Guide to All-Inclusive 4 Day Southampton To Scilly Isles Cruise Packages
A short voyage from Southampton to the Scilly Isles offers travellers a chance to explore one of the UK's most scenic coastal destinations. These four-day packages typically include accommodation, meals, and onboard activities, providing a convenient way to experience island life without the hassle of separate bookings. Whether you're drawn to the rugged coastlines, historic sites, or tranquil beaches, this type of package simplifies planning while delivering a memorable maritime experience.
Four day all inclusive style cruises between Southampton and the Isles of Scilly offer a compact way to experience coastal scenery, island life, and life at sea without using up a full week of annual leave. Because the term all inclusive can vary between cruise lines, understanding what is usually covered, how a typical itinerary works, and how prices are structured is important before you commit to a booking.
Guide to all inclusive 4 day cruise packages
A 4 day Southampton to Scilly Isles cruise is generally built around one or two days at sea and at least one day anchored off the islands. Your fare normally includes accommodation in a chosen cabin grade, most meals in the main restaurants or buffet, snacks, and a programme of entertainment such as live music, shows, quizzes, and talks. Taxes and port fees are normally wrapped into the advertised price.
These short sailings appeal to travellers who want a taster of cruising or a relaxed long weekend without organising separate hotels and ferries. The journey from Southampton down the south coast towards Cornwall and across to the Isles of Scilly can be scenic, and a compact timetable allows you to enjoy time both on board and ashore, while returning to the same cabin each night.
What does all inclusive mean for these packages
For these packages, all inclusive usually refers to a bundle of core items rather than literally every possible expense. Inclusions often cover full board dining, self service tea and coffee, some soft drinks in restaurants, and entertainment venues around the ship. Access to pools, gyms, lounges, and outdoor decks is normal, and some lines include crew gratuities in the fare.
There are, however, common exclusions. Alcoholic drinks beyond a basic offering, speciality coffee bars, and premium dining venues often carry an extra charge unless you buy an additional drinks or dining package. Shore excursions on the Isles of Scilly, spa treatments, and some fitness classes are also usually priced separately. Wi fi might be included in a higher fare type, sold as a package, or billed by usage. Checking the detailed list of inclusions for each cruise helps you see which elements truly feel all inclusive for your own habits.
The itinerary exploring the Scilly Isles
A typical 4 day itinerary starts in Southampton around lunchtime on day one. After check in and the safety drill, the ship sails along the English Channel, giving time to explore decks, settle into your cabin, and enjoy the first evening meal and entertainment. Overnight, the ship continues towards the south west tip of England and out towards the Isles of Scilly.
Day two often features a call at St Marys, the main island. Larger ships usually anchor offshore and use tender boats to transfer guests ashore. Time on land might be spent wandering through Hugh Town, visiting local galleries and beaches, or joining organised tours. Popular options include boat trips to neighbouring islands such as Tresco, with its famous Abbey Garden, or wildlife cruises that focus on seabirds and, in some seasons, seals. Day three might be a relaxing sea day or include an additional port on the south coast, before the ship sails back to Southampton for an early morning arrival on day four.
Why choose an all inclusive package
Travellers often choose an all inclusive package for the predictability it brings. Paying one main fare in advance means accommodation, the majority of food, and entertainment are handled in a single transaction, which can make it easier to budget. Families and groups in particular may appreciate not having to calculate the cost of every meal or show while on board.
Convenience is another factor. Instead of organising separate ferry crossings, island accommodation, and local trips, a cruise consolidates these elements into one itinerary. You unpack once in your cabin and wake up close to the Isles of Scilly without having to navigate road connections or overnight stays on the mainland. For some travellers, the social life on board, including shared activities and evening events, is as important as the time spent ashore.
Pricing and provider comparisons
Pricing for all inclusive 4 day style cruise packages that include the Isles of Scilly from Southampton depends on season, cabin type, and how generous the inclusions are. Inside cabins on short UK coastal itineraries outside school holidays can start from a few hundred pounds per person based on two sharing, while balcony cabins or suites, and sailings during peak dates, are usually higher. To understand the market, it helps to look at real examples from cruise lines that either sail from Southampton or feature the Isles of Scilly within broader British or coastal programmes.
| Product or Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Short UK coastal cruise including Isles of Scilly, 4 to 5 nights, inside cabin, off peak | P and O Cruises | Around £450 to £700 per person |
| Isles of Scilly and Channel Islands voyage, 5 nights, standard outside cabin | Fred Olsen Cruise Lines | Typically £600 to £950 per person |
| British Isles sailing calling at St Marys, 6 nights, balcony cabin with more inclusions | Saga Cruises | Often £900 to £1,500 per person |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Comparing options in your area
When comparing offers for a Southampton to Scilly Isles cruise, looking beyond the headline fare can be helpful. Ship size influences crowding on board and when tendering ashore, as well as the style of entertainment and facilities. Smaller ships may offer a quieter, more traditional feel, while larger vessels often have more dining venues, bars, and activity options. Reading recent reviews can give insight into how each line handles weather related changes, which can affect calls at the Isles of Scilly if tender conditions are unsafe.
It is also worth checking how long the ship plans to remain at anchor off St Marys and what is available if poor weather prevents landing. Some itineraries may substitute another port along the south coast, while others adjust the schedule at short notice. Understanding these policies in advance, together with how flexible your own plans are, will help you decide which combination of price, inclusions, and itinerary feels most suitable.
Making an informed choice
Choosing an all inclusive 4 day Southampton to Scilly Isles cruise package involves balancing budget, expectations about what should be included, and your preferred style of holiday. By clarifying which meals, drinks, and services are wrapped into the fare, examining the proposed itinerary for time at sea and ashore, and comparing real world providers and price ranges, you can approach brochures and online listings with a clearer sense of what you are likely to receive for your money. This preparation supports a smoother decision and a more relaxed experience once you are on board and heading towards the islands.
