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USA Cruises

Indulge in the splendour of a USA cruise, from the famed East Coast landmarks to the warmth of the West Coast. USA cruises offer an immersive experience into American culture, natural wonders and vibrant cities.

From wine tasting in the Napa Valley and hiking the Runyon Canyon to seeing the sights of New York City and theme park filled days, there is something for everyone. Cruises to the USA explore the tropical vibes of Florida, the charming ports of New England, the rugged beauty of Alaska, and the vibrant Pacific shores of California.

American Cruises offer more than just picturesque landscapes. They provide access to some of the country’s most iconic cities and cultural hubs. From the bustling streets of New York City and the music-filled boulevards of New Orleans to the historic charms of Boston and the cinematic allure of Los Angeles.

Some of the most popular cruise destinations in USA are:

Los Angeles

Experience the allure of Los Angeles, the epitome of cosmopolitan glamour on the California coast. Walk the famed Walk of Fame, shop on Rodeo Drive, hike Runyon Canyon, and venture onto Santa Monica Pier.

New York City

Experience the quintessential American Dream in New York City. Visit the Top of the Rock for sweeping Manhattan views, enjoy a picnic at Central Park or walk the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. That’s just to name a few attractions!

Mississippi

Explore the Mississippi, a must-visit with its nature, history, and Blues heritage. Discover the Petrified Forest’s ancient trails, explore Elvis Presley’s birthplace in Tupelo, or cruise the Mississippi River, delving into tales of the Civil War, slavery, and music.

When is the best time to visit the USA?

The best time to take a cruise holiday to the USA depends on the region you want to explore and the specific experiences you’re seeking.

For guests interested in outdoor activities and sightseeing in many parts of the country, the summer months from June to August are popular, with warm weather and extended daylight hours. This is an ideal time for visiting national parks, enjoying beach vacations, and attending cultural events and festivals.

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast or want to experience festive holiday celebrations, visiting during the winter months from December to February is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in regions like Colorado and Vermont or experiencing the holiday spirit in cities like New York.

It’s also essential to consider factors like local holidays, festivals and peak tourist seasons. It’s always a good idea to consult with one of our cruise agents who will give you the best advice!

Which cruise lines sail to the USA

American Queen Voyages , Carnival Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises , Cunard , Explora Journeys , Fred Olsen Cruise Lines , Holland America , MSC Cruises , Marella Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , Oceania Cruises , P&O Cruises , Princess Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Royal Caribbean , Scenic Ocean Cruises , Seabourn , Silversea Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises & Windstar Cruises .

Book Your USA Cruise

Our cruise specialists at Southampton Cruise Centre are here to help! Call us from 9am to 9pm, 7 days a week on 02380 658 386 . Or search our collection of Cruises to the USA below and send us an enquiry online! 

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The Man in Seat 61

The transatlantic ferry

Cunard's queen mary 2.

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Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, london to new york without flying.

This is a guide to travel between Europe & the United States using Cunard's Queen Mary 2. 

Cunard maintain a scheduled transatlantic passenger service between Europe and the United States, usually one sailing a month in each direction between Southampton & New York from April to December taking 7 nights.

You travel aboard the greatest ocean liner in the world, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (QM2).  It's a crossing , not a cruise , and many people use the QM2 as their preferred mode of transport between Europe & the United States.  The Queen Mary 2 is a proper ocean liner, built with the extra structural strength & power to withstand the rigours of the North Atlantic in all weathers.  The QM2 took over the transatlantic service from Cunard's 1967-built QE2 in 2004.

You can forget being bored, it's a week of relaxation, with cinema, theatre, interesting lectures, spa treatments, swimming pools, cocktail bars, restaurants, an excellent library, shops and even the world's only sea-going planetarium.  Plus the cold grey Atlantic which I never tire of watching.  You can also forget seasickness, the 150,000 ton QM2 is rock-steady in most weather amidships, you'll need to walk forward towards the bows to feel any up and down movement.  Westbound, the crossing is rounded off by an awe-inspiring early-morning arrival into New York City, in my opinion the best way to arrive in the Big Apple. 

Crossing the Atlantic by ocean liner needn't cost much more than a business-class flight, fares for two people sharing the cheapest Britannia stateroom start from £1,099 per person each way, for 7 nights accommodation, all meals & entertainment.

The Man in Seat Sixty-One says:   "From personal experience, staggering round a transatlantic liner in a dinner jacket with a martini is the normal, rational, reasonable way to cross the Atlantic.  Heading for an airport and strapping yourself to a flimsy aluminium tube is an unfortunate and eccentric aberration."

Transatlantic sailing dates

Southampton ► new york.

2024 transatlantic sailings:   28 April, 16 May, 9 June (6 night), 23 June (6 night), 21 July (6 night), 16 August, 15 September, 17 October (8 night), 13 November, 14 December.

2025 transatlantic sailings:   9 January (9 nights, Queen Anne), 8 March, 27 April (8 nights), 16 May, 6 June, 24 June, 27 August, 26 September, 24 October, 19 November, 15 December.

All crossings are now 7 nights except where shown.  The Queen Mary 2 usually sails from Southampton at 17:00, arriving in New York 7 nights later at 06:30-07:00.  The terminal she uses in Southampton varies.  In New York she arrives at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

New York ► Southampton

2024 transatlantic sailings:   3 January (8 nights), 5 May, 23 May, 15 June (8 nights), 6 July (8 nights), 27 July (8 nights), 23 August, 4 October (9 nights), 25 October, 3 December.

2025 transatlantic sailings:   3 January (8 nights), 6 April (8 nights), 5 may, 23 may, 13 June, 8 July, 8 august, 3 September, 17 October, 31 October, 8 December then 3 January 2026 (8 nights).

The QM2 usually sails from New York Brooklyn Cruise Terminal at 17:00, with check-in opening at 13:00 and closing at 15:45.  She arrives in Southampton at 06:30 seven nights later.

How to check sailing dates, times, prices & availability

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How much does it cost?

Typical Cunard one-way fares for transatlantic crossings.  Late bookings in late season can often be cheaper than this!

Inside = without window, oceanview = with porthole, see the cabin accommodation guide .  All other staterooms & suites have a balcony, except the two Q3 Royal Suites.

Britannia = allocated to the Britannia restaurant for meals.  Princess or Queen's Grill = allocated to the superior Princess or Queen's Grill restaurants for meals.

How to find cheaper tickets:   You'll often find cheaper fares if you buy your tickets from a cruise specialist such as www.cruisenation.com (UK-based) or www.cruisedirect.com (in the USA or Canada), both of which have online booking for transatlantic crossings and cruises.  Agencies like these can save perhaps £100 per person or more off the official Cunard price, and you'll also find cheaper fares if you shop for last minute deals and late-season crossings, as low as £799 or better, for example.  However, be aware that in high summer transatlantic sailings can get full many months in advance.

Round trip fares:   There are special round trip fares covering two back-to-back crossings with just 1 day in New York, but if you plan to spend more than a day at your destination you'll need to pay one-way fares each way.  In other words, for all practical purposes a round trip on the QM2 means buying two one-way tickets.

Cunard Fare & Saver fare:   The Cunard fare lets you choose a specific cabin & dinner sitting up front.  The Saver fares are several hundred pounds or dollars cheaper and guarantee a cabin in the booked grade or higher, but the cabin and dinner sitting time are allocated for you.  You can log in to Cunard's voyage personaliser at my.cunard.com/en-gb/mycruise/login a couple of weeks before departure to see what cabin & sitting you have been allocated.

Child fares:   See here .

What does the fare include?   All Queen Mary 2 transatlantic fares include your cabin accommodation, all meals & afternoon tea, on-board entertainment such as shows, lectures, films, access to the swimming pools & library, plus the tea, coffee & juices available in the Kings Court self-service.  The fare does not include alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks served in bars or at meals, Canyon Ranch Spa access & treatments, or internet access .  Also, a 'discretionary' fee of around $11-$14 per person per day will be added to your on board account each day as a gratuity for staff.

How to buy tickets

  if you live in uk & europe,   if you live in the usa or canada, how does the ticketing work , westbound transatlantic guide.

Here is a typical transatlantic timetable, port transfer, embarkation arrangements & journey information for a typical westbound transatlantic sailing on the QM2.  Although they normally follow this same pattern, always check the sailing time & check-in times for your specific date.  If you find that something has changed, please let me know .  If you're sailing eastbound, see the eastbound information .  Are  westbound or eastbound crossings better?

Take the train from London Waterloo

Fast air-conditioned trains run from London Waterloo to Southampton Central every 30 minutes taking around 1h17.  No reservation is necessary, just turn up, buy a ticket and hop on the next train.

London to Southampton costs £43.10 adult one-way Super Off-Peak in standard class or £86.80 one-way Off-Peak in 1st class.

These tickets have unlimited availability, you can buy them on the day, the price doesn't change.  Children under 16 half price, children under 5 free.

If you book in advance and commit to a specific train, cheaper Advance fares are available from around £10 in standard class or £16 in 1st class.  These tickets have limited availability at each price level.

Check train times & fares from London Waterloo or anywhere in Britain to Southampton at www.thetrainline.com .  Direct trains run from Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford, Reading, Bristol & Cardiff to Southampton, so you won't have to cross London.  See a beginner's guide to UK train travel .

For train connections from Paris or any other European city to London, see here .  I'd recommend a night in London before taking the train to Southampton on sailing day.

Transfer by taxi in Southampton

Make sure you know which of the four possible terminals the QM2 is sailing from, the QEII terminal (dock gate 4), City Cruise Terminal (dock gate 10), Mayflower Cruise Terminal (dock gate 10), or the new Ocean Terminal (dock gate 4).  Map of Southampton, showing all cruise terminals, Southampton Central Station & the historic Ocean Terminal .

A taxi from Southampton Central station takes 10 minutes and costs around £10 to the Mayflower or City cruise terminals, around £13 to the QEII terminal or Ocean Terminal.  You'll find plenty of taxis waiting at the station, the taxi rank is on the same side of the station where most trains from London arrive, so no bridges or subways to negotiate., level access from platform to booking hall to forecourt.

QM2 check-in procedures

Check-in typically opens at 13:00 and closes around 15:45.  Cunard will give you a specific check-in time on your e-ticket to stagger people arriving, but you can arrive earlier if you like, it's not a problem.

Visitors are not allowed on board, so anyone seeing you off will have to leave you at the terminal.   Cunard either send you or allow you to download labels showing your departure date & cabin number, remember to put one on each bag before arriving at the terminal.

When you get out of the taxi at the terminal drop-off point your large bags are immediately taken from you and whisked away, they will magically reappear later in your stateroom.  No bag should exceed 23Kg (50lb) but you can take as many bags as you like as long as they will all fit into your stateroom.

You then walk into the check-in hall and go to the first available check-in desk, this usually doesn't take long.  At the check-in desk, you show your e-ticket, your passport & your credit card for on-board purchases, and a webcam photo is taken of each passenger for security purposes.  You may be asked to fill out a brief health form to notify the ship of any fever you have or any diarrhoea you've had in the last 48 hours.  Each passenger is given a credit-card sized plastic card which is your embarkation card, your cabin key and your charge card for buying drinks & souvenirs on board. 

After check-in there's an airline-style X-ray & metal detector security check, then straight onto the gangway onto the QM2, entering the Grand Lobby on deck 3.  It's a painless process compared to airports.  If you feel like a late lunch, or just a tea, coffee or juice when you board, you'll find the King's Court self-service restaurant on deck 7 open for business and offering all of these.

What's an Atlantic crossing like?

The Queen Mary 2 is usually due to sail from Southampton at 17:00.  This is the most usual time, but please check for your sailing date.  Once on board and settled into your stateroom, listen for announcements about emergency drill.  This is held at 16:00 and takes about 20 minutes.  You listen for the alarm bells, fetch your lifejackets from your stateroom and go to your allocated muster station where staff will brief you on emergency procedures and you'll listen to an announcement by the captain.  When it's over, return your lifejackets to your stateroom and head up on deck for departure...

Soon after 17:00 the QM2 sails, with a band playing on her aft decks and glasses of champagne available (around $17).  She is sometimes moored facing upstream, sometimes downstream, and if she's moored facing upstream at the City or Mayflower terminals, she'll first head further upstream before turning around, somehow managing to turn her 1,130 foot length without hitting the far bank of the river or the small boats moored there.

Southampton's historic Ocean Terminal:  Cunard no longer use the traditional and historic Ocean Terminal dock, from which the original Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth and even Titanic would have sailed.  Indeed, the old 1950 terminal building was demolished in 1983 and this hugely historic location now looks totally unremarkable, a freight dock with a couple of multi-storey car parks next to it for vehicle exports.  You won't know that you're looking at it unless you know where it is, so see this map .  It's just north of the QEII terminal, just south of the City & Mayflower terminals.  About the old Ocean Terminal .

The Queen Mary 2 heads downstream into the Solent, heading directly towards Cowes on the Isle of Wight before making a tight turn to port (left) in the deep water channel, passing Ryde to starboard (right) and Portsmouth to port.  The QM2 rounds the Isle of Wight using the deep water route to the east (although this looks like the long way round on a map) and heads out into the English Channel.  By breakfast next morning, you're well past Bishop Rock lighthouse and out in the Atlantic...

Seven nights at sea on the Atlantic.  Cunard slowed down their crossings from 6 nights to 7 nights from 2011 onwards, although an occasional crossing may take 6 or 8 nights.  This is two days slower than it used to be, as the weekly service operated from 1946 to 1967 by the original Queen Mary and her consort Queen Elizabeth took just 5 nights for the 3,150 nautical miles (3,625 miles). 

There may be no coastline or islands to see in mid-Atlantic (or even other ships, usually), but I never tire of gazing at the brooding waters of the North Atlantic.  It changes from day to day, sometimes smooth and glassy, sometimes choppy and sombre, sometimes sunny, sometimes foggy with the Queen Mary 2's fog horn blaring at regular intervals.

You may get rough crossings especially in October, November or December, but my summer crossings on the 150,000 ton Queen Mary 2 or 70,000 ton QE2 have been rock steady all the way.  You could be in a 5 star hotel rather than on board a ship!

The QM2's clocks are put back an hour at 2am on 5 of the 7 nights because of the time difference, giving you a welcome extra hour's sleep in this direction.  You will pass within a few miles of the resting place of the Titanic (within 38 nautical miles on one of my westbound crossings) and an announcement may well be made on board.  Naturally, you'll find a whole programme of entertainment & activities on board every day, and if you really want to be bored you'll have to work hard at it.

The QM2 arrives in New York at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal at 06:30.  This is the highlight!  Whether you're a natural early riser or not, make sure you're up and on deck by 04:45 on the morning of arrival in New York, as the arrival into New York by ocean liner is something you will remember all you life.  There's a forward-facing observation deck on deck 11,  immediately below the bridge, accessed from 'A' stairway.  You'll see the lights of Long Island to starboard (the right-hand side), Staten Island to port, and the Verrazano suspension bridge dead ahead at the entrance to New York harbour.  The Queen Mary 2 passes under the bridge with just a few precious feet of clearance above her funnel, and as she does so the fabulous Manhattan skyline comes into view.  The QM2 no longer uses Cunard's traditional terminal at Pier 90 on Manhattan itself, so she no longer steams right past the Statue of Liberty, but instead she turns to starboard (to the right) opposite the statue and heads into the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, berthing within sight of the famous Statue and Manhattan skyline.

QM2 disembarkation in New York

A note explaining QM2 disembarkation procedures appears outside your stateroom a day or two before arrival, and each deck is allocated a disembarkation time.  Disembarkation takes place between 08:00 & 11:00.  The upper decks with the more expensive cabins disembark first (e.g. decks 9, 10, 11, 12), other decks such as 4, 5 or 6 later.

Labels for your bags appear outside your stateroom the day before arrival.  You put a label on each of your bags and place them in the corridor outside your stateroom between 20:00 & midnight before arrival.  Your bags will disappear and will be waiting for you in the terminal hall next morning, in an area marked with the same colour as your labels.

It's then just a matter of going through the U.S. immigration check, a slowish process but no worse than any airport.  They you walk out of the terminal.

Express disembarkation:   If you want to get off sooner and are happy managing all your own bags, you can register for Express disembarkation at the purser's desk on deck 2 the day before arrival.  You are given an express disembarkation card.  Express disembarkation passengers gather in the Queens Room from 06:45 onwards with all their luggage, and at around 07:00 when the gangway opens you simply walk off the ship with your bags, straight into the terminal.  With a Deck 4 cabin we were allocated an 11:00 disembarkation time, which would have meant half a day in New York wasted, so I'd go for express disembarkation every time!

Transfer by taxi to Manhattan

The Tour Office on deck 2 offers private transfers by minivan from Brooklyn Cruise Terminal to any Manhattan hotel for a ridiculous $429, or they can sell you tickets for a transfer bus for $59 per person. 

However, both options are crazy, because a normal yellow cab from the terminal taxi rank to anywhere in Manhattan costs only $40 for up to 4 people and all your bags, and you'll find plenty of taxis waiting right outside the terminal building.  Enjoy the drive across the famous Brooklyn Bridge in a New York Yellow Cab!

You'll also find plenty of black private hire vehicles outside the terminal with a fixed price of around $55 to a Manhattan hotel, also a good relaxed option.  The ride takes 20 minutes.

Alternatively, the cheapest option (just $4) is to take the frequent ferry from Brooklyn's Red Hook ferry terminal to Pier 11 on Wall Street at the southern end of Manhattan.  Red Hook ferry quay is only 100m from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and it'll take you to Manhattan in a matter of minutes, see www.ferry.nyc .  It's aimed at locals, but taking a suitcase isn't usually a problem.  See walking map cruise terminal to Red Hook ferry .

By train from New York to other U.S. cities

You can be at Penn Station by 11:30 or earlier, for onward train connections.  Washington DC is only 3 hours away by train, Boston 4 hours or less.  The Lake Shore Limited train to Chicago leaves Penn Station around 15:45 arriving in Chicago next morning, with connections for all points west including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Dallas, Seattle.  You'll also make the afternoon Crescent overnight train to Atlanta & New Orleans, or the afternoon Silver Meteor overnight to Florida.

You can book any of these trains online in advance at www.amtrak.com , collecting your ticket from the self-service machines at Penn Station.  Note that between New York & Washington or New York & Boston you'll be offered two different types of train:  The premium-fare Acela Express 150mph high-speed train with business class and first class, but no coach class, and the slower but cheaper Northeast Regional trains with coach class and business class. 

You can book Amtrak trains yourself, but if you want an agency to sort a package of train connections and hotels from New York to other US cities, call Railbookers on 0207 864 4600 (UK office) or 1-888-829-4775 (US office).  Beginner's guide to train travel in the USA .

By train from New York to Toronto, Montreal & Canada

Two daily trains link New York with Canada, the Maple Leaf to Toronto and the Adirondack to Montreal.  Both trains leave New York in the morning, so you'll need to spend the night in New York.  It's a very scenic run along the Hudson River valley, past West Point Military Academy, Storm King Mountain and Bannerman's Island.  As it's name suggests, the train to Montreal also passes through the scenic Adirondack Mountains and past Lake Champlain.  Information on trains from New York to Canada .  Change in Toronto for the famous Canadian trans-continental train 2-3 times a week to Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper & Vancouver. 

You can book Amtrak & VIA Rail trains yourself, but if you want an agency to sort a package of train connections and hotels from New York to major Canadian cities, call Railbookers on 0207 864 4600 (UK office), 1-888-829-4775 (US office, toll-free) or 1-855-882-2910 (Canada, toll-free).  Beginner's guide to train travel in Canada .

Eastbound transatlantic guide

Here is a typical timetable, transfer & journey information for most eastbound trans-Atlantic crossings.  Although they usually follow this pattern, please check sailing & check-in times for your specific date when you book in case they are different.  If you find that anything has changed, do let me know .  If you plan to travel westbound, click here .  Are  westbound or eastbound crossings better?

By train from Washington DC & other US cities to New York

Amtrak trains link Washington DC & New York in less than 3 hours, Boston to New York in under 4 hours.  The daily Lake Shore Limited links Chicago & New York overnight, with connections in Chicago from LA, San Francisco, Seattle, etc.  However, the Lake Shore arrives at New York's Penn station in the early evening, too late for same-day connections with the 'Mary, so you'll need to leave Chicago two nights before the 'Mary sails and spend a night in New York before sailing day.  You can check schedules and fares and buy tickets for any of these trains online at www.amtrak.com .  Note that between New York & Washington or New York & Boston you'll be offered two different types of train:  The premium-fare Acela Express 150mph high-speed train with business class and first class, but no coach class, and the slower but cheaper Northeast Regional trains with coach class and business class.  You can book Amtrak trains yourself, but if you want an agency to sort a package of train connections and hotels from other US cities to New York for you, call Railbookers on 0207 864 4600 (UK office) or 1-888-829-4775 (US office.  Beginner's guide to train travel in the USA .

By train from Toronto, Montreal & Canada to New York

Two daily trains link Canada with New York, the Maple Leaf from Toronto and Adirondack from Montreal.  Both trains arrive in New York in the evening, so you'll need to spend a night in New York before sailing day - Check hotels in New York .  It's a very scenic run down the Hudson River valley, past West Point Military Academy, Storm King Mountain and Bannerman's Island.  As it's name suggests, the train from Montreal also passes through the scenic Adirondack Mountains and past Lake Champlain.  Information on trains between Canada & New York .  The famous Canadian trans-continental train links Vancouver & Toronto three times a week, via Jasper, Edmonton & Winnipeg.  You can book Amtrak & VIA Rail trains yourself, but if you want an agency to sort a package of train connections and hotels from a Canadian city to New York for you, call Railbookers on 0207 864 4600 (UK office) or 1-888-829-4775 (US office, toll-free) or 1-855-882-2910 (Canada, toll-free). Beginner's guide to train travel in Canada .

By taxi from Manhattan to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

A normal yellow cab from New York Penn Station or any hotel in Manhattan to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal costs around $40 for up to 4 people and all your bags.  Enjoy the drive across the famous Brooklyn Bridge in a traditional New York Yellow Cab!  The taxi ride takes 20 minutes.

Alternatively, a frequent ferry operates from Pier 11 at the end of Wall Street in Manhattan to Red Hook ferry terminal in Brooklyn, this is just 100m from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, fare $4, see www.ferry.nyc .  See walking map from Red Hook ferry terminal to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal .

QM2 check-in procedures in New York

Check-in usually opens around 13:00 and closes around 15:45.  Cunard will give you a specific check-in time on your e-ticket to try and stagger people arriving, but you can arrive earlier if you like.  Visitors are not allowed on board, so anyone seeing you off will have to leave you at the terminal then wave from the shore.

Cunard will have sent you adhesive labels showing your departure date & cabin number, remember to put one on each bag before arriving at the terminal, as when you get there your larger bags are immediately taken from you.  They will magically reappear later in your stateroom.  No one bag should exceed 23Kg (50lb) but you can take as many bags as you like as long as they will all fit into your stateroom.

You then walk into the terminal and join the short queue for a ticket check, then another short queue for the X-ray and metal detector security check, then you join a long zig-zag queue for check-in proper.

At the check-in desk, you show your e-ticket, your passport & your credit card for on-board purchases, and a webcam photo is taken of each passenger for security purposes.  You also hand in a brief health form notifying the ship of any fever you have or any diarrhoea you've had in the last 48 hours. Each passenger is given a credit-card sized plastic card which acts as your embarkation card, cabin key and charge card for buying drinks & souvenirs on board.  You then go up the gangway onto the QM2, entering the Grand Lobby on deck 3.

Apart from the time spent in the main queue (have a reading book and some refreshments to hand), it's a painless process compared to airports.  If you feel like a late lunch, or just a tea, coffee or juice when you board, you'll find the King's Court self-service restaurant on deck 7 open for business and offering all of these.

What's an eastbound Atlantic crossing like?

The ship normally sails from New York at 17:00.  This is the usual time, but please check for your specific departure date.  Once on board and settled into your stateroom, listen for announcements about emergency drill.  This is held at 16:00 and takes about 20 minutes.  You listen for the alarm bells, fetch your lifejackets from your stateroom and go to your allocated muster station where staff will brief you on emergency procedures and you'll listen to an announcement by the captain.  After this you're free to go up on deck and admire the Manhattan skyline astern and the Statue of Liberty to starboard (right-hand side).  At 17:00 she casts off, and with a band playing on her aft decks and glasses of champagne available (around $17) she heads out to sea.  Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty slowly disappear astern, and the QM2 heads toward and then underneath the huge Verrazano suspension bridge out into the Atlantic.  There is just a few precious feet of clearance above her red funnel!  An NYPD police boat follows behind (seeing you off the premises?), and a police helicopter buzzes overhead.

Seven nights at sea on the Atlantic.  Cunard slowed down their crossings to from 6 to 7 nights from 2011 onwards, although an occasional crossing still takes 6 nights.  Naturally, you'll find a whole programme of entertainment & activities on board every day, and if you really want to be bored you'll have to work hard at it!  There are no islands or coastline to see in mid-Atlantic (or even other ships, usually), but personally I never tire of gazing at the brooding waters of the North Atlantic.  It changes from day to day, sometimes smooth and glassy, sometimes choppy and sombre, sometimes foggy, sometimes sunny.  You may get rough crossings especially in October, November or December, but my own transatlantic crossings on the 150,000 ton Queen Mary 2 or 70,000 ton QE2 have been rock steady all the way.  You could be in a 5 star hotel rather than on board a ship!  The QM2's clocks are put forward an hour at 2am on five of the seven eastbound nights because of the time difference, giving you an hour's less sleep in this direction - if there's one reason why a westbound crossing can be nicer than an eastbound one, this is it!  (update 2013:  Cunard has tried the crazy idea of putting the clocks forward at midday on recent crossings, much to passengers dismay, as it can be confusing and means dinner is too soon after lunch!)  You will pass within a few miles of the resting place of the Titanic and an announcement may well be made on board.  On the last evening at dinner you may catch site of the Isles of Scilly in the distance (about 35 miles west of Land's End), and later the lights of Cornwall twinkling to port.  A first view of Great Britain!  You're now past the Bishop Rock lighthouse an in the English Channel.  Incidentally, a modern transatlantic crossing is now two days slower than it used to be, as the weekly service operated by the first Queen Mary and her consort Queen Elizabeth from 1946 to 1967 took just 5 nights.

The ship arrives in Southampton at 06:30.  You'll need to be up early, at around 04:30, if you want to see the ship round the Isle of Wight and head past Portsmouth & Ryde and into Southampton Water, although this hardly lives up to the spectacular arrival in New York on a westbound transatlantic.  There's a forward-facing observation deck on deck 10, immediately below the bridge, accessed from 'A' stairway.  Otherwise, you'll find the ship docked at the Southampton Terminal when you awake, and the Kings Court & Britannia restaurants serving a welcome cooked breakfast to send you on your way.

QM2 disembarkation in Southampton

It's then just a matter of going through the UK immigration check.  They you walk out of the terminal.

Express disembarkation:   If you want to get off sooner and are happy managing all your own bags, you can register for Express disembarkation at the purser's desk on deck 2 the day before arrival.  You are given an express disembarkation card.  Express disembarkation passengers gather in the Queens Room from 06:45 onwards with all their luggage, and at around 07:00 when the gangway opens you simply walk off the ship with your bags, straight into the terminal.

Transfer by taxi to Southampton Central station

The Queen Mary 2 can use any one of four different terminals in Southampton, either the QEII terminal (dock gate 4), City Cruise Terminal (dock gate 10), Mayflower Cruise Terminal (dock gate 10), or the new Ocean Terminal (dock gate 4).  Map of Southampton, showing all cruise terminals, Southampton Central Station & the original historic Ocean Terminal .  A taxi to Southampton Central station costs around £10 from the Mayflower or City cruise terminals, or around £13 from the QEII terminal or Ocean Terminal.  You'll find plenty of taxis waiting at the terminal, although there can be a long wait as there are so many other passengers.  The taxi ride takes just 10 minutes.

Take the train to London Waterloo

Cunard no longer organise a special 'boat train' in connection with QM2 sailings.  However, fast air-conditioned trains link Southampton Central with London Waterloo every 30 minutes taking around 1h17.  No reservation is necessary or even possible for Southampton-London trains, you just turn up, buy a ticket and hop on the next train.

Southampton to London costs £43.10 adult one-way Super Off-Peak in standard class or £86.80 one-way Off-Peak in 1st class.

I would not buy a cheaper advance-purchase Advance fare because this commits you to a specific train and you are not in control of exactly when you arrive and disembark.  Super Off-Peak, Off-Peak and Anytime fares can be bought on the day and used flexibly, so you can catch the next train.

You can check train times & fares from Southampton to London Waterloo or anywhere in Britain using www.thetrainline.com .  Direct trains run from Southampton to Reading, Oxford, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol & Cardiff, so you won't have to cross London.  Beginner's guide to UK train travel .  Find a hotel in London .

Onward trains from London to Paris & beyond

Onwards to Paris:   Allow plenty of time for onward connections, certainly several hours, and maybe stay in London overnight.  For Paris, take a UK domestic train from Southampton central to London Waterloo (no reservation necessary, see the section above), then take a taxi or Underground across London to St Pancras Station.  Eurostar runs every hour or so from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord in central Paris, journey time 2 hours 20 minutes.   For a beginner's guide to Eurostar travel, see the London to Paris by Eurostar page .  You can book tickets online in advance at www.eurostar.com , and you should indeed pre-book, as London-Paris prices start from £52 in advance but up to £200+ if you wait and buy on the day of travel.

Onwards to other countries:   See this page for information on getting from London to any country in Europe .  Having crossed the Atlantic on the luxurious Queen Mary 2, how about taking the Venice Simplon Orient Express vintage luxury train to Italy ?  This runs on most Thursdays from April to October, and takes 24 hours from London to Venice, a real treat.  You can book European trains yourself, but if you want an agency to put together a package of train connections and hotels from anywhere in Europe to Southampton for you, call Railbookers on 0207 864 4600 (UK) or 1-888-829-4775 (US office).

Which cabin to choose?

There are a bewildering range of staterooms on the Queen Mary 2 at varying prices, but they basically fall into these categories, in ascending order of cost:

Britannia Inside:   An Inside cabin means it has no window, but even though this is the cheapest option, these staterooms are spacious, beautifully designed and have all the facilities mentioned above.  They have double or twin beds for 2 people, although some rooms are fitted with an additional two drop-down upper berths making a 3 or 4-berth room.  Some cabins are wheelchair-accessible.  Allocated to the Britannia restaurant.  Typically 155 sq ft.

Britannia Atrium View:   There are a handful of standard inside cabins on decks 4, 5 & 6 which have a small window opening onto the atrium above the Grand Lobby.  They have double or twin beds for 2 people, but none of these rooms are fitted with additional berths.  Also allocated to the Britannia restaurant.  Typically 161 sq ft.

Britannia Oceanview:   These are outside cabins meaning they have a small non-opening porthole for sea views.  Some seasoned travellers will tell you that with no coastline or islands to see on a 6 day transatlantic crossing, a window is unnecessary.  However, I enjoy seeing where I am and love gazing at the vast and always-changing waters of the North Atlantic.  Paying the extra for a Standard Oceanview is well worth it, both for the views and the natural light.  These staterooms have double or twin beds for two people, but some rooms are fitted with an additional two drop-down upper berths making a 3- or 4-berth room.  Some are wheelchair-accessible.  Also allocated to the Britannia restaurant.  Typically 194 sq ft.

I've crossed with an inside cabin and with an outside cabin, and I think it's well worth the extra for a porthole.  It lets natural light into the cabin and it gives you a much greater sense of place - not to mention sunsets over the Isle of Wight and views of the Statue of Liberty as you pack up on arrival!

Britannia Balcony (Obstructed View) :  The cheapest cabin type to have its own balcony, allocated to the Britannia restaurant.  These are all on Deck 8 above the promenade deck, but with their view heavily obstructed by the ship's lifeboats.  They have a double or twin beds for 2 people, and a few cabins have a 3rd berth in the form of a pull-out sofa bed.

I'd definitely pay a little more for an sheltered balcony, without any obstruction.

Britannia Sheltered Balcony:   The next cheapest cabin type to have its own balcony, allocated to the Britannia restaurant, also with a double or twin beds for 2 people, a few cabins have a pull-out sofa bed as well.  Sheltered balcony cabins are on decks 4, 5 & 6 below the promenade deck with a small balcony cut into the hull.  Typically 269 sq ft, including balcony.

This is my own first choice (unless you can afford a megabucks suite, of course), arguably a better choice for a transatlantic crossing than a more expensive cabin with a more windswept balcony in the ship's superstructure.  See the photos below.

Britannia Balcony:   Also allocated to the Britannia restaurant, these are slightly smaller than the Sheltered Balcony rooms, but have a glass-fronted balcony higher up in the ship's superstructure, on deck 8 and above.

The open glass-fronted balcony lets even more natural light into the cabin than a sheltered balcony, but it'll be more windswept than a sheltered balcony on a transatlantic crossing!   Typically 248 sq ft, including balcony.

Britannia Club Balcony:   Similar to a Britannia Balcony, but allocated to the single-sitting 'Britannia Club' restaurant, a separate off-shoot of the main Britannia restaurant.  Typically 248 sq ft, including balcony.

Princess Balcony Suites:   Suites with balcony, all allocated to the Princess Grill restaurant.  Typically 381 sq ft, including balcony.

Queens Balcony Suites:   Various types of suite, up to and including the extravagant Grand Duplex suites, all allocated to the Queen's Grill restaurant.  All have balconies, except the two Q3 grade Royal Suites.  Size varies from 506 sq ft to 2,249 sq ft.

QM2 deck plans in PDF format

If you pay the more expensive Cunard fare so you can choose a specific cabin, here are some things to consider.

You can feel a slight up & down movement of the ship towards at the bows, but will feel hardly any movement at all amidships.  For this reason mid-ships cabins are higher-graded and cost more (Even if you pay the cheaper Saver fare, you can select a higher grade to ensure a mid-ships cabin).

Some people have reported noise from below when occupying sheltered balcony cabins on 4 deck directly above the Illuminations or Royal Court Theatre, so 5 or 6 Deck may be preferable.  However, we had 4101 & 4105 over the Chart Room bar and these were perfect.

Adjacent cabins with connecting doors are marked on the QM2 deck plan .  Choose these if four of you are going to book two cabins.  But don't choose these if you're only booking one cabin, as a wall with connecting door is never as totally soundproofed as a wall without.

Facilities in all cabins

Even the cheapest QM2 cabin (or stateroom as Cunard calls them) features comfortable beds, a private bathroom with shower, sink & toilet, a dressing table, flatscreen TV, a small coffee table & chair, 240v UK & 110v US style power sockets, pay-per-minute internet access , soap, shower gel, shampoo & conditioner, bathrobes, hairdryer, plenty of wardrobe space, room service menu and a solid electronic safe for your valuables that's large enough for a 14" laptop.  A bedtime chocolate is delivered to your stateroom when the steward turns down your bed.

Where cabins can be configured with either twin beds or a double, you can select your preference in advance using the online voyage personaliser at my.cunard.com/en-gb/mycruise/login the same online system where you download and print your luggage labels and e-ticket.  You log on with your Cunard booking reference and personal details.

Britannia sheltered balcony  See 360º image

This is cabin 4101 on 4 Deck.   The Man in Seat 61 says , "This is my own preferred cabin for a transatlantic crossing.  Even at 20 knots in mid-Atlantic the balcony remains wind-free just as the word sheltered suggests.  Some people say you won't get much use out of a balcony on the Atlantic, but I loved being able to stroll outside at any time and stand at the rail watching the Atlantic drift past.  On a sunny summer crossing off Newfoundland we did indeed sit outside, and even when inside, the French windows let in lots of natural light, making it a far nicer room than an inside or outside cabin, so upgrade if you can.  I have yet to travel with a more expensive full-balcony cabin, but I expect those are a lot more windswept!".  Click the photos for larger images.

Britannia inside & oceanview

Qm2 restaurants, which restaurant.

The fare includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as afternoon tea in the Queen's Room or King's Court.  It does not include drinks, other than the basic water, tea, coffee & juice available at the drink stations in the Kings Court buffet restaurant.  Bottles of wine start at around $30 and real ale lovers can choose Old Speckled Hen or Spitfire for around $6 a bottle.

Your allocated restaurant:   Each stateroom is allocated a restaurant.  Most cabins, including the Inside, Oceanview & Sheltered Balcony, are allocated to the Britannia restaurant on decks 2 & 3. The more expensive staterooms are allocated to the more intimate Princess Grill on deck 7, and the very best staterooms to the Queen's Grill , also on deck 7.  The food is excellent, and you choose from a menu of half a dozen different starters, main courses and desserts, which changes every day.

Optional dining venues:   You can also choose to eat any given meal in the informal King's Court buffet on deck 7, or pub grub in the Golden Lion pub on deck 2, instead of your allocated restaurant.  It's entirely up to you, you can decide on a day by day basis.

There is also the Veranda Restaurant aft on deck 8.  This does seafood and steaks, and is an extra-cost option - you reserve a table and pay extra to dine there instead of your allocated restaurant.

Room service:   If you'd rather eat in your cabin, every cabin has free room service from a simple menu including burgers, pasta, cheese & crackers.  You can order by phone at any time, it's all included in your fare.  However, if you order any drinks from room service, including soft drinks, these are charged at bar prices.  You can also choose to have breakfast delivered to your stateroom, except on the morning of arrival.  Just hang the breakfast order form on your cabin door before retiring.

Britannia restaurant

Most staterooms are allocated to the Britannia restaurant , a magnificent two-storey 1,300 seat restaurant spanning decks 2 & 3 and reminiscent of the grand dining saloons of the great ocean liners of the past.  There are two sittings for dinner, 6pm & 8.30pm.  If you pay the Cunard fare you can choose a sitting when you book, if you pay the cheaper Saver fare you will be allocated a sitting, perhaps the less popular 8.30pm one.  If you log onto your online voyage personaliser at my.cunard.com/en-gb/mycruise/login with your booking reference and personal details it will confirm your sitting before you travel.  Evening entertainment is arranged so that both sittings can enjoy it, although the 6pm sitting gives you the rest of the evening free, and is arguably more relaxed than the later one.  If you've young children, see the section below .  There are no specific sittings or allocated tables for lunch or breakfast, you are allocated a table when you walk in, choosing your own table for 2, table for 4 or if you prefer, seats at a shared table so you get to meet other passengers.

Princess Grill & Queen's Grill

More expensive staterooms are allocated to the Princess Grill , the most expensive suites to the Queens Grill .  Both are aft on deck 7, served by the same galley.  There are no sittings, you can dine any time you choose when the restaurant is open.  If you want a drink before dinner, the Grill Lounge is a lounge and bar exclusively for Princess & Queens Grill passengers, on 7 deck aft, directly opposite the entrance to the Queens Grill.

Kings Court

The Kings Court buffet restaurant takes up most of the centre section of deck 7, and it's open almost continuously from early until late, with only half an hour here and there were breakfast dishes are swapped for lunch or lunch for dinner.  There's a wide variety of food, all good quality, including a carvery.  The window tables with sea views cross the promenade deck are the nicest.  Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, water & juices can be had for free from the drinks stations in several locations around the Kings Court area.  Stewards will take your order for wine, beer, cocktails, mocktails or fizzy soft drinks and deliver them to your table, these drinks must be paid for, added to your on board account.

The Man in Seat 61 says , "If you fancy a first breakfast in the Britannia restaurant then a second breakfast in the Kings Court, why not?  After all, Second Breakfast is the most important meal of the day..."

The Verandah restaurant

The Verandah restaurant aft on deck 8 is an extra-cost option, specialising in steaks and seafood.  You can make a reservation at the Verandah restaurant whilst you are on board, or you can book a table for one or more nights at your desired time before you travel, by logging into your voyage personaliser at my.cunard.com/en-gb/mycruise/login booking the table and paying the extra.

The Man in Seat 61 says , "With our normal Britannia sitting not until 8.30pm, we booked a table at the Verandah for 6pm on our last evening before getting up early to see the arrival into New York.  I wished we'd dined there on more than just one occasion, the steaks were top class."

QM2 bars & lounges

There is no shortage of watering holes on the Queen Mary 2.  Personally, the Chart Room works for cocktails before or after dinner as it's near the social centre of the ship on deck 3, but for quiet reading, working on a laptop and generally getting away from it all, the Commodore Club with its forward view over the bows is my top choice.  Drinks are not too expensive:  A tea is $2, a glass of wine perhaps $6, a cocktail $10.  Although I'm a non-smoker 99.9% of the time, one of Havana's Montecristo number 2 cigars and a 1979 Armagnac were sound recommendations from the barman on the last night of a return crossing from New York.

Champagne bar

Sponsored by Veuve Cliquot, the Champagne Bar is on 3 Deck, on the upper level of the Grand Lobby in the centre of the ship.

Commodore Club

Located on deck 9 on 'A' stairway at the forward end of the superstructure.  It's away from the hustle and bustle, a quiet and relaxing place for a cocktail and a read or chat.  You get a great forward view over the bows, although blinds are drawn at dusk so the light does not interfere with the view from the bridge above.  This is my favourite place on QM2 - it does a great range of cocktails and other drinks, the Churchill Cigar Lounge opens off the Commodore Club, the library is one deck down also on 'A' stairway, and the open-air observation deck below the bridge is two decks up on 'A' stairway.  There's a huge illuminated model of the QM2 behind the bar.

Chart room bar

Located on deck 3 near the Britannia restaurant, this is the largest and busiest of the QM2's bars.  Click the photo for larger image.

Golden Lion Pub

Located on deck 2 near the Britannia restaurant, this is not only a good place for a pint of London Pride, you can take meals here too, with pub-style food such as fish and chips or sausages and mash.  Click the photo for larger image.

Carinthia Lounge

Located on deck 7 next to the Kings Court buffet with doors opening onto the promenade deck.  This is a good place to sit, read, and have a tea or coffee.  You may also find some complimentary snacks or soup here too, at the kitchen counter.  Click the photo for larger image.

Afternoon tea in the Queen's Room

Every day at around 3.30pm, afternoon tea is served in the Queen's Room, on 2 Deck aft.  A choice of teas comes with daintily-cut sandwiches, scones and cakes, served by stewards in white gloves.  Afternoon tea is included in the fare, but a glass of champagne is extra.

Grill Lounge

The Grill Lounge is a lounge and bar exclusively for passengers travelling in the upmarket staterooms and suites allocated to the Princess and Queen's Grill restaurants.  It's located on 7 Deck aft, directly opposite the entrance to the Queen's Grill and the ship's width away from the entrance to the Princess Grill.  It seemed to be empty most of the time even with the ship sailing full, it's main purpose seems to be drinks before dinner.

Churchill's Cigar Lounge

This is a sealed and specially-ventilated room opening off the starboard side of the Commodore Club.  Here you can order a whisky or cognac and choose from a cigar menu.  The rest of the ship's accommodation is of course non-smoking!

QM2 activities & entertainment

A daily programme for the following day is delivered to your stateroom each evening.  It shows details of the entertainment and activities on board, along with navigational & itinerary information and the opening and closing times of all restaurants, bars and other facilities.  There's an ongoing programme of shows, plays & lectures.  For example, recent crossings featured talks by John Cleese about his work on Monty Python & Fawlty Towers, excellent lectures by an expert on New York skyscrapers, an edited version of Shakespeare's 'Taming of the Shrew' and Oscar Wilde's 'The Importance of being Earnest'.  The QM2 also features the world's only sea-going planetarium, called the 'Illuminations'.  And of course there are several live bands on board, with dancing every evening, sometimes themed such as the 'Black & White Ball' and 'Ascot Ball'.  If it's disco you prefer, you'll find that in the G32 nightclub.  You'll also find the Canyon Ranch spa on deck 7, offering a wide range of treatments from manicures to massages, Jacuzzis to saunas.  If you want to be bored, you'll have to really work at it.

Library & bookshop

The QM2 has an excellent library - for me, one of its best features - located on 8 deck forward on 'A' stairway directly below the Commodore Club.  You can take out books using your cabin key, or read them in the library, with comfy seats, some with a forward-facing view over the QM2's bows.  The library is open during office hours every day, outside these times the bookshelves are locked but the library itself remains accessible.  As you'd expect, the QM2's library has a particularly good section of books about ocean liners.  Next to the library is a bookshop selling travel guides, QM2 souvenirs & ocean liner/QM2 books.  Click the left-hand photo for larger image .

Swimming pools

The QM2 has several swimming pools.  The most popular (certainly on a transatlantic crossing) is the Pavilion Pool on 12 deck, with sun loungers, two hot tubs, see the photo below.  The roof can slide away when the QM2 visits warmer climates, but it remains closed on the Atlantic.  Towels are provided, there are toilets (visible below behind the two hot tubs) which you can use as changing rooms, or you can change in your cabin and use your bathrobe.  You can see the funnel from the pool through the glass roof, towering above you.  Don't jump when the ship's horns are tested at midday!  There's also a bar here, open at certain times of day.  In addition to this indoor pool there are two outdoor pools on the open decks aft (7 & 8 Deck), one of which is only shallow for kids, the other designated as adults-only.  Click the photo for larger image .

Illuminations

The QM2's Illuminations towards the forward end of Deck 2 can be used as a lecture theatre, cinema or (with an ingenious dome lowered from the ceiling) the world's only ocean-going planetarium.  You'll usually find varying recently-released films shown most evenings, and planetarium sessions at various times on most days.  There's also usually a lecture series or two during each crossing with subjects varying from New York Skyscrapers to pirates on the high seas to the design and build of the QM2.  Click the photo for larger image .

Royal Court Theatre

The QM2's Royal Court Theatre is used for various shows and performances, for example I have seen an interview with John Cleese here, and some stand-up comedy.  Click the photo for larger image .

Spa & gymnasium

The QM2's Canyon Ranch Spa is at the forward end of Deck 7, with with treatment rooms and pool, plus a small beauty salon above on Deck 8.  You can make appointments at the reception desk, treatments & massages are billed to your on-board account.  There's a free-to-use gymnasium at the forward end of Deck 7, pictured below right.

The Cunard heritage trail

The Queen Mary 2 is filled with paintings, information panels and even interactive screens telling the history of Cunard Line, its ships, and the famous people who crossed the Atlantic aboard them.

Travelling with children

You won't be the only family on the QM2, especially on a transatlantic run!  You'll find plenty of entertainment for children in the Play Zone at the aft end of 6 deck.

Arrangements for children & pregnant women on the Queen Mary 2

The play zone & child care.

The Zone is aft on deck 6, staffed by a team of friendly young British-trained nannies.  It has a toddler zone for ages 1-3, a Play Zone for ages 4-6 and The Zone with various computer games and other activities for older kids up to 17.  There's plenty to do, and activities such as treasure hunts or ship tours are organised by the Play Zone team.

Children from 2 to 7 inclusive can be left free of charge with the nannies in the Play Zone during its opening hours, 09:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00, 18:00-24:00 (shorter hours apply on the first and last nights).  In other words, you can sign them into the Play Zone at 9am, pick them up at noon and take them to lunch, sign them back in at 2pm and enjoy an afternoon show, pick them up at 5pm and take them to the children's tea provided in the King's Court 'Chef's Galley' area between 16:30 & 17:30.  Then you can check them back into the Zone at 6pm until midnight, leaving you free to enjoy a formal dinner and evening entertainment while the kids play happily in the Zone and later settle down and fall asleep in front of some cartoons.  Outside the Play Zone, children 1 to 7 must always be accompanied by an adult around the ship.

Children 8 and up to 17 can also use the Zone, signing themselves in and out.  They are free to wander the ship solo.

I suggest calling Cunard to check current childcare arrangements as they tweak them from time to time, but they don't properly explain them on their website - indeed, we didn't know how extensive their childcare facilities were until we we actually on board!

Cabins & dinner sittings

If you have young children, it's worth asking for a cabin towards the stern of the ship.  We were given a stateroom at the extreme forward end of deck 6, whereas the Play Zone is at the extreme aft end of deck 6.  That meant we had to walk a sixth of a mile from cabin to Play Zone to sign the kids in, then a sixth of a mile back again to get changed.  It proved impossible sign the kids in at 6pm when the Zone opens, walk all the way back to the cabin, get changed into formal dress, then walk forward again to the Britannia restaurant for a 6pm sitting. 

From this experience on our outward crossing, we changed our sitting for the return crossing to 8.30pm.  The evening then worked better, although some after-dinner films or shows finished after midnight so could not be attended without leaving early to collect the kids.  The dinner tended to take up much of the evening.  A stateroom near the Zone, and dressing for the 6pm dinner sitting before taking the kids to the Zone, might be the ideal solution, but my wife's and my opinion is divided!

If you've small children, remember to take your folding buggy (stroller).  It's a big ship!

Other useful information

There is no baggage limit on the Queen Mary 2, either in terms of total weight or the number of bags.  You can bring what you like, as long as it all fits in your stateroom.  However, for safe lifting by staff, no one item may exceed 23Kg (50lb).  Bags are taken from you on arrival at the terminal and they reappear in your stateroom on board.  At the end of the crossing, they are transported ashore for you.  See the embarkation & disembarkation arrangements above.  If you plan to go one way by ship, the other by air, one advantage of taking the ship on the return leg is that you can take as much shopping as you like!

Cunard sometimes have to fight off a stuffy image, and it didn't help that until 2013 they had a three-tier dress code as complicated as a Virgin Trains Saver Ticket restriction.  However, they now have just two codes, formal and informal.  One of two dress codes will apply each evening after 6pm in all the main restaurants and bars, although not in the Kings Court buffet restaurant.  You'll be told which dress code applies on which night in if you log on to your voyage personaliser and it's also stated in the daily programme delivered to your stateroom.

Payment on board

Everything on board, including drinks in the bar, books from the bookshop, massages in the spa, purchases in the shops or internet access, is billed to your on board account.  You simply show your cabin card and sign for the payment.  At the end of the crossing, the total is automatically deducted from the credit card you gave them at check-in and you'll get a summary of your account delivered to your stateroom half-way across and at the end of the voyage.  Just be aware that Cunard follow the American practice of quoting you one price but charging you a slightly higher price, as all bar prices shown on the drinks menu have 15% service fee added to them automatically.  As service is then included, there is no need to add a gratuity unless the service has been particularly special. 

Internet & mobile phone access

Internet access is available for a fee throughout the QM2, both in your cabin and in all the public areas including bars but excluding the theatres & restaurants.  It generally works well with good download speeds.  You pre-pay for a bundle of minutes and this is added to your normal on-board account.

2019 prices:  $15 for 30 minutes (= $0.50 per minute), $45 for 120 minutes (= $0.38 per minute) or $80 for 240 minutes (= $0.33 per minute).

You can spend these minutes individually, so for example you can buy 120 minutes and spend them over the course of the whole voyage, logging on to download emails, logging off again to compose replies offline, then logging on again to send, and so only using a few minutes at a time.

To use your own laptop, simply click on the 'Qm2_Guest_internet' internet connection and open a web browser to see the log-in screen.  Register with your name & cabin number on this log-in page and the cost will be billed to your QM2 stateroom account.  If you don't have your own laptop, the Cunard Connexions rooms on deck 2 or the library on deck 8 have self-service internet PCs which you can use for the same rates.  You'll find power sockets for laptops (both British 3-pin and US 110v) in your cabin, and (if you hunt for them) British 3-pin sockets in certain areas of most bars including the Commodore Club on deck 9 forward and the Chart Room on deck 3.  Tip:  I found that the Commodore Lounge on 9 deck was the quietest and nicest place to work, there's a 3-pin power socket near the skirting in the 'bridge wing' far side of the lounge.  Mobile phone access is available on board throughout the crossing, although it isn't cheap, you'll need to ask your phone network for their rates.

The QM2 is entirely non-smoking apart from the open decks and the Churchill Cigar Lounge forward on deck 9 next to the Commodore Club.

As well as a hotel-style pay-per-item laundry service for laundry collected from your stateroom, you'll find a small free-of-charge self-service laundrette on cabin decks 4, 5, 6 & 8, see the photo below.  These have washers, driers, free detergent sachets, iron & ironing board.  This came in very handy on both our outward and return crossings on a 7-week trip to the States, as we arrived in the US with bags full of clean clothes and arrived back in Blighty without a huge laundry backlog.  Also useful for ironing dress shirts that have become creased in the baggage.

Taking your dog

Yes, you can take your dog across the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2, but they will be kept in the ship's kennels on 12 Deck during the crossing and (except for guide dogs) are not allowed in the public areas.  Contact Cunard for details.  There's an exercise area next to the kennels.

Visiting the QM2's bridge

There are no official bridge visits, but there is a viewing room behind the bridge with two large soundproofed windows so you can see what's going on.  It's normally open 09:00-16:00 on sea days, although it's closed in bad weather.  The entrance is on the port (left-hand) side of the ship on deck 12, accessed via 'A' stairway.  No photography is allowed now - the photos below were taken in 2010 although little has changed here.

Which is better, a westbound or an eastbound transatlantic crossing ?

If you really haven't got the time or money to go both ways by sea, you might want to go one-way by sea and the other by air.  You can often find one-way QM2 fares with a 'free' air fare in the other direction.  If you're British and a shopaholic, the obvious advantage of going out westbound by air and back eastbound by sea is that you can shop in New York and bring back as much as you like, as there are no baggage limits on the Queen Mary 2.  And you'll have the leisurely voyage back home to look forward to at the end of your trip.  However, for my money (not being a great shopper), westbound is much better.  There's the growing anticipation as you near America at the end of an outward westbound crossing, there's the significant advantage of 25-hour days as the clocks are put back on 5 of the 7 nights due to the time difference, and best of all the spectacular arrival into New York harbour in the early morning, with that Manhattan skyline lit by the rising sun.  When you're enjoying your evenings on the town (or rather, the ship) until late at night, the 23-hour days on an eastbound crossing as the clocks are put forward can be a killer!  On the other hand, if I were an American heading for Europe, I might well be tempted to head out by sea eastbound, returning west by air.

Forum for cruise reviews, questions & the latest advice

A good place to find advice & reviews about the Queen Mary 2 and other ships, and to post your own questions and reviews of your trip, is the online cruise forum at www.cruise.co.uk .

About Queen Mary 2

The QM2 was built in 2003 at St Nazaire in France, by Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the same shipyard that built the famous French Line ships Ile de France , Normandie and France .  The Queen Mary 2 is no longer the biggest passenger ship in the world in terms of Gross Tonnage, as the Queen Mary 2's 148,528 tons have now been exceeded, first by Royal Caribbean's 154,000-ton Freedom of the Seas in 2006, and then by the 225,000-ton Oasis of the Seas in 2009.  However, the QM2 remains the tallest, longest and widest ship ever built, at 1,132 feet long and 148 feet wide.  For comparison, the original Queen Mary is just 81,237 tons, 1019 feet long, 118 feet wide, and the Titanic was only 46,000 tons, 883 feet long, 93 feet wide.  Queen Mary 2 uses an unconventional propulsion system:  Four large diesel engines and two gas turbines generate electricity, and this powers four electrically-powered propellers each housed in a 'pod' attached under her stern.  The rear two pods swivel to steer the ship, so the QM2 does not have a conventional rudder.  The propellers face forwards rather than backwards, and give her a top speed of around 30 knots (1 knot = 1.1 mph), although she normally crosses the Atlantic at 20 to 25 knots.  See Queen Mary 2 Wikipedia entry .

Souvenirs & books about the QM2

Buy a superb model of the Queen Mary 2:   The souvenir shop on board QM2 on deck 3 has a couple of models of the Queen Mary 2, but neither (in my opinion) are particularly well detailed, and yet they aren't cheap, either.  If you become a QM2 aficionado during your crossing (highly likely!) and want a top-quality model of the QM2 to sit on your shelves or desk, I highly recommend the 1:1250 Queen Mary 2 model at www.galerie-maritim.de .  It is hand painted in die-cast metal.  You can buy either a full hull version in a glass case, or a waterline model without a case.  The models are small enough not to take up too much room, yet are superbly detailed.  They are very expensive, but you won't be disappointed!

Books about the Queen Mary 2:

The book by John Maxtone-Graham is beautifully written and illustrated, a great souvenir, search for it at Amazon.com (USA) or Amazon.co.uk (UK).  It's also available in the bookshop on board the QM2.

But by far the best book about the design, construction and operation of the QM2 is written by its designer, Stephen Payne, "RMS Queen Mary 2 Manual: An Insight into the Design, Construction and Operation of the World's Largest Ocean Liner", buy it at www.amazon.co.uk (UK) or www.amazon.com (USA).  Highly recommended!

QM2 video guide

Alternatives to the queen mary 2, passenger-carrying freighters, hotels & accommodation, hotels in new york.

New York has hundreds of hotels, the two most famous being the New York Plaza Hotel opposite Central Park and the Waldorf-Astoria on 4th Avenue.  I've never stayed at the Plaza, but have to say I was not impressed by the rooms at the Waldorf, on either occasion I stayed there.  Here's my top tip for New York:

The Algonquin Hotel

The Algonquin is New York's oldest operating hotel, opened in 1902, and a designated New York City Historic Landmark.  Perfectly located in mid-town Manhattan, a block or two from Times Square one way and Grand Central the other, with a lovely wood-panelled lobby and even its own hotel cat, which you may find wandering the corridors or sitting on the reception desk.  To check prices & book, click here .  For the Algonquin's history see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algonquin_Hotel .

In Los Angeles:  Hotel Queen Mary, Long Beach

If you get as far as Los Angeles after your transatlantic crossing, it has to be the Hotel Queen Mary , doesn't it?  She makes a good base to explore the Los Angeles - Hollywood - Disneyland area.  The original Queen Mary of 1936 has been permanently moored at Long Beach in California since the late 1960s, some 25 miles from Los Angeles Union Station (about a $90 taxi ride), and it's undoubtedly the most fascinating place to stay in LA.  The hotel consists of most of the Queen Mary's original first class cabins, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars available on board, too.  Hotel guests can more or less wander the ship at will, and even sign up for ghost hunts at night on board (and yes, from my own experience there is definitely something going on aboard that beautiful but ageing ship!).  Wood panelled art deco interiors have been preserved, although a few modern items have been installed such as televisions, and (as we worked out from a historic deck plan) in some cases two of the Queen Mary's original cabins have been knocked into one hotel suite by turning one of the en suite bathrooms into a connecting corridor.  She is one of the most atmospheric places I have ever stayed.

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United Kingdom

Cruise the United Kingdom, comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. On your UK cruise with Holland America Line, unpack once and visit a variety of ports with amazing excursions. Explore the land of Shakespeare and the Beatles. Retrace the steps of royals in London’s Westminster Abbey. Quaff a pint in a Belfast pub. Thrill to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Celebrate the solstice at Stonehenge. Experience the picture-postcard villages and rough-hewn natural beauty of Wales.

Europe Cruises  |  Mediterranean  |  Northern Europe  |  Transatlantic

Fishguard, Wales, United Kingdom

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Stornoway, Isle Of Lewis, Scotland, United Kingdom

Tobermory (isle of mull), scotland, united kingdom, featured shore excursions.

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British Isles Cruises and Cruisetours

Explore castles and countrysides on a uk and ireland cruise.

On a British Isles cruise, fairytales come to life as you explore storybook castles and enchanting countrysides. Admire the stained-glass windows of Glasgow Cathedral. Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge in England, and ascend the Eiffel Tower in Paris. And legend has it, you'll get the gift of gab after visiting the Blarney Stone at Ireland's iconic castle. With Princess®, feel like royalty amidst noble landscapes.

British Isles Cruise & Cruisetour Options

To legendary lands and beyond

British Isles Cruises

Your British Isles cruise will take you to England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, France, Scotland and fabled lands beyond. Encounter age-old traditions during a performance from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Mosey down cobbled pathways in Dublin that tell tales of civilizations past. Or walk along Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, and keep your eyes peeled for mythical creatures that call these waters home.

 14 – 16 Nights

Ring of Kerry Cruisetour

1 night Limerick  |  2 nights Killarney  |  1 night Cork

Escorted by a Tour Director

Then board your British Isles cruise

Select sightseeing and most meals included

Scotland, Ireland & UK Cruise Ports of Call

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on a British Isles cruise with Princess.

• Orkney Islands
• Paris & Normandy (Le Havre)
• Portland for Stonehenge

Teeming with rural villages and vast countryside, Belfast is an explorer’s playground. Cruise to the British Isles and walk through the basalt formations of Giant’s Causeway. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and observe the park’s Victorian heritage. Or experience true country living in the cottage of a breadmaker, where you can make fresh-baked goods to accompany your afternoon cup of tea.

In a land where fable and fact blend to become folklore, Cork is a beacon of romance among Ireland’s iconic cities. On a British Isles cruise, see the city’s emerald terrains reflected in the lakes of Killarney National Park. Savor an Irish coffee in the 18th-century village of Blarney. Or enjoy a lunch on the hills of Cashel, with the Romanesque architecture of St. Patrick’s Rock as your backdrop.

Experience the best of Irish hospitality on a British Isles cruise to Dublin. Stop by a pub and hear stories of the city from the people who call it home. Tour Trinity College, one of the world’s most famous universities. Or discover the secrets to brewing a stout at the Guinness Storehouse, and sip on a complimentary glass just a few hundred yards from where it’s made.

With centuries of cultural change, Edinburgh is home to a diverse landscape of design. Cruise the British Isles and follow the Royal Mile to the top of Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle sits overlooking the city below. Marvel at the expansive collection of artwork in the Royal Yacht Britannia, or shop for souvenirs on Princes Street while admiring the Georgian architecture of New Town.

Once an industrial giant, Glasgow is brimming with treasure. When you cruise the British Isles, wander the halls of Inveraray Castle to see a collection of royal portraits. Watch a kaleidoscopic display in Glasgow Cathedral as the sun pours through the stained-glass windows. Or spend the day admiring armor, weaponry and global gems in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Orkney is home to some of the oldest Neolithic sites in Europe. On a British Isles cruise, history buffs can hear World War II stories at the Italian Chapel. Or travel along Scapa Flow for an even deeper look into the region’s history of naval travel and trade. For those seeking mysteries, uncover secrets of the Ring of Brodgar, part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a land that inspires love stories, reconnect with loved ones on a British Isles cruise to France. Dock in Le Havre and enjoy a breakfast crepe at a sidewalk cafe. Or embark on a day-long adventure in one of two directions. Visit Paris, where famous artwork awaits, or head to Normandy and see the D-Day beaches or the tidal island of Mont Saint Michel. From the painted portraits to the real-life scenery, revel in it all with Princess.

Used to build Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral, the stone extracted from Portland’s quarries has changed history. But there’s more to the city than it’s commodities. Cruise the British Isles to investigate the mysteries of Stonehenge, and learn about the grape-to-glass process at Langham Wine Estate. Or see hundreds of baby swans parading through the grounds of the 600-year-old Abbotsbury Swannery.

Why Cruise the British Isles

The British pubs, Parisian artwork and Irish castles invite you to live like royalty.

Storied and splendid

Castles are the emblem of these regions. Between the chandeliers and tapestries, step into luxury when you visit the British Isles. Cruise to Dublin and parade through the 13th-century halls of the city’s fortress. Experience the grandeur of Urquhart Castle, and search for legendary ghosts in Glamis Castle. Or visit Edinburgh Castle, where kings, queens and nobles once lived and medieval secrets continue to linger.

Melodies of memories past

As the birthplace of many music icons, the British Isles invite you to sing, dance and raise a glass to songs played around the globe. Visit Liverpool to walk in the footsteps of a beloved boyband, and head to a local pub to hear the boys at their best. Cruise the British Isles for an evening of Irish song and dance in Dublin, or watch the Edinburgh Military Tattoo assemble bands, bagpipes and drums for a soul-stirring show.

Globally recognized, historically prominent

The British Isles are a mecca of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Cruise from Southampton to Liverpool, and walk along the Royal Albert Dock, the first structure in Britain to be constructed without wood. Shop along Princes Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Or travel to Brú na Bóinne in Dublin and get up close to Europe’s largest collection of prehistoric megalithic art.

Raise a glass to adventure

In lands famous for their stouts and ales, pubs are the cornerstone of tradition. Cruise the British Isles and step into age-old establishments that are bustling with spirit. In Dublin, get a taste of true pub “craic” — an Irish term that equates to an atmosphere of fun, entertainment and good company. With festive music playing in the background, sip on world-famous beers that originated nearby while sharing a laugh with locals.

Natural Phenomena

Unexplainable yet undeniable

Discern fact versus fiction on a British Isles cruise, where mysteries and mythologies abound. In Portland, learn about the 5,000-year-old stone circle that displays an advanced understanding of arithmetic and astrology. On itineraries that sail to Cork, search the sea for the Bioluminescence beams created by the region’s gleaming plankton. Or hunt for Invergordon’s legendary monster in the waters of Loch Ness.

Museums & Art Galleries

Ancient artifacts and acclaimed artwork

No cruise to the British Isles is complete without a visit to Paris. See “Venus de Milo” and da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” or tour Notre Dame, a work of art in and of itself. Visit the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, where interactive galleries invite you to explore. Those departing from London can also stop by the Victoria and Albert Museum which houses over two million artifacts.

British Isles excursions

Our award-winning shore excursions bring you up close to beautiful coasts, monuments and historical wonderlands. On a British Isles cruise, snap photos of Dublin’s iconic sites — like St. Stephen’s Green and Christ Church Cathedral — and taste a world-famous stout at the Guinness Storehouse. Or ride through quaint villages in Belfast on your way to Giant’s Causeway, and revel in the natural structures that surround you.

Local connections

When you cruise the British Isles, meet the diverse personalities that call these lands home. In Dublin, head to a countryside bed and breakfast where a local chef invites you to savor homemade scones and jam. Or set out on a day-long tour in Cork with your loved ones and visit the city’s most iconic sites. Stop by the 18th-century village of Kinsale, and then continue to Blarney Castle, where legends and landmarks await.

More ashore

Enjoy even more history and culture during your British Isles cruise with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. Visit several pubs during an evening tour, and hear stories from locals over a pint of local brew. Savor a traditional Scottish dinner in Edinburgh, and see the Royal Mile illuminated by street lamps and the evening light. Or explore Dublin by night, and indulge in Irish entertainment.

British Isles Cruise Onboard Experience

Curated comfort, world-class entertainment and international flavors await you.

Accomodations

Your home away from home

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Celebrations galore

With our "Festivals of the World," immerse yourself in the traditions of the region even on board your British Isles cruise. At the Celtic Festival, compete in cultural trivia and learn to penny whistle. During Oktoberfest, adults can sample a collection of brews while kids can try their hand at pretzel making. Or relax during regional music performances and lectures from experts about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Comforting and classic

From fresh-baked biscuits to hearty pies, the British Isles are notorious for cooking up comforting favorites. On an British Isles cruise with Princess, indulge in a British Pub lunch with delicacies like Bangers & Mash and Shepherd’s Pie. Or enjoy a Sunday Roast at Crown Grill™ with roasted meat, potatoes and vegetables. Savor the comforts of home with specialty dining aboard every Princess ship.

Entertainment

Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Ships sailing British Isles cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large vessels. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your British Isles cruise.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

Explore Europe

Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

The top ten things to do in Norway

Planning a holiday to Norway? Discover the best museums, restaurants, cafés, attractions and experiences in the Scandinavian country.

Must-do summertime activities in Scandinavia

Discover the best summer holiday activities in Scandinavia, including wild swimming in Stockholm and rooftop drinking in Oslo.

Five reasons to cruise from Southampton

Looking for a cruise vacation from Southampton? Set sail to Canada, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Florida and around the British Isles with Princess Cruises.

How to see Stockholm from a unique perspective

Ice bars, rooftop tours, meatballs and more – use our handy city guide to get a fresh view of Sweden’s brilliant capital.

Six places to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Hoping to see the Northern Lights in Norway? Discover the best places to try to catch a glimpse of Mother Nature's exceptional light show

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Europe Connections

See Europe through our guests’ eyes.

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USA to England Cruises

There are cruises from the United States to England, including regularly scheduled Transatlantic voyages between New York and Southampton. A cruise is the comfortable and luxurious way to get to the UK. See the full schedule of departures below.

US to England cruises depart from New York, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Large cruise ships cannot fit up the river to London, so the trips go to Southampton or Dover, England. Southampton is 80 miles south-west of London. Harwich is 85 miles north-east of London.

January 3, 2024: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 11, 2024: 10-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Non-stop cruise.

March 9, 2024: 16-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Funchal (Madeira), Casablanca (Morocco), Cadiz (Spain) and Lisbon (Portugal).

April 5, 2024: 15-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit CocoCay (Bahamas), Tenerife (Canary Islands), Cadiz (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal) and Vigo (Spain).

April 5, 2024: 16-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Bilbao (Spain) and Cherbourg (France).

April 25, 2024: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Dublin (Ireland) and Le Havre (France).

April 28, 2024: 12-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Cape Liberty (New Jersey) to Southampton (England). Visit Funchal (Madeira), La Coruna (Spain) and Le Havre (France).

April 29, 2024: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Dublin (Ireland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Zeebrugge (Belgium) and Le Havre (France).

April 30, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

May 2, 2024: 13-night cruise to England on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Cork (Ireland), Dorset (England) and Bruges (Belgium).

May 4, 2024: 15-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Cork (Ireland), Falmouth (England), Portland (England) and Le Havre (France).

May 26, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 5, 2024: 21-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), Corner Brook (Canada), St Anthony (Canada), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Stornoway (England), Glasgow (Scotland) and Portland (England).

July 7, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 21, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

August 18, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

September 11, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 13, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

December 8, 2024: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 3, 2025: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

January 4, 2025: 13-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Vigo (Spain) and Le Havre (France).

February 7, 2025: 12-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 9, 2025: 15-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Funchal (Madeira), Casablanca (Morocco) and La Coruna (Spain).

March 14, 2025: 14-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England) on the Queen Victoria. Visit Port Canaveral (Florida), Hamilton (Bermuda) and Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 22, 2025: 12-night cruise to England on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda) and Ponta Delgada (Azores).

March 29, 2025: 8-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

April 4, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Princess Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Brest (France), Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Brussels (Belgium).

April 12, 2025: 15-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Portsmouth (England). Visit Grand Bahama Island (Bahamas), Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Porto (Portugal) and La Coruna (Spain).

April 24, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), St John's (Newfoundland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Dublin (Ireland) and Le Havre (France).

April 27, 2025: 14-day cruise to England on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England). Visit Halifax (Canada), St John's (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Liverpool (England) and Le Havre (France).

April 28, 2025: 14-night cruise to England on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Miami (Florida) to Southampton (England). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal) and Vigo (Spain).

May 5, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

May 23, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

June 13, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

July 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

August 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

September 3, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 17, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

October 31, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

December 8, 2025: 7-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from New York to Southampton (England) on the Queen Mary 2. Non-stop cruise.

Cruises from United States to the United Kingdom

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $75 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $77 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $185 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $117 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $186 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $366 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $192 pp not included.

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CASTLES, COTTAGES, & COUNTRYSIDES

British isles cruises.

Experience urban adventure and rural beauty with a cruise to the British Isles.

History is everywhere you look in the British Isles. The region is home to legendary villages, thatched-roof houses and scores of castles, churches and colleges from centuries past. Cruise to the British Isles to check out the Titanic Belfast monument in Northern Ireland, with its interactive galleries and impressive structure on the old shipyard. Find your craic (Gaelic for "fun") in Ireland amid rolling green hills and local pubs. See the Scottish Highlands, home to the mysterious sites of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle and Ben Nevis, the United Kingdom's highest peak. If you enjoy city buzz more than country charm, make your way to the Isles' metropolitan epicenter of London and see Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Tower Bridge. Discover the magic with a British-isles cruise.

Save Big With These British Isles Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with British Isles cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships.

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Country Charm

The British Isles are known for their gorgeous green countryside, which is home to world-renowned natural attractions, historic towns and a plethora of castles. Step outside the city and see what else these countries have to offer during your vacation onboard the best British Isles cruises.  

Say Yes to Loch Ness

Get your ocean views at the coastal Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, spot the notorious Loch Ness Monster in the Scottish Highlands, and hike through the mountainous Lake District in England's countryside.

A Royally Good Time

Transport yourself to the era of knights and ladies by exploring the many medieval castles of the British Isles. Visit the British Isles to see Scotland's Edinburgh and Eilean Donan Castles, Ireland's Blarney Castle and the royal Windsor Castle in England.

The Grass is Greener

For a taste of local country life, visit the Cotswolds in England, Portree on the Isle of Skye and Ireland's colorful Cobh, which are home to medieval cottages, stunning landscapes and locally owned pubs and shops.

City Slicker

If you're seeking an adventure that includes quiet countrysides, vibrant cities and cultural hubs, explore Ireland, England and Scotland on a British Isles cruise.  

From Pints to Palaces

Each capital city is home to many unique sites, such as The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, which stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace (with many shops and restaurants in between), and Dublin's Guinness Storehouse, where you can sip on a pint of Ireland's famous beer while sitting on a rooftop.

Try one of the walking tours operating daily in all capital cities. These are some of the easiest ways to see the top sites in London: Stroll from the medieval Tower of London to nearby St. Paul's Cathedral in all its Baroque grandeur.

This culturally rich area offers a variety of museums, including the National Gallery, the British Museum and the National History Museum in London. In Edinburgh, check out the National Museum of Scotland, where you can see everything from giant T.Rex fossils to medieval tapestries.

BEST BRITISH ISLES CRUISES

A cruise to British Isles is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the British Isles onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

ENCHANTED BY IRELAND

Arriving in Ireland, you'll fall in love with the endless green hills, friendly local pubs and historic attractions of cities like Dublin .

ENAMORED WITH ENGLAND

There's something for everyone in England — whether you prefer metropolitan meccas like London or the quiet countryside of the Cotswolds.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO British-Isles Cruises Insider

Because of its island climate, the British Isles don't get quite as warm in the summer or quite as cold in the winter as elsewhere in Europe. People love to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is usually warm and dry.

Of course, British weather is known to be temperamental, and rain is frequent. Pack layers even if you're visiting in summer, as the evenings can get cool, and bring a waterproof jacket and outerwear regardless of the season.

You can find longer 12 night sailings around the British Isles from Amsterdam, Netherlands and shorter sampling sailings out of Southampton, England .

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Cruises from Venice can be a gateway to discovery — and not just of the places you sail to. Here are some Venice excursions to get you inspired.

Visiting Lovely Loch Ness on Scotland Vacations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Here's everything you need to know about visiting Loch Ness on Scotland vacations, including its history, how to get there, and the best things to do.

The Top Things to Do Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Brilliance of the Seas makes it impossible to feel bored during a vacation! These top things to do onboard this beloved cruise ship make it a fan favorite for many.

Fun European Vacations for Adventures | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Are you looking for your next adventure? This thrill-seekers guide will show you where to get the ultimate adrenaline fix on European vacations.

Berlin for Oktoberfest: What To Know Before You Go | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Berlin for Oktoberfest is one of the world's best parties. Here's everything you need to know before you go on your cruise to Berlin.

Plan Your Best Spa Getaways | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Plan the best spa getaway possible with experiences being tailored to suit your vacation needs. Rest and rejuvenate in exotic destinations around the world.

Ultimate World Cruise: An Epic Journey Around the World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Tick countless items off your bucket list in an epic journey around the world when you book the Ultimate World Cruise — Hurry, it will soon set sail!

Top Secret Vacation Spots in Europe | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top secret vacation spots to visit when traveling in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

The Best Secret Mediterranean Beaches | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From the mainstream French and Italian Rivieras to secluded idylls in the Balkans, your search for the best Mediterranean beaches ends here.

Visiting Historic Abbeys in England | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Did you know some abbeys in England are still open for visits? This guide will help you discover the most glorious and influential abbeys in England.

The Best Holiday Destinations To Visit This Season | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best holiday destinations are those that allow you to forget your stresses back home and spend time with your closest loved ones.

The Spookiest Places in Europe for Ghost Hunters | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Seeking scary places to visit? These are some of the spookiest places in Europe, from the streets of London to the forests of Transylvania.

The Most Famous European Cathedrals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From Notre Dame to the iconic La Sagrada Família, here are some of the most famous European cathedrals.

Pablo Picasso Facts and How He Influenced the Art World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Headed to Europe on a cruise for art immersion? Enjoy these Pablo Picasso facts for your vacation travels and save your favorite destinations.

Big Ben Facts to Know Before Your Next Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the most fun Big Ben facts, plus facts about the royal family and its connection to Elizabeth Tower and the Houses of Parliament.

Underrated European Travel Destinations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top underrated travel destinations to visit when taking a vacation in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

How to Get Travel Tuesday Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Travel Tuesday cruise deals go live at midnight on Cyber Monday, and are designed to bring you discounts on experiences that you'll remember for a lifetime.

How to Have an Epic Family Vacation Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Planning your next epic family vacation starts today onboard Rhapsody of the Seas, a mid-sized cruise ship that is part of the Royal Caribbean Vision Class.

Enjoying Breakfast in Rome

While it's true that many Italians take a quick, casual approach to the day's first meal, your breakfast in Rome will be anything but forgettable.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Port Cities | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Cruising is a wonderful thing. It can bring you to some of the most beautiful port cities in the world.

9 Tips for Preparing Your House for an Extended Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree.

Local Things to Do in Barcelona

Discover the best things to do as a local while traveling to Spain for your own Barcelona vacation experience with these helpful ideas & travel tips.

Europe Vacation: Best Places to Visit

There's more to a European cruise vacation than just packing your bags! Plan the perfect trip on your travel getaway to visit the best places in Europe.

Couple's Weekend Getaway | Paris Vacation

Reveal the most romantic ideas for a couple’s weekend getaway while traveling on a Paris vacation. Experience love and the charming city built around it.

Ancient Greek Architecture

Learn about the types of Greek architecture you can explore during your next Mediterranean vacation. When in Greece, you're sure to discover hidden gems of ancient ruins that still stand alongside modern buildings.

Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

Uncover 8 of the best Mediterranean cruise destinations while on your travel vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Rock Climbing on Norway Fjords Cruise

Discover the best rock climbing locations while on your Norway fjords cruise. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy the ultimate guide made for you.

Italian Architecture | Italy Tours

Uncover the history of Italy through Italian architecture and art tours as you travel to Rome, Florence, and Milan. Visit the best cities in the world.

The Best European Summer Vacations

Planning the best European summer vacations? We’ve curated the ultimate guide to visiting some of the most relaxing and legendary destinations to travel to in Europe.

Top 11 Must-Try Mediterranean Foods

Mediterranean food is renowned worldwide for being exceptionally healthy and balanced. Here are the top 11 must-try Mediterranean foods.

6 Popular Farm Foods from Spain

Here are six of the most popular farm foods from Spain. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams.

Wildlife You'll See on Your Norway Vacation

A Norway vacation will help you take in all the wild north has to offer. You'll be able to see an incredible range of wildlife during your stay.

10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Cruising to Ephesus soon? Here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey, with something for every traveler.

Italian Music Culture & its Famous Operas

Plan a trip to Italy to discover opera as the largest influence on Italian music culture. Create an unforgettable getaway vacation cruise!

Plan the Best London Day Trips Ever

Set sail on a getaway cruise vacation and discover the best things to do in London while enjoying your day trips. Experience history, Harry Potter, and more!

Plan a Greek Island Hopping Getaway

Take a moment to make the most of your Greek island hopping travels, reveal the best places to visit in Greece. Plan your unique vacation with ease.

Visit Famous Landmarks in the British Isles

Uncover the most famous landmarks while making the most of your British Isles vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a tailored guide.

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil

Uncover the secrets to having the best olive oil in the world as well as the know-how on all the many types and their uses. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Traveling to the Crystal Caves in Spain

Visit the crystal caves in Spain as you take a travel vacation to uncover a view of the magnificent Pulpí Geode. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you.

Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum in Spain

Explore the Salvador Dali Museum and Garden in Spain as you make the most of your cultural traveling adventures. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Eating in Italy | Local Food Traveling

Uncover the ultimate guide to eating locally in Italy as you make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Vacation with Turkish Baths & Hammam Spas

Uncover the ultimate Turkish baths & hammam spa experiences to making the most of your vacation to Turkey. Enjoy a guide tailored to your travels.

Gladiators of the Roman Colosseum

Plan a cultural vacation to Italy by setting sail for the Roman Colosseum. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you on the history of Rome & its gladiator.

Turkish Desserts to Sweeten your Vacation

Turkish desserts are as pivotal to the experience of traveling in Turkey as a cruise through the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey

Find a new perspective from high in the sky with a hot air balloon ride in Turkey. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet. Before you say "cheers" with your next glass of sparkling wine, take a moment to learn about what's inside the glass you're clinking.

Fun European Cities to Visit With Kids

Traveling with kids? Here are some fun European cities to visit on your next European cruise — plus tips to make it a memorable, stress-free experience.

Planning a Barcelona Vacation From the Sea

A Barcelona vacation is always a good idea, but arriving at this iconic port of call by sea is a truly unique experience. Here's why.

Israeli Food: Top 10 Must-Trys

Here's a list of some of the best Israeli food found in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and beyond including sabich, shakshuka and bourekas.

Planning a Rome Vacation From the Sea and Beyond

Here are some Rome vacation must-sees and tips on how to navigate travel when arriving or departing via cruise through Civitavecchia.

Where to Find the Best Skiing in the Alps

Here's everything you need to know about skiing in the Alps, including where to stay and when to visit.

Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

As you browse cruises, the first question you ask will be "Where are cruise ports near me?" Here's how to choose a port, and what to do once you're there.

Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece, on Your Cruise Vacation

There is no shortage of things to do in Athens. The Greek capital has a history of more than 3,400 years to entertain you.

10 Facts About Turkey the Country

Planning to visit Turkey? We have the top 10 facts about Turkey the country, giving everything, you need to know to plan the best vacation trip.

Relaxing 7 Day Cruise to Europe

No matter which 7-day cruise to Europe you end up booking, here's how to plan a European vacation that's high on adventure with low added stress.

The Ultimate Guide to a Blue Lagoon Iceland Vacation

Plan the ultimate Blue Lagoon Iceland vacation. Our guide covers top attractions, insider tips, and expert recommendations. Start planning now.

Fashion Week Places to Visit in Paris

Find all the top fashion places to visit in Paris and how to get there during Fashion Week getaway travels. Plan your France vacation!

Best Scotland Castle Tours

There are over 1,500 Scotland castle tours to choose from. We've narrowed down a list of the most; historic, cultural, famous, and royal significance.

It's useful to know the London Underground escalator etiquette, which is to stand on the right so commuters can rush by on the left.

Tipping is not customary across the British Isles like it is elsewhere in Europe and in North America. Some restaurants do add a service charge to bills.

If driving in the British Isles, remember Ireland road signs are in kilometers, while Great Britain uses miles instead.

FOR FOODIE'S A CUISINE OF COMFORT

Each country in the British Isles is known for its signature pub grub and comfort food dishes. These hearty and predominantly meaty meals keep locals warm in a region known for its bracing weather.

Stir the Pot

Made from slow-cooked meat — typically lamb or beef — and root vegetables such as potatoes, onions and carrots, a bowl of Irish stew with a side of crusty bread is only made better when washed down with a pint of Guinness.

The Proof's in the Pudding

Typically served on Sundays, a traditional British roast usually includes roast beef, roast potatoes, a side of vegetables and Yorkshire pudding, a baked pudding often served with gravy. Head to a London pub to tuck into this English tradition.

The O.G. Fish and Chips

Across the British Isles, you'll find thousands of restaurants and shops exclusively serving fish and chips, which first appeared in England in the 1860s. Flaky, tender white fish is deep-fried in a thin, crunchy layer of batter and served alongside thick-cut fried potatoes and "mushy" peas, as the locals call them, which are blended with cream or occasionally ultra-rich bone marrow.

RELATED PORTS

There are many ports to visit across the British Isles, from Holyhead in Wales, to Lerwick in the remote part of Scotland, to bustling Belfast in Northern Ireland. Fortunately, the British-isles cruise ports are a combination of both urban and rural destinations, so you can choose whatever suits your cruise style.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Cork (Cobh), Ireland

Holyhead, Wales

Dover, England

Dublin, Ireland

Edinburgh (S. Queensferry), Scotland

Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland

Inverness / Loch Ness, Scotland

Lerwick / Shetland, Scotland

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

St. Peter Port, Guernsey

Southampton, England

Waterford (Dunmore East), Ireland

Liverpool, England

Related Destinations

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Heart-stirring moment pregnant Disney cruise passenger is airlifted off ship

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A pregnant woman experiencing health complications aboard the Disney Fantasy cruise ship was airlifted in a dramatic rescue by the US Coast Guard.

The passenger connected to air suspension gear dangled mid-air above the cruise near Puerto Rico as a helicopter hoisted her up.

Drone footage shared by the US Coast Guard showed its MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter hovering near the ship and a single rescuer being lowered down by rope and landing on both feet at the front of the massive vessel.

More than 10 ship crew members, some wearing bright orange vests, were then recorded carrying the passenger on a portable stretcher and laying her down at the front of the ship.

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The Coast Guard member prepared a rescue basket and secured the woman still on the stretcher, then signaled to the chopper above. She was lifted while remaining in horizontal position and taken into the aircraft safely by Coast Guard members on Monday morning. The cruise ship doctor was also taken along with her.

‘Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,’ stated Lt Cmdr Todd Stephens on Tuesday.

‘This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.’

The patient was a 35-year-old American citizen who required greater medical care ashore, stated the Coast Guard.

Disney Fantasy crew contacted watchstanders in San Juan requesting a medical evacuation as the vessel was in the Atlantic Ocean about 180 miles northwest of Aguadilla. A chopper was deployed from Miami.

The woman was taken to Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan and transported to the nearby Centro Medico hospital.

‘We are glad everything came together to help this passenger,’ stated Ensign Michael Riccio of the Coast Guard’s San Juan sector.

‘The competency displayed by the Disney Fantasy crew and the Coast Guard personnel and units involved made all the difference.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Israel-Hamas war

April 14, 2024 - Iran's attack on Israel

By Jerome Taylor, Heather Chen , James Legge, Sophie Tanno, Emma Tucker , Kaanita Iyer , Paul LeBlanc , Catherine Nicholls, Maureen Chowdhury , Antoinette Radford and Eve Rothenberg, CNN

Our live coverage of Iran's attack on Israel has moved  here .

India calls on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board seized container ship 

From CNN's Sandi Sidhu in Hong Kong 

India has called on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board a container ship seized by Iran on Saturday. 

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that he spoke to his Iranian counterpart Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and "took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries."

Four Filipino seamen were also on board the ship, according to the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers.

The department said it was working with its government, the ship owner, and the operator to release the captured seafarers.

On Saturday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked container ship in a helicopter operation near the Strait of Hormuz, state news agency IRNA reported. 

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) said there were 25 crew members on board.

Japanese prime minister condemns Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Junko Ogura in Tokyo 

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday said he "strongly condemns" Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel.

"(The attack) further aggravates the current situation in the Middle East. We are deeply concerned and strongly condemn such an escalation," Kishida told reporters.

Kishida said Japan would continue diplomatic efforts to "prevent the situation from worsening and to calm the situation down," and "respond in cooperation with other countries."

Blinken calls British and German counterparts following Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Philip Wang 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with his counterparts from the United Kingdom and Germany on Sunday following Iran's attack on Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

All parties agreed "the importance of condemning Iran's attack in the strongest possible terms and preventing further escalation," the readout said. 

Blinken earlier held phone calls with his counterparts from Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia , in which he emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the Middle East and of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

US forces destroyed more than 80 attack drones from Iran and Yemen, Central Command says

From CNN's Philip Wang

US forces intercepted more than 80 one-way attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles from Iran and Yemen during its attack on Israel, according to a statement from the Central Command.

The operation included destroying a ballistic missile on its launcher vehicle and seven drones on the ground in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, CENTCOM said. 

"Iran's continued unprecedented, malign, and reckless behavior endangers regional stability and the safety of U.S. and coalition forces," the statement added. 

Israeli and Iranian ambassadors trade accusations during UN Security Council session

From Abel Alvarado in Atlanta

Israel and Iran’s United Nations ambassadors condemned each other’s actions during Sunday’s UN Security Council emergency session called to address Iran’s attack on Israel.

Israel’s UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said Iran "must be stopped before it drives the world to a point of no return, to a regional war that can escalate to a world war." Erdan accused Iran of seeking world domination and that its attack proved that Tehran "cares nothing, nothing for Islam or Muslims" before pulling out a tablet to show a video of Israel intercepting Iranian drones above Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Erdan called on the UN Security Council to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror organization.

“Action must be taken now, not for Israel's sake, not for the region's sake, but for the world's sake. Stop Iran today."

Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said his country’s operation was "entirely in the exercise of Iran’s inherent right to self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and recognized by international law."

Iravani said:

"This concluded action was necessary and proportionate," adding that the operation was “precise and only targeted military objectives” to reduce the potential of escalation and to prevent civilian harm. “Iran is never seeking to contribute to the spillover of the conflict in the region, nor does it to escalate or spread the tension to the entire region," he said.

Tehran’s attack had been anticipated since  a suspected Israeli strike  on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria earlier this month.

Iravani added Iran has “no intention of engaging in conflict with the US in the region” but warned Iran will use its “inherent right to respond proportionately” should the US initiate a military operation against “Iran, its citizens or its security.”

Israeli war cabinet says it's ready to respond to Iran's attack but delays immediate action. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

The hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack , an Israeli official said.

The cabinet is determined to respond — but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

Separately, a senior Biden administration official told reporters that an Israeli official told the United States that it's not looking to significantly escalate the showdown with Iran.

CNN analyst Barak Ravid said Israeli ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot advocated for swift action, but US President Joe Biden's phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led to a decision to delay the response until the next day. 

Here are the latest headlines:

• Retaliation is over, Iran told US: Iran privately messaged the United States that its retaliation against Israel had concluded, echoing what Tehran said publicly, according to a senior administration official. Late Saturday, Iran said its attack on Israel is a response to Israel's strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, and "the matter can be deemed concluded." However, President Ebrahim Raisi said any “new aggression against the interests of the Iranian nation will be met with a heavier and regrettable response,” according to Iran’s state news channel IRIB. 
• United Nations response: UN Secretary-General António Guterres  called for a de-escalation of violence after Iran’s attack. Guterres said the United Nations and member countries have a “shared responsibility” to engage “all parties concerned to prevent further escalation.” He also called for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “Neither the region nor the world can afford more war,” he said.
• G7 and others: Amid a flurry of diplomatic activity in response to Iran's attack, the G7 nations said they would work together to "stabilize the situation" in the Middle East, according to a statement from Biden. Also, Jordan summoned Iran's ambassador in Amman on Sunday after it intercepted Iranian drones over the country.
• Meanwhile in Gaza: As thousands of Palestinians were turned away from returning to their homes in northern Gaza on Sunday, a 5-year-old girl was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers, her mother said. Video showed a man carrying a 5-year-old girl named Sally Abu Laila, who was bleeding from her head, with people crowding around her in panic trying to cover her wound.

Also on Sunday:

• Israel decided to lift its restrictions on large gatherings and to reopen schools on Monday.
• The US Department of Homeland Security has not identified any “specific or credible threats” to the US since Iran attacked Israel.

Blinken calls Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian and Saudi counterparts following Iran's attack 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia following Iran's attacks in Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

During his phone calls, Blinken emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

In his conversation with Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an "enduring end to the crisis in Gaza."

Iran will be held responsible if any action is taken against the US or Israel, deputy ambassador warns

From CNN’s Abel Alvarado

The United States warned Iran against taking any action against the US or Israel during the UN Security Council emergency session over Iran’s attack on Israel.

“Let me be clear, if Iran or its proxies take actions against the US or further action against Israel, Iran will be held responsible,” US Deputy Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said Sunday.

The United States is “not seeking escalation, our actions have been purely defensive in nature,” adding that the “best way to prevent such escalation is an unambiguous condemnation of the council of Iran’s unprecedented large-scale attack,” he said.

The envoy reiterated US support for Israel and condemned Iran’s attack. “Iran’s intent was to cause significant damage and death in Israel,” Wood said.

Wood also said the UN Security Council had an “obligation to not let Iran’s actions go unanswered.”

“For far too long, Iran has flagrantly violated its international legal obligations,” he said before listing occasions Iran has violated UN Security Council resolutions and international law.

Wood accused Iran of being in a “broad sense complicit” of the October 7 attack on Israel by providing “significant funding and training for the military wing of Hamas.”

He added the US will explore "additional measures to hold Iran accountable here in the UN.”

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Iran launches hundreds of drones and cruise missiles at Israel in unprecedented attack

Islamic Republic’s first ever direct attack on Jewish state involved more than 300 drones and missiles, and raises the risk of a broader regional conflagration

• Iran launches attack against Israel – live updates
• Iran missile and drone attack on Israel – what we know so far

Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel on Saturday night, in the Islamic Republic’s first ever direct attack on the Jewish state, bringing a years-long shadow war into the open and threatening to draw the region into a broader conflagration.

Israel, with the help of key western allies including the US, UK and Jordan, claimed to have intercepted some 99% of the launches during the mass strike, but added that some ballistic missiles had reached Israel, damaging the key Nevatim air base in southern Israel which remained operational.

As the UN security council prepared to convene an emergency session, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said more than 350 missiles were launched during the attack from Iran , Lebanon, Syria and Yemen, and called the interception rate a “significant strategic success”.

Commenting on Israel’s response to the attack, Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, posted on X: “We intercepted, we repelled, together we shall win.”

“The Iranian attack was foiled,” Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement adding that no drones or cruise missiles that had entered Israeli territory, and “only a few” ballistic missiles reached Israel.

Although Israel moved to reopen its air space, officials said the incident was not yet over.

As of Sunday morning, Israeli officials indicated no decision had been made about an Israeli response to the Iranian attack, as an official said any potential response would be discussed at the war cabinet meeting.

Israeli war planes, however, were reported to be bombing Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.

On the Gaza front of the fast expanding regional war, Netanyahu said Hamas had rejected a ceasefire proposal and that Israel would continue pursue its conflict there with “full force”.

While many of the missiles and drones were brought down outside Israel’s airspace others were intercepted over Israeli territory by the Iron Dome air defence interceptor system, which lit up the night sky with multiple detonations, while air raid sirens sounded in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and other cities.

The roar of Israeli air force jets could be heard across the country in the early hours of Sunday.

Some projectiles penetrated the defensive shield. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari confirmed a direct hit on an airbase in southern Israel that caused “minor damage to infrastructure” though the base remains fully operational.

One young girl is in emergency care after the attack, he said.

When asked about possible retaliation by Israel, Hagari said: “We have plans, the situation is still ongoing, we are assessing the situation, we are showing the cabinet the plans, and we are ready to do what is necessary for the defence of Israel.”

The New York Times cited Israeli intelligence sources as saying the main targets appeared to be Israeli military installations in the occupied Golan Heights, in the far north, and the Negev desert, in the far south. Tehran’s ally in Lebanon, Hezbollah, fired volleys of rockets at the Golan at the same time as the Iranian bombardment, and the Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen, claimed they had also joined the attack.

Earlier on Saturday, Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency reported that the country’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had boarded a ship in the Strait of Hormuz by helicopter assault and taken it into Iranian waters. The cargo ship, the MSC Aries, is Portugese-flagged but linked to an Israeli company.

Through its mission at the UN, Iran declared the mass aerial attack, which Tehran dubbed “Operation True Promise” was a retaliation for the bombing of an Iranian diplomatic building in Damascus on 1 April, and that it now considered the matter closed, unless there was further action by Israel.

“The matter can be deemed concluded, the statement said. However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe,” the statement on the X social media platform said. “It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the US must stay away!”

Netanyahu spoke by phone for 25 minutes with US president Joe Biden at 4am Israeli time, as the aerial attack appeared to peter out.

After the call, Biden said he had reaffirmed to Netanyahu “America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel”.

“I told him that Israel demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks – sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel,” Biden said, adding that on Sunday he would convene G7 leaders “to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s brazen attack”.

“My team will engage with their counterparts across the region. And we will stay in close touch with Israel’s leaders,” Biden said. “And while we have not seen attacks on our forces or facilities today, we will remain vigilant to all threats and will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect our people.”

An IDF officer said the Israeli leadership would consider its response early on Sunday, and meanwhile Israel called for an emergency session of the UN security council to condemn the attack. The meeting is expected at 4pm on Sunday (9pm BST).

In the days leading up to the assault, US officials had predicted it would be an unprecedented operation launched from Iran on Israeli territory. They said that if it did not cause mass casualties, Washington would urge Israel to moderate its own response, to prevent tit-for-tat escalation spiralling out of control, drawing in other countries and the US itself.

Biden interrupted a weekend break at his house on Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and arrived back at the White House just after the first drones had been launched, and met his top security officials in the underground situation room. US surveillance planes in the region tracked the incoming attack, and US fighter jets shot down incoming drones and missiles.

The Jordanian air force was also reported to have intercepted some of the projectiles over its territory, and the UK’s Royal Air Force said it was contributing fighters and refuelling planes, mostly to fill in for the US in conducting aerial patrols over Iraq and Syria as part of its campaign against the Islamic State, but the defence secretary, Grant Shapps, said British planes could also “intercept airborne attacks within range of our existing missions”.

There had been nearly two weeks of speculation about when, where and how Tehran or its proxy forces would respond to the 1 April strike on an Iranian diplomatic building in the Syrian capital of Damascus which killed Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior figure in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards, and eight other officers.

Israeli officials almost never claim responsibility for attacks carried out on foreign soil. Tehran has blamed Israel for the strike.

Since the war in Gaza began six months ago, there have been near-daily exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah along the Israel-Lebanon border that have threatened to escalate into full-blown conflict.

A direct attack by Iran on Israel, however, was not believed to be on the cards: Tehran’s leaders have previously made clear that they are not seeking a war with Israel, which could also draw in the US.

Iran has never responded with such force to previous attacks, including many covert Israeli operations on its soil, or the US assassination of the powerful Quds Force leader Qassem Soleimani in Iraq in 2020.

• Middle East and north Africa
• US foreign policy
• US military

More on this story

Middle East crisis: Israel will ‘make its own decision’ on Iran after UK and Germany call for restraint – as it happened

US to impose new sanctions against Iran after its air attack on Israel

Netanyahu aims to trap west into war across Middle East, says Iranian diplomat

Middle East conflict risks sharp rise in oil prices, says IMF

IDF chief of staff says Israel will respond to Iran missile attack

Backlash as USC cancels valedictorian’s speech over support for Palestine

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Britain has no business intervening in the war in Gaza. So why did it defend Israel against Iran?

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Set sail along the famous English coastline to some of Europe's oldest, most fabled ports on cruises to England with Celebrity. You'll visit timeless cultural heritage sites throughout cities and towns steeped in hundreds, and even thousands of years of history. Tour craggy castles, opulent palaces, and majestic cathedrals. Stroll along medieval lanes in quaint English villages. Sip afternoon tea with scones and cream, or stroll along the top of windswept cliffs.

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Tom Cruise Was Once Considered For Iron Man, But There Was Another Superhero Movie He Also 'Flirted' With

Two very different flavors of Cruise could have been present in the world of comic movies.

You don’t get to be an acting talent like Tom Cruise without racking up an obscene amount of “what if” stories. While we know the man as the lead of the Mission: Impossible movies , and a stunt performing daredevil extraordinaire, there were a couple times in his career that comic book movies came a calling. 

And while we already know about Cruise’s potential role in the then developing Iron Man franchise, it turns out that Zack Snyder’s Watchmen was apparently another project that could have seen the star of some of the best action movies in the world playing an anti-hero. 

The Watchmen Characters Tom Cruise Was Considered For

As if Zack Snyder’s bombshell about Leonardo DiCaprio being considered for the role of Lex Luthor wasn’t enough of a shock, the director’s Happy Sad Confused interview also yielded this juicy gem. And apparently, while the Rebel Moon director wanted Tom Cruise to play one role, the man behind Ethan Hunt was gunning for the polar opposite. Take a look for yourself: 

Tom Cruise wanted to be in WATCHMEN. But only as…wait for it…Rorschach. Another bombshell @ZackSnyder dropped in our chat. The full chat: https://t.co/qDTvcxgxfu pic.twitter.com/uLeM7UMESw April 18, 2024

I’m going to set aside the fact that, like Josh Horowitz, I consider the casting of Watchmen to be perfect. I can’t see either Jackie Earle Haley or Matthew Goode not playing Rorschach or Ozymandias at this point, but for the sake of academic curiosity, I’m going to pretend I can. With that caveat in place, I’d honestly have a hard time picking which role Tom Cruise would be better suited for. 

Cruise’s Rorschach feels like it’d be a modified version of his Vincent character from Collateral , whereas Ozymandias would be a variation on his aloof killer archetype as Lestat from Interview with the Vampire . That second scenario would have been a particularly good showcase for Tom, as that character basically launches into a Watchmen ending explained monologue in the third act.

Both characters hold echoes of some of Tom Cruise's best movies. So to all of a sudden hear that Zack Snyder had met with the man to try and cast him in this epic comic adaptation has replaced Iron Man as the greater “what if” for Cruise’s potential career in comic movies. Which, after all this time, is no easy feat.

That Time Tom Cruise ‘Flirted’ With Playing Iron Man

If anyone ever wanted to know how forward thinking Tom Cruise is when it comes to movies, consider this: the man was flirting with comic book movies before the boom had truly taken off. While the ultimate reason for Cruise’s Iron Man refusal was classic Hollywood dealing, the man was circling these sorts of opportunities before they were cool. 

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History shook out the way it did, and Robert Downey Jr .’s iconic casting won out. That hasn’t stopped people from pondering over how a Cruise-led Iron Man could have looked. Especially since, on the Tom Cruise Continuum of Characters, Tony Stark feels like a more cavalier and grown up version of Risky Business’ Joel Goodsen.

Twice before we almost saw Tom Cruise landing a comic book movie icon on his resume; and who knows? We might just see him land that sort of role in the future, provided he wants to go down that road. The Multiverse of both DC and Marvel are vast, and there's surely someone Cruise would be down to play in the name of four paneled fun. 

As it stands, the Watchmen we have at home is a sterling example of comic book adaptations done right. So should you want to revisit that movie, with or without visions of Tom Cruise participating, you can do just that. At the time of this publication, a Max subscription is all that’s required to catch up once again with those costumed heroes. 

Mike Reyes is the Senior Movie Contributor at CinemaBlend, though that title’s more of a guideline really. Passionate about entertainment since grade school, the movies have always held a special place in his life, which explains his current occupation. Mike graduated from Drew University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, but swore off of running for public office a long time ago. Mike's expertise ranges from James Bond to everything Alita, making for a brilliantly eclectic resume. He fights for the user.

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Zack Snyder says Tom Cruise wanted to play this surprising Watchmen character

The role ultimately went to Jackie Earle Haley

Zack Snyder says Tom Cruise wanted to play a pretty surprising character in his 2009 comic book movie Watchmen.

"I wanted Tom Cruise for Ozymandias. Tom wanted to play Rorschach," Snyder told the Happy Sad and Confused podcast. "Which he obviously could have done, but we already had [Jackie Earle Haley] and Jackie is unbelievable. But I certainly would have considered Tom in retrospect if I hadn't had Jackie."

Watchmen, based on the DC Comics limited series of the same name, hit theaters in 2009. Snyder directed the dark and dystopian superhero pic from a screenplay by David Hayer (Warrior Nun) and Alex Tse (Gran Turismo). 

Walter Kovacs aka Rorschach is a vigilante who styles himself like an old-timey detective and dons a mask with shifting black and white patterns that resemble the ink blots on a Rorschach test. Haley's audition was shot in the living room and kitchen areas of Haley's house, with the actor wearing a makeshift Rorschach outfit that he put together himself. 

The part of Adrian Veidt aka Ozymandias, a retired superhero with genius-level intellect and peak human strength, went to Matthew Goode. To this day, Cruise has yet to star in a superhero movie.

The film ultimately underperformed at the box office, grossing only $187 million against a budget of $150 million, but subsequently gained a cult following. Watchmen also, of course, has a Snyder Cut consisting of 24 minutes of additional footage.

Watchmen is streaming now on Max. For more, check out our list of the most exciting upcoming movies in 2024 and beyond, or, skip straight to the good stuff with our complete list of movie release dates .

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Lauren Milici is a Senior Entertainment Writer for GamesRadar+ currently based in the Midwest. She previously reported on breaking news for The Independent's Indy100 and created TV and film listicles for Ranker. Her work has been published in Fandom, Nerdist, Paste Magazine, Vulture, PopSugar, Fangoria, and more.

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