So how do you get to Southampton?

A lot of people when they think of cruises from the UK automatically think of Southampton as the point of departure as it is our undisputed cruise capital. It has such a wider choice of Cruse lines and destinations than the regional ports but I do think that the cruise lines take for granted that everyone finds it accessible which is often far from the case. I myself Live in Middlesbrough in the North East of England and find getting to Southampton can be a pain!

 

I had to travel to Southampton to see the NCL Getaway!

NCL Escape

 

 

So far I have made my way down via 3 different Transport options, Firstly I travelled by coach and have to admit before had I dreaded the journey as I thought I would be uncomfortable and bored. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised, It did take around 6 hours or so including stops but was very comfortable and maybe because of the company I travelled in the time went by very quickly.

The next few times I have travelled down to Southampton I have flown from Newcastle both on the day of the cruise and the night before. This is my prefer’ed option as the drive to Newcastle takes me about 50 minutes and the flight takes around 1 hour so you arrive a lot quicker plus I always book an airport lounge which helps relax and have a glass of wine or two which helps make the flight that bit more relaxing. I also prefer this on the return as I know this is the quickest way for me to get home.

The last 2 occasions I have travelled down I have taken the train from Darlington as it offers a few direct Services to Southampton and although takes 5 hours is very relaxing. I found this great when travelling with friends as we pre-booked table seats so we could have a little buffeta few drinks and game of cards. The time after that I travelled on my own and went via London which actually was slightly quicker  but seemed to take longer, If you do this option I would say to book a seat next ti a socket so you can keep your phone, Laptop or tablet charged to help pass the time.

So far I have not driven but I am open to this but as it would take around 5 hours I would need to stop so may well overnight on route and from talking to people somewhere like Oxford would be a good choice.

I personally like to travel down the night before my cruise so I know I am there in plenty of time and have stayed in various hotels ranging from the Travelodge, Premier Inn and Ibis. I would like to stay in the Grand Harbour on my next visit as the hotel is famous for it cruising ties.

Here is a link that we published in one of our cruise bulletins and have under our guides on our website under How to get to Southampton. Have a look it might just help you decide how to get there or even if you can travel to Southampton from where you live –

http://goo.gl/wtL0IY

let me know if you have any other suggestions or tips on how you get to Southampton.

 

 

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About Me

Hi I'm Harry, I live in the  north east of England in sunny Middlesbrough, I'm married and have 3 children a daughter aged 12 and two twin boys who are ten years younger and keep us all on our toes. I love spending time with the family, going on holiday,…

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