Cruising from Newcastle is a fantastic option for those living in the North East of England, as it allows you to skip the hassle of a long travel to Southampton.
Whether you’re looking to cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, or the Baltic States, Newcastle’s Port of Tyne offers an excellent gateway to these incredible destinations.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about cruising from Newcastle, including cruise lines, destinations, and my top tips for a smooth and stress-free journey.
Why Newcastle Is a Great Cruise Departure Port
Avoid the Hassle of Southampton
Living in the North East can make reaching Southampton for a cruise feel like a real chore. With no direct trains from Newcastle to Southampton, your options are limited to:
- A six-hour drive.
- Multiple train transfers.
- A costly flight.
However, sailing from Newcastle means you can easily get to the Port of Tyne and begin your holiday without the stress of a long journey.
Whether you’re driving and parking at the port or taking a short Metro ride, cruising from Newcastle saves time and energy.
For cruises heading north to destinations like Iceland or the Norwegian Fjords, it also makes perfect sense to start your journey from the North.
Cruises That Sail From Newcastle
The Port of Tyne is smaller than Southampton, with a capacity for up to 2,000 passengers and ships no longer than 300m.
While this limits the mega-cruise ships, there are still plenty of options for travelers departing from Newcastle.
1. Ambassador Cruise Line
For 2025, Ambassador Cruise Line will offer cruises from Newcastle on board its newest ship, Ambition. The itineraries will include popular European destinations like:
- France and Spain
- Iceland and Norway
- Scottish Islands
Ambassador focuses on regional ports, making it an ideal option for those looking to cruise from their home port.
2. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred. Olsen offers summer cruises from Newcastle aboard Balmoral and Borealis, small ships with a 1,300-1,400 passenger capacity.
Known for destination-focused itineraries, Fred. Olsen cruises cater to a mature audience, often with itineraries for the over-50s.
- Facilities for Children: Limited, as Fred. Olsen ships are primarily adults-only or offer a small number of children during school holidays.
Best Cruise Destinations From Newcastle
Newcastle’s cruise offerings primarily head to the north, offering exciting itineraries in Northern Europe.
1. Iceland
- Iceland cruises are a popular choice from Newcastle.
- Fred. Olsen offers various itineraries that include stops in Iceland, along with Greenland, the Azores, or the Faroe Islands.
2. Norwegian Fjords
- Fred. Olsen and Ambassador Cruise Line offer voyages to Norway.
- In the summer, you may experience the Midnight Sun, and in the winter, the Northern Lights might make an appearance.
- It’s an ideal cruise for anyone wanting to explore natural beauty in a peaceful setting.
3. Baltic States
- Fred. Olsen is the primary line offering cruises from Newcastle to the Baltic Sea.
- These cruises often include St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, and Gothenburg—places rich in culture and history.
4. Round Britain
- Cruises around the British Isles are another exciting option.
- Ports include Leith, Invergordon, Lerwick, Kirkwall, Greenock, and Dundee.
- A full circumnavigation of the UK is also possible, visiting Liverpool, Belfast, Torquay, Belfast, and Portsmouth.
Types of Cruises From Newcastle
Newcastle’s cruises offer a range of options depending on the length and inclusivity of your trip.
1. Mini Cruises
- Ideal for first-timers or anyone looking for a short getaway.
- These cruises usually last two to three days, perfect for a weekend escape.
2. All-Inclusive Cruises
- Both Fred. Olsen and Ambassador Cruise Line offer all-inclusive options, although it’s worth noting that certain drinks like cocktails may not be included.
- These cruises are perfect for those who want to enjoy their trip without worrying about additional costs.
3. No-Fly Cruises
- If you’re not keen on flying, you can embark on a no-fly cruise from Newcastle or fly to join your cruise in places like Tenerife or Malta.
Where Is the Cruise Port in Newcastle?
Newcastle’s cruise ships dock at the International Passenger Terminal at the Port of Tyne, located in North Shields, adjacent to the Royal Quays Marina.
How to Get to the Port:
- Newcastle Airport is around 15 miles away, a 35-minute drive.
- Newcastle Central Station is 9 miles away, and you can take the Metro to Percy Main (15-minute journey) followed by a 20-minute walk to the terminal.
Final Thoughts on Cruising From Newcastle
For those living in the North East of England, Newcastle is a fantastic alternative to the long journey to Southampton.
Whether you’re headed to the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, or the Baltic States, there are plenty of options available for a memorable cruise experience.
While the cruise options from Newcastle are more limited compared to larger ports like Southampton, Fred. Olsen and Ambassador Cruise Line offer great itineraries, making Newcastle an excellent starting point for your next adventure.
If you’re looking for a more local cruise experience, Newcastle is a convenient and stress-free option that lets you start your holiday close to home.
