
There’s something quietly magical about starting a cruise from Dundee. Maybe it’s the way the River Tay stretches wide at the harbor, or the way the rising sun hits the V&A Museum as passengers begin to arrive. For those in northeast Scotland, Dundee offers a rare and underrated gift: the chance to embark on all-inclusive cruises without the expense, stress, or noise of flying south.
It may not be the biggest port in the UK. It doesn’t need to be.
Why This Small Port Punches Above Its Weight
The Port of Dundee, snug against the city’s revitalized waterfront, serves as a launch point for seasonal sailings that are anything but ordinary. From spring to early autumn, ships depart toward the Norwegian fjords, Iceland’s lava-sculpted coastlines, and the quiet wilds of the Scottish Isles.
Unlike bigger terminals, Dundee’s cruise traffic is limited—and that’s part of its charm. Smaller ships dock here. The passenger count is manageable. Embarkation often feels more like boarding a boutique hotel than a floating city. And for travelers coming from Fife, Perth, Aberdeen, or even Edinburgh, the drive is direct and short.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is the primary operator at the terminal, occasionally joined by Ambassador or specialty expedition lines. Most cruises are 10–14 nights and skew scenic over sun-soaked.
The Modern Meaning of “All-Inclusive”
Forget the buffet clichés. On most Dundee sailings, “all-inclusive” can now mean access to multiple restaurants, evening shows, wellness facilities, and often—if booked during the right promotion—drinks packages and gratuities baked into the fare. Onboard you’ll find:
- Open-seating dining (often with ocean views)
- Live music and onboard lecturers (especially on Norway and Iceland itineraries)
- Fitness centers, observation decks, and libraries
- Cabins that prioritize function, not flash—and often, unbeatable views
Don’t expect water slides or nightclub raves. These are cruises for those who enjoy slow mornings, silent fjords, and a well-made cup of tea at sea.
What It Might Cost You
The numbers aren’t shocking, and for many, they beat the cost of flying to a southern UK port once you factor in travel and lodging.
A 10-night sailing to the fjords might start around £1,349 per person for an inside cabin. Iceland-focused itineraries tend to run a little higher—closer to £1,599—but often include bundled excursions or Wi-Fi. For budget-conscious travelers, occasional 6–7 night UK sailings drop closer to £849 if booked early.
Availability is the real constraint here: with smaller ships and fewer sailings, cabin categories disappear fast.
Current options can be found at Fred. Olsen Cruises from Dundee.
Travel from Your Doorstep
There’s a comfort in knowing you can start your holiday after just an hour’s drive or a single train ride. No queues at border control. No layovers. Just one port, one boarding pass, and a new chapter opening up on the open sea.
A couple from Broughty Ferry put it best while disembarking last July: