British Isles Cruises

The British Isles, an idyllic tapestry of lush landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures, is a fabulous destination for travellers seeking a unique cruise experience. Did you know that there are more than 6,000 islands in the British Isles, with only a fraction being inhabited? Cruising to the British Isles offers the chance to explore not only the iconic cities of England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland but also the scenic beauty of their surrounding islands. Whether you want to explore the historical sights of Edinburgh, the charm of Dublin, or the dramatic cliffs of Moher, a cruise through the British Isles is sure to create lasting memories and experiences!

Major Cruise Lines to the British Isles

• Cunard: With a luxurious fleet of 4 ships, Cunard has 3 that offer itineraries to the British Isles. The Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are celebrated for their elegant ambiance and exceptional onboard service, with fine dining options and a traditional afternoon tea experience. Most cruises typically depart from international ports such as Southampton and New York, but travelers from Australia also have the option to depart from Sydney.
• P&O Cruises: P&O operates 7 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries that include visits to the British Isles. The Aurora and Ventura focus on providing diverse entertainment and relaxation options for guests of all ages, featuring various dining venues and engaging shipboard activities. Departures are often found from international ports like Southampton and Bridgetown, ensuring a comfortable start to your voyage!
• Holland America Line: Holland America has a fleet size of 11, with 4 ships offering itineraries to the British Isles. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are popular for their exceptional service and exquisite culinary experiences, allowing guests to indulge in local flavours. Most departures generally occur from international ports like Rotterdam or Dover, with Sydney as the domestic option for cruisers from Australia.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 vessels, Princess offers 9 that cover routes to the British Isles. The Sky Princess and Crown Princess are known for their extensive entertainment options and gourmet dining experiences. Passengers have the flexibility to depart from domestic ports like Sydney or Brisbane, as well as international ports such as Southampton and Dover.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC has 4 ships offering itineraries that visit the British Isles. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Preziosa are well-regarded for their family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard activities. Most cruises tend to depart from international ports like Southampton or Hamburg, making it easy for cruisers to start their expedition across the stunning British Isles.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the British Isles

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania features a fleet of 8 ships, with 5 that often travel to the British Isles. The Sirena and Vista stand out for their focus on exceptional culinary offerings and immersive cultural experiences that allow guests to appreciate local traditions. Departures typically occur at key international ports such as Southampton or Reykjavik, providing convenient access for your voyage.
• Silversea: Silversea operates a luxurious fleet of 12 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to the British Isles. The Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit are renowned for their all-inclusive experience and personalized service, with fine dining and spacious accommodations. Common departure ports include Southampton or Reykjavik, allowing travelers to comfortably embark on their exploration of this fascinating region.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara has a fleet size of 4, with 3 dedicated to British Isles itineraries. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward offer immersive travel experiences. Passengers can look forward to longer stays in port, enabling them to delve into local cultures and history. Departures typically occur from ports such as Southampton or Dublin, ensuring easy embarkation for eager explorers.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn features 2 vessels that visit the British Isles. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Venture provide intimate atmospheres with luxurious accommodations and tailor-made itineraries. Departures are common from ports like London or Reykjavik, allowing guests to begin their upscale experience of the British Isles.

Captivating Harbours to Discover in the British Isles

• Southampton, England: Known as the cruise capital of the UK, Southampton is your gateway to exploring England and beyond. Take time to stroll through the city’s cultural sites, like the SeaCity Museum, or enjoy a quick trip to nearby London for iconic attractions such as Buckingham Palace and the British Museum!
• Rotterdam, Netherlands: Famed for its modern architecture, you can explore the unique Cube Houses and visit the impressive maritime museum. A walk along the waterfront offers great views of the city, and don’t forget to explore its lively food scene while you’re there!
• Copenhagen, Denmark: This charming capital city boasts a perfect blend of historic and modern sights. While docked, explore the picturesque Nyhavn harbour, visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, or wander through the beautiful Tivoli Gardens for a dash of whimsy!
• Reykjavik, Iceland: Your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Iceland, Reykjavik is a vibrant city bursting with culture. Take a day trip to the Golden Circle to see geysers, waterfalls, and the famous Blue Lagoon. Strolling through the colourful streets of Reykjavik and sampling local delicacies is a must!
• Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled in a bay, Kotor offers stunning scenery and rich history. Explore the beautifully preserved medieval architecture of the old town, hike up the fortress for panoramic views, or take a scenic boat tour of the bay. The charming ambiance makes Kotor a must-see!

The Best Times to Cruise the British Isles

When planning your cruise, the ideal months are from April to June when temperatures are mild, averaging between 10°C and 20°C, making it a perfect time for sightseeing without excessive crowds. July to September tends to be busier with tourists and warmer temperatures around 15°C to 25°C, ideal for enjoying the beauty of the region, but don’t forget to pack your umbrella or jacket for the occasional rain! Autumn (October to November) cools down to around 5°C to 15°C, creating stunning autumn colours, but come prepared for chilly weather!

Cost Overview for a Cruise in the British Isles

If you’re contemplating a cruise in the British Isles, expect to pay around $1,800 to $3,500 AUD for a regular 1-week cruise. Luxury options can start at about $4,500 AUD and increase depending on the itinerary. Dining out typically costs around $20 to $60 AUD per meal, while drinks usually range from $5 to $15 AUD. Many cruise packages include meals onboard, giving you the chance to try both local and international cuisine throughout your journey!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If a cruise to the British Isles isn’t quite what you’re looking for, consider these enticing alternative regions:

• Scandinavia: Explore stunning landscapes, historic cities, and rich cultures of countries like Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
• Western Europe: Experience the vibrant cultures and stunning landmarks of cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels, offering delightful culinary experiences and historical exploration.
• Northern Europe: Sail through breathtaking natural beauty and historical locales, giving you the chance to discover charming villages and stunning fjords.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Experience ancient history and beautiful coastlines in places like Greece and Turkey, creating captivating adventures filled with culture and delicious cuisine.
• Western Mediterranean: A perfect blend of stunning coastlines and cultural experiences, this region invites you to indulge in local cuisine and explore historic cities like Barcelona, Marseille, and Rome.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the British Isles? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich histories waiting for you in this captivating region!