Location & Transportation
Southampton's excellent South Coast location means that travel links by road, rail, sea, and air are unmatched in the region. I always check out the Travelling to Southampton page for extra details before exploring.
Here are some handy tips for navigating the port:
- For detailed maps and terminal info, refer to this resource covering Southampton's four cruise terminals.
- A fifth terminal, the Horizon terminal, opened in July 2021 at Dock Gate 10 – it’s eco-friendly with shore power and over 2,000 roof-mounted solar panels, mainly serving MSC and NCL ships.
- Taxis are abundant with short rides into town costing roughly £5. It’s just about a 5-minute cab ride to the train station where you can catch one of four trains per hour to London (70–90 minute journey).
For the latest updates, the Port Authority is a great resource.
Nearby Lodging
There are several hotels within walking distance of the cruise terminals, many of which offer special packages for cruise passengers. These are perfect if you want a convenient place to rest before or after your cruise.
Sightseeing
Southampton is full of history and charm. I love wandering through its Old Town and uncovering treasures from centuries past:
- Stroll through Old Town to admire medieval town walls and The Bargate, one of England’s finest historic town gates.
- Explore streets like Bugle Street, lined with buildings that tell fascinating stories from different eras.
- Visit historic churches, including one where Philip of Spain once heard mass before a royal journey.
- Take a walk along the waterfront, now home to peaceful cruise ships and container vessels—a reminder of Southampton’s vital role during events like the D-Day landings.
- Don’t miss Solent Sky, a nearby museum with a fantastic display of historic aircraft.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of ways to see more of the area:
- Use local taxis to reach the town center and train station (fares around £5–£8) for further adventures.
- Hop on a train for a day trip to London—trains run frequently with a journey time of about 70–90 minutes.
- At the train station, you can also catch a National Express bus for trips to London or Heathrow.
These options make it easy to combine a port visit with a taste of England's capital or explore more of Southampton’s own rich maritime heritage.
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
Southampton offers a pleasant shopping experience:
- Wander just past The Bargate along Above Bar, the main shopping street.
- Visit West Quays shopping mall for a mix of high street brands and independent stores.
- Everything is within easy walking distance, so you can enjoy browsing casually while soaking in the local atmosphere.
- For more shopping tips, check out Visit Southampton.
Dining
When it comes to food, Southampton doesn’t disappoint:
- Enjoy a range of dining options from quick bites to sit-down meals, with everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
- I recommend sampling some local specialties in the town center or near the waterfront—the choices are abundant and delicious.
Culture & Local Events
Southampton’s history and maritime heritage are celebrated through a variety of cultural events throughout the year. Here’s what you might find:
- Local festivals and events that reflect the city's rich history, including maritime celebrations and art shows.
- Many shops and attractions keep extended hours during peak times, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
- In the UK, it’s common for credit cards and contactless payments to be accepted almost everywhere, though carrying a bit of cash is handy for smaller purchases. Tipping isn’t compulsory, but many restaurants appreciate a tip of about 10% for good service.
- Safety tip: Enjoy the vibrant crowds but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist spots.