Port information & tips for Tilbury (London)
Tilbury serves as a historic gateway to the global metropolis of London, welcoming travelers with British charm right on the banks of the River Thames. The location combines maritime tradition with the anticipation of one of Europe's most exciting capitals and offers an impressive arrival thanks to the wide river landscape. Highlights within direct reach include the monumental Tilbury Fort, one of England's best-preserved fortifications, picturesque Gravesend on the opposite side of the river, and the historic World’s End Inn. Cruise ships dock at the traditional London Cruise Terminal. From here, passengers can easily reach Tilbury Town station via shuttle and arrive directly in the vibrant heart of London's city center by train in around 45 minutes.
Tilbury is located east of London and is an important cruise port that is easily accessible via various transport routes thanks to good connections. The Tilbury Cruise Terminal is clear and well signposted, so guests can expect a smooth embarkation.
Car
The Port of Tilbury is well connected to the British road network and can be reached directly from the A13 via the A1089. The A13 in turn connects with the M25 (London Orbital Motorway), which plays a central role for travel from all directions. Secure parking facilities are available at the Tilbury Cruise Terminal for the duration of your cruise. An advance reservation is strongly recommended to secure a parking space.
Train
The closest train station to the Tilbury Cruise Terminal is Tilbury Town. From here, the port is easily reached by taxi in about 5 minutes. Tilbury Town is located on the c2c line, which provides direct connections to London Fenchurch Street Station in central London. Travelers from the DACH region can reach London Fenchurch Street via other major London stations (e.g. St Pancras International for Eurostar arrivals) by Underground.
Airplane
London Southend Airport (SEN) is the closest airport to the Tilbury Cruise Terminal and is about 25 kilometers away. The travel time by taxi is around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, the larger London airports are an option: London City Airport (LCY) is approximately 35 kilometers away, and the transfer takes about 45 to 60 minutes by taxi. London Stansted Airport (STN) is also an option, located about 65 kilometers north of Tilbury, with a journey time of around one hour. Due to the travel required and potential flight delays, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in the London or Tilbury area is recommended for longer flights.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Please plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Tilbury is located east of London and is an important cruise port that is easily accessible via various transport routes thanks to good connections. The Tilbury Cruise Terminal is clear and well signposted, so guests can expect a smooth embarkation.
Car
The Port of Tilbury is well connected to the British road network and can be reached directly from the A13 via the A1089. The A13 in turn connects with the M25 (London Orbital Motorway), which plays a central role for travel from all directions. Secure parking facilities are available at the Tilbury Cruise Terminal for the duration of your cruise. An advance reservation is strongly recommended to secure a parking space.
Train
The closest train station to the Tilbury Cruise Terminal is Tilbury Town. From here, the port is easily reached by taxi in about 5 minutes. Tilbury Town is located on the c2c line, which provides direct connections to London Fenchurch Street Station in central London. Travelers from the DACH region can reach London Fenchurch Street via other major London stations (e.g. St Pancras International for Eurostar arrivals) by Underground.
Airplane
London Southend Airport (SEN) is the closest airport to the Tilbury Cruise Terminal and is about 25 kilometers away. The travel time by taxi is around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, the larger London airports are an option: London City Airport (LCY) is approximately 35 kilometers away, and the transfer takes about 45 to 60 minutes by taxi. London Stansted Airport (STN) is also an option, located about 65 kilometers north of Tilbury, with a journey time of around one hour. Due to the travel required and potential flight delays, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in the London or Tilbury area is recommended for longer flights.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Please plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The London Cruise Terminal in Tilbury is an excellently connected starting point for excursions into the British metropolis and the county of Essex. Travelers benefit from a well-organized infrastructure that enables rapid onward travel directly from the pier.
Train Connection (c2c)
From the nearby Tilbury Town station, you can travel comfortably and regularly on c2c trains directly to London Fenchurch Street station in the heart of the City. A shuttle bus usually connects the terminal directly to the station, making the transition to rail particularly easy.
Tilbury-Gravesend Ferry
The historic passenger ferry departs in the immediate vicinity of the cruise terminal and offers a charming crossing of the River Thames. This connection is ideal for a short trip to Gravesend while providing a wide view of the maritime activity on the river.
Taxi and Transfers
Official taxis as well as pre-booked transfer services are available on the marked areas in front of the terminal building. Traveling to the center of London or to regional train stations is straightforward this way and, thanks to the direct connection to the road network, particularly time-efficient.
To make the most of your stay in Tilbury, we recommend a mix of the historic fortress directly at the harbor and the quick accessibility of the vibrant global metropolis of London.
Tilbury Fort
This impressive 17th-century fortress is located in the immediate vicinity of the pier and impresses visitors with its well-preserved defensive architecture and a wide view over the Thames.
Southend-on-Sea
This charming seaside resort is a perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea thanks to the short train journey and is home to the world's longest pleasure pier.
London Tower Hill & South Bank
Thanks to the comfortable train connection, you can reach the heart of the capital in a short time, where the iconic Tower Bridge and the lively South Bank district invite you to take an inspiring walk along the Thames.
Maritime Greenwich
Beautiful Greenwich is very easy to reach from Tilbury and, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a first-class experience with world-famous attractions such as the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. Thanks to its extensive parklands and historic architecture, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere here, far away from the hustle and bustle of central London. The charming Greenwich Market also invites you to take a delightful break with its cafes and stalls, while the Prime Meridian provides a unique photo spot with a view of the skyline. Ideally, start your excursion in the early morning to visit the highlights at your own pace, and plan your return journey to the port for the early afternoon.
The return journey to the London Cruise Terminal in Tilbury can be planned easily and safely thanks to clear signage and the good frequency of transport options.
Train and Shuttle Bus
Trains from London Fenchurch Street take you directly to Tilbury Town station, from where a short transfer by shuttle bus or local bus line leads to the terminal. This route is very popular with travelers, and thanks to regular departures, you will always reach your ship on time and comfortably.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available for the short drive to the port at Tilbury Town station as well as at central points in the surrounding area. The drivers know the London Cruise Terminal well and will take you directly to the port's security area in a straightforward manner and without detours.
Tilbury-Gravesend Ferry
Guests spending the day south of the Thames can use the ferry from Gravesend and arrive directly at the Landing Stage next to the cruise terminal. This connection saves a lot of time and also allows for a relaxed short walk across the landing pier directly back on board.
