The Port of Southampton is the largest cruise terminal in the United Kingdom.
Port Location: The Port of Southampton is situated on England’s southern coast. It is an easy drive from both London’s Heathrow and Gatwick Airports. From London Waterloo Station, direct train service is available to Southampton Central station. The trip takes an hour and 20 minutes and then a 15-minute taxi ride will get you to the Port. National Express Coaches also provides a bus service to Victoria Coach Station in London and the bus station at Heathrow.
Transport: Besides easy train and bus service to and from London, Southampton offers convenient local transportation. Most of the public transport comes from two main bus services, First Southampton and Bluestar. The Citylink bus runs from the platform 4 side of Central station while other buses from bus stops Platform 1 side, across the road from the taxi rank.
Description: This is the leading port for Southampton cruises in the UK, with six major cruise lines that us it regularly. Southampton’s history includes its service as the ocean liner gateway for the British Empire as well as the North Atlantic passenger business to both the United States and Canada. There are many things of interest to see in Southampton and it is also a great place from which to start a tour of Hampshire or head to the Isle of Wight.
Sightseeing and Excursions: There are a number of things to do in this port city before and after Southampton cruises. On the waterfront, Mayflower Park marks the spot from which the Mayflower sailed in 1620. From here you can watch the cruise ships coming and going as well as huge container ships. There are several ferry trips and harbour excursions that leave from the Town Quay. Once such trip is to Hythe. After a short 11-minute ride to Hythe pier, you can see an old miniature train that runs from the pier into Hythe.
The Maritime Museum in Southampton located across from the Town Quay has on display a large collection of artefacts from the infamous Titanic. Enjoy a guided walking tour with a route that takes you through the medieval vaults and walls in Southampton and St. Michael’s Church.
Beaches: The nearest beach is at Ocean Village near Channel Way in Southampton.
Shopping: Southampton offers modern shopping that includes the West Quay Mall. Here you can find large stores and a number of small boutiques and specialty shops. The Bargate Centre and Mall Marlands also provide plenty of shopping opportunities while waiting for Southampton cruises. These are each found near the waterfront and are easily seen from Above Bar Street.
Cruise Ports Index