Cruising out of Southampton is is rough?

[cruiseruth49]

Hi, what is it really like sailing out of Southampton towards France/Spain in August for rough seas?

 

Thanks

[John Bull]

Hi Ruth,

 

The English Channel & especially the Bay of Biscay are a bit of a lottery, but generally well-behaved in August.

Winter is more of a risk, especially Nov & Feb.

But you never can tell.

 

We have sailed in the summer without problems, but avoid cruises out of the UK in winter.

Likewise to cross to France we use the Channel tunnel in winter but prefer the more pleasant ferry crossings in summer.

 

If it does play dirty, a large cruise ship is still pretty stable - you'll notice the movement but won't be tossed around like a ferry. ;)

 

Southampton Water is extremely well-sheltered - very occasionally ships arrive late due to bad weather, but berthing is never a problem.

 

JB :)

Edited August 17, 2016 by John Bull

[cruiseruth49]

Thank you.