the most popular uk cruise ports in the world

 The most popular uk cruise ports in the world

the most popular uk cruise ports in the world

According to the latest reports published by tour operators and travel agents, every year more and more Britons choose to swap those never-ending queues at the airport by the comfort of a cruise holiday. The Passenger Shipping Association reports that more than half a million UK holidaymakers opted for a no-fly cruise trip last year, and the numbers are set to increase. Going on a cruise holiday also gives you the opportunity to spend some time at the departure port, and in the UK there are some delightful cities that serve as the starting point of a cruise adventure. Here’s the lowdown on the most popular UK cruise ports.

the most popular uk cruise ports in the world

Edinburgh

The port of Edinburgh (also known as Leith port) has been a very active point of departure for goods and people for several centuries. During the 1990s, the port and its surrounding area were subject to extensive regeneration projects, which turned them into one of Europe’s largest waterfronts. The formerly industrial area of Leith is now a pleasant and modern neighbourhood, where leisure and entertainment options are plentiful thanks to facilities like the Ocean Terminal shopping centre. Edinburgh itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the city has been voted as the best port of call in the UK. Typical cruise destinations from Edinburgh include Scandinavia, Russia, and the Scottish islands.

Southampton

Southampton has always had a predominantly maritime character. Approximately 1 million tourists arrive in Southampton via ship, and the port’s popularity means that the facilities have had to be extended several times. Southampton’s port is unique in that it faces the Solent Strait instead of the open sea. Because of its wildlife and biodiversity, the Solent is a special conservation area, and visitors who are set to leave on cruises from Southampton have the chance of taking local pleasure cruises around this stunning natural area.

Some of the best cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, depart from Southampton and visit the islands of the Atlantic (the Canary islands, Madeira, and Cape Verde), the Caribbean, and France.

Harwich

Because of its accessibility, Harwich has been considered the best natural port in the UK for centuries. As early as in the 17th century, Harwich was the most popular departure point for passengers bound for the Netherlands. This route has been maintained to our days, although you can also take cruise holidays to the western coast of Norway, Denmark, France, Belgium, and Northern Spain from this city. Harwich’s beaches, parks, and shops will keep you busy until it’s time to sail off.

Hull

The history of Hull’s port can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when local merchants saw an opportunity to ship their textiles off to continental Europe. Nowadays, some of the old docks have been transformed into retail parks and conservation areas, and this has undoubtedly contributed to increasing the number of passengers that visit the city every year. Cruise lines offer holidays to Finland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, the Baltic cities, the Faroe islands, and the Arctic. With its charming architecture and rich heritage, the city of Hull itself is well worth a visit, so follow the walking routes that start off from the docks and discover the highlights of this fascinating City.