England Cruises

England is a land steeped in history, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a prime cruise destination for travellers. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds, England offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be explored. Fun fact: The country is home to over 1,500 castles, including the majestic Windsor Castle, which is one of the oldest occupied castles in the world! Cruising to England provides the perfect opportunity to visit iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in local traditions, and indulge in classic British cuisine—all while enjoying the comfort of your floating hotel.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to England

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 luxurious ships, Cunard features 3 that sail to England. The illustrious Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are renowned for their stately elegance and exceptional service, offering onboard experiences that include world-class dining and entertainment. Most sailings typically depart from Southampton or New York, setting a regal tone for your journey through England.
• P&O Cruises: This classic cruise line boasts a fleet of 7, with 6 that frequently visit the shores of England. The Aurora and Arcadia are especially cherished for their British charm and refined ambience, catering to those seeking a unique cruise experience. Departures are commonly made from Southampton or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, allowing guests easy access to the local attractions.
• Princess Cruises: With a total fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises offers 9 that operate itineraries in England. The Sky Princess and Crown Princess are particularly favoured for their diverse dining options and an impressive line-up of entertainment. Most cruises embark from Southampton or Rome, giving cruisers a smooth transition into their English adventure.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 that focus on itineraries that include England. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are celebrated for their upscale dining experiences and enriching programs that allow guests to engage with local cultures. Departures predominantly occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), ensuring easy access for those looking to explore England.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23 ships, MSC has 4 that visit England. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Preziosa provide fantastic onboard amenities and a range of dining experiences reflecting local flavours. Departures typically take place from Southampton or Hamburg, making embarkation both convenient and exciting.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in England

• Fred Olsen: With a fleet of 3 ships, Fred Olsen operates all of them on routes that include stops in England. The Balmoral and Bolette deliver a friendly, intimate cruising atmosphere with a focus on excellent service. Most departures occur from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, making it a great choice for those seeking a personal touch while exploring England.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania features a fleet of 8 ships, with 3 that cruise to England. The Nautica and Vista stand out for their culinary excellence and upscale ambiance, providing travellers with a luxurious experience that doesn’t skimp on flavour. Most departures occur from Southampton or Copenhagen, ensuring a refined opening to your exploration.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has 3 dedicated to cruising the English coast. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest focus on immersive cultural experiences, allowing for extended stays in port destinations. Departures often take place from Southampton or Dublin, making it easy to access the city’s numerous delights.
• Seabourn: Featuring a small fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 1 that focuses on itineraries to England. The Seabourn Sojourn is known for its opulent atmosphere and personalized service, catering to luxury-seeking travellers. Departures typically occur from London or Greenock, providing an elegant embarkation point for your journey.
• Cruise & Maritime Voyages: Though smaller in fleet size, this cruise line offers intimate experiences sailing to England on various routes, often featuring local cultural experiences and smaller ports of call.

Must-Visit Harbours in England

• Southampton: A historic port city and a major departure hub for cruises, Southampton has much to offer. While docked, discover the SeaCity Museum, which tells the story of the Titanic, or explore the medieval city walls. Enjoy some local fish and chips at a nearby restaurant, or take a short trip to the picturesque New Forest National Park.
• London: The bustling capital is filled with iconic landmarks. When in London, visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. If you have time, wander the vibrant streets of Covent Garden or catch a spectacular show in the West End for an unforgettable experience.
• Liverpool: Famous for its rich musical history, particularly as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool is a vibrant city. Visit The Beatles Story museum, stroll along Albert Dock, or take a ferry ride on the Mersey River. Enjoy a meal in one of the many excellent restaurants offering local dishes.
• Bristol: A convenient port for many cruises, Bristol is known for its maritime history and stunning street art. When you arrive, visit the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, explore the SS Great Britain, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbourside. Be sure to check out the quirky cafes and shops in the neighbourhood of Stokes Croft.
• Newcastle upon Tyne: Nestled along the River Tyne, Newcastle is famed for its vibrant nightlife and historic architecture. When visiting, stroll across the iconic Quayside and check out the impressive Sage Gateshead music venue. Be sure to explore the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and sample local delicacies in one of the city’s many restaurants.

The Best Times to Cruise to England

Timing your cruise can greatly enhance your experience in England. From January to March, temperatures typically fluctuate between 0°C and 10°C, providing a quieter atmosphere for exploring historic sites and regions. Spring (April to June) brings milder weather, averaging 5°C to 20°C, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying gardens in full bloom. Summer months (July to September) see warmer temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, attracting larger crowds and making outdoor festivals more prevalent. Autumn (October to December) showcases lovely colours with temperatures averaging around 5°C to 15°C, creating picturesque backdrops for local celebrations and Christmas markets.

The Cost of Cruising to England

When planning your cruise budget, one-week itineraries generally range from GBP 600 to GBP 1,400 per person, contingent on the chosen cruise line and accommodation type. For two-week cruises, expect pricing to be between GBP 1,200 and GBP 3,500 or more. Luxury cruises often demand a higher price, typically averaging between GBP 1,800 and GBP 5,500 for a one-week trip. Dining onshore may typically cost around GBP 12 to GBP 30 for meals, while drinks usually range from GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to indulge in local flavours without overspending.

Are you ready to explore the rich history and picturesque landscapes of England? At Cruise1st, we are dedicated to helping you organise the perfect holiday experience with an impressive array of incredible itineraries and cruise lines tailored to your preferences. Your extraordinary journey through England awaits—book your cruise today!