Location & Transportation
Only a few cruise ships visit Portland, making it a charming and intimate stop along the Jurassic Coast. You'll dock in Portland Harbour – once a Navy base and the home of sailing events during the 2012 Olympics – and find yourself not far from the causeway that links the island to the mainland.
In April 2023 the port expanded with a new berth, now able to accommodate two large vessels at the same time. There is also a free shuttle provided by the port authority that takes you from the dock over to Weymouth. Friendly volunteers in both Portland and Weymouth are on hand to help ensure you have a smooth transfer.
A little tip: Be on deck at least an hour before departure. Locals celebrate each ship’s departure with a memorable show – a live brass band performance and a ceremonial gun salute from the Nothe Fort Artillery Volunteers add a festive maritime touch to your experience.
Nearby Lodging
Since Portland is primarily a working port catering to day visitors, overnight accommodations are limited. For a range of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs, many visitors choose to stay in nearby Weymouth, where you can enjoy a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Nearest Airport
For those flying in, Bournemouth Airport is approximately 40 miles away and offers connections from London and other UK hubs. Alternatively, Southampton Airport is around 60 miles from Portland. Taxis and car rentals are available to make the journey into the area.
Sightseeing
Portland and its surroundings boast a host of unique attractions:
- Weymouth: Visit this quaint seaside resort featuring a sandy beach, a bustling promenade, an interesting harbor, and even a smuggling museum. There are plenty of cafes, pubs, and traditional fish & chip shops to explore. Check out Weymouth for more details.
- Portland Bill: This dramatic, high rocky promontory is steeped in history – it’s the namesake for Portland stone and Portland cement, used in landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral. Wander around the working stone quarries and enjoy sightings of the local rabbit population. More information is available at Portland Bill.
- Chesil Bank: Just west of Portland, this 18-mile long shingle barrier, often known as Chesil Beach, marks the start of a beautiful wildlife reserve known as "the Fleet."
- Jurassic Coast: Stretch your adventure along this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you’re driving west toward Lyme Regis or east to Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and even Corfe Castle, the coastal routes offer stunning natural vistas and fascinating history. Visit Jurassic Coast for more details.
Tours & Excursions
There are several ways to explore the local area:
- Bus Routes: The X53 route is excellent for sightseeing with an all-day ticket priced at £7.50 per adult. Alternatively, the seasonal open-topped Bus Route 501 costs around £5.00 and runs roughly once every hour during the summer. For more details, check out the Bus Map.
- Taxi Tours: If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider booking a taxi tour.
- When returning from your excursion, you can get off at Portland Castle where the shuttle bus conveniently stops to bring you back to the ship.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Portland’s main shopping streets – St Mary Street, St Thomas Street, and New Bond Street – are located in the heart of the town and within a five-minute walk of the beach and transport hubs. They offer a mix of local boutiques and traditional shops, perfect for picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Dining
Dining in Portland is an authentic taste of British coastal life. Enjoy meals in traditional pubs serving excellent fish & chips, seafood restaurants near the harbor, and cozy cafes inviting you to relax and savor local flavors. Don't miss out on trying a locally brewed ale for a truly British experience.
Culture & Local Events
The local culture in Portland reflects classic British charm with a touch of maritime heritage. Here’s what you need to know:
Local Events
- Departures are celebrated right at the port – local residents often put on a live brass band performance and a ceremonial gun salute from the Nothe Fort Artillery Volunteers.
- The community also hosts seasonal festivals and maritime markets that celebrate Portland’s rich history and coastal traditions.
Safety & Awareness
- Portland is a working port; please follow all instructions from port authorities and stay within designated areas.
- Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in busy areas.
- In case of an emergency, dial 999 (or 112) immediately.
Local Culture
- Currency: The British pound (£) is used throughout the UK. You might also hear the slang term “quid” for pounds. Note that Scottish bank notes might not be accepted in other parts of the country.
- Communication: English is the primary language here, and while everyone speaks clearly, you might encounter charming local accents.
- Opening Hours: Small stores typically open around 10am and close by 6pm, while larger shops might stay open until 9pm. Hours can vary on weekends and during holidays, so it’s a good idea to check ahead if you’re planning a special purchase.