Post Cruise Southampton to London Package
- Preview our post cruise hotel package experience
Package includes:
- Shared cruise transfer from Southampton to London. Optional upgrade to Salisbury, Stonehenge & Windsor coach tour
- 4* or 5* London city centre hotel with breakfast
- Fully guided London sightseeing tour with entry to Tower of London, St.Paul's Cathedral and River Thames cruise - Transfer to tour start point included
- Private departure transfer to London Heathrow or Gatwick Airport
- Reserve now with a 10% deposit, balance due 28 days before travel
- Fully refundable and amendable up to 14 days before travel
Optional Extras:
- Fully guided small group day trip to Stonehenge, Bath & Windsor with entry to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle
- Fully guided small group day trip to Oxford, Cotswolds & Country Pub Lunch with entry to Divinity School Oxford
Example Itinerary
Please note this is a sample itinerary and different lengths of stay are available. Please see the 'Book this Tour' section on the right of this page to choose your preferred dates/duration of stay.
Day 1 - Transfer from Southampton to London
After disembarking your cruise ship, you will be transferred directly to your hotel in a shared transfer operated in an executive vehicle.
If you would like to combine your transfer with some sightseeing, upgrade to our popular Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor day trip, which includes entry to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. For more information on this tour please visit the link below:
https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/southampton-cruise-tour-transfer-to-london.html
Day 2 - Fully guided London sightseeing tour
Your day begins with a guided tour of the world famous St.Paul's Cathedral, the venue of the wedding between Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, and the final resting place of Admiral Lord Horation Nelson. The tour will arrive at opening time, before the big crowds arrive. We continue on through the heart of London, following the Thames to Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben for a photo stop. A stop is included at the King's official London residence, Buckingham Palace, where we stop to to enjoy the pomp and ceremony of the changing of the Royal Guards (Please note that the Changing of the Guard runs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday only, it may also be cancelled at short notice). Witness the regal splendour of the foot soldiers, immaculate horse guards and regimental brass bands.
After some time for lunch, entry is included to the one thousand year old fortress at The Tower of London. Here you will learn of real life tales of torture, execution, Royal prisoners, and life in a former Royal Palace, before having a chance to admire and marvel at the Crown Jewels.
Your sightseeing tour ends with a guided boat cruise on the River Thames, where you will enjoy a commentary and excellent views of The Shard, Shakespeare's Globe and the Houses of Parliament. Your tour ends in Westminster, in the shadow of the London Eye and Parliament, a great location to continue exploring or return to your hotel.
Day 3 - Free day in London or optional tour
Please take a moment to read our 'Transfer & Day Trip Information' tab for more information on the tours available. This is a sample itinerary and if you choose to stay for 2 nights you will not have a free day and/or the option to book onto an additional tour. If you wish to stay for 4 nights or more you will have extra free days and/or the option to book onto additional tours.
Day 4 - Departure transfer
After a buffet breakfast in your hotel, you will be transferred directly to Heathrow or Gatwick Airport by private vehicle. Exact transfer time will depend on flight departure time.
Arrival Transfer
Where will I meet my driver?
Your driver will be waiting outside the arrivals building of your cruise terminal and will be identifiable by a board reading "International Friends".
What time does the transfer depart?
All transfers have an 8:00am meeting time, for an 8:30am departure. You must ensure you allow sufficient time to disembark your cruise ship in order to meet your driver in time.
What happens if my ship is late?
In the unlikely event your ship is delayed into port, we will delay our departure time accordingly (applicable only to the listed ships we service). For all delayed ship arrivals we will aim to leave at the latest one hour after docking (earlier if possible).
Will you wait for me if I am late in disembarking?
If your cruise ship docks on schedule and disembarkation begins as normal, we cannot be held responsible in the unlikely event you are unable to disembark in time to meet your transfer. This is a shared transfer and we cannot delay departure from the port for customers who are late in disembarking. It is your responsibility to check the departure time for your transfer, and ensure you are at the meeting point at the appropriate time.
How much luggage can I bring?
Each person is allowed a maximum of 2 items of hold luggage (23kg each) and 1 item of carry on luggage (10kg each).
Limits on luggage are worked out based on the space available in the vehicle's hold. If you bring extra luggage there is a possibility it will not fit in the vehicle. In this instance you will be responsible for arranging separate transportation for your luggage.
Should you wish to bring any mobility aids (wheelchairs or walkers) you MUST contact us in advance to let us know. We will require full dimensions and weight. These items must be able to be folded and stored in the luggage hold. Wheelchairs must be counted as 1 item of your hold luggage.
How much walking will be involved in this tour?
As you exit the cruise terminal you will meet your driver and there will be a typical walk of about 100 yards to the vehicle. If you choose to upgrade to the Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor tour then please visit the following link:
https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/southampton-cruise-tour-transfer-to-london.html
I would like to join this tour but you do not service the ship I am travelling on. What can I do?
This service is available on all dates when Royal Caribbean, Oceania, NCL, Celebrity, Princess cruise ships are visiting Southampton. The service is also available to passengers on other ships not listed when dates and arrival times coincide with ships listed. Please note you will need to make your own way to the ship we are servicing on that date. Please make a note on your booking the ship you are arriving on, and we can then advise which ship you will need to make your way to. You will need to take a taxi from your ship to our meeting point which should take no longer than 10 minutes. There will be taxis waiting outside of your cruise ship however to avoid queuing we recommend pre booking a taxi in advance.
Should we tip our driver?
Tips are entirely at the customer’s discretion and in no way expected. Should you feel inclined to tip your driver would be grateful, but you should not feel obliged.
Welcome To London Tour
Where is the meeting point for the Welcome to London Tour?
London Victoria Coach Station, Gate 19. Please ensure you arrive by 7:30am to allow sufficient time to check in ready for a 7:45am departure.
How do I get from my hotel to Victoria Coach Station?
A transfer to Victoria Coach Station is included from all hotels except the Clermont Hotel Victoria as this is a 2 minute walk away. Your pick up time depends on your hotel, but will be between 6:45am – 7:00am. The exact pick up time will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter. Your transfer will aim to arrive at Victoria Coach Station by 7:15am.
What does the Welcome to London tour include?
This fully guided tour of London includes a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, a panoramic drive of London, a cruise along the River Thames, entry to the Tower of London, a photo stop outside Westminster Abbey, and the services of a professional guide. You will also see the Changing of the Guards, but please bear in mind this is subject to operation dates and last minute changes. If you would like to double check that Changing of the Guards is operating on your tour date, please check here - https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html.
When and where does this tour finish?
This tour will finish at approximately 4:00pm at the Southbank Pier after the river cruise, close to the London Eye. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Southbank is an ideal location to continue exploring from, with fantastic restaurants, just a short journey away from Covent Garden and Leicester Square.
What day will my tour take place?
Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival.
Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor Tour (Optional Tour)
Where is the meeting point for the Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor tour?
We have three meeting points across Central London. Pickups take place between 7:15am and 7:45am. You will be allocated the closest meeting point to your hotel. This will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter.
How do I get from my hotel to the meeting point?
Our dedicated hotel packages team will be in touch shortly after you book to discuss your options on how to reach the tour starting point. We will offer both private and public transfer options and advise how this can be booked.
What does my day trip include?
Full inclusions can be found here: https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/a-harvest-of-history-windsor-bath-stonehenge.html
Please note that Windsor Castle is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, it can also be subject to last minute closures. We will still operate the tour on these dates but will subsitute entry to the Roman Baths instead.
When and where does this tour finish?
On the return to London your driver will drop you at Victoria Train Station in the city centre. This is one of the largest transport stations in London. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Due to the changeable nature of road conditions, we cannot guarantee a precise time when you will get back to London, it is usually between 6:00pm-7:00pm.
What day will my tour take place?
Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival.
Oxford, Cotswolds & Country Pub Lunch Tour (Optional Tour)
Where is the meeting point for the Oxford, the Cotswolds and Country Pub Lunch tour?
We have three meeting points across Central London. Pickups take place between 7:15am and 7:45am. You will be allocated the closest meeting point to your hotel. This will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter.
How do I get from my hotel to the meeting point?
Our dedicated hotel packages team will be in touch shortly after you book to discuss your options on how to reach the tour starting point. We will offer both private and public transfer options and advise how this can be booked.
What does my day trip include?
Full inclusions can be found here:
https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/oxford-cotswolds-pub-lunch.html
When and where does this tour finish?
On the return to London your driver will drop you at Victoria Train Station in the city centre. This is one of the largest transport stations in London. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Due to the changeable nature of road conditions, we cannot guarantee a precise time when you will get back to London, it is usually between 6:00pm-7:00pm.
What day will my tour take place?
Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival.
Departure Transfer
Where will I meet my driver?
Your driver will meet you inside the hotel lobby and will be holding an International Friends sign with your name on.
What time will I arrive at the airport?
You will arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight departs, based on the flight information that you have given us at the time of booking. Your exact pick up time from your hotel will be confirmed with you prior to your arrival in your Welcome Letter.
We have a great range of 4* and 5* London City Centre hotels, in a variety of locations available for you on this pre cruise hotel package, all on Bed & Breakfast basis:
4* Hotel Options
4* Copthorne Tara
The award-winning service at Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington is friendly without being fawning, and the experienced team will help make your stay extra special. A stylish and contemporary hotel, perfectly located for the museums on Cromwell Road, Hyde Park and Kensington Palace, tucked away behind Kensington High Street.
4* St Ermin's
St. Ermin’s, a central london hotel nestled at the end of a tree-lined courtyard in the heart of Westminster is an independent four-star deluxe hotel, offering guests a relaxing environment where they can unwind and be themselves. With the majority of London’s top historical attractions on the doorstep and its close proximity to St. James’s and Victoria stations; St. Ermin’s is the ideal destination for travellers.
4* Clermont Victoria
A 4* charming hotel in London, styled in a Victorian design, the property is located in the heart of London, around 700m from Victoria tube station. Previously called the Grosvenor Victoria, this hotel in London is a great location for those wanting to explore London, within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
4* Thistle Hotel Marble Arch
The hotel is just a stone’s throw from shopping hotspots such as Oxford Street and Mayfair, as well as a host of famous London landmarks including Madame Tussauds and Hamleys. With outstanding modern facilities, as well as luxurious rooms and expert staff, you’ll love your experience at this hotel near Oxford Street. As a 4* hotel, you can expect absolute comfort and impeccable service.
4* Clermont Charing Cross
Just steps from Trafalgar Square, the Clermont Charing Cross is a 4* oasis of calm housed within a beautiful, Grade II listed building. Experience the unique combination of 150 years of British heritage, attentive service and seamless technology, with the personalised service you need to feel at home, indulged and special.
4* Thistle Kensington Gardens
This 4-star luxury hotel is set on the tree-lined Bayswater Road, opposite the stunning Hyde Park and just a short stroll from Kensington Palace and the Princess Diana Memorial Garden. Westminster Borough is a great choice for travellers interested in luxury brand shopping, shopping for clothes and theatre.
4* The Tower Hotel
A 4* hotel near Tower Bridge, The Tower Hotel delivers the ideal hotel experience, combining convenience and comfort, with rooms designed to reflect the individual style and character of the hotel itself. With the Tower of London UNESCO World Heritage Site on your doorstep, exploring the city starts the moment you set foot outside.
4* The Cumberland
Located on the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane, just steps away from chic boutiques, world famous department stores, historic West End theatres and the glorious green spaces of Hyde Park. The Cumberland hotel, Marble Arch, draws inspiration from the capital’s love of music, with a glorious fusion of comfort and service.
4* The Bailey's Hotel
You'll feel at home in the Victorian grandeur of this redbrick townhouse, just moments away from world-renowned museums and the luxurious neighborhood of Knightsbridge. With a history as beguilling as the five-story and impressive decor, this characterful hotel will make you wish walls could talk...
4* Copthorne at Chelsea Football Club
Situated within the grounds of Chelsea Football Club, the Millennium Hotel at Chelsea FC is just a short walk from the Kings Road, the heart of fashionable and affluent Chelsea. Just a 5-minute walk from Fulham Broadway underground, meaning London's many attractions are just a short journey away.
4* Millennium Gloucester
Millennium Gloucester Hotel London Kensington blends classic and contemporary styles across all rooms, giving travelers great value for money. The hotel is only a three-minute walk from Gloucester Road underground station – and with local gems such as the Natural History Museum and Kensington Palace just around the corner, you’ll have easy access to some of the best sights in London.
4* Millennium Knightsbridge
Nestled on Sloane Street, Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge is a 4-star cosmopolitan hotel in the heart of the luxury fashion district. Situated next to Hyde Park, this hotel is close to Harrods, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Offering a contemporary take on modern hospitality, this hotel is a favorite for the style-conscious and culture-lovers alike.
4* The Queen's Gate Hotel
Located in the centre of London, in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea; a few minutes walk from Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Knightsbridge. Close to Gloucester Road and South Kensington Tube stations.
4* The Bloomsbury Hotel
The Bloomsbury is an iconic hotel in London, housed in a historic and beautifully restored Lutyens’ 1930s’ neo-Georgian building and located only moments from Covent Garden, Soho, Theatreland and Oxford
4* St James' Court - A Taj Hotel
Located in the very heart of central London, this hotel is just footsteps from Buckingham Palace and St James’ Park, and also conveniently close to Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament. Theatreland and the shops and restaurants of Mayfair are all within walking and cycling distance. St James' Court is therefore perfectly positioned to explore London.
5* Hotel Options
5* Kimpton Fitzroy
A 19th-century beauty meets the London of today: that’s what you’ll find at Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel. From the outside, the landmark building, which occupies a full block along the eastern side of Russell Square in Bloomsbury, looks every bit the part of grande dame. With one foot in the city’s past and another in its present, our Bloomsbury location combines British creative heritage with modern amenities.
5* Biltmore Mayfair
Located in the prestigious Grosvenor Square, The Biltmore Mayfair offers opulent accommodations and a prime location for exploring the capital. Discover London’s top shopping destinations with Oxford Street and New Bond Street within walking distance. Take an enchanting walk through Regency London or sample our delightful dining options designed by their Executive chef.
5* Millennium at Chelsea Football Club
Situated within the grounds of Chelsea Football Club, the Millennium Hotel at Chelsea FC is just a short walk from the Kings Road, the heart of fashionable and affluent Chelsea. While the hotel is right next to Stamford Bridge on Fulham Road – a dream come true for any Chelsea Football Club fan – the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Fulham Broadway underground, with London's many attractions a short journey away.
5* Great Scotland Yard Hotel - In the Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Five star luxury hotel, located a stone’s throw from Covent Garden. Great Scotland Yard is one of London’s most historic and cherished buildings that holds more hidden stories than any other kind in London. Where tradition meets modern luxury.
5* The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa
Experience 5-star luxury in one of London's most prestigious areas. With breath-taking panoramic views over Chelsea Harbour Marina and the River Thames, The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa comes with everything you need for complete relaxation - attentive service, spa and health club facilities, and 158 luxury suites and penthouses that offer the perfect stay in Chelsea.
5* The Royal Horseguards
The Royal Horseguards is a 5* hotel in the heart of London edging onto Covent Garden and Theatreland, and overlooking the London Eye. A luxury hotel in a Grade I listed building with bedrooms that offer Victorian elegance and modern features, including free Wi-Fi, Elemis toiletries, and a free minibar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breakfast included?
Yes - All hotel rooms are booked on a bed and breakfast basis.
What time is check in?
Most hotels offer check in from 14:00. If you arrive earlier than this every effort will be made to have your room made available as quickly as possible. All hotels offer luggage storage facilities should you wish to store your luggage while you head out and explore.
What time is breakfast available?
Breakfast times will be confirmed upon check in at your hotel. Please note that parts of your itinerary may require you to depart the hotel before breakfast is served. In these circumstances please speak to the hotel reception who may be able to assist you with a ‘breakfast to go’.
What if I have concerns about food allergies?
Full allergen information is available to guests on request. Please speak to the hotel reception who will be happy to help.
Do you offer rooms that are adapted for people with reduced mobility?
Most hotels offer adapted rooms. Should you require an adapted room or have any other requirements please contact us at [email protected] where we will be happy to assist you.