Getting There – How to Reach Southampton Cruise Port

🚗 By Car

Southampton is easily reached by motorway: follow the M3 from London or the M27 from the west/east, both clearly signposted for Southampton Docks.
Once you reach the city, follow signs for your allocated cruise terminal (either Dock Gate 4 or Dock Gate 10 – check your e-ticket).

Parking Options:
The port offers official on-site parking via ABParking, but you’ll usually find better rates through trusted providers like Holiday Extras, BCP Parking, and APH — all of which offer secure, pre-bookable spaces just minutes from the terminals with shuttle transfers.
Most long-stay car parks include luggage drop-off assistance and 24-hour security.

💡 Pro Tip: Book your parking as soon as you know your sail date — prices climb quickly closer to embarkation.

🚂 By Train

Direct trains run from London Waterloo to Southampton Central roughly every 30 minutes, taking around 1 hour 20 minutes.
Southampton Central station is less than two miles from the cruise terminals, with plentiful taxis outside the main concourse.

If you’re arriving with luggage, skip the walk — a taxi to any terminal costs roughly £7–£10 and takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic.

Connections are also available from:

• Birmingham New Street (approx. 2½ hours)

• Manchester Piccadilly (approx. 4½ hours)

• Bristol Temple Meads (approx. 2 hours)

🚖 By Taxi or Private Transfer

For convenience, consider a door-to-door transfer:

• From London Heathrow: ~ 70 miles (90 minutes) – typical fare £120–£150 each way.

• From London Gatwick: ~ 90 minutes – around £130.

• From London City or Central London: ~ 2 hours – expect £160+.

• From Southampton Airport: ~ 5 miles – 10–15 minutes, £20 approx.

Several specialist cruise transfer companies operate shared or private services timed to match embarkation slots — ideal for international travellers.

💬 Insider Tip: If your group has three or more people, a private transfer can be cheaper (and infinitely more comfortable) than train + taxi combinations.

✈️ By Air

The closest airport is Southampton Airport (SOU), just 4 miles from the port — a quick 10-minute taxi or direct train to Southampton Central in under 10 minutes.

For long-haul arrivals, London Heathrow (LHR) is the most convenient major airport — around 70 miles away with direct motorway access via the M3.

Gatwick Airport (LGW) and London City Airport are also viable but require slightly longer travel times, especially London City Airport.

Many cruisers flying into the UK prefer to stay overnight in Southampton before embarkation to recover from jet lag and ensure smooth sailing on departure day.

🚗 Cruise Parking at Southampton Port

Finding secure and convenient parking in Southampton is refreshingly straightforward — as long as you book ahead. Whether you prefer official port-side parking or trusted independent providers with shuttle transfers, there’s a space with your name on it (and probably your registration plate, too).

⚓️ Official Port Parking

Southampton’s main on-site parking operator is ABParking, located right beside the terminals and managed in partnership with the Port of Southampton. It’s ideal for passengers who want the quickest embarkation possible — simply drop off your bags, park your car, and walk (or take a short shuttle) to check-in.

• Distance to Terminals: On-site or within walking distance.

• Security: 24-hour CCTV and patrols.

• Booking: Pre-booking essential — spaces fill quickly in peak season.

• Website: ABParking Southampton

💡 Tip: If you’re sailing with P&O, Cunard, or Princess Cruises, your e-ticket will usually include directions and a booking link for ABParking.

🅿️ Independent Cruise Parking

Several off-port companies offer excellent value-for-money alternatives — most located within 5–10 minutes of the terminals, with complimentary shuttle transfers direct to your ship.

Popular options include:

• Dolphin Park & Ride

• Cruise Parking Southampton

• Southampton Cruise Parking Services

These independent providers often come in 20–30% cheaper than port-side parking, making them ideal for longer sailings such as transatlantics or Mediterranean cruises.

🚐 Pro Tip: When comparing options, check for “meet and greet” or “park and ride” services — meet and greet is easiest if you have lots of luggage. 

🏨 Hotels Near Southampton Cruise Port

If you’re sailing from Southampton, arriving a day early is more than a good idea — it’s practically tradition. The city’s full of convenient, comfortable, and occasionally luxurious places to rest before embarkation morning. Whether you want waterfront views, a quick dash to the terminal, or an overnight with parking included, Southampton has you covered.

Below is a selection of some of those we have stayed in and can personally recommend.