Where you can sail from Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a rare UK departure option that keeps travel simple and gets you into the holiday faster.

• European itineraries that focus on destination value and big port days.
• Shorter escapes when you want a quick reset without long-haul flights.
• Longer voyages with extra sea days and a slower pace onboard.
• Easy UK logistics if you would rather avoid airport stress.

Choose the right Portsmouth sailing

If you want to pick fast, use this simple filter logic.

• Quick escape: 7 nights for a clean, simple break.
• More variety: 10 - 15 nights if you want more ports and a smoother pace.
• Best value: compare multiple dates and do not fixate on one week.
• Want help choosing: send your dates, budget and cabin preference and we will shortlist options.

Why sail from Portsmouth

Portsmouth is one of the easiest UK departure ports for an adults-only cruise, especially if you want less travel hassle.

• Great option for UK travellers who want to avoid flying.
• Easy to add a pre-cruise night on the South Coast.
• Simple road access with motorway links close to the port.
• A solid choice for first-time cruisers who want straightforward logistics.

Arriving the day before is the simplest way to keep embarkation stress-free.

Portsmouth before you sail

If you have a few hours or a night, keep it simple and do one or two easy wins.

• Gunwharf Quays for shopping, food and harbour views.
• Historic Dockyard if you want proper naval history.
• Southsea for a relaxed walk and an easy pre-cruise vibe.
• Spinnaker Tower if you want a quick, iconic view.

One night pre-cruise gives you buffer time and starts the trip properly.

Have time before boarding? Discover Portsmouth’s historic waterfront and naval attractions.

Explore Portsmouth experiences

Which port does Virgin use in Portsmouth

Departures use Portsmouth International Port. Your Virgin Voyages app will show the exact terminal details and your arrival time.

• Port address: Portsmouth International Port, George Byng Way, Portsmouth PO2 8SP.
• Arrive at your assigned Terminal Arrival Time in the app.
• There is limited waiting space so arriving too early usually means more queuing.
• If you arrive early, drop luggage if available then enjoy Portsmouth until your boarding window.

Getting to the port

Pick the simplest option for your group and build in a buffer for traffic.

• By car: the M275 runs directly to the port and signage is clear.
• By taxi: easy from central Portsmouth and nearby hotels.
• By train: Portsmouth and Southsea is a practical station for taxis to the terminal.
• Best tip: stay locally the night before if you are travelling far on embarkation day.

Need a reliable transfer? We recommend pre-booking with trusted drivers for peace of mind.

Book transfer

Where to stay in Portsmouth

Choose a base that makes embarkation morning easy and gives you something to do the day before.

• Gunwharf Quays: walkable, lively and great for a pre-cruise meal.
• Southsea: calmer vibe with easy access to the waterfront.
• Central Portsmouth: practical for taxis, food and quick logistics.
• Near the port: best if you want maximum simplicity on embarkation morning.

Staying overnight? Stay close to the terminal for a smooth departure from Portsmouth.

View Portsmouth hotels

First-timer tips

If this is your first Virgin sailing, these tips save you time and stress.

• Use the Virgin Voyages app for check-in, dining and Shore Things.
• Book dining as soon as it opens for your sailing, especially for the popular spots.
• Bring a small day bag for embarkation day essentials.
• New to Virgin Voyages? Tell us your dates and budget and we will help you get the best value from the current offers.