A guide to cruising to the British Isles

Quick insights

• On a cruise to the British Isles, you could have a pint at a local pub, visit Stonehenge or hike the Giant’s Causeway among other experiences.
• Many travelers prefer to visit the British Isles cruise during the summer months when the weather tends to be more pleasant.
• For better pricing and selection, consider booking your cruise early—ideally 12 to 18 months before your planned departure.

Embarking on a cruise to the British Isles provides an opportunity to explore the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. These enchanting islands are known for their ancient ruins, medieval castles, centuries-old breweries and distilleries and more. A cruise can be a relaxing and convenient way to explore the British Isles—all while avoiding many of the logistical hassles associated with travelling between the islands.

In this article, we’ll examine some things to know to help you prepare for a cruise to the British Isles.

What to know about a British Isles cruise

A visit to the British Isles can be an enriching experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of this storied region.

Throughout the U.K. and Ireland, you’ll find historical sites and ruins that span from the Neolithic era to the Roman Empire and beyond. Here are a few popular sites and attractions you can connect with the past:

• Stonehenge, England
• Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
• Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
• Blarney Castle, Ireland
• The Roman Baths, England
• Dublin Castle, Ireland
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland

Beyond the historical sites, you’ll have ample opportunity to experience British and Irish culture. For example, you can enjoy the region’s distinct pub culture by having a pint at a local spot, and in Ireland, traditional Irish music often fills the air in many pubs.

As you explore the region, you can sample an array of traditional dishes, including a full English breakfast, fish and chips, Welsh rarebit, Cornish pasties, Irish stew and haggis. The British Isles are also home to several notable breweries and distilleries, featuring some beer and whisky brands you may already know.

Tea enthusiasts may not want to miss a traditional afternoon tea service, usually available at tea shops, hotels and high-end department stores.

Many major cruise lines, as well as a few smaller ones, operate routes in the British Isles. Some itineraries may also include stops in Norway and Iceland, offering you even more opportunities to explore the northern Atlantic Ocean.

Timing cruises to England and Ireland

Summer usually brings pleasant weather to the U.K. and Ireland, but it’s also the busiest tourist season. Consider the following factors when timing your cruise.

Cruise season

In the British Isles, the peak cruising season occurs during the summer months of June to August. This coincides with the busiest tourist season for much of Europe. During this time, the region experiences its warmest temperatures on average. However, you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices if you choose to travel during these months.

If you’d rather travel when it’s less crowded, consider cruising in May, September or October. These months typically offer slightly cooler temperatures and generally lower prices.  

Many cruise lines don’t operate from November through March due to colder weather, but a limited number of ships may still offer cruises during this time.

When to book

To increase your chances of securing your preferred itineraries and cabins for a summertime cruise, it may be advisable to book as far as 12 to 18 months in advance. Early booking could potentially offer access to better pricing, too.

For cruises outside of the busiest summer months, booking 6 to 12 months in advance is typically sufficient.

Ideal itinerary for a British Isles cruise

Choosing the right itinerary for your British Isles cruise can depend on factors like your preferred travel dates, port stops, cruise length, budget, mix of sea and port days and more. The following itinerary may appeal to those who want to travel widely within the British Isles:  

• Day 1: Departure from Southampton, England
• Day 2: St. Peter Port, Guernsey
• Day 3: Cork, Ireland
• Day 4: Dublin, Ireland
• Day 5: Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Day 6: Glasgow, Scotland
• Day 7: At sea
• Day 8: Orkney Islands, Scotland
• Day 9: Inverness, Scotland
• Day 10: Edinburgh, Scotland
• Day 11: At sea
• Day 12: Return to Southampton, England

Southampton is relatively close to London, making it easy for travelers to add a visit to England’s capital city before or after their cruise.

Tips for British Isles cruises

Preparing for a cruise to the British Isles can be challenging, from the complexities of international travel to the region’s frequent rain showers. Here are some cruise tips to help make your cruise experience smoother:

• Bring a passport: Most travelers will need a passport for travel within the U.K. and Ireland. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your cruise travel dates.
• Pack appropriately: Packing for any cruise takes some consideration, especially given the varied weather in the British Isles. Dressing in layers can be helpful during the summer, as temperatures can fluctuate. Consider bringing a swimsuit and insect repellent for a summertime cruise, too. Regardless of the season, you may want to pack a raincoat, sweater, comfortable walking shoes and umbrella.
• Book excursions early: Excursions can fill up quickly, so booking them far in advance may help you get your preferred experiences.

In summary

A cruise can be a convenient way to explore the British Isles, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of your ship while the cruise line handles many of the travel logistics. On your voyage, you can visit historic castles, immerse yourself in the region’s unique pub culture, experience the rituals of afternoon tea and more.

Most cruise lines operate from May through October, with the summer months being the busiest time. Booking 12 to 18 months in advance may get you access to a better selection of itineraries, cabins and pricing. It typically rains often in this region, so you may be more comfortable if you pack a raincoat and umbrella.