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It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in Britain and Northern Europe, welcoming over 20 individual cruise lines and 200,000 cruise passengers every year. Located just 76 miles South East of London, Dover is England’s getaway to Europe. Port Dover cruise ship terminal is at the old Dover Marine railway station. As the UK’s largest port, Dover has excellent car parking services available with up to 1000 parking spaces in total, with a shuttle bus service to the terminals. However, you must reserve in advance in order to guarantee a place and to get a cheaper rate.
Port of Dover Cruise Terminal
Ferry crossings from Dover to France are offered 24 hours a day, the whole year round, with departures on every 30 min (taken across both operators' shipping schedules). This fairytale castle was built in the 12th century after the Norman Conquest, and in 1278 it became the Royal Palace for Edward I and his wife Eleanor who decided to transform it into a more beautiful site. During WWII the castle served as a Red Cross hospital and became home to Dutch and French prisoners of war. In 1926 the castle was bought by Lady Baillie, the last owner of Leeds Castle until she died in 1974. In 1976 the Castle was open to the public and ever since visitors can enjoy and explore this magnificent place.
How to Get To Dover Cruise Port From London Airport and Central London (Updated
The terminal itself is well-maintained and offers a variety of amenities for passengers. Additionally, the surrounding area has plenty to see and experience, making it an ideal location for pre- or post-cruise activities. Located in the county of Kent, Dover is a historic town in southeast England.
Other Private London Cruise Transportation Services
An adjacent freight terminal (with three loading cranes) is scheduled to be repurposed under port redevelopment plans but can currently be used by ships of up to 180 metres (590 ft). There is a mobility bus free of charge near the ticket office and the service runs throughout the day. We traveled from Central Scotland to Dover for our cruise on Carnival Pride to the Norwegian Fjords in June 2023. Traveling by train saved us a lot of money and it was much less stressful than we thought it might be. Additionally, if your cruise is less than 14 days, you will know for certain whether you will have any issues to contend with on your return. Despite the problems we had getting a Taxi TO Dover port, we did not have any problems at all getting a Taxi FROM the port.
South Foreland Lighthouse
So if you are coming into Dover the night before, plan accordingly and allow plenty of time to secure a Taxi. Uber is available in the town, but the whole time I was waiting for our Taxi, the Uber app was unable to find us an available driver. Reading a lot of the Cruise groups on Facebook, I know that everyone stresses about luggage and how they will cope with London Tubes and the trains. Additionally, the town of Dover is equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots, many of which are available in public spaces, hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
For transportation enthusiasts, this museum showcases a wide collection of vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits. Learn about the history of Dover through interactive exhibits and artifacts, including a preserved Bronze Age boat discovered in the area. Overlooking the town and long regarded as one of the most important fortresses in England.
Don’t Miss The Ship – Always Travel the Day Before Your Cruise Ship Sails
Get ready to be enchanted by the beauty, diversity, and charm of England, as you embark on a voyage of discovery from the dazzling Dover Cruise Port. Take a day trip to the nearby city of Canterbury, known for its stunning cathedral and charming streets filled with shops and cafes. Grab a drink or snack at one of the many cafes and restaurants or browse through the duty-free shops before boarding your ship. Take a short drive from the port to visit this beautiful abbey and its gardens, perfect for a relaxing stroll and picnic. Get your adrenaline pumping with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing at this popular watersports center. Dover, England is a destination that attracts ships from the best cruise lines.
The friendly and hospitable locals, along with knowledgeable staff at the tourist information centers, are available to provide assistance and make your visit as memorable as possible. With these local services and facilities readily available, your stay at the Dover Cruise Port will be convenient and worry-free. Whether you need to stock up on supplies, seek medical assistance, exchange currency, or get information and assistance, the town of Dover has you covered. If you require foreign currency exchange, there are several options available near the Dover Cruise Port. Banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs can be found in the town center, offering convenient and secure ways to exchange currency or withdraw cash for your travels.
Dover Cruise Port Facilities?
You could even join your Facebook Group for your specific cruise and organize private transportation for a group of 8 passengers via a private minibus or van. Currency exchange can be made in most banks, post offices and train stations. Traveler's checks should be exchanged at banks or exchange offices since very few businesses will accept them (ATMs and credit cards make them nearly obsolete). While it’s important to be cautious, it’s also essential to remember that Dover and its surrounding areas are popular tourist destinations with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. By following common sense safety precautions and utilizing the resources available to you, you can enjoy your time in Dover with confidence and peace of mind. When venturing out from the port, it is recommended to use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services.
Meanwhile, terminals 1 and 2 have taxi ranks outside for quick drop-offs and pick-ups. As such, normally there are two separate cruise terminals at the western docks although a third temporary facility can be opened for peak season, allowing three ships to harbour at once. Despite this seasonality, disembarkation tends to be between 7-9am with embarkation between 3-4pm year-round. However, that doesn't mean that cruises from Dover aren't popular; in fact, it's one of the most popular cruise terminals in the UK. It's just a 5 minute drive between the cruise terminals at Dover to/from the railway and bus stations and ferry terminal. The cruise terminals are far too far to walk with luggage from the train stations.
Sample classic dishes such as fish and chips, hearty pies, and traditional roast dinners, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many of these establishments offer stunning views of the sea or the picturesque town, adding to the dining experience. Throughout your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, sample traditional English cuisine, and indulge in some retail therapy at the many shopping hotspots. Furthermore, the region’s friendly hospitality and warm atmosphere will ensure your time at the Dover Cruise Port and beyond is truly memorable. Dotted with picturesque cliffs, ancient castles, and charming seaside towns, the Dover region is a treasure trove of natural and historical wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Dover has something for everyone.
Meanwhile, there is a short-stay pay and display car park with 64 spaces right at the terminal entrance. Conversion and restoration of the historic former Dover Marine rail terminus, and the opening of a second, larger, cruise terminal building in 1996, have supported a significant expansion in cruise ship traffic. No shuttle buses are provided between the cruise and the train station or London bus stops at Dover. You therefore need to get a taxi between the cruise terminal and the train station/bus stop.
Cruise Line Offers Free Parking for Passengers at One Homeport - Cruise Hive
Cruise Line Offers Free Parking for Passengers at One Homeport.
Posted: Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:58:04 GMT [source]
Thank you for choosing the Dover Cruise Port as your gateway to exploring England. We hope your journey has been filled with incredible moments, lifelong memories, and a genuine appreciation for the wonders of this captivating region. The Dover Cruise Port employs a dedicated security team that works diligently to maintain a safe and secure environment for passengers and staff. These professionals are trained to handle various situations and are equipped with the necessary resources to respond quickly and effectively should the need arise. If you’re interested in experiencing traditional English afternoon tea, several tea rooms and cafes in Dover are renowned for their delectable offerings.
It is a popular destination for cruise ships, with the Dover Cruise Terminal being one of the busiest in Europe. As someone who has taken two cruises from the Dover Cruise Terminal in England, I can say with confidence that this port is a must-visit for any cruise traveler. Not only is it conveniently located near iconic landmarks such as the White Cliffs, but it also offers a plethora of exciting shore excursions just a short walk from your ship. Travellers should also be aware of the various transportation options available to them, including trains, buses, and taxis. Those travelling by car should be sure to plan their route carefully and leave plenty of time for traffic and parking. The seaport was established in 1606 by a Royal Charter and is currently operated by "Dover Harbor Board".
Some of the major cruise lines sailing to the British Isles include Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Windstar Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Do check direct with your individual cruise, the above is what happens on the majority of cruises using Southampton, yours may be the exception. The cruise calendar in Dover normally starts from the month of April until late September/October. As a listed building, many of the original features are still evident and provide a flavour of a bygone era.
