Cunard’s Iconic Queen Victoria Returns to Southampton: 2025–26 Winter Cruises Set to Explore Northern Europe, Canary Islands and Caribbean

Published on December 6, 2025

The legendary Queen Victoria, Cunard’s mid-size luxury cruise ship, is making her return to Southampton for the 2025–26 winter season. This iconic vessel, which has long been synonymous with sophistication, will set sail on a range of exciting cruises that promise something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an extended voyage across the Atlantic, Queen Victoria’s diverse itineraries offer a range of options that cater to all tastes.

Exciting Winter Itineraries from Southampton

For the first time in over a year, Southampton will once again be the departure point for Cunard’s Queen Victoria. Starting late 2025, she will embark on a series of winter cruises ranging from short 7-night escapes to grand 35-night transatlantic voyages. These sailings will explore a variety of sought-after destinations across Northern Europe, the Canary Islands, and the Caribbean, offering both brief and extended escapes.

• Northern Europe Adventures: For those seeking a quick winter break, Queen Victoria will offer 7-night cruises to popular European destinations, including Zeebrugge, Amsterdam, and Cherbourg. These shorter sailings are perfect for travellers looking to experience the magic of European Christmas markets and festive city breaks.
• Canary Islands & Spain: A 12-night sailing to the sunny Canary Islands and Spain will also be available, perfect for those hoping to bask in some winter sunshine. Ports of call include Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Lisbon, offering a blend of tropical escape and rich cultural experiences.
• Extended Caribbean Escapes: For the ultimate winter retreat, Queen Victoria will also embark on 35-night cruises to the Caribbean. These long-haul journeys will take passengers to tropical paradises such as Barbados, Antigua, and St. Kitts, perfect for those looking to escape the cold and soak up the warmth of the Caribbean.

A Mediterranean Summer Awaits in 2026

As the 2025–26 winter season wraps up in April 2026, Queen Victoria will make her way back to the Mediterranean for a summer of adventure. Her 2026 itineraries will offer a mix of 7- to 21-night sailings from Spain, Italy, and Turkey, taking travellers to some of the most iconic ports in Europe.

• Italian Charm & Greek Splendour: Summer cruises will visit enchanting destinations like Naples, La Spezia, Corfu, and Villefranche, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline and opportunities to explore ancient ruins, picturesque towns, and vibrant cultures.
• The Mediterranean in Style: Guests can enjoy the elegance of Queen Victoria while sipping wine on deck and watching the sunset over the stunning landscapes of Malta, Greece, and the Adriatic Sea.

Why Choose Queen Victoria’s 2025–26 Winter Cruises?

The Queen Victoria continues to be one of Cunard’s most beloved ships, combining luxury and comfort with memorable travel experiences. With a variety of destinations and sailing lengths, this ship is an ideal choice for those looking to experience elegance at sea while exploring the world’s most iconic destinations.

• Luxury and Comfort: Queen Victoria’s spacious interiors, elegant design, and top-notch service ensure that every guest enjoys an unforgettable cruise experience.
• A Voyage for Every Type of Traveller: Whether you’re after a short weekend getaway or a multi-week cruise, Queen Victoria’s wide range of itineraries offers flexibility and adventure.

Southampton: A Gateway to Incredible European & Caribbean Getaways

Southampton, already one of the UK’s busiest and most popular cruise hubs, will once again serve as the launchpad for these exciting cruises. With its easy access to London and a range of travel connections, Southampton is the perfect port for those looking to set sail on an unforgettable adventure.

• Convenient Departure Point: With direct connections to London, Southampton offers an ideal departure port for UK cruisers. Whether you’re coming from the Midlands, the South East, or beyond, it’s a smooth journey to the port for your next adventure.
• Port of Choice for Cruise Enthusiasts: Southampton’s port facilities and vibrant cruise scene make it one of the best ports to embark on an exciting journey.

Queen Victoria’s Impact on the Cruise Industry

The return of Queen Victoria to Southampton is not only a win for Cunard and Southampton but also a significant moment for the UK cruise industry. As more travellers seek quality experiences, Cunard continues to lead the way in offering premium, luxury voyages. Queen Victoria’s versatile itineraries—ranging from Northern Europe escapes to Caribbean holidays—ensure that she remains a staple in the cruise industry’s winter offerings.

For travellers, this means more options for a premium cruise experience that blends comfort, luxury, and adventure. Whether you’re cruising to Scandinavia, basking in the sun on the Canary Islands, or exploring the colourful Caribbean, Queen Victoria offers a first-class experience that’s hard to beat.

Book Your Winter Escape Aboard Queen Victoria

With such an exciting slate of 2025–26 winter cruises, booking early ensures you can secure your spot on one of the most sought-after ships in Cunard’s fleet. Whether you’re dreaming of a Northern Europe Christmas cruise, longing for the sunshine of the Canary Islands, or yearning for an epic Caribbean voyage, Queen Victoria has the perfect journey for you.

Don’t miss out on the chance to cruise in style aboard one of Cunard’s flagship vessels. Queen Victoria is ready to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.