The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre- or post cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Funchal, Madeira
DAY 5 -
This lush, green city found in the south of Madeira is a haven of relaxation, outdoor activities and beautiful gardens. For the most adventurous, visitors will love diving in the crystal-clear sea, catching some waves and even swimming with dolphins, while those looking to take things at a slower pace can enjoy whale watching. One of the most popular events in Funchal is the yearly New Year’s Eve Fireworks display, which is one of the largest in the world.
Things to do in Funchal, Madeira:
Funchal Cathedral
Found in the city centre, Funchal Cathedral is an impressive Gothic-style monument, popular with locals and visitors alike. Take a look inside to learn about the fascinating history of the architecture, including the altarpiece ordered in 1510 to 1515.
Monte Cable Car
For unrivalled panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the vast landscape, Monte Cable Car will take you to one of the best vantage points in Funchal. The fifteen-minute journey is a relaxing ascent towards Monte, with a souvenir photo at the end of the journey.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Occupying 70,000 square meters, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna from all corners of the world. You will get lost in the tranquil beauty of this garden, enjoying the space with black swans, colourful koi and vibrant peacocks.
Quinta do Palheiro Ferreira
Thanks to Madeira’s fertile soil, many tropical plants thrive here and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro’s gardens are an excellent showcase of this. The most notable collection are the camellias, first planted by the Count of Carvalhal.
Customer reviews for Britannia
4.0
Based on 259 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
4
Excursions
3.9
Dining
4
Activities
3.9
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
It was a new experience for us cruising and we had a fantastic Christmas holiday.
family
10+ cruisesBalcony with sofa
4 Jan 2023
This was our first cruise and it surpassed our expectations. Our cabin had a balcony which meant we could sit out with our morning coffee before going for breakfast and take in the views of the islands. Food was plentiful and varied. We tended to breakfast in Horizon buffet and ate several evening meals at Meridian (which was free but very high quality with excellent service). We watched shows in Headliners theatre most evenings and they ranged from solo artists, to bands and even a circus. All very entertaining and enjoyable. Some of the islands were a bit disappointing, with black beaches and some hassle off locals but Bonaire, St Maarten and Antigua were absolutely amazing. Powder white sands and clear turquoise water.
Our last port of call was Barbados and again we found a beautiful white Sandy beach and had an amazing last day. Although we encountered small downsides (for example, we found the drinks package a little expensive and the ship a little busy for our tastes), on the whole, we thoroughly enjoyed our cruise and would highly recommend this to everyone.
couple
1 cruiseBalcony
4 Jan 2023
Great holiday on Britannia. The ship is elegant and stylish. Food was very good, in particular, excellent choice for gluten-free. The ship was full but still felt spacious. Only downside is the choice of ports P&O visit in the Caribbean- Caribbean is superb for a winter destination but after 3 cruises with them I'm definitely looking for a change of ports, e.g Western Caribbean.
couple
6-10 cruisesInside
21 Dec 2022
couple
1 cruiseBalcony (obstructed view) with sofa
20 Sep 2022
Terms and Conditions
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
