Cruise port Leith (Edinburgh)
Port information & tips for Leith (Edinburgh)
Leith is the maritime gateway to the Scottish capital Edinburgh and welcomes visitors with a fascinating blend of historical heritage and modern lifestyle. The former port district captivates with its charming atmosphere at "The Shore", where first-class restaurants and cozy cafes invite you to linger while a maritime breeze blows. Right on site, guests can visit the legendary Royal Yacht Britannia or go shopping in the versatile Ocean Terminal. Cruise ships dock at the Leith Cruise Terminal directly at the Ocean Terminal, from where Edinburgh's historic Old Town can be reached comfortably and quickly in just about 15 minutes thanks to the new tram connection or by bus.
Leith, Edinburgh's cruise port, is excellently accessible thanks to its location only about five kilometers from the city center. Cruise ships dock directly at the modern terminal, which blends harmoniously into the surroundings of the Ocean Terminal shopping center and the famous Royal Yacht Britannia.
Airplane
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the nearest international airport and is located approximately 16 to 18 kilometers from the Port of Leith. For a comfortable onward journey, a direct tram connection from the airport to Ocean Terminal is available, which takes about 47 to 54 minutes. Alternatively, taxis or private transfers will take you to the terminal in about 22 to 35 minutes. For long-haul flights, we recommend arriving the day before to start your cruise relaxed.
Train
The central Edinburgh Waverley station is excellently connected to the national rail network and is only about 15 minutes away from the Leith Cruise Terminal. From the station, you can easily reach the terminal by taxi in about 7 to 10 minutes. Another comfortable option is the tram from St Andrew Square (near the station) directly to Ocean Terminal, which reaches you in about 19 to 24 minutes. Numerous bus lines (e.g., lines 10, 16, 22, 34, 35, 36) also run from the city center to Leith.
Car
The Port of Leith is optimally integrated into the Scottish road network, with direct connections to important routes such as the A1, the Edinburgh Bypass, and the M8 (towards Glasgow) and M9 (towards Stirling) motorways. Simply follow the brown tourist signs for "Britannia" and "Leith Attractions," which lead you directly to the port area. Parking is available for travelers directly at the cruise terminal. For long-term parkers, it is recommended to inquire about options directly with the port operator Forth Ports or the respective cruise line and to book parking spaces in advance.
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. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
