Wales Cruises

Wales, famed for its rugged coastline, historic castles, and rich cultural heritage, is an extraordinary destination for cruise enthusiasts. The charm of quaint villages and the breathtaking landscapes of national parks such as Snowdonia offer a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the region. Fun fact: Wales is home to over 400 castles, making it one of the castle capitals of the world! A cruise to Wales allows you to explore its vibrant cities, delve into its storied past, and savour delicious local cuisine, all while enjoying luxurious amenities aboard your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Wales

• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 of them offering itineraries that feature Wales. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam are notable for their sophisticated atmosphere and emphasis on culinary excellence, providing guests with a taste of local flavours and cultural enrichment activities. Most departures typically occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), ensuring a seamless start to your exploration of the Welsh coast.
• P&O Cruises includes a fleet of 7 ships, with 3 dedicated to voyages that include Wales. The Arcadia and Iona are particularly popular for their relaxed atmosphere and diverse onboard experiences. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, fine dining options, and themed events throughout the cruise. Departures usually happen from Southampton or Valletta, providing easy access to the scenic beauty of Wales.
• Cunard consists of 4 luxurious ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries that include Wales. The Queen Victoria offers an exquisite onboard experience known for its classic luxury service and elegant dining options. Cunard’s emphasis on tradition, including afternoon tea and live music performances, creates a truly unique atmosphere. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Rome, facilitating access to the treasures of the Welsh coastline.
• Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that include Wales. The Sky Princess and Emerald Princess stand out for their extensive onboard facilities and entertainment, including unique movies under the stars and engaging cuisine offerings. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Rome, providing a seamless access point for your journey through this enchanting region.
• Norwegian Cruise Line comprises a fleet of 20 ships, with 6 focusing on itineraries to Wales. The Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn are recognised for their freestyle cruising options, allowing guests flexibility in dining and activities. Departures most commonly occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, making it easy to set sail for the extraordinary beauty of Wales.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Explore Wales

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries that highlight Wales. The Sirena and Marina are known for their luxury atmosphere alongside exceptional dining options that immerse guests in local flavors. Most departures typically occur from Southampton or Edinburgh, ensuring easy access points for cruising into this stunning region.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on exploring Wales. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are especially valued for their intimate settings and commitment to local experiences, often including late-night port stays for immersive adventures. Departures typically occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, making for a smooth transition into discovering the Welsh coast.
• Seabourn operates a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries that incorporate Wales. The Seabourn Ovation is distinguished for its all-inclusive luxury, personalized service, and unique itineraries. Departures generally happen from London or Reykjavik, setting the stage for an upscale exploration of this breathtaking coastal landscape.
• Explora Journeys consists of 2 ships, both offering itineraries to Wales. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focus on wellness and luxury, providing refined onboard offerings along with excursions designed for cultural immersion. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Miami, marking a tasteful beginning to your discovery of the Welsh coastline.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 itinerary including Wales. The Bolette, known for its cozy atmosphere and personal touch, ensures that cruising feels welcoming and intimate. Departures are common from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, making it easy for UK travellers to connect with their Welsh adventure.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Yucatán Peninsula

• Cobh – Known for its stunning harbor and beautiful Victorian architecture, Cobh is a charming town that welcomes cruisers. Explore the Cobh Heritage Centre for a fascinating insight into the town’s maritime history or visit the iconic St. Colman’s Cathedral, which offers spectacular views of the harbour.
• Holyhead – A vibrant Welsh port, Holyhead is your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Anglesey. Visit the beautiful South Stack Lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views, or explore the charming nearby village of Beaumaris, known for its impressive castle and picturesque waterfront.
• Swansea – As the second-largest city in Wales, Swansea is a hub of culture and history. Visit the Dylan Thomas Centre to explore the life of the famous poet or take a leisurely walk through the Swansea Marina and Waterfront Museum. Be sure to try the local delicacy, Welsh cakes, at a nearby café!
• Cardiff – The capital of Wales offers a rich blend of history and modernity. Visit the iconic Cardiff Castle and roam through the historic Bute Park. The vibrant Cardiff Bay features a variety of waterfront restaurants and bars, perfect for sampling traditional Welsh dishes.
• Milford Haven – This picturesque port town is surrounded by stunning countryside and coastline. Enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking or fishing on the water, or take a walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for breathtaking views. Milford Haven is ideal for discovering local wildlife and embracing nature’s beauty.

When to Cruise to Wales

Denmark enjoys a temperate maritime climate, making it ideal for cruising year-round. From January to March, winter reigns with chilly temperatures, often ranging from 0°C to 10°C, perfect for low tourist crowds and enjoying the warm indoor atmospheres of local attractions. Spring (April to June) brings milder temperatures around 10°C to 20°C, inviting visitors to enjoy blooming gardens and vibrant festivals. The summer months (July to September) can be warm, regularly reaching around 20°C to 30°C, great for beach and outdoor activities. As autumn rolls in (October to December), temperatures gradually drop to around 7°C to 15°C, creating picturesque fall scenery and plentiful local events.

Costs of Cruising to Wales

A standard one-week cruise to Wales usually costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and accommodations selected. Luxury cruises typically begin around £3,500 and may rise significantly based on level of service and available amenities. Dining ashore can vary from £10 to £30 for casual meals, while drinks usually cost around £3 to £8, allowing you to sample the authentic local flavours during your stay.

With its captivating history, stunning architecture, and vibrant landscapes, Wales is a fantastic destination ready to be explored. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on a delightful journey through this beautiful region!