Located about 90 minutes from Southampton cruise port, Heathrow is London's largest airport and likely where you'll arrive for your cruise. The airport has excellent transport links including the Heathrow Express to central London, and numerous hotels and restaurants within and around all terminals. Transportation to Southampton is available via train, cruise line transfers, private transfers, or rental cars.
Heathrow Airport has five terminals, though Terminal 1 is no longer in use. Each terminal has clear signage directing you to various transportation options. Here's where to find your transportation:
Located about 120 minutes from Southampton, Gatwick is London's second-largest airport. It has excellent rail connections to both London and Southampton via the Gatwick Express and National Rail services. The airport offers numerous hotels and dining options in both North and South terminals. Transportation options include trains, taxis, cruise transfers, and car rentals.
Gatwick Airport has two terminals - North and South. Each terminal has clear signage directing you to various transportation options. Here's where to find your transportation:
Southampton has five cruise terminals: Ocean Terminal, Queen Elizabeth II Terminal, City Terminal, Mayflower Terminal, and the new Horizon Terminal. Each is modern and well-equipped to handle the largest cruise ships. The terminals are spread along the Western Docks area, with good transport links to the city center and railway station.
The Southampton cruise terminals serve multiple cruise lines including P&O Cruises, Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and MSC. Each terminal has dedicated drop-off areas and parking facilities.
London offers accommodation options for every budget, from luxury hotels in Mayfair and Knightsbridge to comfortable mid-range options in Kensington and Victoria. The ideal location would be in the Westminster area.
Southampton features numerous hotels catering to cruise passengers, with many offering cruise parking packages.
Visit the iconic Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the coronation church since 1066. Next door, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament offer stunning photo opportunities and a glimpse into British political history. The area is easily accessible via Westminster Underground station and is surrounded by historic landmarks and photo opportunities.
The London Eye offers breathtaking 360-degree views over London from its prime location on the South Bank of the Thames. This giant observation wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one rotation, giving you plenty of time to spot famous landmarks and take photos. The area around the Eye is full of restaurants, street performers, and attractions including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Take a day trip to visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and one of the King's official residences. Combine this with a visit to the mysterious Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument that has captivated visitors for centuries. Many tour operators offer combined day trips to both locations from London, or as part of a transfer to Southampton port.
Experience London from the water with an exhilarating high-speed boat ride on the River Thames. These powerful RIB boats combine sightseeing with excitement as you zoom past famous landmarks including Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, and Canary Wharf. Tours depart from several central London piers and offer a unique perspective of the city with entertaining commentary from expert guides.
