It's safe to say that it's a very exciting time to embark on a cruise from Southampton, sailing to some of the world's most stunning destinations without the extra stress that flights and pre-stay hotels can bring.
With each sailing boasting their own array of incredible ports of call, and each ship featuring a fantastic selection of amenities, holidaymakers looking to sail out of Southampton will have a wide selection of cruises and cruise ships to choose from; so, no matter what you're looking for from your cruise adventure from Southampton, you'll find something to suit your tastes and travel preferences – and budgtet!
Sitting on England's south coast, the modern Port of Southampton has been operating – in some capacity – since 1843, and if you look further back, it was actually an important port since the Roman occupation of Britain! Since its historic origins as an entry point for European occupations, shipbuilding facilities, and more, the Port of Southampton has become a bustling hub of cruise travel – and is also the second-largest container terminal in the United Kingdom.
With this in mind, you're certainly not going to be stuck for choice. Here are the major cruise lines you'll see sailing out of Southampton the most:
You'll also find select sailings available from Oceania Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Explora Journeys, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Silversea Cruises – all of which make this a sensational departure port with an abundance of options.
If you're after something a little more specific, you'll find further details on the cruise ships and their destinations down below.
- Queen Mary 2 - Cunard
- Queen Anne - Cunard
- Arvia - P&O Cruises
- Iona - P&O Cruises
- Ventura - P&O Cruises
- Britannia - P&O Cruises
- Queen Victoria - Cunard
- Majestic Princess - Princess Cruises
- Aurora - P&O Cruises
- Arcadia - P&O Cruises
- MSC Preziosa - MSC Cruises
- More cruise ships departing from Southampton
Queen Mary 2 - Cunard
Debut: 2004 (Refurbished in 2016, with further refurbishments scheduled for Spring 2027)
Guest Capacity: 2,695
Destinations: North America, Northern Europe, Spain, Portugal, the Caribbean, and Norway
Great for: Incredible transatlantic voyages and unique event sailings
Highlights: Fantastic formal Gala Evenings, exquisite Afternoon Tea services, Illuminations (the only full-scale planetarium at sea), and an expansive library
An opulent ocean liner that exudes elegance, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is a sensational ship that you'll find regularly sailing from Southampton for a variety of destinations. Known perhaps most famously for its iconic transatlantic voyages and as the host of many of Cunard's interesting Event Voyages, Queen Mary 2 features grand decor and plush furnishings, further elevating the excellent onboard experience. It's also one of the few cruise ships in the world with kennels onboard, which are staffed by an experienced kennel master, giving you the chance to bring your pet with you on your unforgettable adventure. With traditional dining options, sensational Afternoon Tea, and cruise entertainment you won't want to miss, every moment on a Queen Mary 2 cruise is unforgettable.
A dog on deck, the Queens Room, and the Spa
Queen Anne - Cunard
Debut: 2024
Guest Capacity: 2,996
Destinations: Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, the Caribbean, and Norway
Great for: Modern cruising with Cunard's signature style and boutique luxury
Highlights: Traditional Afternoon Tea service, the impressive Bright Lights Society shows, and an extensive thermal suite in the Mareel Wellness & Spa
Offering holidaymakers the chance to enjoy a more modern iteration of Cunard's classical cruising experience, Queen Anne is an incredible ship featuring elevated interiors exuding elegance, modern amenities and entertainment experiences, the cruise line's signature White Star Service, and itineraries to some of the most scenic spots you can sail to from Southampton. With unique dining options like Aji Wa and Tramonto alongside Cunard favourites like The Golden Lion and the traditional Britannia Restaurant, the culinary landscape onboard is second to none. You'll also find exclusive entertainment on Queen Anne, like the extraordinary Bright Lights Society, which combines industry-leading technology with top-tier talent to deliver unforgettable moments on every incredible voyage.
The Grills Lounge, the Royal Court Theatre, and the Sky Bar
Arvia - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2022
Guest Capacity: 5,200
Destinations: The Mediterranean, and the Caribbean
Great for: Family fun in the sun and casual dining with sensational entertainment
Highlights: Impressive SkyDome area, the thrilling Altitude Skywalk, Mission Control (an incredible submarine-themed escape room), and a spacious swim-up bar
An innovative addition to P&O Cruises' incredible fleet, Arvia boasts abundant amenities for you to enjoy as you sail from Southampton to destinations throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. These include an impressive theatre venue, a cinema complex with three screens, 15 dining destinations, and four swimming pools – with an additional kids-focused splash zone and a relaxing hydrotherapy pool in the Oasis Spa. With all of this complemented by several lounges playing regular live music, sports facilities, kids' clubs, and so much more, it's safe to say that this ship is bound to impress.
The Swim-Up Bar, the Crow's Nest, and the Altitude Skywalk
Iona - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2021 (Refurbished in 2025)
Guest Capacity: 5,204
Destinations: Northern Europe, Norway, and the Canary Islands
Great for: Scenic cruising experiences and cruisers after abundant options for onboard dining and entertainment
Highlights: The dazzling Grand Atrium area, Marabelle Gin Distillery (the first gin distillery at sea), and varied dining options like Sindhu, The Olive Grove, and The Limelight Club
Just about the largest cruise ship built specifically for the UK cruise market, P&O Cruises' Iona is iconic; onboard, you'll encounter a whole host of fantastic amenities, including an impressive selection of dining destinations, favourite spots like Brodie's and the Crow's Nest, a four-screen cinema complex, multiple swimming pools, and more. Modern and sleek, everyone onboard can expect to enjoy incredible entertainment, including sporadic acrobatics and pop-up performances throughout the day, alongside a sun deck laden with sun loungers, and – if you can believe it – 18 whirlpools. If you're wondering where to start when it comes to cruising from Southampton, an adventure aboard Iona is far from a bad option.
Brodie's, the SkyDome, and the Keel and Cow
Ventura - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2008 (Refurbished in 2013, and 2026)
Guest Capacity: 3,078
Destinations: Europe, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and the Caribbean
Great for: Traditional British cruising, with family-friendly amenities and entertainment alongside a diverse nightlife
Highlights: The recently refurbished Arena Theatre, Metropolis Bar (which boasts an impressive panoramic virtual video wall), and wellness facilities like the Oasis Spa and The Retreat
An impressive part of P&O Cruises' fleet, Ventura is among the most popular cruise ships sailing out of Southampton and a sensational cruise ship to sail on, no matter what type of cruise you're looking for. Boasting impressive entertainment options like West End-style shows in the Arena Theatre and live music in Tamarind Club, multiple swimming pools and whirlpools, an extensive Art Gallery space, and the sumptuous Oasis Spa – not to mention all the incredible kids' facilities, dining spots, and lounge spaces – you're certain to enjoy every moment you spend sailing with P&O Cruises aboard this ship.
The Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, the Oasis Pool, and Sindhu
Britannia - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2015 (Refurbished in 2019, and 2024)
Guest Capacity: 3,647
Destinations: Northern Europe, Norway, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean
Great for: Modern British cruising, with impressive culinary experiences and abundant entertainment and dining options
Highlights: The insightful Cookery Club, elegant Crow's Nest lounge, impressive Art Gallery (featuring over 200 contemporary and modern works), and the stylish Grand Atrium area
P&O Cruises' Britannia is another sensational cruise ship sailing out of Southampton for the foreseeable future; built for the British cruise market, this incredible ship is home to everything you might need to enjoy a fantastic escape abroad. Onboard, you'll find fantastic dining options, an incredible iteration of the sumptuous Oasis Spa, the immersive Headliners Theatre, and so much more. Britannia is also home to several swimming pools, an enhanced splash zone specifically for kids, and an array of interactive activities for all ages. So, whether you're cruising as a family, a couple, or even alone, you'll find an itinerary to suit you with Britannia.
The Sunset Bar, Headliners Theatre, and the Limelight Club
Queen Victoria - Cunard
Debut: 2007 (Refurbished in 2017, and 2022)
Guest Capacity: 2,061
Destinations: Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and sections of World Cruise itineraries
Great for: Elegant old-school cruising aboard a mid-sized ship with impressive guest-to-space ratios
Highlights: The dazzling Royal Court Theatre (featuring the first West End-style private boxes at sea), the relaxing Winter Garden lounge, traditional Afternoon Tea service, and the impressive two-deck Royal Arcade shopping space
One of the largest cruise liners in Cunard's impressive fleet, Queen Victoria is overflowing with grandeur and elegance, much like Cunard's other 'Queens'. Onboard, you'll encounter a broad range of traditional cruise experiences, including elevated Afternoon Tea service, West End-style shows in the theatre venue, a glamorous ballroom, and more. However, you'll also find more modern cruise experiences, such as immersive mixology classes, fencing lessons, a comprehensive Aqua Therapy Centre, and an impressive collection of boutique shopping spots. There are even several dedicated youth spaces for younger children to enjoy; so, no matter what type of onboard experience you're after, you'll find parts of Queen Victoria to suit your travel tastes and preferences.
The Britannia Restaurant, the Library, and the Lido Pool
Majestic Princess - Princess Cruises
Debut: 2017 (Refurbished in 2025)
Guest Capacity: 3,560
Destinations: North America, Iceland and Norway, the British Isles, and South America
Great for: Modern cruising for multi-generational families, with chic entertainment and an impressive culinary landscape
Highlights: The exciting SeaWalk (a glass-bottom walkway over the edge of the ship), the relaxing Hollywood Conservatory, events like Movies Under the Stars, and technological innovations like OceanNow Delivery
Majestic Princess, one of Princess Cruises' incredible Royal-class cruise ships, is another option you'll encounter when it comes to cruising from Southampton in the future – and there are a lot of reasons why you should choose to cruise with Majestic Princess next. From sensational stage shows and relaxed lounge spaces to signature dining destinations like Crown Grill and Catch by Rudi, your time onboard will be full of fantastic food and engaging entertainment. Complemented by Princess Cruises' technological advancements like the Medallion and OceanNow Delivery, which allows you to order food and drinks to your exact location onboard, there's something special about sailing with Princess Cruises.
A suite balcony, the Seawalk, and La Mer Dining
Aurora - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2000 (Refurbished in 2014, 2019, 2023, and 2025)
Guest Capacity: 1,878
Destinations: Northern Europe, Iceland, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean
Great for: Traditional adults-only cruising and destination-immersive itineraries
Highlights: The sparkling Crystal Pool area, Masquerade (a vibrant multi-purpose entertainment venue), and stylish interiors overflowing with remarkable artwork
P&O Cruises' Aurora is a fantastic adults-only cruise ship sailing regularly out of Southampton; one of the smaller ships in P&O Cruises' impressive fleet, Aurora boasts an intimate feel which combines classic British cruising with modern amenities that will appeal to everyone. You'll find both traditional cruise ship dining rooms alongside elevated options like Marco Pierre White's Café Bordeaux Bistro, cabaret-style entertainment and vibrant live music performances, a cinema showing the latest blockbusters, and more. With all of this complemented by the superb Oasis Spa, several swimming pools, sports facilities, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre, sea days between destinations are just as enjoyable as those moments you disembark somewhere new.
Andersons, the Glass House, and the Crystal Pool
Arcadia - P&O Cruises
Debut: 2005 (Refurbished in 2013, 2017, and 2024)
Guest Capacity: 2,094
Destinations: Northern Europe, Norway, the Caribbean, and sections of World Cruise itineraries
Great for: Traditional adults-only cruising with a relaxing atmosphere and destination-immersive itineraries
Highlights: The stunning Palladian Theatre, expansive Oasis Spa, Crow's Nest lounge, and impressive dining options like Sindhu and Ocean Grill
Arcadia, another adults-only cruise ship, is a fantastic option for adults hoping to cruise out of Southampton with P&O Cruises; with an impressive selection of dining options, dazzling entertainment experiences, and stylish lounge spaces with live music and engaging activities, there's something for everyone on this mid-sized ship. Its sumptuous spa, sun-lounger-laden sun deck, and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for those looking to escape to somewhere sunny; however, you'll also find select sailings to Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords if scenic exploration is more your cup of tea.
The Meridian Main Dining Room, the Rising Sun, and The Globe
MSC Preziosa - MSC Cruises
Debut: 2013 (Refurbished in 2025)
Guest Capacity: 3,502
Destinations: Northern Europe, and the Mediterranean
Great for: High-energy escapes with abundant amenities for younger cruises and elegant MSC Yacht Club facilities
Highlights: The sensational Vertigo (one of the longest waterslides at sea), amazing amenities like mini bowling alleys and a 4D Cinema, and elegant MSC Yacht Club facilities
An impressive cruise ship with something for everyone to enjoy, MSC Cruises' MSC Preziosa is a fantastic option for those of you choosing to cruise out of Southampton in the future, with itineraries exploring both Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Onboard, you'll encounter popular restaurants like Butcher's Cut and Galaxy Kaito, unforgettable entertainment in the Platinum Theatre, and an abundance of stylish lounge spaces. It's also home to incredible amenities like waterslides, a 4D Cinema, a sports bar with a bowling alley, and so much more. With all of this on offer, and MSC Yacht Club's elevated onboard experience, any adventure aboard MSC Preziosa is a sensational experience you won't forget.
Northern Pearls cruise from Southampton
13 Nov 2026
7 nights
MSC Preziosa (MSC Cruises)
Northern Pearls cruise from Southampton
01 Jan 2027
7 nights
MSC Preziosa (MSC Cruises)
Northern Pearls cruise from Southampton
15 Jan 2027
7 nights
MSC Preziosa (MSC Cruises)
Northern Pearls cruise from Southampton
29 Jan 2027
7 nights
MSC Preziosa (MSC Cruises)
MSC Aurea Spa, MSC Yacht Club Sundeck, and Butcher's Cut
More cruise ships departing from Southampton
If you thought that was all, you're in luck: there are a whole host of other cruise ships that offer sailings out of Southampton throughout the year – those above are just the most commonly seen when browsing the latest cruise deals for cruises departing from Southampton.
Other cruise ships sailing out of Southampton include:
- Queen Elizabeth - Cunard
- MSC Meraviglia - MSC Cruises
- Regal Princess - Princess Cruises
- Balmoral - Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
- Explora IV - Explora Journeys
- Freedom of the Seas - Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Apex - Celebrity Cruises
- Norwegian Star - Norwegian Cruise Line
- Borealis - Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
- Caribbean Princess - Princess Cruises
- MSC Virtuosa - MSC Cruises
- Oceania Vista - Oceania Cruises
- Norwegian Prima - Norwegian Cruise Line
- Seven Seas Mariner - Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Seven Seas Voyager - Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Oceania Insignia - Oceania Cruises
- Disney Dream - Disney Cruise Line
- Disney Wish - Disney Cruise Line
- Liberty of the Seas - Royal Caribbean
With all of these cruise ships boasting unique onboard experiences and a selection of sensational destinations for you to visit, there really has never been a better time to pick Southampton as your departure port and embark on an unforgettable adventure. You'll find more deals on cruises from Southampton below, giving you a chance to browse absolutely everything Iglu Cruise has on offer.
Book your next adventure with Iglu Cruise today
Iglu Cruise isn't just home to sailings from Southampton, you'll also find sensational luxury cruises, all-inclusive packages, and last-minute deals to all four corners of the world. So, no matter what you're looking for, you'll find something to suit you here.
You can also find a few more blogs from the Iglu Cruise creative team below!
