British Isles Cruises

Discover the Majestic British Isles on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to the British Isles, a stunning region that includes the main islands of Great Britain and Ireland, as well as over 6,000 smaller islands. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, the British Isles are a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. Did you know that the British Isles are home to Shakespeare’s birthplace, breathtaking coastlines, and some of the oldest prehistoric monuments in the world? Cruising the British Isles provides an excellent opportunity to visit charming cities, picturesque towns, and iconic landmarks, all while enjoying the comforts and luxuries of modern cruise ships.

Top Major Cruise Lines to the British Isles

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 vessels—including Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam—that offer itineraries to the British Isles. Holland America is known for its exceptional dining options and premium onboard experiences, making them a favourite for those seeking sophistication at sea. The company emphasizes cultural enrichment, providing guests with unique experiences related to the destinations they visit. Departures typically occur from ports like Southampton and Amsterdam, allowing easy access to explore the British Isles.
• Cunard: This luxury cruise line operates a fleet of 4 ships, with three—Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth—offering itineraries that include the British Isles. Cunard is renowned for its elegant atmosphere, traditional afternoon tea, and enriching onboard experiences, blending history with modern luxury. Most cruises depart from major international ports like Southampton and New York, ensuring a smooth beginning to your British Isles voyage.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 6 vessels—such as Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess—offering itineraries to the British Isles. Famous for its "Come Back New" promise, Princess strives to inspire travel with engaging itinerary options and premium onboard amenities. Departures usually occur from international ports like Southampton and Fort Lauderdale, giving you easy access to this diverse region.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: This new cruise line features a fleet of 2 ships, both of which offer itineraries to the British Isles. Known for its affordable prices and eco-conscious practices, Ambassador provides value-oriented experiences that don’t compromise on quality. Departure ports include major cities like London, ensuring convenience for cruisers eager to explore the British Isles.
• MSC Cruises: The Italian cruise line boasts a fleet of 24 ships, with 4 of them—MSC Magnifica, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Lirica, and MSC Opera—offering itineraries to the British Isles. MSC is known for its innovative ship designs and excellent service, creating memorable experiences onboard. Departures typically take place from key international ports such as Southampton and Amsterdam, allowing travellers easy access to captivating destinations in the British Isles.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8 ships, Oceania has 4 vessels—including Nautica and Vista—that offer cruises to the British Isles. Oceania is known for its exceptional culinary experiences and destination-focused itineraries, providing guests an enriching experience at sea. Departures generally occur from popular ports such as Southampton and Reykjavik, allowing smooth transitions to experience the charming British Isles.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking Ocean features a fleet of 11 ships, with 6 vessels—including Viking Sky and Viking Saturn—offering itineraries to the British Isles. Renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere and focus on cultural immersion, Viking Ocean provides an upscale cruising experience that encourages engagement with local history and communities. Departures usually happen from international ports like Greenwich and Bergen, ensuring hassle-free connections to explore the British Isles.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea has 5 vessels—including Silver Spirit and Silver Dawn—that offer itineraries to the British Isles. Silversea excels in providing an all-inclusive luxury experience with exceptional service, fine dining, and elegant accommodations. Departures generally occur from international ports like Southampton and Lisbon, making your journey to the British Isles seamless.
• Azamara Cruises: This upscale cruise line features a fleet of 4 ships, with 3—Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey, and Azamara Onward—offering itineraries that include stops in the British Isles. Known for its immersive experiences and longer stays in each port of call, Azamara encourages guests to engage with local cultures. Departures typically happen from international ports like Dublin and Lisbon, ensuring a smooth entry to this enchanting region.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn offers itineraries to the British Isles on two of its vessels—Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Ovation. Known for their intimate atmosphere and personal touch, Seabourn cruise ships consistently deliver unmatched luxury and impeccable service. Departures generally occur from popular ports such as Dublin and London, providing seamless access for cruisers ready to explore the stunning sites and landscapes of the British Isles.

Top Harbours to Explore in the British Isles

• Southampton, England: As a prolific port city in the UK, Southampton serves as a major departure point for cruises to the British Isles. While in port, visitors can explore the Titanic Museum or take a leisurely stroll through the historic city centre. Don't miss the chance to visit the SeaCity Museum to learn about Southampton's maritime history!
• Belfast, Northern Ireland: The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is known for its vibrant culture and history. While docked, visitors can tour the iconic Titanic Belfast visitor centre, which tells the story of the ill-fated ship built in the city. Additionally, explore the beautiful Botanic Gardens or enjoy a walking tour to discover the city’s political murals.
• Dover, England: Famous for its stunning white cliffs, Dover offers breathtaking views and fascinating history. While in port, head to the Dover Castle, where you can explore its medieval architecture and learn about its strategic significance throughout history. Enjoy a walk along the cliffs for spectacular views of the English Channel!
• Liverpool, England: Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool is filled with rich musical and maritime history. Cruise passengers can visit The Beatles Story Museum, the historic Albert Dock, or the Tate Liverpool art gallery. The lively waterfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants.
• Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland: The main town of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick boasts beautiful scenery and a rich Norse heritage. Explore the historic Fort Charlotte or visit the Shetland Museum and Archives to learn about the islands' fascinating history. Don't forget to stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy the local delicacies!

Best Times to Cruise to the British Isles

The ideal time to cruise the British Isles is between May and September, when temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C. This period offers pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, allowing for an enjoyable exploration of the various sights. The October to April window can be colder, with temperatures averaging around 0°C to 10°C, but this time also presents beautiful winter festivals and fewer tourists, making sightseeing more leisurely.

Costs of Cruising to the British Isles

A typical one-week cruise to the British Isles usually costs around $1200, while a two-week cruise may start at approximately $2200. Luxury cruises typically begin at around $4000 for a week. Dining costs in the British Isles can be quite reasonable, with average meal prices between $15 and $30 and drinks generally ranging from $3 to $8, allowing you to enjoy authentic cuisine without stretching your budget.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If the British Isles have piqued your interest, consider these alternative regions for your upcoming cruise:

• Norwegian Fjords: Known for their stunning natural beauty, the fjords offer breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
• Scandinavia: Experience the distinct cultures and histories of Scandinavian countries, including Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, which provide a rich mix of urban and natural beauty, just waiting to be explored.
• Western Europe: This captivating region combines culture, architecture, and magnificent scenery, making it an excellent option for exploring historic towns and vibrant cities.
• Celtic Sea: Explore the coastal beauty and unique towns of Wales and Southern Ireland. Adventure seekers will love the hiking options, whilst history enthusiasts can delve into ancient sites.
• Channel Islands: A gem in the English Channel, the Channel Islands boast unique flora, stunning coastlines, and a blend of British and French cultures, making them a delightful stop.

Are you ready to embark on your adventure through the enchanting British Isles? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and discover the captivating landscapes and rich heritage that await!