British Isles Cruises

Discover the Charming British Isles on a Cruise

The British Isles, a collection of islands rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, offer an enchanting cruise experience. Known for their stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and charming towns, these islands are a dream destination for numerous cruisers. Fun fact: The British Isles consist of over 6,000 islands, with the largest being Great Britain and Ireland. Cruising the British Isles provides an excellent opportunity to explore everything from medieval castles to picturesque fishing villages while enjoying the comforts of a luxury cruise.

Must-Visit Harbours in the British Isles

During your cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to visit several noteworthy harbours. Here are five highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Southampton
  As the cruise capital of the UK, Southampton is a dynamic city with an exciting maritime history. Once you dock, consider visiting the SeaCity Museum to learn about the city’s historical connection to the Titanic. Alternatively, take a stroll along the city walls, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants lining the waterfront. With time to spare, you can catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight for an afternoon of exploration.
• Dover
  Dover is famous for its iconic White Cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop to your visit. Once your ship arrives, take a guided tour of Dover Castle, an essential fortification dating back to the Roman era. If you’re short on time, enjoy a picturesque walk along the cliffs, which boast spectacular views. Don’t forget to capture the moment with a photo at the iconic landmark before you head back to your cruise!
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
  Belfast is a city steeped in history and vibrant culture. When visiting, make sure to explore the Titanic Belfast passenger experience, which tells the tale of the infamous ship and her ill-fated voyage. If you have some extra time, wander through the impressive Botanic Gardens or enjoy a traditional Irish meal at a local pub. The city’s murals, which tell stories of its past, provide a unique backdrop for walking tours.
• Greenock
  Located on the banks of the River Clyde, Greenock is often the gateway to Scotland‘s beautiful landscapes. After docking, you could embark on a scenic drive to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, known for its stunning hills and tranquil lakes. If your time is limited, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy local shops, or sample traditional Scottish fare at a nearby café.
• Lerwick, Shetland Islands
  The capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick, is rich in maritime history. Upon arrival, stop by the Shetland Museum and Archives to understand local culture and heritage. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk along the picturesque coastline, or check out the vibrant local craft shops. Alternatively, you could book a guided nature tour to spot some of the stunning wildlife that resides in the area.

Top Ports Typically Visited Before or After Your British Isles Cruise

Several key ports are often included in itineraries surrounding the British Isles, providing additional fascinating experiences

• Civitavecchia (Rome)
  The main port for Rome, Civitavecchia gives you access to Italy‘s rich history and stunning architecture. When your cruise arrives, consider a guided tour of iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican. Keep in mind that the port’s proximity to these significant sights provides cruisers with a unique opportunity to explore Italian culture before or after visiting the British Isles!
• Barcelona
  As a vibrant Spanish city known for its stunning architecture, Barcelona often serves as a departure point for cruises to the British Isles. After docking, be sure to visit Gaudí’s famous Sagrada Familia or take a leisurely stroll down La Rambla. For a quick culinary experience, enjoy traditional tapas at a local restaurant!
• Valletta
  The Maltese capital, Valletta features dramatic fortifications and a rich blend of cultures. If your cruise includes a stop here, explore St. John‘s Co-Cathedral with its stunning Baroque architecture. Take time to savour local Maltese dishes, such as rabbit stew or pastizzi, before continuing your cruise adventure!
• Kotor
  Nestled in a stunning fjord in Montenegro, Kotor is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Upon docking, take a walking tour of the old town or hike up to Kotor Fortress for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. A quick boat ride around the bay is also an enjoyable way to soak up the scenery.
• Livorno
  As the gateway to Florence and Pisa, Livorno allows you to explore iconic sites such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. If you book a guided excursion, you can maximise your time and see the most during your short visit!

Best Times to Experience the British Isles

The ideal time for cruising the British Isles is between May and September, when temperatures generally range from 10°C to 22°C. This period allows for pleasant weather, enough to enjoy outdoor activities and explore beautifully landscaped gardens. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and milder temperatures, the shoulder seasons of April and October may offer a great balance, with temperatures hovering around 7°C to 15°C. Just remember, the British Isles can be unpredictable, so packing an umbrella is always a good idea!

Cruise Costs Overview for the British Isles

What’s the price range for cruises to the British Isles? For a 1-week cruise, it typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000 for standard packages and $5,000 to $10,000 for luxury offerings. If you’re considering a 2-week cruise, expect the price to rise to between $2,500 and $6,500 on standard cruises or around $12,000 for luxury experiences. The cheapest months for cruising are generally during the shoulder seasons (April, May, or late September), whereas July and August are peak months due to school holidays, often resulting in higher prices. Food in the region can average about $20 to $50 for a nice meal, with drinks typically costing around $6 to $12.

Major Cruise Lines Offering British Isles Itineraries

• Cunard Line
  Cunard boasts a fleet of 4 ships, with Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne featuring British Isles itineraries. Most voyages depart from Southampton or New York, providing cruisers an elegant experience with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and a glittering nightlife experience.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O has a fleet of 7 with Aurora and Ventura offering itineraries that include the British Isles. Departures are often from Southampton or Bridgetown. Known for experiencing a classic British cruising holiday, P&O provides a warm atmosphere and celebrates local culture through food and entertainment.
• Princess Cruises
  With 17 ships in total, Princess Cruises features 7 that sail to the British Isles, including Sky Princess and Crown Princess. Domestic departures are available from Sydney or Brisbane, and international ports like Southampton or Dover. Princess Cruises is celebrated for its exceptional service and opportunities to create memorable experiences onboard and ashore.
• Holland America Line
  With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has four offering itineraries to the British Isles, including Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. Departures most often occur from Sydney or international ports such as Rotterdam or Dover. Holland America focuses on enriching travel experiences, providing guests with insight into local cultures at each port of call.
• Ambassador Cruise Line
  With a fleet of 2 ships, Ambassador offers two vessels, Ambition and Ambience, for itineraries to the British Isles. Most departures are from Tilbury (London) or Newcastle-upon-Tyne. As a newer line, Ambassador provides an authentic cruising experience with a focus on connecting cruisers to lesser-known stops in Britain.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 ships offering British Isles itineraries, including Sirena and Vista. Commonly departing from Southampton or Barcelona, Oceania is known for exquisite culinary offerings and destination-rich itineraries, ensuring cruisers enjoy every port visited.
• Silversea
  Silversea’s fleet consists of 13 ships, with 5 that visit the British Isles, including Silver Dawn and Silver Wind. These cruises generally depart from Southampton or Lisbon. Silversea offers an ultra-luxury cruising experience, with exceptional service, intimate sailings, and exclusive shore excursions.
• Ponant
  Ponant has a fleet of 11 ships, with 7 navigating the British Isles, including Le Laperouse and Le Bellot. Departures typically occur from Greenock or Dublin, allowing itineraries that focus on lesser-known ports with luxurious onboard amenities and a deep appreciation for the destinations.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking has a fleet of 11 ships, with 5 offering British Isles itineraries, particularly Viking Saturn and Viking Jupiter. Common departure ports include Greenwich or Bergen. Viking is well known for its destination-driven cruises and all-inclusive experiences, providing a rich understanding of local cultures.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent has a total of 6 ships, with 4 sailing to the British Isles, including Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Voyager. Departures typically happen from Southampton or Reykjavik. Known for their all-inclusive luxury, Regent provides an unparalleled cruising experience, where every detail is accounted for.

Exploring Alternative Regions for Your Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise to the British Isles, you may also be interested in these alternatives:

• Azores: This archipelago is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including lush landscapes, stunning lakes, and quaint villages. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Norwegian Fjords: This stunning region of rocky cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine waters offers breathtaking cruising experiences. It’s ideal for those who appreciate dramatic scenery and outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking.
• Baltic Sea: The Baltic Sea region features charming cities, historical landmarks, and rich cultures, making it a fascinating itinerary. With ports like St. Petersburg, Helsinki, and Tallinn, cruisers can experience a diverse array of sights and sounds.
• Caribbean: For a laid-back atmosphere, the Caribbean provides sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant local culture. It’s a wonderful option for those seeking relaxation and fun-filled days on the water.
• Amalfi Coast: Known for its stunning coastal views and charming towns, the Amalfi Coast offers a romantic getaway filled with incredible food, rich history, and picturesque scenery, catering to those looking for a blend of exploration and relaxation.

The British Isles offer a captivating journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Book your unforgettable cruise with CruiseAway today and set sail for a rich experience you’ll remember for a lifetime!