Cruise Ports Near London: Southampton, Dover, Harwich

Planning a cruise from the UK? The major cruise ports of Southampton, Dover, and Harwich are all within a reasonable distance from London, making it easy to combine your cruise itinerary with some sightseeing in the capital or nearby iconic destinations. Whether you’re looking for direct transfers, sightseeing stops, or convenient accommodation, here’s everything you need to know to make your journey seamless and enjoyable.

Cruise Terminals in the UK

• Southampton: The UK’s busiest cruise port, known for its efficient services and proximity to London.

• Dover: A historic port with a beautiful coastline and connections to London and Canterbury.

• Harwich: A smaller, less crowded port offering a quieter alternative.

All three ports offer easy access to world-class attractions like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath, perfect for pre- or post-cruise excursions.

Southampton: The Gateway to Cruises

Southampton is about 80 miles (130 km) from London and serves as the departure point for many international and regional cruises. The port offers a variety of transportation options, including direct transfers, sightseeing tours, and public transport.

Transportation Options from London to Southampton:

• Train: The fastest public transport option, with direct services from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.

• Coach: A more affordable option, with services from London Victoria Coach Station, Heathrow, and Gatwick.

• Shuttle Services: Shared transfers with guaranteed operations, even for single passengers. Shuttles include executive vehicles with Wi-Fi and uniformed drivers.

• Private Transfers: Travel in comfort with a range of vehicles, from standard saloon cars to large vans, ideal for families or groups.

Pre-Cruise Packages:

Southampton offers flexible pre-cruise packages, allowing you to combine your transfer with visits to iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge or Windsor Castle. These packages often include private transfers and tailored sightseeing options.

Dover: The Historic Port

Located about 70 miles (113 km) from London, Dover is famous for its White Cliffs and rich history. The port primarily serves cruises to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.

Transportation Options to Dover:

• Train: Direct trains run from London St Pancras or Victoria Station to Dover Priory.

• Coach: National Express operates services from London Victoria Coach Station.

• Private Transfers: Ideal for those seeking a hassle-free journey with tailored sightseeing options.

Nearby Attractions:

• Dover Castle: Explore this medieval fortress with stunning views of the English Channel.

• Canterbury: Just a short drive from Dover, this historic city is home to the iconic Canterbury Cathedral.

Harwich: A Quiet Alternative

Harwich, about 85 miles (137 km) from London, is a smaller port often used for cruises to Scandinavia and the Baltics. It’s a quieter option with fewer crowds but excellent facilities.

Transportation Options to Harwich:

• Train: Direct trains run from London Liverpool Street to Harwich International.

• Private Transfers: A convenient option for families or groups with large luggage.

Nearby Attractions:

• Colchester: England’s oldest recorded town, located about 30 minutes from Harwich.

• Constable Country: Visit the scenic landscapes that inspired the famous English painter John Constable.

Shared Shuttle Transfers

Shuttle transfers are a popular and budget-friendly option for cruise passengers. Here’s what you can expect:

• London/Heathrow to Southampton:

• Maximum of six passengers with pick-ups from central London or Heathrow hotels.

• Arrive at the cruise terminal by 1:00-1:30 pm.

• Southampton to London/Heathrow:

• Meet and greet at the cruise terminal between 8:00-8:30 am.

• Scheduled drop-offs at Heathrow and London hotels by late morning.

Price: Starting at £106 per person, with luggage allowances of one hold bag (23kg) and one carry-on (10kg) per passenger.

Private Transfers

For a more personalized experience, private transfers are available with a range of vehicles to suit your group size and needs.

Vehicle Options:

• Standard Saloon Car (1-2 passengers): From £213 for Heathrow to Southampton.

• Estate Car (3 passengers): From £225 for Heathrow to Southampton.

• MPV (4-5 passengers): From £242 for Heathrow to Southampton.

• Large Van (6-8 passengers): From £272 for Heathrow to Southampton.

Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are also available.

Tour Transfers: Combine Travel with Sightseeing

Make the most of your transfer by visiting iconic UK landmarks on the way to or from your cruise port.

Pre-Cruise Transfers:

• Stonehenge Transfer: Visit the world-famous prehistoric monument en route to Southampton, starting at £145 per person.

• Windsor Transfer: Explore Windsor Castle before boarding your cruise, starting at £145 per person.

Post-Cruise Transfers:

• Stonehenge Transfer: Stop at Stonehenge before heading to London, from £145 per person.

• Windsor Transfer: Tour Windsor Castle before arriving in London, from £145 per person.

Full-Day Post-Cruise Tours:

• Cotswolds & Downton Abbey: Visit charming villages and filming locations with a pub lunch, from £175 per person.

• Stonehenge & Bath: Discover the mysterious Stonehenge and the historic Roman Baths, from £125 per person.

Why Choose These Ports for Your Cruise?

• Convenience: All three ports are easily accessible from London and offer excellent transfer options.

• Sightseeing Opportunities: Combine your transfer with visits to iconic attractions like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath.

• Flexible Packages: Tailor your pre- or post-cruise experience with private transfers, shared shuttles, or guided tours.

Whether you’re sailing from Southampton, Dover, or Harwich, these ports offer a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and the chance to explore some of England’s most treasured landmarks.