5 January 2026
Portsmouth International Port is set to reinforce its position as the UK’s leading port for boutique cruising. Announcing its 2026 cruise schedule, the local-authority owned port will welcome back calls from long-standing partners, SAGA, Virgin Voyages and Viking, while also hosting a number of new lines.
The 2026 cruise calendar will start on Sunday 4 January with Fred Olsen’s Borealis, and see over 70 calls operate from the port throughout the year.
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “The port’s cruise schedule is always a highly anticipated announcement, and this year is no different. Each cruise call has the ability generate up to £1.5million for the city’s economy through passenger spend and berthing charges, with profits going directly back into funding council services.
“The port works closely with local businesses and partners to boost local tourism and plays an important role in the local area. 2026 will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a community open day, alongside the city’s centenary celebrations.
“Portsmouth is a city built on maritime history, and we are looking forward to welcoming the international cruise industry and their passengers back for another busy year.”
In a significant milestone for the port, Ambassador Cruise Line will base its ship Ambition in Portsmouth for three turnaround departures in April, marking the UK brand’s first season operating from the city. Portsmouth has become the home port to many major brands in recent years, including Virgin Voyages who will be returning to operate from the port in August, launching their ‘Solar Eclipse’ and comedy cruises from the city. After welcoming their newest ship the Brilliant Lady in 2025, Portsmouth became the first port in the world to welcome the complete Virgin Voyages fleet.
The port also regularly features as a port of call for German brands AIDA and Phoenix Reisen in itineraries throughout the year.
Andrew Williamson, head of cruise and ferry at Portsmouth International Port said: “We have built significant relationships with our valued cruise partners in recent years, and this has been reflected in our 2026 schedule. We have six inaugural calls on the horizon, all from brands who have previously called at the port, which is a direct result of the investment we have put in deliver the best experience for our passengers.
2026 will also see us add shore power to our cruise offering, giving operators the opportunity to plug into the grid and switch off their engines while in port.”
Portsmouth has built a reputation for small-mid sized luxury cruising, with each cruise line benefitting from a dedicated cruise terminal and personal service. Departures through the scenic harbour are made extra special with sail away performances from the local Rock Choir and Royal Marines band, and guests are welcomed by cruise ambassadors made up of local volunteers who help guests plan their day in the city.
The launch follows an award winning 2025 for Portsmouth, crowned Best Port by the Wave Awards for the third year in a row and voted the UK’s best port of call at the Cruise Critics Choice Awards.
The 2026 cruise schedule can be found here: Cruise schedule – Portsmouth Port