2024 marked another highly successful year for the cruise industry at Associated British Ports (ABP) Southampton, reinforcing its position as Northern Europe’s top cruise turnaround port and the leading cruise port in the United Kingdom.
The Port of Southampton welcomed three million passengers, exceeding the 2023 record, and contributed over US$1.2 billion to the local and regional economy.
Rebekah Keeler, Cruise Strategy Manager of ABP, mentioned: “We are proud to have the capability, infrastructure, and partnerships in place to facilitate this incredible economic value for our city. We continue to see global cruise sector growth, and Southampton leads the way for the UK and Northern Europe.”
Each cruise call provides a significant economic boost to Southampton and the surrounding Solent area, driven by local employment, the use of regional goods and services, and the spending of both passengers and crew.
Furthermore, Southampton earned the title of Best UK Departure Port for 2024 at the Cruise Critic Awards, based on passenger feedback. Reviews highlighted the port’s efficient embarkation and disembarkation processes, convenient parking, prime location, and the range of activities available in the city.
Environmentally, it was also a record year, with a 50% increase in cruise vessels utilizing Southampton’s industry-leading shore power facilities, enabling zero emissions at berth. ABP is working with local authorities and the National Grid to expand shore power offerings in the port.
As an established cruise hub, Southampton supports 85% of the UK cruise market. The port is renowned for its expertise in cruise operations, fuel bunkering, waste management, ground handling, and stevedoring, all of which ensure efficient cruise turnarounds and sustained growth. With excellent road and rail links, Southampton is a prime location, easily accommodating Transatlantic and European cruise calls.
