The UK’s three main cruise departure ports — Southampton, Dover, and Harwich — are all reachable from London within 1–2 hours. Whether you’re joining a cruise or returning to London after one, here’s everything you need to know about getting to and from each port.
Southampton Cruise Port
The UK’s busiest cruise port, home to P&O Cruises, Cunard, Royal Caribbean, and MSC. Located 80 miles southwest of London. Five terminals handle departures and arrivals.
By train
South Western Railway runs from London Waterloo to Southampton Central in approximately 80 minutes. Book in advance for the best fares.
Book London Waterloo to Southampton →
By National Express coach
Direct coaches run from London Victoria to Southampton, often cheaper than the train. Journey time approximately 2 hours.
Sightseeing on the way
Pre-cruise passengers arriving a day early can stop at Windsor Castle or Stonehenge en route — both are easily combined with a Southampton transfer as a guided tour.
BOOK NOW from £275pp — Stonehenge & South Coast tour →
Dover Cruise Port
Located 75 miles southeast of London, Dover handles a wide range of cruise lines and is particularly busy with Baltic and Mediterranean itineraries. Two terminals: the Western Docks and the Eastern Docks.
By train
Southeastern trains run from London St Pancras International to Dover Priory in approximately 55 minutes. One of the fastest rail journeys to any UK cruise port.
By National Express coach
Direct services from Victoria Coach Station to Dover. Slower than the train but cheaper. Journey time approximately 2 hours.
Harwich International Cruise Port
Located 75 miles northeast of London, Harwich is the smallest of the three main cruise ports. It primarily handles Baltic and British Isles cruises.
By train
Greater Anglia trains run from London Liverpool Street to Harwich International in approximately 70–80 minutes. Direct services available.
Tips for all cruise port transfers
- Allow extra time — cruise check-in typically closes 90 minutes before departure
- Book luggage delivery in advance if you want your cases taken directly to your cabin
- For early morning departures, consider staying overnight near the port the night before
- Private transfers are the most stress-free option if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling as a group
Pre-cruise hotels
If you need a hotel before your cruise, Booking.com has the best selection near all three ports with flexible cancellation.