United Kingdom Cruises

Discover London, Glasgow and more

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or culture seeker, the United Kingdom has something for everyone! This pocket of the world has so much to offer when it comes to fascinating history, ranging from interesting museums and galleries to time-honoured castles! The UK is brimming with postcard-perfect scenery, dotted with awe-inspiring architecture, cosy villages, lush national parks and beautiful beaches!

Southampton is widely recognised as the cruise capital of Europe, host to a selection of cruise lines and a world-famous embarkation point of many sailing adventures! Wander around Southampton’s old town to admire its mediaeval architecture or step inside the SeaCity Museum featuring an interactive model of the legendary Titanic. From Southampton, you can easily reach England’s capital city, London – home to some of the UK’s must-see destinations, such as Buckingham Palace, Tower of London and the London Eye! Voyages to the United Kingdom also take travellers to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and gateway to the county of Antrim, home of the Giant's Causeway. When your ship lays anchor in Holyhead, take the time to reconnect with nature as you take in the rolling hills and rugged coastlines in Wales. The northernmost part of the UK, Scotland, is also a worthy contender as a fantastic cruise destination – offering a wealth of iconic castles, stunning landscapes and freshwater lochs.

United Kingdom Cruise Highlights

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Recognised as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a geological marvel shrouded with an intriguing history of myths and local folklores. This natural wonder is a result of a volcanic fissure eruption millions of years ago, leaving 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that look like a pathway paved by giants. Legend has it that an Irish giant named Finn McCool built this causeway to cross the Irish Sea and battle with his rival, Scottish giant Benandonner. Whilst here, walk over the sparkling stones or sit on the wishing chair – a natural throne polished by a thousand of bottoms that sat on it over the time.

Loch Ness, Scotland

Loch Ness is debatably the most well-known freshwater lake in Scotland, thanks to the legend about a monster believed to be lurking in the depths of its waters. There’s so much you can do on your day here besides looking out for the mythical creature, such as cruising the waters, admiring the scenery and taking a leisurely walk. Learn about the story behind the legend at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, explaining the timeline and possible sightings of the creature, as well as the research conducted in the Loch.

London Eye, England

London is rich in glorious sights and one of the best ways to see it all is by riding the London Eye – a giant observation wheel on the River Thames, overlooking the England capital’s breathtaking panorama! This towering wheel comprises 32 capsules that take a roundabout for a romantic and spectacular sightseeing experience. From the top, you can spot some of the most iconic attractions in London, such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge.

History and Culture

The United Kingdom boasts a rich and diverse history, from stone-age cultures to the Ancient Roman rule, Norman conquerors to the rise of the British Empire. This island nation is awash with historical sites, including grand castles, staggering cathedrals, stone monuments and other feats of architecture. These are some of the historical places that will leave you in awe with their past glamour and glory:

Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument made up of a ring of stones whose creation still remains as a mystery – a powerful testament to humans’ ingenuity and brilliance!
Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO-listed definitive fortification built by the Roman Empire, stretching coast to coast across Northern England.
Westminster Abbey, a royal church that witnessed the coronation of the kings and queens and the royal weddings, and it’s also where some world-renowned names are buried – including Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, Charles Dickens and more!
Roman Bath, an ancient spa bath featuring well-preserved thermal springs where former Romans used to take a relaxing soak while socialising with other bathers!

Things to Do in the United Kingdom

Go on a castle-hopping

From the idyllic countryside of England to the delightful towns of Wales, all the way to the rolling Scottish highlands – you’ll find magnificent royal residences that withstood the test of time and marked history’s most epic moments. When in the United Kingdom, it’s a quintessential experience to visit at least one castle that you can find almost anywhere across the island nation! Elevate your shore excursion and go on a castle-hopping tour indulge in the history and heritage of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales and see its character reflected in every unique castle stay.

Visit Harry Potter’s filming locations

Potterheads will be delighted to explore the filming locations of the popular fantasy series Harry Potter across the United Kingdom. Starting from the Alnwick Castle – this castle has been used for the exterior shots of Hogwarts, as well as the scenes of when Harry first learned how to fly. Relive the iconic scene when Harry was left dumbfounded as he watched Ron disappear through a wall at Platform 9 2/4 in King Cross station. If you have limited time, you can spend a day touring around the Warner Bros Studio in London for an all-in-one comprehensive experience of the film’s sets, such as the Forbidden Forest, Hogwarts’ Great Hall and Diagon Alley.

Stroll around the colourful Italian-style village in Wales

Portmeirion is a charming folly tourist village in North Wales designed after an Italian setting. It’s idyllically situated on a private peninsula overlooking a serene coastal scenery, perfect for taking leisurely walks and soaking in nature. A colourful collection of small terracotta-roofed houses and landscaped gardens characterise this Mediterranean-style village – completely engineered by the Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis using an eco-friendly approach.

Natural Wonders

Wherever you are in the United Kingdom, this country will leave you wonderstruck with its many breathtaking scenery – evidenced by its pristine coastlines, dramatic cliffs, luscious forests, rolling hills! Outdoor enthusiasts seeking for a kick of adrenaline can trek the wilderness with pack ponies, challenge themselves with a coast to coast hike across England or brave the waves in the beaches of Cornwall. Meanwhile, if you’re just looking to relax and unwind, there’s also a plethora of tranquil hideaways to visit and things to do! You can explore the English countryside, take a dip in the majestic lakes or spot marine wildlife from the shores. Here’s a quick glance at our favourite natural wonders in the UK:

Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch rising out of the sea on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset – it’s one of the most-photographed landmarks in the whole of England!
Cheddar Gorge, a natural treasure nestled in the Mendip Hills, is the largest limestone gorge in England – climb the top of its cliffs for panoramic views!
Fingal’s Cave in the uninhabited island of Staffa is a remarkable sea cave filled with unique angular basalt columns – you’ll find this jewel across the Irish Sea from the Giant’s Causeway.

United Kingdom Cruises FAQs

How long do British Isles cruises last?

British Isles cruises typically last from 11 to 28 nights, depending on your cruise schedule and itinerary. Shorter sailings are also available if you have limited time. It takes several months to complete a circumnavigation, allowing travellers to explore the cruise destinations at a leisurely pace and more in-depth.

Is there a cruise that goes around the UK?

Yes, there’s a cruise that goes around the UK for travellers who want to take a staycation cruise around their homeland. This voyage typically lasts from 14 nights onwards, calling at several ports such as Southampton (London), Greenock (Glasgow), Liverpool, and more.

What is the best month to go on a British Isles cruise?

The cruise season runs from April through October, with shoulder seasons in the spring (April and May) and fall (September and October). It’s during this time when it’s usually warm and dry and the summer crowds start to dissipate.

What is the cruise capital of the UK?

The cruise capital of the UK is the port of Southampton – the largest and busiest cruise hub in the UK, hosting a wide variety of cruise lines and the embarkation port of many seafaring journeys.

Where do UK cruises sail from?

Whilst Southampton is regarded as the principal port of the UK, there are plenty of other ports across the country that guarantee travellers a comfortable time boarding their ship. In England, the main ports besides Southampton are Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle, Portsmouth, Tilbury and Harwich. Belfast is the major port of Northern Ireland and Leith (Edinburg) is for Scotland.

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