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Cruise Ships Departing From Southampton

20 February 2023

Queen Victoria

updated: July 2023

2024 is an exciting year for cruise ships sailing from Southampton. Each with their own incredible amenities, extraordinary features and exciting itineraries, you’ll have a wide selection to choose from no matter what type of getaway you’re looking for.

Southampton Dock has been in operation since 1843 and has become a hub for dozens of renowned cruise ships. Used by an array of cruise lines, guests wanting to sail from the UK definitely aren’t stuck for choice.

Here are the top cruise lines that sail out of Southampton:

Read on to find out about the cruise ships sailing from Southampton in 2024, including the highlights of each ship and the destinations that they will sail to!

Cunard Queen Mary 2

Best for: Romantic Cruises and Adults

Queen Mary 2
Queen Mary 2

For those looking for an ocean liner that exudes opulence and elegance at every turn Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is perfect. Featuring grand decor, furnishings and extraordinary itineraries to boot, the QM2 is a great option for those wanting to sail out of Southampton this year.

The QM2 is particularly popular with those wanting to travel across the Atlantic to the USA due to its beloved transatlantic cruises. In fact it’s the only ocean liner that has kennels at sea which is staffed by a Kennel Master - giving guests the opportunity to bring their cat, dog or even their ferret on the crossing with them! Read more about taking your pet onboard in our post - Is it time to treat your pet to a cruise?

Other highlights onboard Queen Mary 2 include:

Queen Mary 2 Facts

Top Queen Mary 2 Destinations From Southampton

P&O IONA

Best for: Families and First Timers

P&O Iona
P&O Iona

The largest cruise ship built for the UK Market, P&O Iona has a whole host of fantastic onboard amenities to enjoy. Modern and sleek, guests will love the thrilling entertainment within the Headliners Theatre, the buzzing Sunset Bar located on the aft deck, the 18 whirlpool spas and the Grand Atrium; the centre for cafes, lounges and bars.

Other highlights onboard P&O Iona include:

Top Iona Destinations From Southampton


P&O Ventura

Best for: Families and Mini Cruises

P&O Ventura
P&O Ventura 

Introduced to the P&O Cruises Fleet in 2008, P&O Ventura is one of the most popular UK cruise ships. Offering something for the whole family, Ventura boasts fantastic entertainment, comfortable accommodation and dining options that suit every palette.

Currently sailing solely from Southampton, P&O Ventura is the perfect cruise ship to choose if you’re looking for a mini cruise; which will give you the chance to explore one or a few different destinations (such as Bruges or Amsterdam) before sailing back to Southampton port.

Other highlights onboard P&O Ventura include:

Top Ventura Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

MSC Virtuosa

Best for: Couples and Mini Cruises

A Meraviglia Plus Class ship, MSC Virtuosa can accommodate up to 6,000 guests - making it one of the largest cruise ships at sea. Due to its size, MSC Virtuosa has lots of incredible features, from the full-sized bowling alley to impressive indoor promenade that’s host to a variety of restaurants, bars and shops. Regardless of where you’re sailing to, whether it’s the British Isles or the Mediterranean, MSC Virtuosa is a fantastic cruise ship to sail on.

One of the newest cruise ships that sail from Southampton, the amenities onboard and the array of itineraries on offer aboard MSC Virtuosa are bound to be popular amongst those sailing in 2024.

Other highlights onboard MSC Virtuosa include:

Top Virtuosa Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Cunard Queen Victoria

Best for: Families and Couples

Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria

The second largest cruise liner in the Cunard fleet, like her sister ships Queen Victoria oozes grandeur and elegance. However, whilst it’s a more luxurious ship, it’s still suitable for the whole family as Queen Victoria offers areas suitable for both younger children and teens.

Onboard there is a selection of lively entertainment venues on offer to enjoy, including the popular Queens room (a glamorous ballroom), Golden Lion Pub (a traditional English venue) and Hemispheres (a cosy space with a stylish dancefloor).

Other highlights onboard Queen Victoria include:

Top Queen Victoria Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

P&O Arcadia

Best for: Adults-Only and Couples

P&O Arcadia
P&O Arcadia

One of the two adult-only ships in the P&O Cruises fleet, P&O Arcadia is a popular choice for those wanting to sail from Southampton due to the vast array of dining options, bars and varying entertainment venues that offer something for all tastes across the ship. The perfect cruise ship for couples looking for a romantic escape away from the kids, it has a sumptuous spa, comfortable accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere.

Other highlights onboard P&O Arcadia include:

Top Arcadia Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

P&O Aurora

Best for: Adults-Only and Couples

P&O Aurora
P&O Aurora

The second adults-only ship in P&O Cruises fleet, P&O Aurora is decorated in a classic style and feels more intimate than other ships due to its maximum capacity of 1,950 passengers.

Another popular ship that sails from Southampton, it offers a combination of traditional cabins and more luxurious suites; including a two-tier suite that comes with its own butler service. P&O Aurora also offers world cruises - making it a perfect choice for those who want to cruise around the world in style.

Other highlights onboard P&O Aurora include:

Top Aurora Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Sky Princess

Best for: Couples and Families

Sky Princess
Sky Princess

One of the newest Princess ships, Sky Princess offers an extensive range of itineraries from Europe sailings to Caribbean sailings. Frequently sailing from Southampton, its onboard features appeal to both adults and children.

Adults have access to amenities such as Take Five; a jazz lounge that’s the perfect place to relax with a cocktail in hand whilst you listen to the smooth sounds of a live band. For kids, there’s Camp Discovery, The Lodge and The Beachhouse – areas suitable for kids from 3-17.

Dining onboard will also impress, with traditional dining, casual dining and speciality dining options on offer. Whether it’s a special occasion or you’re simply looking for a light meal after a day exploring, Sky Princess has something for you.

Other highlights onboard Sky Princess include:

Top Sky Princess Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

P&O Britannia

Best for: Couples and Families

P&O Britannia
P&O Britannia

Another one of the P&O Cruises ships sailing from Southampton in 2024, P&O Britannia has been sailing since 2015 and is particularly popular with the UK market. Onboard P&O Britannia you’ll have access to the sumptuous Oasis Spa, immersive Headliners Theatre and the exclusive adults-only Limelight Club offering delicious food and entertainment.

Other highlights onboard P&O Britannia include:

Top P&O Britannia Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Anthem of the Seas

Best for: Families

Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas

Royal Caribbean are known for their vast amount of onboard activities, variety of accommodation options and extensive international itineraries. Anthem of the Seas, one of the most popular ships in the fleet, offers cruises sailing from Southampton in 2024, sailing to the Mediterranean, the Norwegian Fjords and other exciting destinations.

Onboard expect extraordinary features from the multi-level entertainment venue Two70° that has performances throughout the day and night, bumper cars in the exhilarating SeaPlex, and dining options such as the quick on-the-go SeaPlex Dog House – the first food truck at sea.

Other highlights onboard Anthem of the Seas include:

Top Anthem of the Seas Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

P&O Arvia

Best for: Couples and Families

P&O Arvia
P&O Arvia

The newest P&O Cruises ship, P&O Arvia set sail on its maiden voyage in 2022. With 6 theatres and lounges, over 30 restaurants and bars and 5 pools to enjoy, this impressive UK cruise ship is bound to impress. Featuring the classic P&O Cruises style, it’s powered by LNG (Liquified natural gas) and offers dining options suitable for everyone; including plant-led menus within Green & Co.

Also sailing out of Southampton in 2024, the range of amenities on board make it a great option for families, couples and those travelling solo.

Other highlights onboard Arvia include:

Top Arvia Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Regal Princess

Best for: Families

Regal Princess
Regal Princess

Entering service in 2013, Regal Princess combines classic cruise ship features with modern, innovative amenities. From the SeaWalk, an incredible glass walkway, to the adult-only Sanctuary and Princess WaterColour Fantasy water and light show, you’re bound to have a wonderful cruising experience aboard this popular Princess ship.

Departing from Southampton in 2024, the accommodation onboard is also a highlight, as there are 6 different types to choose from, including mini-suites and deluxe balcony cabins.

Other highlights onboard Regal Princess include:

Top Regal Princess Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Norwegian Prima

Best for: Families

Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Prima

An addition to the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet that set sail in 2022 and sitting within the luxurious Prima class, Norwegian Prima has a huge selection of entertainment options and exciting activities. Perfect for family getaways, there’s plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep you and the kids entertained, including the Prima Theater, Nightclub and The Drop - the first freefall dry slide at sea.

One of the largest cruise ships leaving Southampton in 2024, Norwegian Prima caters for an incredible 3,950 guests spread over 20 spacious decks.

Other highlights onboard Norwegian Prima include:

Top Norwegian Prima Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

MSC Euribia

Best for: Couples and Families

MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia

A new ship that’s also sailing from Southampton in 2024, MSC Euribia has many innovative features (such as the Galleria Euribia – the longest LED dome at sea), along with MSC favourites such as the Hola! Tacos & Cantina and the MSC Aurea Spa.

Named after the goddess Eurybia (who’s known for mastering the seas by harnessing constellations and the weather), it’s LNG (liquified natural gas) powered and has an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system. This impressive ship also features unique exterior artwork by Alex Flamig.

Other highlights onboard MSC Euribia include:

Top MSC Euribia Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Celebrity Apex

Best for: Couples

Celebrity Apex
Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Cruises has rapidly become one of the most popular cruise lines that sail from Southampton. The second in the Edge Class, Celebrity Apex first set sail in 2020 and has all the favourite Celebrity features from the Martini glass-shaped Jacuzzis (new to Edge Class ships) to the innovative Magic Carpet. With a smaller capacity of just under 3000 passengers, this spacious ship has all you need for your cruise, whether you’re sailing to the Norwegian Fjords or the Greek Isles.

Featuring a contemporary and stylish design, this modern cruise ship has all that you need for a fantastic holiday.

Other highlights onboard Celebrity Apex include:

Top Celebrity Apex Cruise Ship Destinations From Southampton

Other cruise ships sailing from Southampton in 2024

Cruise Ships Sailing out of Southampton in 2025

Alongside Sky Princess, P&O Iona and the other ships listed above, in 2025, the following ships will be setting sail from Southampton:

2024 is set to be a very exciting year for the cruise ships sailing out of Southampton. From P&O Cruises to Norwegian Cruise Line, you’ll have a huge variety to choose from regardless of your budget or where you want to visit on your cruise.

To find out more about what cruise ships go from Southampton along with information about the port itself, view our dedicated cruises from Southampton page.

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