NEWS + 10 PHOTOS: As the UK embarks on its roadmap to normality, so too does cruising with British guests returning to the seas amid record demand for UK cruises. There are 12 cruise lines sailing 17 ships in UK waters this summer.
MSC Virtuosa’s maiden season from Southampton in May marked the return of UK cruises after the cruise line’s successful resumption in Italy in 2020. P&O Cruises sailed with Britannia on June 27, 2021, followed by Iona’s long-awaited maiden voyages from August.
Dave Mills, VP Global Supply at Iglu Cruise, says: “Following MSC Cruises’ successful restart, we are delighted that P&O Cruises will be welcoming customers back onboard Britannia this week. It marks another significant milestone in the long-awaited return to cruising. We have many customers who have been eagerly awaiting this day for a long time. Demand for UK cruises has rocketed since the end of May while the uncertainty around foreign travel persists.”
12 Cruise Lines and 17 Ships Sailing in UK Waters
The following cruise lines will be sailing in UK waters this summer:
- MSC Cruises – Virtuosa
- P&O Cruises – Iona, Britannia
- Disney Cruise Line – Disney Magic
- Marella Cruises – Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2
- Princess Cruises – Regal Princess, Sky Princess
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines – Bolette, Borealis
- Virgin Voyages – Scarlet Lady
- Royal Caribbean – Anthem of the Seas
- Cunard – Queen Elizabeth
- Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Silhouette
- Hurtigruten – MS Maud
- Saga Ocean Cruises – Spirit of Adventure, Spirit of Discovery
7 Departure Ports
As well as a variety of cruise lines and ships, voyages will depart from ports across the UK. From Southampton, Portsmouth, Dover and London Tilbury in the south of England, to Newcastle, Liverpool and Greenock, convenient departure ports have added to the popularity of UK staycation cruises.
New Health and Safety Measures
Stringent health and safety protocols are key to a successful return to service, with cruise lines announcing enhanced boarding and onboard measures. Many have introduced mandatory vaccination policies, while all guests must have a negative covid-19 test prior to boarding. Other changes include reduced guest capacity, pre-booking for certain activities, and more hand sanitisers throughout the ship.
While it is not yet known how long enhanced safety measures will be needed, the return of ocean voyages to UK waters this summer is an important step forward for the cruise industry over the months to come.
Sources: Google Trends
Iona Photo: Herman-IJsseling/P&O Cruises
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