The Port of Tyne in North Shields offers cruise passengers a warm welcome and unrivalled access to North East England’s rich heritage, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Just eight miles from Newcastle’s dynamic city centre, the Port is a gateway to world-famous attractions—from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hadrian’s Wall and Durham Cathedral to iconic castles like Alnwick, featured in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
Visitors can enjoy the region’s stunning coastline, award-winning beaches, and scenic countryside, including the dramatic Cheviot Hills and historic sites like Cragside House. Newcastle itself offers a thriving cultural scene, with architectural landmarks, galleries like BALTIC, live music at Sage Gateshead, and buzzing markets and restaurants.
A new railway line, introduced last year, now connects Newcastle with rural Northumberland towns—opening up even more of the region’s hidden gems to cruise guests without the need for private transport. From the dramatic landscapes of the Cheviot Hills to charming coastal villages like Alnmouth and Warkworth, the entire region is easily accessible from the Port.
With a well-equipped cruise terminal, easy access to top attractions, and a dedicated team delivering a smooth guest experience, the Port of Tyne is an ideal stop for Northern European, Baltic, or UK coastal itineraries. It’s where heritage meets hospitality—and every visit begins with a sense of discovery.
Top Five Facts About Port of Tyne
1. Voted Top Performing Port by Cruise Guests
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines passengers voted the Port of Tyne Terminal of Choice in 2023, recognising its smooth operations and welcoming experience.
2. Gateway to 40% of the UK’s Tea Imports
The Port of Tyne imports 40% of the UK’s tea, playing a vital role in delivering the nation’s daily cuppa.
3. England’s Friendliest Region
The North East was ranked the friendliest region in England in a UK Government survey – cruise visitors are guaranteed a warm Northern welcome.
4. Award-Winning for Safety & Excellence
The Port has earned 10 consecutive RoSPA Gold Awards and the prestigious RoSPA President’s Award, reflecting its world-class safety standards.
5. Home to the UK’s Only 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub
The Port leads in green tech and logistics innovation through its pioneering 2050 Innovation Hub, a first-of-its-kind collaboration shaping the future of maritime.
GMT
Cruise Ships – 24hr operation; there are No Restrictions for cruise ships
North Side; River Tyne (Chart BA 1934) 54° 59.6’N 001°26.8’W Distance to Sea 2.2 miles
Spring tide range 4.3m, neap 2.1m
Current at mid tide generally 1-1.5knots
Length 335 metres, Depth 9.0 metres, Quay Height 6.7 m (at Chart Datum)
Vessels over 350m have been handled previously but the practical limit is the 360m diameter turning at Jarrow which allows vessels up to 300m to be swung by tug.
No restrictions
No restrictions
Minumum of 9m up to 13.5m (depending on tides)
9m
MSC Magnifica
24hrs per day / 365 days per year
Up to 300m
Compulsory
3 tugs (70,42, 43 tonnes pull)
Additonal tugs can be arranged with reasonable notice
Fully compliant with ISPS regulations.
20m, 14.5m and 12m gangways are available
Water meters are located along the berth face
No
Must be arranged directly with relevant local supplier in advance
Repairs from light engineering up to dry-docking for 250m plus vessels
1 x 12m3 skip included in standard call charges and sewage collection
The passenger lounge provides seating for 800 with 9 cruise and 6 ferry check-in desks and has capacity for 2,000 passengers in a turnaround call.
Washrooms, coffee facilities, vending machines, and tourist information can be found in the International Passenger Terminal.
Numerous outlets are located in the city centre which is just 20mins away by metro
Free Wifi is available in the International Passenger Terminal.
There is a public telephone box directly inside the Passenger Terminal
A taxi rank is located directly outside the International Passenger Terminal. Private hire taxis can also be booked.
The Terminal is approx 9 miles (14 ½ km) east of Newcastle. Percy Main is the closest Metro station (20 minutes walk), although it is better to take the bus if travelling with luggage . The 19 bus timetable and route map can be viewed here.
Newcastle International Airport offers flights to and from regional airports around the UK and is around 14 miles/15mins by car.
A Travelex cash machine is available inside the passenger lounge.
There is a café located inside the terminal.
Suzanne Hayes, Contracts Manager
+44 191 440 7376
Port of Tyne Authority
Coble Dene, Albert Edward Dock, North Shields NE29 6EE
