Changes to Princess Cruises Itineraries: Ports Dropped and Shifted

Cruise passengers eagerly anticipating the Regal Princess’s August 1, 2025 voyage from Southampton to the British Isles were recently informed of significant changes to their itinerary. Despite the original trip plan still being a roundtrip from Southampton, two highly sought-after ports have been replaced, while others have been adjusted.

Passengers will still depart from Southampton, UK at 4 p.m. on August 1. However, instead of stopping in Edinburgh on August 3, the ship will now head north to the Orkney Islands, approximately 200 miles away. While the Orkney Islands are scenic, they do not carry the historic appeal of Scotland’s capital.

The next port visit to Invergordon on August 4 remains unchanged, as does the scheduled call to Glasgow on August 6. However, between these two locations, a new port of call has been added at Stornoway on August 5. The port stop in Belfast on August 7 remains in place, but the previously planned visit to Dublin on August 8 has been replaced by an additional day at sea.

The remaining itinerary, which includes stops in Cork on August 9, another day at sea, a visit to Portland on August 11, and Paris/Normandy on August 12, is unchanged, returning to Southampton on August 13.

The causes of these alterations revolve around “cruise ship congestion.” Both Edinburgh and Dublin are popular destinations that require tendering, meaning smaller boats are utilized to shuttle passengers ashore. This congestion limits docking capabilities, compounded further by local marine traffic such as ferries.

Interestingly, the Regal Princess is the only ship scheduled to dock in Edinburgh on August 3 but is one of three vessels set to call on Dublin on August 8. Additionally, local events like the 2025 Ferry Fair Festival in Queensferry—scheduled for the same week—can exacerbate these logistical challenges, drawing thousands to the area and heightening port activity.

It is not uncommon for cruise lines to make itinerary adjustments well in advance of sailings. Such changes can be frustrating for travelers, but most cruise lines hold the right to modify scheduled ports of call, as outlined in Princess Cruises’ Passage Contract. The contract explicitly states that carrier may, for any reason, change the itinerary without prior notice.

In light of these developments, potential cruisers might consider planning a land-based visit for specific ports of interest to avoid disappointment.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.