If the idea of dragging your luggage through Heathrow again makes your soul shrivel, we’ve got good news: you can set sail for the fjords, the Med, or even the Arctic—right from Tilbury. That’s right. A real cruise. Real cocktails. Real ocean. And zero jet lag.
All-inclusive cruises from Tilbury are the ultimate travel cheat code. They’re easy, surprisingly affordable, and packed with perks most people think you can only get on a far-flung flight.
Let’s break down why Tilbury is London’s most underrated getaway launchpad—and why now is the time to swap boarding passes for boarding decks.
But Wait, Where’s Tilbury?
Tilbury Cruise Terminal sits on the north bank of the Thames in Essex, less than 25 miles from central London. That’s an hour from the city, tops. You can train in from London Fenchurch Street or drive and park at the terminal.
The point? It’s easy. You leave your flat or house in the morning, and by mid-afternoon, you’re sipping prosecco as the ship pulls away from the docks with the London skyline behind you. No airport frisking, no customs queues, no cramped seats with stale air.
Why People Are Choosing Tilbury Over Heathrow
Because Tilbury is more chill. Cruises departing here feel different—less chaotic, more relaxed. You arrive, board, and start enjoying the holiday before most people have even cleared airport security.
Plus, Tilbury has direct sailings to places you’d expect to need a flight for, like:
- The Canary Islands
- Norway and the Fjords
- France, Spain, and Portugal
- The Netherlands and Belgium
- The Arctic Circle or Iceland (if you’re feeling bold)
You can also find British Isles cruises that circle the UK, and even Christmas market cruises through Northern Europe.
What “All-Inclusive” Really Means (And Why It’s Worth It)
Sure, you could book a cruise and nickel-and-dime every add-on. Or you can book all-inclusive and have almost everything sorted before you even pack your bags.
Many Tilbury cruises now come with:
- Full-board meals at multiple restaurants
- Free-flowing drinks packages (wine, beer, cocktails—yes please)
- Entertainment: shows, live music, comedy nights
- Gratuities and port taxes
- Optional extras like Wi-Fi or excursion credits
Cruise lines like Ambassador Cruise Line and Fred. Olsen operate from Tilbury and are famous for throwing in perks, especially during Wave Season (Jan–Mar) and late summer promos.
What Will It Cost Me?
Let’s be real—you want the champagne lifestyle, not the champagne price tag. Here’s what you’re looking at:
Want to splurge? Upgrade to a balcony cabin and feel like royalty. Want to save? Inside cabins still come with all the fun—just bring your sense of adventure.
Current deals are live at:
What Kind of Traveler Loves Tilbury Cruises?
Easy. If you:
- Hate flying
- Love a cocktail with a sea view
- Prefer relaxing over repacking
- Want to explore Europe (or beyond) without a passport stamp
- Think your vacation should start the second you leave your driveway
…then this is for you.
It’s especially popular with Londoners, Essex locals, East of England travelers, and smart holidaymakers who want more time at sea and less time at gate B17.
Final Word: Don’t Sleep on Tilbury
All-inclusive cruises from Tilbury are the glow-up your travel life didn’t know it needed. You can explore new countries, enjoy bottomless brunches at sea, catch a show, and fall asleep to ocean waves—all without once dealing with airport chaos.
Pack light. Book early. And bring your appetite—because Tilbury isn’t just a port. It’s a shortcut to a better vacation.