Southampton, located on England’s southern coast, stands as one of the most significant cruise departure ports in Europe. Its maritime history stretches back centuries, with legendary vessels such as the RMS Titanic departing from this very port. Today, Southampton continues to thrive as a major hub for global and regional cruise travel. Hundreds of sailings operate each year, connecting passengers to destinations across Europe, the Canary Islands, Iceland, the Mediterranean, and transatlantic crossovers.

Whether you are planning a short mini-cruise or a world voyage spanning weeks, Southampton offers a vast selection of itineraries. In this article, we explore every type of cruise route available, the cruise lines offering sailings, popular schedule patterns, seasonal departures, and how to choose the perfect itinerary.

Why Southampton Is a Popular Departure Port

Southampton combines convenience, history, and connectivity. Millions of passengers embark annually due to its infrastructure and accessibility. Travelers located in the UK appreciate the no-flight requirement, while international guests enjoy easy travel links from London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Southampton Airport.

Other key advantages:

• Multiple cruise terminals reduce crowding and traffic delays

• Smooth rail and motorway connections from major cities

• Many voyage choices year-round (unlike seasonal-only ports)

• Cheaper to reach compared to fly-cruise packages

• Variety of short, mid-length, and long-haul itineraries

Southampton’s cruise network is diverse, and the itineraries available cover a staggering geographical range.

Main Cruise Destinations Available from Southampton

Cruises from Southampton are usually categorized based on destination region. Here are the most common and trending itinerary types.

Norwegian Fjords

A stunning favorite for many, Norwegian Fjords sailings operate mainly from April–September when weather conditions are optimal.

Typical port calls include:

• Bergen

• Stavanger

• Olden

• Ålesund

• Flam

Highlights of Fjord itineraries:

• Scenic glacier valleys and dramatic cliffs

• Northern Lights viewing opportunities early and late season

• Excursions including kayaking, hiking, and scenic railway rides

Durations range from 7 to 14 nights, though shorter sailings exist occasionally.

Iceland & Arctic Adventures

Cruises to Iceland usually include Reykjavik, Isafjordur, and Akureyri. Some extended itineraries include:

• Greenland

• Faroe Islands

• Arctic Circle crossings

These itineraries usually depart in late spring through summer, ranging 10–20+ nights depending on route length.

Passengers typically experience:

• Midnight sun or aurora viewing

• Volcano landscapes & geothermal areas

• Whale watching and wildlife excursions

These adventure-focused voyages sell out fast due to limited seasonal windows.

Mediterranean Cruises

Mediterranean itineraries from Southampton appeal to travelers wanting warmer climates, cultural history, and extended sailing. These are generally longer cruises due to distance, often lasting:

• 14 nights

• 18 nights

• 21+ nights Grand Mediterranean voyages

Common ports visited:

• Barcelona (Spain)

• Rome/Civitavecchia (Italy)

• Marseille (France)

• Palma de Mallorca

• Sicily

• Santorini and Greek Isles on extended routes

Mediterranean sailings operate March–October, with peak summer departures being most popular.

Canary Islands & Spain

One of the most accessible year-round warm-weather routes from Southampton, Canary Islands sailings typically operate in winter and spring.

Common port calls include:

• Tenerife

• Lanzarote

• Gran Canaria

• Madeira (Portugal)

• Lisbon

• Cadiz/Seville

Voyages generally range 10–14 nights, perfect for passengers seeking sunshine without long-haul flying.

Northern Europe & Baltic Capitals

Northern Europe itineraries are culturally rich, offering architecture, medieval history, and royal cities.

Popular stops include:

• Copenhagen

• Stockholm

• Helsinki

• Tallinn

• St. Petersburg (when politically accessible)

• Gdansk

Baltic routes typically last 10–12 nights and are mostly offered May–September.

British Isles Cruises

For passengers wanting to explore close to home, British Isles itineraries provide a sweeping cultural circuit without leaving the region.

Popular destinations:

• Edinburgh

• Belfast

• Dublin

• Liverpool

• Glasgow

• Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

These voyages last 7–14 nights, with peak departures in summer months.

Western Europe & Short Breaks

Shorter cruises are ideal for first-time cruisers or weekend escapes. These typically last 2–5 nights. Destinations often include:

• Bruges/Zeebrugge

• Amsterdam overnight stays

• Cherbourg

• Le Havre (gateway to Paris)

Perfect for quick holidays or cruise tasters.

Transatlantic Crossings

Southampton is historically one of the world’s most famous transatlantic departure ports. Today, ocean liner voyages continue to operate regularly, particularly to:

• New York

• Boston

• Fort Lauderdale

• Miami

Crossings usually operate spring and autumn, lasting 7–14 nights depending on routing.

A unique experience often includes:

• Sea-days focused sailing

• Classic ocean liner dining and entertainment

• No flight needed to America

Many transatlantic voyages can also combine Caribbean or Canadian legs.

World Cruises & Segment Voyages

Many cruise lines begin their around-the-world journeys in Southampton.

World cruises may exceed 100+ nights, visiting:

• Asia

• Australia

• New Zealand

• South Pacific

• South America

• Africa

• Middle East

Segments can be booked individually for shorter durations.

Cruise Lines Operating from Southampton

A wide range of cruise operators sail from Southampton. Major regular providers include:

• P&O Cruises

• Cunard

• Princess Cruises

• Royal Caribbean

• Celebrity Cruises

• MSC Cruises

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• Fred. Olsen

• Saga Cruises

Each operator offers different itinerary styles—from luxury to family-friendly to exploration voyages.

Best Time of Year to Cruise from Southampton

Cruise availability exists year-round, but seasons influence destinations.

Winter: Canary Islands, TransatlanticSpring: Fjords, Iceland opens, Mediterranean beginsSummer: Peak Europe + British IslesAutumn: Mediterranean returns north, crossings increase

Choosing your season helps narrow itinerary availability.

How to Choose the Right Southampton Itinerary

Selecting an itinerary depends on interests, budget, time, and weather preferences. Use the guide below:

PreferenceBest Itinerary

Warm weather year-roundCanary Islands

Scenery + natureNorwegian Fjords

Culture & historyMediterranean or Baltic

Quick breakWestern Europe short cruises

AdventureIceland/Arctic

Tips for Booking Cruises from Southampton

• Book early for peak summer itineraries

• Look for repositioning cruises for discounted pricing

• Off-season sailings can be more affordable

• Balcony cabins recommended for Fjords & Iceland routes

• Consider travel insurance for long voyages

Future Trends in Southampton Cruise Itineraries

Growing demand is expanding Southampton’s offerings:

• More year-round voyages

• Increased Arctic & Greenland routes

• Longer multi-continent itineraries

• New ships launching with Southampton homeporting

Southampton is expected to remain one of Europe’s top cruise gateways.

Final Thoughts

Southampton is a powerhouse cruise port with itineraries suitable for every type of traveler. From the wintry warmth of the Canaries to the glaciers of Norway and the timeless cities of the Mediterranean, the selection available is immense. Whether you seek short escapes, long cultural voyages, or world exploration, Southampton remains unmatched in diversity and convenience.

Planning ahead ensures the best cabin selection, lowest pricing, and access to the most desired itineraries. With hundreds of departures yearly, you are never limited in choice—only inspired by where to sail next.