Dover Cruise Port Guide
Why Visit Dover on a Cruise?
Dover is a historic port town and the 'Gateway to England', best known for its iconic White Cliffs and formidable medieval castle.
Dover's atmosphere is steeped in history and defined by its role as a key port connecting the UK with mainland Europe. It's a place where ancient defence and modern-day transit coexist. While a working port, the town offers a sense of tranquillity, particularly when exploring its vast coastal landscapes. The town has a quiet resilience and a palpable sense of historical importance that makes it a fascinating place to explore.
The cultural significance of Dover is immense and has earned it the nickname 'The Lock and Key of England'. For millennia, it has been the frontline for defence against invasion, from Roman times to the Second World War. Its history is a testament to its strategic position on the English Channel, and this legacy is evident in its many fortifications and historic sites, including Roman ruins and Napoleonic-era defences.
Dover's local cuisine is reflective of its coastal location, with fresh seafood being a key highlight. While the town is focused on its role as a port, it provides a selection of traditional British pubs and eateries where you can enjoy hearty, classic meals. A visit to the town's local establishments allows for a taste of authentic Kentish fare, often including locally sourced produce.
What makes Dover a truly unique cruise destination is its unparalleled access to some of England's most significant historical and natural landmarks. The port is perfectly situated for a day trip to see the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,400 years of history that is considered one of the most important religious buildings in England.
Dover has a temperate maritime climate, with mild, damp winters and cool, cloudy summers. The weather is often unpredictable year-round with frequent rain showers. The warmest month is typically August, with average highs of 21°C, while the coldest is February, with average lows of 3°C. The town is known for being windy, and it receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year.
| Time zone | Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) |
|---|---|
| Currency | Pound Sterling (GBP) |
| Language | English |
| Map |
Cruises visiting Dover
We've found 43 cruises visiting Dover.
Discover upcoming cruises that include Dover on their itinerary, with options from leading cruise lines and departure ports worldwide.
Search & Compare PricesCruises to Dover
Average Cruise Price to Dover
View cruise prices to Dover sourced from real-time travel agent pricing.
The table below shows average cruise prices to Dover, broken down by cruise length and cabin type. Based on live pricing data from cruise travel agents, this information provides a reliable and up-to-date view of typical fares to help you plan your cruise with confidence.
| Inside | Outside | Balcony | Suite | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-5 Nights | ||||
| - | - | - | - | |
| 6-10 Nights | ||||
| £851 | £1,014 | £1,227 | £2,537 | |
| 11-16 Nights | ||||
| £2,280 | £2,805 | £3,006 | £4,022 | |
| 17-30 Nights | ||||
| £5,029 | £5,974 | £6,614 | £8,174 | |
| 31+ Nights | ||||
| £8,713 | £9,939 | £9,050 | £17,443 | |
How to Cruise to Dover
Find out where cruises to Dover usually begin.
The information below provides an overview of where cruises to Dover typically begin, helping you identify the most suitable embarkation point.
Departure ports are based on live itinerary data from multiple cruise lines and may vary depending on the season and current cruise schedules.
Dover, United Kingdom
Dover serves as a departure port itself, with 59 sailings starting directly from this location.
Rotterdam, Netherlands
45 SailingsCruises from Rotterdam to Dover
Fort Lauderdale, United States
12 SailingsCruises from Fort Lauderdale to Dover
Sydney, Australia
4 SailingsCruises from Sydney to Dover
Auckland, New Zealand
2 SailingsCruises from Auckland to Dover
Cape Town, South Africa
2 SailingsCruises from Cape Town to Dover
Melbourne, Australia
2 SailingsCruises from Melbourne to Dover
Amsterdam, Netherlands
2 SailingsCruises from Amsterdam to Dover
Civitavecchia, Italy
2 SailingsCruises from Civitavecchia to Dover
Perth, Australia
1 SailingsCruises from Perth to Dover
Copenhagen, Denmark
1 SailingsCruises from Copenhagen to Dover
Lisbon, Portugal
1 SailingsCruises from Lisbon to Dover
Miami, United States
1 SailingsCruises from Miami to Dover
Adelaide, Australia
1 SailingsCruises from Adelaide to Dover
Cruise Lines that Sail to Dover
Discover which cruise lines include Dover in their itineraries.
The list below is based on current sailing schedules and provides an accurate overview of which cruise operators currently visit Dover.
Cruises sailing to Dover on Celebrity Cruises
Cruising with Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises combines modern luxury with exceptional service, offering a sophisticated cruising experience. Their ships explore a variety of fascinating destinations, and are consistently ranked among the best in the world.
At a Glance
| Cost | Medium |
| Style | Couples, Family, Educational |
What to Expect
A Celebrity Cruises vacation offers a sophisticated and luxurious experience, with a focus on fine dining, elegant accommodations, and personalised service. You can expect to indulge in world-class cuisine at a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to gourmet dining experiences. Relax and rejuvenate at the spa, unwind by the pool, or enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including live music, Broadway-style shows, and captivating lectures.
Celebrity Cruises also offers a range of premium enriching experiences, such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and art auctions. For those seeking adventure, their itineraries explore stunning destinations around the world, including the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and the South Pacific and offer opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.
Cruises sailing to Dover on Carnival Cruise Line
Cruising with Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is one of the world's most popular cruise brands, known for its fun, laid-back atmosphere and great value. Offering sailings to top destinations like the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska, Carnival is a favourite for families, couples, and first-time cruisers alike.
At a Glance
| Cost | Low/Medium |
| Style | Families, Couples, Groups |
What to Expect
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its lively, welcoming atmosphere and offers something for everyone - whether you're a family with kids, a couple seeking adventure, or a group of friends ready to celebrate. With a focus on fun and value, Carnival cruises are ideal for first-time cruisers and seasoned travellers alike, thanks to their relaxed vibe and inclusive pricing.
Onboard, Carnival ships are floating playgrounds packed with amenities. You'll find thrilling waterslides, splash parks, mini-golf, ropes courses, and adults-only retreats like Serenity for quiet downtime. Staterooms range from budget-friendly interiors to luxurious suites, all designed for comfort and convenience.
Entertainment is a major highlight, with Broadway-style theatre shows, comedy clubs, deck parties, live music, and themed nights. Dining is equally diverse, from included options like Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina to specialty restaurants for a small fee. Whether you want high-energy fun or laid-back relaxation, Carnival delivers a cruise experience full of memorable moments.
Cruises sailing to Dover on Princess Cruises
Cruising with Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers luxurious yet affordable voyages, making them perfect for both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers. Renowned for their relaxed atmosphere, exceptional service, and delicious cuisine, Princess Cruises provides a memorable experience for all.
At a Glance
| Cost | Medium |
| Style | Couples, Family |
What to Expect
Princess Cruises is a well established cruise line known for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and diverse range of itineraries. With a rich history dating back to 1965, Princess Cruises has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry.
The line offers a sophisticated and relaxing cruise experience, with a focus on fine dining, world-class entertainment, and personalised service. You can expect spacious accommodations, delicious cuisine, and daily afternoon tea! Onboard activities include live music, Broadway-style shows, captivating lectures, pool competitions, and movies under the stars. Relax in the spa, unwind by the pool, or stay active in the fitness center.
Families cruising with Princess will find plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Kids' menus at most sit-down restaurants offer familiar favourites like burgers, pasta, and ice cream sundaes. Younger children can participate in age-appropriate activities at the dedicated youth programs, while teenagers can enjoy the contemporary lounge with late-night movies, dance classes, video game tournaments, and sports competitions. Also, the Discovery at Sea program offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including kids' crafts and stargazing.
Cruises sailing to Dover on Holland America Line
Cruising with Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers premium cruises with a focus on elegant experiences, enriching destinations, and refined onboard amenities, ideal for couples and mature travelers.
At a Glance
| Cost | High |
| Style | Traditional, Educational, Couples |
What to Expect
A Holland America Line cruise offers a refined and traditional cruising experience, designed primarily for mature travelers, couples, and solo cruisers who appreciate comfort, culture, and classic service. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and elegant, appealing to guests who prefer sophisticated surroundings over flashy entertainment. While families with children are welcome, the cruise line's core audience tends to be adults aged 50 and over, many of whom are seasoned cruisers looking for a quieter, more immersive holiday.
Onboard a Holland America ship, guests can expect a wide range of enrichment-focused activities. From BBC Earth programming and cooking demonstrations at the Culinary Arts Center to classical music performances at the Lincoln Center Stage and engaging lectures about destinations, the emphasis is on learning and culture. Dining is a highlight, with multi-course meals in the main dining room, specialty restaurants like Pinnacle Grill and Tamarind, and regionally inspired menus that reflect the ship's itinerary. The décor is timeless, with art collections, spacious staterooms, and attentive service that adds to the premium experience.
Holland America cruises travel to all corners of the globe, with particularly strong offerings in Alaska, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and longer Grand World Voyages. Their mid-sized ships are large enough to offer a variety of amenities but small enough to access ports that larger vessels cannot reach. Whether exploring the glaciers of Alaska, the fjords of Norway, or the temples of Asia, guests enjoy immersive shore excursions curated to connect them deeply with each destination. A Holland America cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, culture, and discovery.
Cruises sailing to Dover on Norwegian Cruise Line
Cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for its 'Freestyle Cruising' concept, state-of-the-art ships, award-winning entertainment, and their gourmet dining options.
At a Glance
| Cost | Low/Medium |
| Style | Couples, Family, Party |
What to Expect
A Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) cruise offers a relaxed and flexible vacation experience. With its 'Freestyle Cruising' concept, you have the freedom to dine where and when you want, without assigned seating or formal dress codes. Indulge in a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to gourmet restaurants.
Enjoy a range of entertainment, from live music and comedy shows to Broadway-style productions. Stay active with fitness facilities, sports courts, and outdoor pools.
For families, Norwegian Cruise Lines massive ships offer thrilling attractions like multi-story water slides, ropes courses, and go-kart tracks. Adults can indulge in pampering spa treatments, sip cocktails poolside, or try their luck at the casino.
Tourist Attractions in Dover
Explore the best tourist attractions in Dover.
Cruise visitors will find plenty to enjoy in Dover. Here are the top attractions near the cruise port to help plan your visit.
The White Cliffs of Dover
The world-famous chalk cliffs provide breathtaking views of the English Channel and are a symbol of Britain. The National Trust manages footpaths along the clifftops for scenic walks.
Dover Castle
Perched high above the town, this medieval fortress has been guarding England for over nine centuries. Visitors can explore the Great Tower, the Secret Wartime Tunnels, and the Roman Lighthouse.
Dover Museum
The museum tells the story of Dover's history, from its prehistoric origins to the present day. It is home to the Dover Bronze Age Boat, the world's oldest known sea-going vessel.
Samphire Hoe
This nature reserve was created from the chalk marl spoil excavated during the construction of the Channel Tunnel. It is a haven for unique plants and wildlife and offers stunning views of the White Cliffs.
Shore Excursions in Dover
Enhance your visit to Dover with a range of shore excursions designed to suit every type of traveller.
To explore the full selection of tours and activities available, visit our partner Viator and find the perfect excursion for your time ashore in Dover.
Shore ExcursionsView shore excursions to Dover
