Cruise Short Breaks from Southampton: A Taste of Luxury at Sea

Angela Marshall on 10 May 2024
Short cruise breaks from Southampton offer the perfect escape – just a few days of relaxation, sightseeing, and luxury at sea. I recently enjoyed two unforgettable mini-cruises with my mum that gave us a real flavour of the cruise lifestyle. Our first voyage was with P&O Cruises aboard Arvia, heading to Guernsey. We stayed in a balcony cabin, enjoying sea views and the fresh air. Arvia’s public areas were stylish and spacious – from relaxing lounges to vibrant bars and great dining options. In Guernsey, we spent the day exploring St Peter Port, with its charming streets, boutique shops, and stunning coastal views. Castle Cornet and the cliff paths offered a great glimpse into the island’s rich history and beauty. Our second short break was pure elegance – a Cunard cruise aboard Queen Mary 2 to France. Again in a balcony cabin, we dressed up for gala night and enjoyed the ship’s timeless luxury. A day trip to Paris was the highlight – a boat ride along the Seine, views from the Eiffel Tower, and a memorable lunch in the heart of the city. There are many other UK cruise short breaks to consider departing from Southampton or Portsmouth – from Bruges and Amsterdam to scenic British coastlines. A perfect way to recharge, explore, or sample cruising. Classic Mini-Cruises sailings (2–5 nights) with Cunard, P&O, Princess Cruises, MSC and Royal Caribbean Saga Cruises: Spirit of Adventure/Discovery offering Isles of Scilly & British Isles from Portsmouth Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady: 6-night “English Sights & European Delights” round-trip to La Coruña, Bilbao & Le Verdon . Fred.?Olsen Borealis: Mystery and classic themed cruises from Portsmouth, for 5–6 nights Disney Fantasy: 4–5 nights to Spain (La?Coruna/Bilbao/Vigo) in summer 2025—family friendly with kids’ clubs and characters aboard Whether you're craving laidback island days, iconic city visits, or pampering at sea, UK sailings offer seamless short breaks—all without stepping on a plane. Let me know if you want help picking dates, cabins, or shore excursions!