Situated on the southern coast of England, Southampton is renowned for its bustling port and role as a gateway for ocean travel. With several cruise terminals, it’s a key departure point for many ocean liners. Among these, the Ocean Cruise Terminal stands out as a modern facility equipped to welcome travellers embarking on their sea voyages.
If you’re planning to depart from this terminal, it is located at Dock Gate 4, Cunard Road, and is adequately signposted for easy navigation.
Getting to the Ocean Cruise Terminal is straightforward whether you’re arriving by car, train, or bus. If driving, you’ll find it just off the A33, Platform Road. The terminal features both short stay and long stay parking options to cater to your needs, with valet services available via CPS.
For those taking the train, Southampton Central is the nearest station, from which a taxi can conveniently take you the short distance to the terminal. The journey on foot is possible too, with the terminal lying approximately 1.3 miles away. Just be mindful of the amount of luggage you’re carrying.
Getting to Southampton
Southampton, a bustling port city on the south coast of England, is well-connected by various transport options. Whether you’re travelling by rail, coach, car, or air, you’ll find convenient routes to the city, particularly if your destination is the Ocean Cruise Terminal.
By Rail
Travelling to Southampton by railway is straightforward, with Southampton Central serving as the main hub for trains coming from London and other major cities. Direct services from London Waterloo can take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival, you can find quick transport to the cruise terminal via a short taxi or Uber ride, which typically costs between £6 to £10.
Checkout our post for the best train options to Southampton.
By Coach
Coach stations in London like Victoria Coach Station provide direct services to Southampton Coach Station. Operators such as National Express offer frequent and comfortable trips. From the coach station, the cruise terminal is just a short journey away, accessible by local buses or taxis.
Checkout our post for the best coach options to Southampton.
By Car
Driving to Southampton gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace. When you reach the city, you’ll find ample parking adjacent to the Ocean Cruise Terminal, including short stay and long stay options with the latter requiring a booking through CPS valet parking service. For satellite navigation, use postcodes SO15 1HJ for the Mayflower Cruise Terminal and SO14 3QN for the Ocean Cruise Terminal.
Checkout our post for the best car parking options in Southampton.
By Air
For those flying in, the nearest airport is Southampton Airport, with easy onward travel to the cruise terminal by train or taxi. Alternatively, larger airports around London such as Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted offer a wider range of flights, including international connections. Various London to Southampton transfers are available, including private hires, shuttle services, and the option of an Uber for your convenience. Prices vary significantly based on the airport and time of booking.
Local Transport and Parking
Navigating to and around the Southampton Ocean Cruise Terminal is straightforward with various local transport and parking options at your disposal. You can choose from on-the-spot taxi services to pre-booked parking for the duration of your cruise.
Shuttle Services and Taxis
Southampton offers an array of shuttle services and taxis. Taxi ranks are conveniently located outside the Southampton Central train station and near the cruise terminals. The distance from the train station to the Ocean Cruise Terminal is typically a short taxi ride away, costing between £6 to £10 depending on traffic and time of day. You can either hail a taxi upon arrival or book one in advance.
Parking Facilities
When it comes to parking, you have two primary options: short-term and long-term cruise parking. A pay and display short-term car park is located adjacent to the Ocean Cruise Terminal for quick visits. For longer periods, such as the duration of your cruise, you’ll need to book through a long-term cruise parking service.
AB Parking operates a secure car park next to the City and Horizon Cruise Terminals, which offers convenience for certain cruise line passengers. Alternatively, CPS valet parking service provides a valet service with a parking area close to the terminal building, ensuring a seamless start and end to your cruise journey.
Locating Ocean Cruise Terminal
When you’re aiming to find the Ocean Cruise Terminal in Southampton, you’ll be pleased to know it’s well-connected and straightforward to access. Situated on the southern coast of the United Kingdom, the terminal is a primary gateway for many cruise passengers.
By Car: If you’re driving, set your GPS to the following address:
- Ocean Cruise Terminal, Dock Gate 4, Cunard Road, Southampton, SO14 3QN
You’ll find short-stay parking adjacent to the terminal for immediate drop-offs. For longer stays, pre-booking with a service like CPS valet parking is advisable, with the facility close to the terminal building.
By Train: Southampton Central is the nearest mainline station. From there:
- Taxi or Uber: It’s a quick 6 to 16-minute ride, costing approximately £6 to £10.
- Alternatively, the local bus service operates routes which pass near the cruise terminals.
Walking Directions: The terminal is within walking distance if you prefer to stroll:
- Exit Southampton Central from the Platform 1 side.
- Walk straight out onto Western Esplanade.
- Continue onto Central Bridge, cross, and then follow the A33.
- Turn left onto Herbert Walker Avenue.
- Proceed along the waterfront until you reach Dock Gate 4.
Bear in mind that the walk can take around 30 minutes, so it is best if you have light luggage.
By Coach or Shuttle: Check if your cruise line offers direct shuttle services from the airport or other pick-up locations directly to the Ocean Cruise Terminal.
Regardless of how you choose to get there, always allow extra time for travel variances to ensure a smooth start to your cruise experience.
Embarkation Procedures at Southampton Cruise Terminals
When you arrive at the Southampton Cruise Terminals, you’ll find a seamless embarkation process that is organised and efficient. Your experience will start with check-in and security, followed by luggage handling before you board your ship for the adventure ahead.
Check-in and Security
Upon arriving at the Southampton cruise terminals, the first step is to go through check-in, where your boarding pass time is verified. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents on hand to streamline this process. Following check-in, you will proceed to the security area. Here, your personal items will be scanned, similar to airport procedures. It’s essential to follow the port authority’s guidelines for a swift security screening.
Luggage Handling
After security, luggage handling is your next step. Your check-in luggage is tagged and taken by the dock staff for delivery to your ship cabin. Carry-on bags remain with you. To facilitate smooth operations at Dock Gate 4, adhere to the port authority’s regulations regarding luggage size and weight. Once your luggage is taken care of, you’re free to embark on your ship, marking the end of the embarkation process and the beginning of your cruise experience.
Accommodation and Amenities Near Cruise Terminals
When planning your cruise from Southampton, securing accommodation near the terminals and knowing what amenities are available are essential for a stress-free departure.
Hotels Close to the Terminals
Southampton offers a variety of hotels within close proximity to the cruise terminals, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. The Holiday Inn is a favourable choice, recognised for its reliable comfort and service. For a boutique experience, Ennios Hotel offers a charming stay with an added touch of luxury.
Novotel and Ibis provide modern rooms with practicality in mind, ensuring you are well-rested before your cruise. If you’re seeking something contemporary, Leonardo and Moxy both boast stylish interiors and vibrant atmospheres. Booking a hotel nearby minimises travel time on your departure day, allowing for a relaxed start to your holiday.
- Premier choices include:
- Holiday Inn: Renowned for consistent quality.
- Ennios Hotel: Offers a boutique experience near the terminals.
- Contemporary stays:
- Novotel and Ibis: Modern facilities, conveniently close.
- Leonardo and Moxy: Stylish, with a youthful vibe.
Checkout our Southampton hotel guide for the best recommendations.
Public Facilities and Services
Public facilities are an integral part of your experience, especially prior to departure. Southampton’s Ocean Cruise Terminal is surrounded by amenities designed to enhance your convenience. The area boasts a myriad of services including ATMs, cafes, and shops, to ensure all your last-minute needs are catered for. Accessibility to these public facilities means you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that everything you require is within reach.