UK's Main Cruise Port of Southampton Generates Over £1 Billion

21st January 2025

Jehan Ashmore

Another bumper year at the UK’s main cruise port, Southampton, supporting 85% of the market. Credit: Associated British Ports - Linkedin

For another successor year, the UK’s main cruise port, Southampton, officially Northern Europe's number one turnaround port, welcomed 3
million passengers, surpassing the record set in 2023.

The Hampshire port, part of Associated British Ports (ABP), claims it has contributed over £1 billion to the local and regional economies. The established cruise hub, supporting 85% of the UK cruise market.

Last year there was a 50% increase in cruise vessels using Southampton's shore power facilities, enabling zero emissions at berth.

The southern England port was awarded the Best UK Departure Port for 2024 at the Cruise Critic Awards. This recognition is based on passenger reviews, which highlight the port's efficient embarkation and debarkation processes, convenient parking options, prime location, and available activities in the city.

The port works with partners in cruise operations, fuel bunkering, cruise waste services, ground handling, and stevedoring.

Published in Cruise Liners

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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