Cruise Advice
15 December
Setting sail from Southampton
Southampton is the UK's leading port. Bustling modern cruise terminals, as well as wharfs and commercial harbours, line the waterfront, whilst the city itself is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, with a picturesque old town, the original city walls still standing, and super-modern shopping centres and office complexes. On all corners you will see tributes to the city's rich history and maritime heritage. Henry V marched his troops through the Westgate on his way to the battle of Agincourt, The Mayflower sailed from here with a cargo of settlers to the New World, and the Titanic started her fateful voyage here.
Our tip
Get a copy of the Old Town Walk map from the tourist information centre, a perfect (and free!) way to explore Southampton at a leisurely pace.
16 December
France: Le Havre
Le Havre was more or less flattened during World War II, which makes the city’s UNESCO World Heritage status all the more remarkable. Rebuilt by the Belgian architect Auguste Perret, Le Havre is now characterised by a striking modernist style; don’t miss the towering, concrete Église St-Joseph.
17 December
Belgium: Zeebrugge (Bruges)
The beautifully preserved old town of Bruges is a maze of winding cobbled lanes, narrow canals and gorgeous gabled houses, and it’s no wonder so many visitors throng the streets in summer. Make sure you sample the many sybaritic pleasures on offer, including dangerously drinkable Trappist beer and delectable Belgian chocolate.
18 December
Netherlands: Rotterdam
One of the great ports of Europe, Rotterdam’s impressive skyline can be seen from far and wide. With great architecture both ancient and modern, fantastic exhibition and concert halls, theatres, pretty galleries and numerous museums, there is so much to do when you stay here.
19 December
At sea
20 December
Germany: Hamburg
Known locally as ‘the gateway to the world’, the port of Hamburg has a rich maritime history. Of course the city has its seedy side, as characterised by the old red light district around the Reeperbahn, but it’s also a vibrant, progressive city with some excellent museums, galleries and theatres.
21 December
At sea
22 December
Arriving in Southampton
Don't miss
Just a short drive from Southampton is the magical New Forest with its quaint hamlets, historic towns and seaside villages. Look out for the ponies too.
Your home from home
Cunard's newest ship, which joined the fleet in May 2024, promises their usual iconic elegance with modern enhancements.
What we love
The largest and newest ship in the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne offers an abundance of choice, combining their signature timeless style with modern additions. The iconic Queens Grill Suites offer a luxurious and spacious retreat and as for dining you can expect a range of speciality restaurants for a culinary journey around the world.
| capacity | 2,996 guests |
|---|---|
| crew | 1,225 crew |
| style | Traditionally formal cruising with the evening attire always expected to be refined even on 'informal' evenings. |
| inclusions |
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| year built | 2024 |
| tonnage | 113,000 grt |
| length | 1,058 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Overnight in Southampton
Stay at the Pig in the Wall, stylish with great food. Very small so book early.
Day trips from Southampton
Visit historic Winchester, home to King Arthur’s Round Table, the Great Hall and Winchester Cathedral.
