Although most people enjoy flying out from their local airport to join their cruise ship in a foreign port, there is a lot to be said about sailing from one of the ports around the UK. If you live close to a Port like Newcastle you can enjoy the start of your cruise just moments from home. This option is also ideal if you don't like flying or have mobility needs.
Ports such as Southampton, Newcastle and Liverpool are easily reached by road, rail and by air. Many of the cruise companies have even negotiated special airfares including transfers from domestic airports around the UK to the ports.
If you choose to drive to the port, you can park in one of the secure car parks, often at a reduced rate, or on selected UK departing cruises the parking may be complimentary. This leaves you safe in the knowledge that your car will be waiting for you when you disembark at the end of your cruise. Some hotels at the main ports even offer parking for the duration of your cruise in the cost of your overnight stay. Hays Travel can book your car parking and hotel accommodation at your chosen port - for further information call 0800 408 4229.
If you don't want to do the driving, there are also selected coach companies who provide links from a choice of towns around the UK to the port of your choice for a selection of cruises. The advantage of this is that you don't need to handle your luggage from when it is loaded onto the coach to when it arrives in your stateroom aboard ship later that day.
Another benefit of sailing from the UK is that there is often no restriction on how much luggage you can take with you, the only restriction being the weight in each case for handling purposes - and of course the amount of luggage you can fit in your stateroom!
There are also many short-break cruises from/to the UK for 2 to 5 nights. These are ideal for first time cruisers to sample life on board ship, or they can make an ideal option for celebrating a special occasion with family and friends.
Crown Princess
01 June 2013
11 Nights
Black Watch
18 June 2013
13 Nights
Thomson Spirit
22 June 2013
7 Nights
Thomson Spirit
13 July 2013
7 Nights
Oceana
14 July 2013
12 Nights
Discovery
22 August 2013
9 Nights
Independence of the Seas
21 September 2013
12 Nights
Adventure of the Seas
13 October 2013
14 Nights
Crown Princess
14 October 2013
12 Nights
Queen Victoria
24 October 2013
12 Nights
Information on the check-in procedures and requirements for your specific cruise can be found in your cruise travel documents or on the cruise line's website.
