Cruise Lines Sailing From Portsmouth
Explore all the reasons why Portsmouth is becoming an increasingly attractive departure point for UK cruise holidays.
For clients who prefer to cruise from the UK, Portsmouth offers a convenient departure point with plenty to see and do before sailing.
Travel agent takeaway: Portsmouth works particularly well as a pre- or post-cruise city break.
Ideal for clients who want to cruise from the UK without flying, with easy access and plenty to see and do before sailing.
No-fly cruising For clients who prefer to avoid airports and international flights.
Easy access Well connected by road and rail, with Portsmouth Harbour station and The Hard transport interchange nearby.
A destination in its own right Clients can combine their cruise with naval history, shopping, dining and waterfront attractions.
Smaller-ship appeal Ideal for boutique, small and mid-sized cruise ships, expedition and luxury cruising.
Our favourite cruise lines offering no-fly UK departures.
Ambassador Cruise Line Adult-only cruising with a traditional approach, designed around authentic experiences, dining and entertainment.
Best for: Adults looking for a relaxed, traditional cruise experience.
Virgin Voyages Stylish ships, innovative dining, entertainment and a more contemporary approach to cruising.
Best for: Adults looking for something thrilling and different.
Azamara Small-ship cruising with a strong emphasis on destination immersion and longer stays in port.
Best for: Experienced cruisers and clients who want more time exploring destinations.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Known for smaller, more personable ships and carefully crafted itineraries.
Oceania Cruises A luxury small-ship option, with a strong focus on cuisine, destinations and personalised service.
Best for: Couples and mature travellers who prefer a more traditional cruise experience.
Best for: Affluent, experienced travellers looking for an upscale cruise.
Portsmouth is particularly worth considering for clients who:
✅ Prefer no-fly holidays
✅ Live in or around southern England
✅ Want to drive to their cruise
✅ Prefer smaller or mid-sized ships
✅ Want to combine a cruise with a UK city break
✅ Enjoy history, maritime heritage and cultural attractions
✅ Prefer a less hectic embarkation experience than a major international airport
Landmarks, attractions and highlights to see and explore before departure.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, the Mary Rose and more.
Gunwharf Quays 90+ outlet stores, restaurants and waterfront bars.
Spinnaker Tower Panoramic views across the harbour and Solent from 170m high.
Old Portsmouth & Southsea Waterfront walks, independent shops, historic pubs and coastal views.
Agent tip: Recommend a pre-cruise night to explore the city and avoid last-minute travel stress.
Useful information to share with your clients.
Parking: A 24-hour long-stay multi-storey car park is available just a few minutes' walk from the terminal. Pre-booking is strongly recommended.
Terminal: With free Wi-Fi, a café, convenience shop, sky garden, baby-changing facilities, water refill station and left-luggage facilities.
Getting there: Accessible from the M27/M275, while Portsmouth Harbour station and The Hard transport interchange are close to the waterfront attractions.
Important: Always check the cruise operator's booking information for the latest embarkation and check-in requirements