Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.25 Health Rating: 5.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles

5. Seven Seas Navigator

One of the best cruises leaving from Southampton, the main attraction of the Seven Seas Navigator is its intimate setting.

The ship accommodates 496 passengers, ensuring that your cruise itinerary is spent amidst a calm environment.

Though it was launched in 1999, the ship was renovated in 2016 and now offers the best of modern luxury.

Marble bathrooms and private balconies are just a couple of the perks this top cruise has to offer.

Explore the pool deck, the specialty steakhouse, the casino or the onboard lounges.

Ports of call include exotic destinations in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Size of Ship: Small Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.25 Health Rating: 4.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles

6. Azamara Journey

Cruise Line: Azamara Club Cruises

690 passengers and 408 crew members ensure exceptional service, making Azamara Journey one of the best cruises leaving  Southampton.

During your cruise holiday on this ship, you will enjoy all amenities which are included all inclusive cruises common in large ships.

There are seminars by experts, wine tasting sessions and many dining and entertainment options.

Rooms that have been recently revamped have mini-bars and flat-screen TVs. There is free internet and complimentary dining.

If your cruise itinerary includes more than seven nights’ stay, you can opt for cruise deals like an innovative cultural immersion program.

Onboard entertainment includes casino games and live shows, a spa, and a fitness center.

Size of Ship: Small Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.20 Health Rating: 3.5 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Families with children, large groups

Recommended Reading 1. Best cruise ships for family vacations 2. How to have a cheap cruise holiday

7. Royal Princess

Cruise Line: Princess Cruises

A top-deck pool. The SeaWalk, or a walkway made with glass panels that stretches many feet beyond the ship’s edge.

These are two unique features that justify the inclusion of the Royal Princess among the best cruises that start from Southampton.

This Princess Cruises ship boasts of a 3,560 passenger capacity, making it a vibrant cruise.

It has been recently renovated and has interior cabins as well as bigger suites with private balconies.

There is something in the cruise itinerary for the young and old both.

There is a driving range, various youth clubs, duty-free shops, educational programs, casinos, and bars.

Ports of call include Canada, South America, Europe and the Caribbean.

Size of Ship: Large Price of Tickets: Moderate Overall Rating: 4.20 Health Rating: 5.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Large Groups, Families with children

8. Oceania Nautica

Oceania Cruises’ Nautica underwent a multimillion-dollar facelift and is now among the best cruises that depart from Southampton.

Your cruise deals will include the coffee bar, the putting green, and the Terrace Cafe. Onboard activities are planned usually with adults in mind.

These include tea and wine tasting sessions in the day and craft cocktails and music performances once the sun sets.

400 crew members cater to 684 passengers, maintaining consistent service. There are five restaurants that will keep your cruise vacation exciting all through.

When it comes to accommodation, you can choose from smaller interior and ocean view rooms, or splurge on Suites and Veranda rooms.

Most of the staterooms are accented in teak.

Size of Ship: Small Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.20 Health Rating: 4.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles

9. Queen Victoria

Cruise Line: Cunard Line

The Cunard Line specializes in personalized service and impeccable service for adults. Queen Victoria is a prime example of the motto of the Cunard Line.

No doubt it is ranked among the top cruises that start from Southampton. It is also one of the more affordable cruises leaving from Southampton.

The Victoria can accommodate around 2,000 passengers, in luxurious rooms as well as smaller cabins built with solo travelers in mind.

Do add sampling the delicious and varied cuisine available onboard to your cruise itinerary.

From casual food at the Golden Lion to authentic French cuisine at the Veranda Restaurant, you will be spoiled for choice.

The Veranda though is exclusive of most cruises packages and requires additional payment.

Size of Ship: Medium Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.15 Health Rating: 4.0 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles, Groups

10. Oceania Riviera

Among cruises leaving from Southampton, you can choose the Oceania Riviera for the sheer variety it offers in accommodation.

Cabins start from 420 square feet and go up to a mind-boggling 2,000 square feet. All cabins have bathtubs, mini-bars, and TVs.

If your cruise deals include staying in the suites, expect a 24-hour butler service along with the above-mentioned amenities.

There are seven restaurants to choose from, offering French, Asian and other cuisines. There are also lounge bars, painting sessions, and cooking classes.

Shorter cruise packages include the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

But if your cruise itinerary is more than 20 days, you can expect exotic ports of call in Transoceanic and Grand Voyages.

Size of Ship: Medium Price of Tickets: High Overall Rating: 4.15 Health Rating: 4.5 Best cruise from Southampton for: Couples, Singles

Other top cruises that depart from Southampton are the Jewel of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International), the Queen Mary 2 (Cunard Line), the Navigator of the Seas (Royal Caribbean Line) and many others.

If you are looking for affordable cruises, the Navigator is your best option.

Depending on your budget, you can book 3-day cruises or 2-day cruises that start from Southampton.

Hurry up and get yourself a cruises package. There are plenty to choose from!

Sources # Best-cruise.co.uk # Princess.com # Tripadvisor.com # Cunard.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Recommended Reading 1. Best cruises from Tampa, Florida 2. Best cruises from Miami, Florida 3. Best cruises from Galveston, Texas 4. Best cruises from Sydney, Australia 5. Alaska cruises from Seattle, Washington

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This article was researched & written by

Shubhajyoti Sengupta

He is an active adventurer who loves to push himself physically and mentally while exploring the world. His travels are usually to natural environments or remote locations which include active physical activities and experiences he has never tried before. He loves backpacking and independent traveling with a low budget. Favorite Cities: Reykjavik, Kathmandu, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Capri

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Cruise from Southampton – the essential guide

Located in the middle of the southern coastline of England, Southampton is a regular port of call for a manyruise ships. It is one of the world’s largest ports and is still growing. Southampton’s maritime history stretches back hundreds of years, made famous in 1912 as the home port of the Titanic.

Many major cruise lines offer Southampton cruises that leave daily out of the port. Incredible destinations include northern Europe, such as Norway with the Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean including the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, France, Spain, and Italy, and ocean voyages across the Atlantic to New York and the Caribbean. Not least, cruises around the British Isles and further on to Iceland.

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Cruise capital of the U.K.

As the U.K.’s largest seaport, cruises from Southampton are on some of the biggest cruise ships in the world. The deep water allows cruise lines such as P&O, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises , and Cunard to offer you the perfect cruise holiday. You will find cruise deals and exciting offers with luxury cruises such as Regent Seven Seas.

Southern England has sweeping areas of outstanding natural beauty. Its spectacular countryside, vast coastline, cozy pubs, and welcoming villages make it famous. Southampton is an ideal place to explore this part of Great Britain. The longer you stay, the better, as the further west you travel, the more riches you will discover. We urge you to spend time here before you set off on your cruise and offer expert advice on how to spend your time here. We promise you will want to come back again.

Where to stay before your cruise from Southampton

Below you will find your ideal hotel stay in Southampton before you sail.

• Ennios Boutique Hotel
• Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour
• Southampton Harbour Hotel & Spa
• Premier Inn Southampton City Centre Hotel
• Holiday Inn Southampton
• The Elizabeth House Hotel
• Double Tree by Hilton

Walk into the center of Southampton, where you can see the remains of the city’s medieval walls. Shopping is excellent in the town, with all your high street favorites I,ncluding the iconic British department store John Lewis, whose flagship store is on Oxford Street in London. Restaurants of all price ranges are abundant, as are cafés and pubs in the city.

To walk the city, start at Town Quay and walk along the medieval town walls through the Old Town. You’ll find cozy cobbled streets and Tudor timber-framed buildings reminiscent of famous visitors such as William Shakespeare and Jane Austen.

Before starting your cruise from Southampton, you will need a car for local day trips to make the most of the spectacular south coast. Europcar is reliable if you need to rent a car. If you are visiting from abroad, remember to check if you need to apply for an international driving license before you leave home.

4 fantastic ways to see the best of England’s south coast

Day 1: isle of wight and the needles.

Take a boat ride over to the Isle of Wight ! This little island visible from the beaches of southern England was once the summer home of Queen Victoria. You can visit her home, Osbourne House, north of the island.

Stunning sandy beaches and beautiful walking paths cover the island, whmous for its dinosaur fossils. It gets busy in the summer, so if you are starting a cruise from Southampton in June, July, or August when kids are on school vacation, start early to avoid the crowds.

Open top bus for the best views of the Isle of Wight

From Southampton, you can either ride the passenger ferry, which takes about 20 minutes, r drive your rental car onto the car ferry for a pleasant 50-minute journey. You can leave your car, sit on the top deck in the sun, and enjoy the trip.

Once there, you will cover more sights in your vehicle than the slower public transport, but both options are viable. If you prefer to be a foot passenger, we recommend buying a bus ticket that gives you a day pass to travel around the island as much as you want within 24 hours. There are some great bus routes – try the open-top ride on the Needles Breezer for breathtaking views.

On the island’s western point, you can see The Needles – three enormous white chalk rocks standing in the ocean and guarded by a 19th-century lighthouse.

In the center of the island stands Carisbrooke Castle, earlier an artillery fortress, a king’s prison, and a royal summer residence. There are many walking paths and hiking trails over the island. Check out the Isle of Wight’s official visitor’s website to help you plan your day.

Day 2: Stonehenge – one of the most popular cruise excursions

Stonehenge is a 45-minute drive northeast of Southampton, located just outside the historic city of Salisbury and the iron-age site of Old Sarum. Start your day at the visitors center and museum, a short walk from the car parking area. A shuttle bus takes you out to the site. Built of Welsh stone over 4000 years ago, Stonehenge is surrounded by myth and legend, and its meaning and purpose have been long debated.

A pub dinner in historic Salisbury

At the end of your visit to Stonehenge, drive to Salisbury and park in one of the city’s parking garages. Enjoy an evening meal at one of the many pubs before your return to your hotel in Southampton. We recommend the historic Haunch of Venison for great gastropub dishes.

We dorecommend renting a car and drivingut to Stonehenge yourself. But if you don’t feel you can tackle driving on the left, book a tour. Viator does a good one; you can even plan to visit on your final day after your cruise. Leave the port of Southampton after you disembark and visit Salisbury, Stonehenge, and even Windsor Castle on your way back to London for your flight home. Alternatively, ask your cruise company. Many of them offer Stonehenge as an excursion pre or post-cruise. It’s a great day out!

Day 3: The New Forest, Lymington, and Beaulieu

Walking trails in the new forest.

Just a 30-minute drive west of Southampton through country lanes, The New Forest offers many adventures, from rugged country walks to lazy picnic days. Once the hunting ground of King Henry VIII, the ancient woodland is packed full of pretty villages. , startn the village of Burley.

Begin early and pick one of the named walking paths to follow, and you’ll come across free-roaming cattle, deer, donkeys, and the famous New Forest ponies.

Try our favorite walking trail, Castleman’s Corkscrew Walk, which starts in Burley Forestry Commission car park on Burley Road and takes you across pretty heathland. The local hotel Burley Manor is a good spot for coffee and snacks.

English riverside delights in Lymington.

From Burley, drive 20 minutes to the coast and the quaint town of Lymington .

You may want to eat an early lunch here, preferably at one of the small restaurants by the river at the bottom of the Georgian-style high street. Try The Kings Head Inn or The Ship Inn on the quayside for pub-style food.

Stop for delicious ice cream at the New Forest Ice Cream Parlour before renting a bike to cycle along the coast and through the forest. Helpful staff will provide you with great bikes and a route map.

Beautiful Beaulieu – a hidden forest gem

From Lymington, head to Beaulieu , located on the southeastern edge of the forest.

Beaulieu Village and Buckler’s Hard – a unique 18th village where Nelson’s warships once were built –  are fantastic to explore. Beaulieu is home to Britain’s National Motor Museum, and your kids can sample go-kart racing and see the cars in The World of Top Gear.

There is so much to see and do at Beaulieu; you could make this a full day out and leave Lymington for another day. See if you can squeeze in both before you start your cruise from Southampton.

Day 4: The Jurassic Coastline – our top pick for the best day out

 If you have time for only one day out before your cruise from Southampton, choose The Jurassic Coastline . We have left the best till last. And for a good reason.

This part of the coastline along southern England stretches 96 miles east to west and starts from Old Harry Rocks on the Isle of Purbeck in the county of Dorset, ll the way to the next county, Devon. Getting to Old Harry Rocks will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Southampton, so an early start is essential.

This is possibly one of our favorite spots in all of England. You can travel as far as you want, stopping at seaside towns as often as you like.

But even better is if you can stay the night on your way to make the most of this fabulous coast. Called the Jurassic Coast due to its 180 million-year-old historic rock formations, the landscape will take your breath away. Here are our top stops to explore:

Old Harry Rocks

Located at Handfast Point in Studland, this marks the eastern point of the Jurassic Coast. The whole area is a UNESCO world heritage site. On a clear day in the distance, you can see The Needles on the Isle of Wight. Park at the South Beach car park to walk out to see Old Harry. The village of Studland is a short drive away.

Corfe Castle

Rich in history and an exciting place for children to run around, Corfe Castle is fantastic to visit on a sunny day.

Over a thousand years old, from the period of William the Conqueror, the castle ruins sit on a hill at the top of Corfe Village. You’ll pay for entrance at the gate to access the ruins.

Visit the 16th village for a great pub lunch – we love The Greyhound in the center of the town. There is even a model village signposted, which your children will love exploring.

Lulworth Cove

The cove is part of the Jurassic Coast and popular with hikers and walkers. It is bustling in the summer months. Arrive early to get the closest parking spot, and take a picnic to relax and enjoy the view. The beach is full of rock pools and caves waiting to be explored.

Durdle Door

You can follow the footpath from Lulworth Cove and walk about 30 minutes to Durdle Door. Perhaps one of the most photographed spots in Southern England, this rock formation juts out at the end of the stony beach. If you don’t want to venture onto the beach, drive to the Durdle Door lookout instead for spectacular views.

Chesil Beach

From Durdle Door, drive towards Weymouth Bay. If you didn’t have lunch at Corfe, thymouth Bay has plenty of seaside eateries to tempt you along the way. From Weymouth, continue driving towards Portland. There are plenty of opportunities to have a great view of Chesil Beach.

Chesil is no regular beach – rashingle barrier separated from the mainland by a shallow tidal lagoon. It has to be experienced to be believed. The beach is at the mercy of mother nature as the rough seas swirl up stones along its 28 km stretch. Wear good shoes and enjoy the walk. It’s windy and fabulous.

This little seaside port deserves an overnight stay if you have time to spare. Its history dates back to the 8th century, lo the middle of the Jurassic Coast. You are now in the county of Devon. Shop in the tiny winding streets, try fishing and water sports o,r join an organized fossil hunting trip. This is a gem on the south coast, especially if you are traveling with children.

Getting to and from the port or your hotel in Southampton

The Port of Southampton currently operates five passenger cruise terminals. Check your cruise ticket to see which terminal your cruise ship is berthed for boarding. Here are the current four passengers terminals:

• City Cruise Terminal
• Mayflower Cruise Terminal
• Ocean Cruise Terminal
• QE II Cruise Terminal
• Horizon Cruise Terminal

Private Transfer

A private transfer is the most costly way of traveling but the most convenient. Book before you leave home with one of our trusted suppliers. The price will be lower if there are more of you in your travel group so you can share the cost.

Train from/to central London

If you are staying in London before or after your cruise from Southampton, you can book a train ticket between Waterloo Station and Southampton. The journey is around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Buy your ticket online before you travel to save money. From Southampton train station, you will need a taxi transfer to the cruise port (about 10 to 15 minutes, depending upon traffic). There are plenty of waiting foxis at the train station.

Train from/to London Heathrow Airport

There is no direct rotrain ute from/to London Heathrow and Southampton bYou will need to change lines, but it is possible.

From Heathrow Airport, you must first take the Heathrow Express direct to Paddington Station. Then take the underground train (the Tube ) to Waterloo to get the train to Southampton.

The train between Waterloo and Southampton takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Buy your ticket online before you travel for a better price. From Southampton train station, you will need a taxi transfer to the cruise port (about 10 to 15 minutes, depending upon traffic). There are plenty of waiting taxis at the train station.

Train from/to London Gatwick Airport

If you fly from/to Gatwick, you can getake arain to Southampton. The journey is just under 2 hours. Buy your ticket online before you travel to save money. From Southampton train station, you will need a taxi transfer to the cruise port (about 10 to 15 minutes, depending upon traffic). There are plenty of taxis at the train station.

Coach from/to central London

You can get a direct coach between London Victoria coach station (a short walk from Victoria train station) to Southampton. The coach service is called National Express . Book before you leave home to get a guaranteed reservation. The journey time is about 2 hours.

Southampton coach station is close to the port. It takes 15 minutes to walk to the port from the coach station or a 5-minute taxi ride.

Coach from/to London Heathrow and Gatwick

If you are traveling to London Heathrow or Gatwick, there is a coach service to Southampton, and the journey time is around 2 hours. Book with National Express .

Southampton coach station is a 15-minute walk to the port from the coach station or a 5-minute taxi ride.

Cruise parking option at Southampton port

If you live in the U.K. and plan on driving to the port, here are some options for parking your car for the duration of your cruise:

• Penguin Cruise Parking is the closest off-site car park to the cruise terminals. You check in your car, and they will transfer you and your luggage to your cruise terminal a few minutes away. Penguin Cruise Parking is an excellent way to avoid the queues you often find at the cruise terminal car park. Book online on the website. Transfers are included in the cost of your parking.
• A.B. Parking is the official cruise car parking provider at Southampton Port and gives you easy access to City Cruise Terminal and Horizon Cruise Terminal. A.B. Parking offers parking in the open air in a secure compound.
• Triangle Car Park is a great option if your cruise ship departs from Ocean Cruise Terminal. It takes just 5 minutes to walk to the cruise terminal from the car park.
• Airlynx Park offers a cheaper option for parking. The car parks are not close to the port; however, it’s a park-and-ride service with a shuttle service to your cruise terminal when you have parked your car.
• Hotel parking is worth inquiring about when you book your hotels. Hotels close to the port often offer parking during your cruise and a shuttle transfer to the port. Ask for the price and compare it to the above parking options.

Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Large-ship Ocean Cruise Lines of 2023

Readers loved all the entertainment options, ports of call, and spacious rooms on these large-ship ocean cruise lines in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

When it comes to crowd-pleasing vacations, it’s hard to top the value and fun that a large-ship ocean cruise line delivers. These spacious ships, which have anywhere from 800 to 1,499 cabins, are big enough to give guests a wide choice of onboard activities, fine dining, and cutting-edge entertainment. They also deliver a huge variety of stateroom choices, whether you’re seeking an affordable cabin for a budget-minded getaway or plenty of space in a grand suite for a celebratory splurge.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

For the cruise category, respondents were asked to rate individual ships; the results were combined to generate scores for cruise lines in different categories based on number of cabins, with large-ship ocean cruise lines falling between 800 to 1,499 cabins. Some cruise lines may appear in multiple categories depending on the makeup of their fleet.

Ships were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Cabins/facilities
• Itineraries/destinations
• Excursions/activities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

Courtesy of Disney

This year’s rankings delivered a few surprises. No. 2 Holland America Line moved up two spots from its 2022 ranking. The brand is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023, but readers had other things in mind when giving “HAL” the nod: “The tone of our ship was just what we were looking for, calm and relaxing,” said one voter of a voyage aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam . Others praised the company’s rock-solid musical entertainment and rewarding itineraries that go to Alaska, yes, but also many ports in Europe and South America. “We really, really enjoyed our Alaskan cruise,” one fan said. “The ship was nice, the food was great, the service was excellent, and the surroundings were absolutely beautiful!”

Slotting in at No. 3 this year was Disney Cruise Line, which garnered plenty of praise for its family-friendly programs and onboard atmosphere, despite falling from No. 1 last year. With a fleet of five ships, the line is celebrating an anniversary of its own this year, its 25th, with specialty music and entertainment on board this summer. “The ship was absolutely beautiful and there was amazing detail to everything,” said one passenger who traveled with extended family on Disney Wish . “Our granddaughter absolutely loves anything Frozen, so she certainly enjoyed the dinner show!”

This year’s voting also crowned a new No. 1: Cunard, yet another brand with plenty of history. Read on to learn why it topped the list as the best large-ship ocean cruise line.

Courtesy of Cunard

First launched in 1840, Cunard is once again top of mind for travelers who named it the world’s best large-ship line. Some fans may be looking ahead to the 2024 launch of Queen Anne, but many others don’t want to wait: the quintessential Queen Mary 2, which does transatlantic crossings between New York City and Southampton, England, offers as decadent a trip as ever, readers say. “Expect nothing less than the utmost of comfort and service,” opined one. “Loved our time on board and dressing up for a couple of nights during our seven-night crossing,” said another. This summer’s Alaska itineraries, aboard Queen Elizabeth, will afford plenty of opportunities to explore the wilds in the company of experts from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a new partner for the classic brand. The line’s Queen Victoria is another solid choice: “A lovely, well-crafted ship with excellent, attentive service — and a fabulous tea service," one reader shared.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.00

2. Holland America Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.44

3. Disney Cruise Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.31

4. Celebrity Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 84.56

5. Princess Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 82.13

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Cruises from Southampton, England

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Southampton England Cruise Port Guide

Located along the southern coast of England and only 69 miles away from London, Southampton is a fantastic departure port for a cruise around Europe. This thriving city full of history, culture, shopping, and world-class cuisine is a great jumping-off point for excursions to places like the mysterious stone ruins of Stonehenge and the small cathedral city of Winchester, where legendary author Jane Austen once lived.

Cruises from Southampton sail to some of Europe’s most coveted destinations, including seaside towns in the Mediterranean, the stunning Norwegian Fjords, and Scandinavia. Cruises from the UK also visit unforgettable ports in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Iceland, Ireland, and the Canary Islands.

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London (southampton) city stays.

Embark on an in-depth experience in the city where your cruise starts. Stay in accommodations we’ve carefully selected. Enjoy tours guided by experts to see the must-sees and do the must-dos. Take private transportation between your airport, hotel, and ship.

Guided Tour Highlights:  Experience a cruise along the Thames River. Enjoy a day trip to Bath and the Cotswolds. Discover the ancient mystique of Stonehenge.

Top Destinations on Cruises from Southampton

Norwegian fjords.

Sail down fjords that date back to the Ice Age and stop in quaint waterfront towns during a Norway cruise. During your vacation, you’ll witness unforgettable landscapes full of towering waterfalls, rocky cliffs, emerald green waters, and colorful architecture. During your cruise, you’ll see natural wonders up close, like Nærøyfjord, one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords, and Briksdal Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in all of Europe.

The Mediterranean

Soak up the history, culture, and food of the beautiful Mediterranean, a seaside paradise for those looking to experience the best of Europe. Travel to the region’s most popular destinations, including Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and the luxurious towns of the French Riviera. You’ll find there’s no shortage of charms to enjoy, including delicious cuisine and historic landmarks.

Iceland & Ireland

Discover the pastoral beauty of Ireland and the natural wonders of Iceland during a cruise that visits both of these scenic countries. Dance to live music and admire historic churches and cathedrals in Cork. Dip into the famous Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik and sample the city’s unique culinary scene. While in Akureyri, explore the ancient lava formations of Dimmuborgir and the stunning landscapes of the Namafjall Mountain.

Scandinavia

Experience the best of Scandinavia on a luxury cruise. Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Norwegian fjords, or visit the vibrant city of Oslo. Spend a night in Copenhagen, a cosmopolitan city with fantastic Baroque castles. Visit Stockholm, the Swedish capital with an eye for avant-garde art and cool design.

Canary Islands

Unwind on the golden sand beaches of the Canary Islands, a heavenly archipelago located just off the coast of Morocco. These Spanish islands are full of natural wonders, including sprawling sand dunes, vibrant coral reefs, massive craters, and the world’s third-largest volcano. In Tenerife, savor fresh seafood and wander around its picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in Gran Canaria, simply relax under the sun at one of the island’s glamourous beaches.

Our Ship Sailing Out of Southampton

Sail through Europe with an award-winning cruise line—Travel Weekly has named Celebrity the 2023 Best Cruise Line in Europe. Explore centuries of history, legendary art, natural wonders, and diverse cuisines. In addition to providing the most unique itineraries throughout the region, you’ll travel through Europe on a premium cruise experience aboard Celebrity Apex®.

Celebrity Apex, the second ship in our revolutionary Edge® Series, takes our one-of-a-kind outward-facing design further than ever, creating an intimate connection between you, the sea, and every exciting place you’re about to visit. Expansive open-air spaces let you soak up the sun, the sea air, and the spectacular scenery to the max. Fine dining on board rivals any restaurant you’ll find on land. And there are even more ways to relax and be entertained.

Why Cruise from the UK with Celebrity Cruises

On cruises from Southampton, explore the fascinating cities of Europe while sailing in complete luxury. During your cruise with Celebrity Cruises ® , you’ll visit cosmopolitan capitals and quaint towns, exploring both natural wonders and incredible landmarks. 

After spending a busy day in port, enjoy world-class service and delicious cuisine on board. Unwind in the soothing Solarium or recharge at our relaxing Spa. Head to one of our specialty restaurants or enjoy dinner in the ship’s main restaurant. Whether you’re on board or off, you’ll experience the vacation of a lifetime with Celebrity Cruises.

Make memories you’ll cherish forever on a family cruise . Whether it’s the sunshine and culture of the Mediterranean, the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, or the fascinating history of the Baltics, you’ll find there are always new adventures for all ages to be had. On board the ship, kids will love Camp at Sea, our fully customizable kids club that offers over 500 activities.

Southampton Port Facilities & Location

Address: western docks, herbert walker ave, southampton, so15 1hj.

The Southampton cruise port is one of the largest ports in the world. Cruises from Southampton depart from the City Cruise Terminal, which is easily reached from Southampton International Airport via taxi or bus. If you’re arriving at the port via London, you can either take a two-hour drive from the city to the cruise terminal, a train from Waterloo Station, which will take about an hour and 15 minutes, or a bus ride from Victoria Coach Station, which takes around two-and-a-half hours.

Learn More About Southampton Shore Excursions

Top things to do before your cruise from the uk, experience the wonder of stonehenge.

One of the most iconic excursions to go on before Southampton cruises is a visit to Stonehenge. Famous for its Neolithic engineering as well as its mysteriousness, Stonehenge features a stone circle that was built from massive stones weighing as much as 25 tons that had to have been transported incredibly long distances using only the simple tools they had available at the time. It’s an incredible experience to walk around the circle and imagine a former civilization constructing it thousands of years ago.

Shop on Oxford Street

Spanning 1.5 miles, London’s Oxford Street is a shopper’s paradise. As one of the world’s largest retail streets, you’ll find a little bit of everything for every type of budget, from high-street brands like Topshop and River Island to legendary department stores such as Marks & Spencer and Selfridges. Squeeze in a shopping session before your Southampton cruise, or simply stroll through the pedestrian-friendly street, where you’ll also be able to enjoy dozens of trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Top Sights & Attractions Near Southampton

Windsor castle.

Dating back to the 11th century, Windsor Castle has served as the royal home for over 39 monarchs over the span of 900 years, making it the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Visit the State Apartments, where Queen Elizabeth used to host her official visits. See Queen Mary’s doll house from the 1920s, which was built to include electricity and running water. Stop in St. George’s Chapel, the site where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married in 2018.

Visit Runnymede, the place where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215. The picturesque meadows became the unofficial birthplace of democracy over 800 years ago, when King James signed the Magna Carta into existence. There are several memorials to explore in the site, including the Magna Carta Memorial, the JFK Memorial (a plaque that commemorates the former U.S. president’s legacy after his assassination), and the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial, which includes the names of the more than 20,000 members of the Allied Air Forces who died during World War II.

River Thames

As the home of several popular landmarks, including the London Eye and Tower Bridge, the River Thames is the longest river in England and a quintessential London attraction. Take a river cruise down its gentle waters and admire the cityscape in the distance. Stroll along the Thames and stop for lunch or dinner at a riverside restaurant. Cross the bridge by either walking over the iconic Tower Bridge or the futuristic Millennium Bridge—a great spot to take a selfie with the Thames in the background.

When can I cruise from Southampton

Our ships sail from Southampton between April and October. No matter which month you choose to travel, we’ll transport you to Europe’s most desirable destinations. For warm, sunny weather and smaller crowds, the best time to take a cruise from Southampton is generally between April and June or September and October. If you’re planning on bringing the whole family along, you can’t beat our summer sailings around the stunning Mediterranean.

What food should I try in Southampton?

For a quintessential English dining experience, look for menus with the following items: Bakewell pudding, a dessert with a pastry base that has an almond filling and is topped with jam and icing; spotted dick, another dessert pudding featuring currants and raisins; Cornish pastry, a savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables; Lancashire hotpot, a stew made with lamb and potatoes; fish and chips, with battered, deep-fried fish served alongside fries; and curry, since England is known for its Indian and Bangladeshi food, particularly chicken tikka masala. 

When you’re in England, don’t miss the chance to savor the country’s iconic traditional breakfast of bacon, sausage, fried eggs, baked beans, mushrooms, black pudding, a roasted tomato, and toast.

Afternoon tea is also a popular way to get a taste of England. A traditional English tea usually has scones with jam, butter, clotted cream, and tea. A couple of the best places to get tea during your Southampton cruise port of call are at Grand Café, which offers two different types of afternoon tea, and Elsie’s Tea Room, which has a vintage feel.

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship

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Thinking of booking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line ? You have a lot of choices. The Miami-based line operates vessels in almost every corner of the world, with a wide range of itineraries in many destinations.

You’ll find Norwegian ships everywhere, from the Caribbean and the Bahamas to Europe, Asia and Australia. The line is also a big player in Hawaii.

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In addition, Norwegian is particularly known for cruises to Bermuda out of Boston and New York City, and it offers Canada and New England cruises regularly. It also operates some Panama Canal sailings and trips from the West Coast of the U.S. to the Mexican Riviera.

In North America, Norwegian ships sail from a relatively wide range of home ports, including Boston; New York City; Miami and Tampa; San Juan, Puerto Rico; New Orleans; San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco; Seattle; Honolulu; Vancouver, British Columbia; Quebec City and Quebec in Canada; and Seward, Alaska.

Here is a look at the best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

Some of Norwegian’s most exciting itineraries are in Europe, where the line is a significant player. It offers a wide range of itineraries in the Mediterranean and across northern Europe.

Norwegian will typically deploy around half of its 19 ships to the continent from spring to fall, making Europe its biggest focus for more than half the year. Norwegian also sometimes offers Europe cruises in the winter — albeit typically with just one ship.

Norwegian’s Mediterranean sailings provide the chance to see such iconic destinations as Barcelona in Spain; and Florence, Rome and Naples in Italy in a single cruise. Or, you can sign up for a Mediterranean cruise that focuses on the Greek Islands.

In northern Europe, Norwegian will take you to such famed Baltic cities as Stockholm; Tallinn, Estonia; and Helsinki in a single sailing.

In past years, such Baltic trips have also included a multiday call at St. Petersburg, Russia — traditionally the highlight of any Baltic sailings. However, like all major cruise lines, Norwegian pulled St. Petersburg from Baltic itineraries for 2022 and 2023 in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As of the publishing of this guide, Norwegian had opened bookings for all of its Baltic sailing through late 2025, and St. Petersburg remains off the schedule for all of them. The line hasn’t said when it might return to St. Petersburg.

For those looking to explore northern Europe, Norwegian also offers itineraries that zero in on Iceland, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Norwegian’s Europe voyages range widely in length from just three nights to a whopping 19 nights.

Among the longest sailings that Norwegian offers that include calls in Europe are one-way trips between Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens), and Dubai. Typically lasting 18 or 19 nights, these will often include stops in Israel and sometimes Greece, as well as visits to Egypt, Jordan, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

In Northern Europe, Norwegian ships mostly sail out of Amsterdam, Stockholm, Copenhagen, England’s Southampton and Reykjavík in Iceland.

In the Mediterranean, the line’s hubs are Barcelona, Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Venice in Italy, Piraeus (the port for Athens) in Greece, and Istanbul.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian ships

The Caribbean and the Bahamas

The Caribbean and the Bahamas have always been a big area of operations for Norwegian. In fact, for a long time, the regions were so much the focus that the line included “Caribbean” in its name. Up until 1987, Norwegian was known as Norwegian Caribbean Line.

These days, Norwegian usually keeps just two of its 19 vessels in the Caribbean and the Bahamas year-round (in recent years, the year-round ships have been Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Escape, both sailing to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from Florida ports). However, it really ramps things up in the region in the winter, when it deploys a large portion of its ships to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Norwegian currently has 15 of its 19 ships scheduled to sail to the Caribbean and the Bahamas for at least part of 2024 — including its newest and most advanced ship, the 3,219-passenger Norwegian Viva.

Related: I’ve sailed on nearly every Norwegian ship. Here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian offers a broad range of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from more than half a dozen home ports. If you’re looking for something short, the line has you covered in the form of lots of quick, three- and four-night trips from Miami to the Bahamas.

It also offers an abundance of seven-night sailings to Caribbean and Bahamian ports, as well as a handful of longer trips in the region that range from nine to 14 nights.

At the core of the line’s Caribbean and Bahamas program are its seven-night sailings, which break down into three broad categories:

• Eastern Caribbean voyages
• Western Caribbean voyages
• Southern Caribbean voyages

A typical seven-night Norwegian sailing to the Eastern Caribbean includes stops in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas.

Norwegian’s seven Western Caribbean voyages will typically include a visit to Roatan, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.

The line’s Southern Caribbean itineraries will often bring visits to Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Lucia and St. Kitts. They typically begin and end in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

When sailing to the Caribbean, Norwegian ships generally sail out of Miami, Port Canaveral and Tampa in Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The line also offers Caribbean sailings out of New Orleans, New York City and, occasionally, Panama City, Panama.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian’s Latitudes Reward loyalty program

Norwegian is the undisputed leader in Hawaii cruises. Most cruise lines that offer sailings to Hawaii only offer a limited number of such trips during a few months each year. Norwegian, by contrast, offers sailings around the Hawaiian Islands out of Honolulu every week of the year — the only cruise line in the world to do so.

Norwegian’s Hawaii voyages are also more intensely focused on Hawaii than the Hawaii trips offered by most other lines. This is because Norwegian offers its Hawaii cruises on one of the only cruise ships in the world that meets the regulatory requirements allowing it to spend all its time in the destination.

Norwegian’s Hawaii trips take place on Norwegian’s 2,186-passenger Pride of America, which has the rare distinction of being both U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed. By law, only such a vessel can cruise full-time in Hawaii without regularly traveling long distances to foreign ports.

An iconic presence in Hawaii, Pride of America has been permanently dedicated to the archipelago since its debut in 2005. It offers a repeating seven-night itinerary that begins each Saturday in Honolulu and brings the chance to visit four different Hawaiian islands on a single seven-night trip.

Beginning and ending on the island of Oahu, the itinerary includes two days each on the islands of Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. The two-day visit to Maui involves an overnight stay at the port of Kahului.

The two-day visit to Kauai involves an overnight stay at the port of Nawiliwili. The two-day visit to Hawaii is split between a call at Hilo and a call at Kona.

Related: The 8 classes of Norwegian ships, explained

Norwegian isn’t the biggest player in Alaska cruises. The giants of cruising to Alaska are Princess Cruises and Holland America , which are sister lines that control a large percentage of the market.

Still, Norwegian typically sends three to five vessels to Alaska every summer, and its big, activity-filled ships are a popular pick with families looking to visit the destination.

The Alaska cruise season is a short one, lasting roughly from May to early October.

For 2024, Norwegian plans to deploy four ships to the Alaska market for the full season:

• Norwegian Encore : Norwegian’s biggest vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It will call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, British Columbia. It will also visit Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Norwegian Sun: This ship will operate a mix of nine- to 11-night sailings to Alaska out of Seattle. The list of port calls varies based on the length of the trips.
• Norwegian Bliss : The 4,002-passenger vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. On most sailings, it will call at Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point in Alaska, plus Victoria, British Columbia. It will also visit Alaska’s Endicott Arm for glacier viewing. Some sailings at the start and end of the season substitute a visit to Skagway and Glacier Bay National Park for the stops in Sitka and Icy Strait Point, and drop the visit to Endicott Arm.
• Norwegian Jewel. The 2,376-passenger ship will operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska. The trips typically include stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, plus a visit to either Glacier Bay National Park or Icy Strait Point.

In recent years, the 2,018-passenger Norwegian Spirit also has spent its summers sailing in Alaska, but its Alaska voyages for 2024 were canceled as a result of the vessel being chartered to another company.

The appeal of the one-way sailings on Norwegian Jewel is that they can be combined with Norwegian-organized land tours of Alaska lasting from three to six days to create 10- to 13-night “cruisetours.”

The land tour portion of such trips brings visits to such well-known interior Alaska locations as Denali National Park and the town of Fairbanks.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide  

Norwegian usually deploys two ships on Bermuda runs every year — one out of New York City and one out of Boston.

In both cases, the sailings offered are mostly seven nights in length and include a two-night stay in Bermuda.

For 2024, Norwegian will devote one of its biggest and newest ships, the 3,802-passenger Norwegian Joy, to Bermuda. It will run out of New York. The line’s 2,394-passenger Norwegian Gem will sail to Bermuda out of Boston.

In addition, the line’s 3,969-passenger Norwegian Getaway will operate a handful of sailings to Bermuda out of New York during the early part of 2024, and the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway will operate a few sailings to Bermuda out of New York toward the end of 2024.

The line’s relatively new Norwegian Prima will operate a single Bermuda sailing out of New York at the end of 2024.

While most of Norwegian’s Bermuda sailings are seven nights in length, the line also sometimes offers a few shorter four- and five-night Bermuda sailings and, occasionally, a longer, nine-night Bermuda sailing.

Note that the shorter Bermuda sailings can offer very little time in the country, sometimes as few as nine hours.

Bottom line

Norwegian offers a wide range of itineraries in destinations around the world, from the Caribbean to Asia. However, you’ll find the most choices among Norwegian itineraries in the Caribbean and Europe.

The line is also well-known for voyages around Hawaii and to Bermuda. Its Hawaii sailings, in particular, are something of a rarity in the industry.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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10 top christmas cruises for 2024 & 2025.

Set sail for the holidays on your next cruise vacation.

Top Christmas Cruises

Courtesy of Azamara

If you're ready for a break from holiday traditions and family gatherings at home, consider booking a Christmas cruise. What makes a better present than the chance to leave all the planning, cooking, cleaning and decorating behind – and celebrate the holidays in beautiful destinations in the U.S., the Caribbean or other countries around the world?

If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, you can book a festivity-filled river cruise along Europe's iconic waterways and bundle up in your winter gear to explore the Christmas markets in the snow. If you prefer sunshine and warm temperatures, celebrate the holidays in an exotic locale in the South Pacific Ocean, sailing crystal-clear turquoise waters and relaxing on white sand beaches surrounded by palm trees.

Whether you prefer to stay close to home or jet off for a bucket list adventure, one of these cruises may just be the perfect gift to celebrate your holidays in style.

Find your perfect cruise

Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Getty Images

Put your name on the waiting list for November 2024 if you want to set sail on what Hallmark touts as the "jolliest vacation ever." The Hallmark Channel – known for its year-round holiday-themed programming with Christmas in July, Countdown to Christmas and Christmas Fridays – will host the first-ever Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise sailings in November 2024 from Miami to the Bahamas . Lucky fans of the television channel will travel with their favorite Hallmark stars on one of two four-night cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Norwegian Gem during the 2024 holiday season.

Highlights of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise include photo opportunities and panels to meet the stars. Attend Christmas craft workshops or tastings with Hallmark's winemaker – the wines have names like Jingle (cabernet sauvignon) and Joy (sauvignon blanc). Guests can also look forward to "carol-oke" singalongs, cookie decorating, an ugly sweater contest and a world premiere viewing of the new Hallmark Channel Christmas movie "Countdown to Christmas."

AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers more than a dozen itineraries to visit the Christmas markets in 2024 and 2025 along the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube and Rhone rivers – and to see the holiday splendor of Europe's grand cities, such as Vienna , Budapest, Amsterdam and Prague. Travelers can stroll through snow-dusted medieval squares and fairytale markets. Enjoy the chalet-inspired stalls, thousands of colorful lights, festive decorations, ice skating rinks, whimsical handmade gifts, Christmas carolers, carousels and more.

The river cruise line's seven-night Iconic Christmas Markets itinerary sails from Nuremberg, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary , along the Danube. It features a visit to Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt – one of the world's oldest and most famous Christmas markets. Sip hot mulled wine or feuerzangenbowle (a red wine and rum punch) and sample savory specialties like Nuremberg bratwurst, flammkuchen (pizza) and kartoffelpuffer (fried potato pancakes). Be sure to save room for sweet delights like schaumkuss (also known as schokokuss), a chocolate-covered marshmallow, or lebkuchen, a traditional spiced cookie.

While on board the ship, guests can participate in festivities like tree-trimming, cookie decorating, caroling and "Shoes for St. Nick." This European tradition encourages passengers to leave their slippers outside their stateroom door before bed. In the morning, they wake up to slippers filled with tasty treats like children in Europe find on Saint Nicholas Day.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrate Christmas Day at sea in the South Pacific Ocean during Celebrity's 2024 New Zealand Holiday cruise on board Celebrity Edge. This round-trip 13-night itinerary embarks on Dec. 20, 2024, from Sydney . It includes seven ports of call and five sea days. After ringing in the new year sailing between the Bay of Islands, New Zealand and Sydney, guests will disembark the ship on Jan. 2, 2025.

If you'd prefer to travel to the Canary Islands to celebrate Christmas and usher in the new year on the Mediterranean Sea in 2025, then reserve a stateroom or suite for Celebrity Cruises ' Canaries, Morocco & Spain itinerary. The 12-night voyage sails round-trip from Barcelona , embarking a few days before Christmas 2025 on Celebrity Infinity. The festive voyage features eight ports of call, including island of Gibraltar; the Moroccan cities of Casablanca and Tangier; three destinations in the Canary Islands; and Malaga, Spain.

On the ships, guests can revel in the joyous spirit of the season with festive Christmas trees, traditional holiday meals created by a Michelin-starred chef, themed shows and pop-ups, carolers, gingerbread winter villages, and even a visit from Santa. The onboard bars serve up holiday-inspired cocktails along with other seasonal favorites, including spiked apple cider and classic mulled wine. On New Year's Eve, plan to join in the merriment with fellow cruisers during the big countdown bash.

If you want to cross South Africa off your list of must-visit destinations , consider spending Christmas and New Year's Eve sailing round-trip from Cape Town on Azamara 's 15-night South Africa Intensive Voyage. The 2024 voyage departs Dec. 20 on Azamara Quest and includes stops in Port Elizabeth, home to one of the densest elephant populations in the world, and Richards Bay, which is teeming with exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes. For a once-in-lifetime experience, reserve a spot on the Safari 4X4 Hippo Cruise in the Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park. This protected park is a white rhino sanctuary, home to South Africa's "big five": lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos and leopards.

If the Land Down Under is at the top of your list of places to visit, plan ahead for next year to spend the holidays aboard Azamara Pursuit in 2025. The line's 21-night Australia Intensive Voyage will set sail on Dec. 14, 2025, from Singapore . This extended sailing features 10 ports of call in three countries, with two overnight stays, before travelers disembark in Melbourne, Australia , on Jan. 4, 2026.

Guests on board the holiday cruises will be treated to Christmas performances, including singalongs and carols performed by the crew. There will be special menus in the restaurants, holiday-themed buffets, religious services and a tree-trimming party. Festive treats like hot chocolate, cookies and snacks are provided throughout the cruise. The New Year's Eve White Night party, where all the guests don their best white attire, will take place throughout the ships and on the pool deck with entertainment, music and light bites.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking's 12-day Christmas on the Main & Moselle cruise sails between Paris and Prague in 2024 and 2025. The adults-only sailing affords passengers 18 and older the opportunity to visit four European countries: France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Czech Republic. In addition to browsing the chic boutiques in Paris and a variety of Christmas markets in Germany, you'll want to explore iconic landmarks like Reims Cathedral in France and the Luxembourg American Cemetery. Don't miss the famed wines produced in the regions, including Champagne, Moselle, riesling, Müller-Thurgau and gewürztraminer. In Cochem, Germany, you'll want to sample white mulled wine and regional delicacies produced from the red vineyard peach.

The holiday spirit continues on board the ships with Christmas-themed cooking demonstrations in addition to festive decorations with garland, lights and gingerbread houses. Guests will also taste regional cuisine, enjoy cultural performances on board the ship and ashore and learn about the history of the Christmas markets and local holiday traditions.

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Disney Cruise Line

Kent Phillips | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers dozens of Christmas-themed cruises from November through December in 2024. Cruisers looking to celebrate the holidays with Disney's cast of characters can book a Very Merrytime cruise as short as a three-night sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Bahamas . For a weeklong getaway, consider the line's seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyage on board Disney Fantasy that sails round-trip from Port Canaveral. Ports of call on the itinerary include Tortola in the British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands; and the cruise line's private island , Disney Castaway Cay.

On the first evening of every sailing, guests can gather around the 24-foot-tall Christmas tree for the tree lighting ceremony, a holiday singalong and the introduction of Santa Claus. Other festivities on Disney Cruise Line include the fun-filled Mickey and Minnie's Holiday Party, themed Very Merrytime activities for children of all ages, carol singers, and Christmas-inspired food and beverages. Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be sporting jolly new holiday attire during the special voyages.

Windstar Cruises

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Celebrate the holidays with a bucket list getaway to the sun-drenched islands of Tahiti . On this voyage, you'll set sail a few days before Christmas 2024 aboard the 312-passenger, all-suite yacht Star Breeze for Windstar's seven-day Dreams of Tahiti cruise. The round-trip sailing from Papeete, Tahiti, includes stops in the islands of Moorea, Raiatea, Motu Mahea (Tahaa), Bora Bora and Huahine. In Bora Bora, guests will be treated to a special evening Windstar Destination Discovery Event with dinner under the stars and traditional Polynesian fire dancing.

For an extended European holiday in 2025, the line's Star Collector: Winter in Spain and the Rivieras cruise sails from Malaga, Spain, to Rome on Dec. 13 aboard the intimate Star Legend. The 14-day itinerary includes ports of call in Spain, France, Italy and Gibraltar. During the cruise, you can visit must-see attractions like Michelangelo's sculpture of David in Florence and explore the historic Roman theater ruins in Cartagena, Spain. Cruisegoers will also have a chance to sample wines from the famed appellations of Tuscany in Italy and Andalusia in Spain, and taste culinary specialties like bouillabaisse in France.

On board the ships, guests can join in the holiday spirit with festive Christmas trees and decorations as well as holiday-inspired cocktails and treats. Special programming for the voyages includes a Christmas movie, a gala tea, an interdenominational Christmas service and a Christmas Eve dinner. Christmas morning brings more celebrations throughout the day, with holiday meals, a Yuletide afternoon tea and a Christmas dinner followed by a variety show in the evening.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Grab the swimsuit, flip-flops and sunglasses – and check the Panama Canal off your must-visit list – for a tropical holiday aboard Norwegian Cruise Line 's Norwegian Gem. The line's 11-day cruisetour begins Dec. 9, 2024, and includes three days to see the canal that some consider the "eighth wonder of the world" and visit vibrant Panama City. After embarking on Dec. 11, you'll transit the canal and then sail to ports in Costa Rica; Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; and Norwegian's private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, before disembarking in Miami on Dec. 20.

Plan ahead to Christmas 2025 by reserving accommodations on Norwegian's newest vessel – and the first in the Prima Plus class – Norwegian Aqua. The seven-day Caribbean round-trip voyage from Miami on the new ship (scheduled to launch in April 2025) will set sail on Dec. 21, 2025. The cruise includes tropical ports of call in the Dominican Republic, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, and Great Stirrup Cay. For a special celebration, splurge on luxurious suite accommodations in The Haven. The ship-within-a-ship retreat features a private restaurant, a lounge, a sundeck, a concierge desk and 24-hour butler service.

Holiday-themed activities on Norwegian's vessels vary by itinerary and ship. Still, guests will find plenty of festive fun on board, including traditional holiday fare and holiday-inspired musical sets, trivia, and family and youth programming. Guests are invited to offer interdenominational services for fellow passengers during the sailing. You'll also find Hanukkah services listed in the Freestyle Daily Program.

Holland America Line

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Celebrate the Christmas holidays in Hawaii during Holland America Line 's round-trip Circle Hawaii Holiday voyage from San Diego on the ship Zaandam, embarking on Dec. 18, 2024. Guests aboard this voyage will sail to Honolulu, Hilo and Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii as well as Kahului, Maui . You'll also get to enjoy scenic cruising at the Kilauea Volcano; visit Ensenada, Mexico; and join in the holiday festivities on the ship during relaxing days at sea.

If you've been dreaming of visiting far-flung destinations in Asia, such as Halong Bay, Vietnam, or Bangkok, Thailand – or seeing Komodo dragons in the wild in Indonesia – the 28-day Far East & Indonesian Holiday Collector itinerary will be an adventure of a lifetime. The voyage on board Westerdam embarks in Hong Kong on Dec. 7, 2025, with exotic ports of call in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. On Christmas Day, guests will visit the picturesque port town of Probolinggo on the coast of East Java in Indonesia. On New Year's Eve, the ship docks in Semarang, Indonesia; here, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Borobudur, home to an impressive Buddhist temple site dating back to the eighth and ninth centuries.

Back on board the ships, holiday celebrations include a Christmas tree lighting, Santa's arrival, a midnight mass, a Christmas concert, special menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and a New Year's Eve Party and countdown. There are Hanukkah festivities with candle lightings and latkes served in the Lido. Guests will also enjoy viewing the holiday villages around the ship created by Holland America's culinary team.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

For a life-changing experience and the merriest Christmas of all, spend the holiday with several species of waddling penguins, giant seals and majestic whales while visiting the ice-covered shores of the White Continent. The 10-day round-trip expedition from Puerto Williams, Chile, on Silversea 's Silver Cloud sets sail a week before Christmas in 2024 for the Antarctica Peninsula. Five days of excursions allow travelers on this Antarctica cruise to explore this surreal and magical part of the world. Weather permitting, guests will even take a Zodiac cruise with the expedition team in the South Shetland Islands the day after Christmas.

If you're planning ahead to 2025, consider a longer adventure where you'd fly the infamous Drake Passage one way from Puerto Williams (saving two days at sea) and land on King George Island in Antarctica. This 15-day expedition aboard Silver Cloud begins on Dec. 21, 2025, and features four days of excursions in Antarctica and three days in the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. You'll also spend three days in the Falkland Islands, where you'll have more chances for unforgettable wildlife encounters with black-browed albatrosses, fur seals, Commerson's dolphins, imperial cormorants, and adorable rockhopper and Magellanic penguins.

Festive touches on the ship include Christmas trees and lights, gingerbread houses, holiday arts and crafts, caroling, religious services, and musical performances by the crew and professional entertainers. Guests will also enjoy a traditional holiday dinner on Christmas Day.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, and river ships in Europe and on the Mekong River. She used her extensive knowledge and experience with the cruise industry to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Best Themed Cruises
• The Best Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S.
• The Best Christmas Vacations

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Winter Vacations , Christmas

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Best Family Cruise Ships

A family cruise is the best time of holiday to choose when you want to cater for all ages. Cruising is so popular because there is so much to do onboard and entertainment for all the family. Cruise lines go above and beyond when they are creating family friendly cruises and introducing new ships. 

We have selected 5 family orientated cruise ships for you to discover your next family cruise holiday.

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

This ship is an extraordinary class of adventure with some of the most daring thrills and relaxing chills. Pick from 7 swimming pools and 9 whirlpools all with spectacular ocean views plus an all-you-can-swim buffet. Visit Swim and Tonic, the largest swim up bar at sea, for a midday cocktail or for ultimate beach club vibes, go 8 storeys up to the Hideaway Pool. For more of a thrill, explore Category 6. With 6 record breaking slides, the first open freefall slide and the first mat-racing duo at sea, this is the largest waterpark at sea.

If you are an adrenaline seeker, take part in Crown’s Edge, a part skywalk part rope course on the outside of the ship. This vessel caters for adults too with the Cloud 17 Retreat. This includes a secluded pool with private access to the Lime and Coconut bar, it truly is an adults-only oasis. On an evening, visit the AquaDome for vistas of athletes pulling off superhuman stunts or explore the biggest ice arena in the fleet, Absolute Zero.

Disney Dream 

Step onboard the Disney Dream for a magical voyage from start to finish. A Disney cruise is perfect for children who want the chance to meet and greet their favourite characters from Mickey Mouse to Cinderella. During the day, venture on the AquaDuck, the first ever water coaster at sea! Explore the ship through a water-flowing acrylic tube as it takes you all over the ship. By night, experience Broadway-calibre performances in the Walt Disney Theatre or have a family karaoke night in the D Lounge. Alongside deck parties and Sail Away celebrations, there is so much to see and do on this Disney cruise ship. 

Norwegian Prima

With countless opportunities for adventure and excitement, Norwegian Prima has innovations to elevate everyone’s experience. Prima is a first in a new class of ship for Norwegian Cruise Line and is the newest and most innovative ship in the whole fleet. Alongside first-class service and more outdoor space than ever, there is an Infinity Beach pool, the Ocean Walk glass walkway and a Starbucks so you don’t miss your daily frappuccinos. Prima also debuts the biggest go-kart track in the fleet, Prima Speedway, which spans over 3 decks. 

MSC Virtuosa

As one of two of the largest ships in MSC Cruises’ fleet, MSC Virtuosa has so much to offer for families of all ages. Slide on 3 twisting slides in the most intricate and exciting water parks at sea, the Polar Aquapark. Enjoy virtual reality races with the F1 Simulators or challenge your family to a game at the full-size Bowling Alley. For nighttime entertainment, discover the TV Studio Bar which houses a radio broadcasting suite, TV broadcasting live games, a comedy club and a live music venue. 

P&O Cruises Iona

Iona is the perfect vessel for families out of this fleet. Adults can relax while kids enjoy various activities at The Reef, a kids club for children aged 2-12. For 13-17 year olds there is the Scene which houses video games, a pool table and table football. Challenge your family with a game of golf, archery or football in the Sports Court before heading to Ocean Studios, a 4-screen cinema showing the latest blockbusters movies. The SkyDome is the place to go for poolside relaxation, live entertainment throughout the day and onboard shopping. For a complete adults-only evening, visit the Limelight Club for a night out with a 3 course meal. 

For more information or to book your next family cruise, check out our family cruise deals or call us on 02380 658 386

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Established in 2023, Triglide Travel, based in Southampton, serves Montgomery County, PA, Chester County, PA, as well as surrounding areas, acting as the trusted travel advisor for people who seek extraordinary journeys. Our travel consultants bring unparalleled experience to design tour packages tailored to individual desires throughout diverse destinations. Our dedication is seen best in our top-rated Caribbean tour packages. We operate under the belief that each destination holds a story, and as your travel partner, we are honored to help you explore it. Begin your journey with us today and Make Memories That Last a Lifetime. Discover extraordinary with Triglide Travel! …

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