Southampton is your gateway to an array of thrilling cruise destinations. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, a couple, or a group of friends, there's a perfect cruise line and itinerary for you. Dive into our guide to discover the best cruise lines, the destinations they cover, and what to expect on your next adventure.
P&O Cruises
Best Suited For: Families and couples
P&O Cruises caters to a wide audience, particularly families and couples. Renowned for its excellent service and diverse entertainment options, P&O Cruises offers trips to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Canary Islands.
Cost Estimate: £800-£1,500 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Attend the 'Celebration Night' – an evening of fine dining and dancing. Dont forget your complimentary drink voucher you'll find in your room!
Must-Do Destination: In Lisbon, visit the historic Belém Tower and sample the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
Cunard Line
Best Suited For: Luxury seekers and traditionalists
Cunard Line is synonymous with elegance and tradition. It attracts those who appreciate fine dining, classical entertainment, and sophisticated atmospheres. From Southampton, Cunard offers transatlantic crossings and European cruises.
Cost Estimate: £1,200-£2,500 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Experience the traditional afternoon tea in the Queen's Room, complete with white-gloved service.
Must-Do Destination: In Hamburg, take a stroll along the historic Speicherstadt district and enjoy a harbor tour.
Royal Caribbean International
Best Suited For: Adventurers and families
Royal Caribbean International is known for its innovative ships and wide range of activities, making it perfect for families and adventure seekers. It offers cruises to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and Northern Europe.
Cost Estimate: £900-£1,800 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Try the rock climbing wall or the FlowRider surf simulator.
Must-Do Destination: In Barcelona, explore the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, including the famous Sagrada Família.
Princess Cruises
Best Suited For: Couples and solo travellers
Princess Cruises offers a relaxed and refined cruising experience, ideal for couples, multi-generational families and solo travellers. From Southampton, Princess Cruises sail to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, and the British Isles.
Cost Estimate: £1,000-£2,000 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Enjoy the Movies Under the Stars – an open-air poolside cinema experience.
Must-Do Destination: In Dublin, visit the Guinness Storehouse and enjoy a pint with a view from the Gravity Bar.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Best Suited For: Solo travelers and groups of friends
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its freestyle cruising concept, offering flexibility in dining and activities. It's popular among solo travelers and groups of friends. NCL offers cruises to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and Northern Europe from Southampton.
Cost Estimate: £800-£1,600 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Indulge in a meal at one of the specialty restaurants, such as the French bistro Le Bistro.
Must-Do Destination: In Amsterdam, take a canal cruise and visit the Anne Frank House.
MSC Cruises
Best Suited For: Families and budget-conscious travellers
MSC Cruises offers affordable yet stylish cruises, making it perfect for families and those on a budget. From Southampton, MSC Cruises sail to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Canary Islands.
Cost Estimate: £700-£1,400 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Relax at the MSC Aurea Spa, which offers a variety of treatments and thermal areas.
Must-Do Destination: Visit the Blue Lagoon and treat yourself to a treatment in Iceland
Celebrity Cruises
Best Suited For: Couples and foodies
Celebrity Cruises is known for its modern luxury and culinary excellence, making it ideal for couples and food enthusiasts. From Southampton, Celebrity Cruises offers itineraries to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Canary Islands.
Cost Estimate: £1,200-£2,200 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Dine at one of the specialty restaurants, such as EDEN, which focuses on fresh, globally-inspired dishes with a creative twist.
Must-Do Destination: In Bordeaux, explore the wine country and enjoy a tasting tour.
Disney Cruise Line
Best Suited For: Families with children
Disney Cruise Line provides a magical experience for families, especially those with young children. From Southampton, Disney offers cruises to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Cost Estimate: £1,500-£3,000 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Meet and greet Disney characters and enjoy the spectacular Broadway-style shows.
Must-Do Destination: In Copenhagen, visit the Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks and the inspiration for Disneyland!
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Best Suited For: Mature travellers and those seeking a traditional experience
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers a more traditional and intimate cruise experience, perfect for mature travelers. From Southampton, Fred. Olsen sails to destinations including the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic, and the Mediterranean.
Cost Estimate: £900-£1,700 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Participate in the themed evenings and traditional dance events.
Must-Do Destination: In Bergen, ride the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen for stunning views over the city and fjords.
Oceania Cruises
Best Suited For: Foodies and culture enthusiasts
Oceania Cruises is known for its gourmet dining and destination-focused itineraries. From Southampton, Oceania offers cruises to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
Cost Estimate: £2,000-£4,000 per person for a 7-night cruise
Must-Do Onboard: Dine at The Grand Dining Room, which offers exquisite cuisine crafted by renowned chefs.
Must-Do Destination: In Oslo, Walk to the top of the opera house and take in the views across the natural harbour.
How We Sea it:
Cruising from Southampton provides a variety of experiences tailored to different tastes and budgets. Whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, family fun, or a traditional experience, there's a cruise line and itinerary perfect for you. From the historic streets of Lisbon to the stunning Norwegian Fjords, each destination promises unique experiences that will create lasting memories. Bon voyage!
Check out our Ships pages for details on most of the cruise lines listed. For more information on destinations from Southampton check out our Ports pages