Portland UK Port of Call

Portland, United Kingdom is a fascinating port of call with a rich history, particularly its strategic role during both World Wars. Located on a limestone tied island in Dorset, it is at the heart of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is known for its dramatic coastline, stunning geological formations, and the famous Portland stone, used to build many of London's iconic buildings. As a cruise port, Portland serves as a gateway to not just its own unique island, but also to the charming Victorian seaside town of Weymouth and other famous sites like Stonehenge and the Roman city of Bath.

⛵ Port Introduction

Portland Port is a large commercial port with a deep-water berth that can accommodate several ships at once. It is not a port where you can simply walk off the ship and into town. For health and safety reasons, due to its status as an active commercial and military port, passengers are not permitted to walk freely within the port estate. Upon disembarking, you will be required to take a complimentary shuttle bus provided by the port. This short shuttle ride will take you to either the town of Weymouth or a designated shuttle stop on the Isle of Portland itself.

⚓ Terminal Information

Upon arrival at the port, you will be directed to the shuttle bus. There is a small cruise terminal building on the quayside. This is primarily a security checkpoint and not a full-service terminal. You'll go through a security check before you board the shuttle bus. The bus will then take you out of the secure port area to the designated drop-off points.

🚻 Terminal Facilities

The terminal building is a permanent structure, but its function is mainly for security and passenger processing. You will find basic facilities like restrooms. There is internet access available in the cruise terminal. Tour pickups are handled outside the terminal, and taxis can be called to meet passengers at the entrance to the berth.

🗣️ Language

The local language is English. You will have no problem at all navigating, communicating, and exploring the area.

💰 Money

The currency is the British Pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or for smaller local shops. ATMs are available in Weymouth, which is a short shuttle bus ride away.

🚗 Transportation

Since you cannot walk out of the port, your options for getting around start with the port's complimentary shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus runs continuously throughout the day and takes you to two key locations: the local town of Weymouth and a stop on the Isle of Portland itself.

· Shuttle Bus: The shuttle bus is your primary method of leaving the port. The bus ride to Weymouth is a quick 10-15 minute journey.

· Taxis: Taxis are not readily available at the port gate but can be pre-booked to meet you. You can take the shuttle to a designated area and get a taxi from there.

· Public Transportation: From Weymouth, you can take a local bus or train to explore other parts of the county of Dorset.

· Rental Cars: Car rentals are not an ideal option from the port due to the shuttle bus requirement.

♿ Accessibility

The accessibility of this port is a 2 out of 10. Due to the port's status as a commercial port, passengers are not allowed to walk freely. You must use the shuttle bus, which may present a challenge. While some of the areas in Weymouth are accessible, the historic nature of many of the towns and attractions can mean uneven surfaces, steep hills, and cobblestones that are difficult for people with limited mobility.

🚶‍♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port

The best way to get to the main town is by taking the free shuttle bus provided by the port. It will take you to Weymouth, a charming seaside town. The bus will drop you off in a convenient location, from which you can explore the town center and waterfront on foot. If you want to explore the Isle of Portland, the shuttle bus also makes a stop there, often at or near Portland Castle.

🚽 Toilet

Public toilets are generally available and clean in Weymouth, particularly along the seafront and in public parks. They are usually free to use.

💊 Drugstore

· Boots Pharmacy: 47-48 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8PA.

· Superdrug: 43 St Thomas St, Weymouth DT4 8EE.

✨ Authentic Experience

1. Explore the Historic Town of Weymouth: Instead of taking a long excursion to a distant location, spend your day in the charming town of Weymouth. Walk along the Georgian seafront, stroll through the old harbour with its fishing boats and pubs, and take in the traditional British seaside atmosphere. You can also visit the Nothe Fort, a historic military fort with stunning views of the harbour.

2. Dine on Fish and Chips at a Local "Chippy": A visit to a British seaside town would not be complete without trying the national dish. Seek out a local fish and chip shop for a truly authentic experience. The fish is often fresh from the local waters, battered, fried, and served with a side of thick-cut chips (fries).

3. Visit Portland Castle and the D-Day Center: From the shuttle bus stop on Portland, you can walk to Portland Castle, one of Henry VIII's coastal forts. It is one of the best-preserved of its kind. Afterwards, you can visit the Castletown D-Day Centre, a small but excellent museum that tells the story of Portland's crucial role as a launch site for the D-Day landings. It is a unique and poignant look into the area's history.