Wales Cruises

Experience the Wonders of Wales with CruiseAway

Welcome to **Wales**, a region bursting with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture! Sailing to Wales offers an incredible opportunity to explore its stunning landscapes, towering castles, and quaint coastal villages—all from the comfort of your floating hotel. With an array of picturesque harbours and experiences awaiting you, a cruise here promises a unique adventure. Did you know that Wales is home to more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world? This charming destination is packed with highlights, and whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone!

Top Harbours to Visit in Wales

When cruising to Wales, you’ll stop at some remarkable harbours that showcase the region’s beauty and charm. Here are five top destinations worth your time:

• Holyhead: Often considered the main gateway to Wales, Holyhead is ideal for exploring **Anglesey**. After disembarking, visit the stunning **South Stack Lighthouse** for breathtaking views and a chance to see seabirds up close. For an insider tip, walk the short trail from the lighthouse for spectacular coastal views, perfect for photos!
• Cardiff: The vibrant capital city of Wales, Cardiff boasts cultural treasures like **Cardiff Castle**, where you can explore its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens. Afterward, wander along the **Cardiff Bay waterfront**, where you’ll find delightful cafes and shops. Pro tip: Don’t miss the **Milennium Centre**, an iconic venue for Welsh arts, where you might catch a performance!
• Swansea: Located on the stunning South Wales coastline, Swansea is a fantastic spot for exploring **Gower Peninsula**, the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. When in town, take a stroll through **Swansea Marina** or relax at the beautiful **Swansea Bay**. Insider tip: Head to **Oystermouth Castle** for panoramic views and a fantastic picnic area!
• Aberystwyth: This charming coastal town is a hub for culture and stunning scenery. After docking, explore the historic **Aberystwyth Castle** or take the funicular railway to **Consti Hill** for a fantastic lookout over the coast. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious ice cream from a local vendor as you stroll along the promenade!
• Milford Haven: Known for its stunning water views, Milford Haven is perfect for exploring the **Pembrokeshire Coast National Park**. Enjoy a visit to **Pembroke Castle** or take a scenic boat tour to see the beautiful coastline. Pro tip: If time allows, sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant to experience the region’s delightful culinary offerings!

The Best Times to Cruise in Wales

Wales boasts a mild climate, making it a viable cruise destination throughout most of the year. The prime time to visit is from **April to June** and **September to October**, with temperatures typically sitting between **12°C and 22°C**. During these months, you can expect lovely weather, fewer crowds, and stunning seasonal landscape views. The peak summer season can see temperatures climb up to **25°C**, but large crowds may affect your experience and prices might peak. For those looking to experience Wales’s natural beauty without the hustle and bustle, early autumn is particularly rewarding, showcasing vibrant autumn colours!

Cost of Cruising to Wales

When planning your cruise budget, typical costs for a one-week cruise to Wales range between **$1,800 and $3,500**, while a two-week adventure can run anywhere from **$3,500 to $6,500**. Luxury cruises generally start at about **$5,000** for a one-week itinerary. Expect the cheapest fares during the shoulder seasons, while July and August are usually the most expensive times to cruise due to high demand. When dining in Wales, plan for around **$20 to $40** per meal, depending on your choice of restaurant—plenty of casual eateries and fine dining spots await you!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Welsh Itineraries

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of **11 ships**, Holland America offers one ship that sails to Wales—**Nieuw Statendam**. Departures most frequently occur from **Rotterdam** or **Dover**. Known for its stunning décor and refined experiences, this line excels in serving diverse food options and providing immersive onboard activities that deepen your knowledge of the destinations.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Featuring **26 ships**, there are two that visit Wales: **Carnival Legend** and **Carnival Miracle**. These cruises generally set sail from **Dover** or **Miami**. Carnival is a family-friendly cruise line that offers a fun atmosphere aboard its ships, with various entertainment options to suit all generations.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of **16 ships**, Celebrity has one ship, **Celebrity Eclipse**, that offers itineraries to Wales. Most cruises depart from **Amsterdam**. Celebrity Cruises is renowned for upscale amenities, exceptional service, and impressive culinary experiences that elevate cruising to a luxurious affair.
• Princess Cruises: With **17 ships** in total, **Princess** has **two ships** sailing to Wales, namely **Regal Princess** and **Emerald Princess**. Departures mainly occur from **Southampton**. The cruise line is known for its Broadway-style entertainment and specialty dining venues, creating a diverse onboard experience for its guests.
• P&O Cruises: A fleet of **seven ships**, with one that sails to Wales—**Arcadia**. Regularly departing from **Southampton**, P&O Cruises is celebrated for its British-inspired experiences onboard, focusing on traditional afternoon teas and a host of leisure activities designed for relaxation.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of **11 ships**, **five** offer itineraries to Wales. The **Viking Saturn** and **Viking Sky** often depart from **Greenwich** or **Bergen**. Viking is known for its enriching experiences onboard, featuring cultural activities and events focused on enhancing the journey, perfect for those who appreciate a more immersive cruise experience.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **six ships**, **four** voyage to Wales, including **Seven Seas Grandeur** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departing frequently from **Reykjavik** or **Southampton**, Regent is praised for its all-inclusive luxury offering, which covers shore excursions, fine dining, and top-quality service that ensures indulgent cruising.
• Silversea: With **13 ships** total, **two** of them cruise to Wales, namely **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Shadow**. Cruise departures most often happen from **Southampton** or **Belfast**. Offering intimate voyages with an emphasis on personal service, Silversea pays close attention to individual needs, making each guest feel special.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, Seabourn has one that sails to Wales—**Seabourn Sojourn**. Departing from either **London** or **Barcelona**, the cruise line is renowned for its luxury cruising experience, featuring all-suite accommodations and onboard gourmet dining, creating a unique atmosphere of indulgence.
• Oceania Cruises: With eight ships in their fleet, **two** sail to Wales—**Marina** and **Sirena**. These often depart from **Reykjavik** or **Amsterdam**. Oceania focuses heavily on culinary experiences with their unique, destination-specific dining menus, making them perfect for food lovers and those who enjoy the finer aspects of voyaging.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re considering a cruise to **Wales** but want to explore other exciting options, consider these alternative regions:

• England: The splendid landscapes, historical landmarks, and lively cities offer a rich cultural experience and unique adventures for all types of travelers.
• Caribbean: Known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, the Caribbean is perfect for relaxation and island-hopping expeditions filled with warm sunshine and vibrant nightlife.
• Southern Europe: Packed with rich history, breathtaking coastlines, and delectable cuisine, Southern Europe is a must-visit destination for culture seekers and food enthusiasts alike.
• Northern Europe: Complete with picturesque fjords, charming villages, and exciting cities, Northern Europe presents endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
• Scottish Highlands: With breathtaking landscapes, rich folklore, and historical castles, cruising through Scotland‘s highlands offers a unique blend of adventure and culture.

Wales beckons with its natural beauty, rich history, and enchanting villages that create a unique adventure waiting to be discovered. Why not book your next cruise holiday to Wales with **CruiseAway** today and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences!