Ibis Budget Southampton – Review

If you’re cruising from Southampton and want an affordable, no-frills hotel within walking distance of the terminals, the Ibis Budget Southampton is one of the most convenient options available. I recently stayed here before a cruise and wanted to share my experience.

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Location: Perfect for Southampton Cruise Departures

Location is where this hotel really shines.The Ibis Budget Southampton is around a 10-minute walk to Horizon Cruise Terminal and approximately 10–15 minutes on foot to City Cruise Terminal. It’s also close to Ocean and Mayflower terminals as well (about a 10 minute taxi ride).

However, if you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean (Horizon Terminal), MSC Cruises, or Fred. Olsen, this is an super handy base the night before embarkation. Knowing you can simply walk to the terminal the next morning rather than organising a taxi makes embarkation day much less stressful. For a pre-cruise stay, convenience is key, and this hotel absolutely delivers on that.

First Impressions & Room Overview

I stayed on the third floor at the end of the corridor, facing the road. As expected from a budget hotel, the room is compact but practical. If you’re arriving with multiple large suitcases (especially after an international flight into Heathrow), it may feel a little tight. That said, for a one-night pre-cruise stay, it works perfectly well.
The room was clean, comfortable and surprisingly not stuffy despite the warm weather when I stayed.

Within the room are a few plug sockets (though not loads), a small desk area, and an open wardrobe with limited hangers. Storage space under the sink and beneath the bed is helpful for tucking luggage out of the way and fresh towels are provided.

Bathroom Layout (A Little Quirky)

One thing to note: the layout is slightly unusual. The sink and shower are integrated into the main bedroom area (The toilet is in a separate small cubicle near the entrance) so you need to be staying with someone who is very comfortable seeing you get in and out of the shower and vice versa.

The shower cubicle is compact and the door is quite narrow, so it requires a bit of manoeuvring. However, it’s functional and perfectly adequate for a short stay. Complimentary toiletries are included, and there’s a shaver point nearby. Granted, it’s not luxurious, but it’s clean and does the job which is exactly what you need before a cruise if you’re on a budget.

Temperature, Noise & Comfort

It’s worth knowing that the climate control system is not full air conditioning. It operates on a basic heating and cooling unit and maintains a steady temperature of around 20–21°C. Even if the controls suggest you can go lower, you can’t.

The windows do open for ventilation, but because the hotel sits beside a busy road, you’ll notice some traffic noise if you leave them open. In colder months, a small oil-filled radiator is available.

The TV is small but includes standard terrestrial channels fine for a short visit. There’s no in-room phone, so if you need assistance you’ll need to use your mobile or head to the 24-hour reception.

Parking & Park and Stay Cruise Packages

On-site parking is available at the Ibis Budget, although it can fill up quickly in the evening and is on a first come first served basis – so if you’re arriving late expect a little bit of a hunt for a spot or try to arrive earlier.

The hotel also offers a park and stay cruise package, which can be added to your booking. This is particularly useful if you’re driving to Southampton. For cruisers comparing Southampton hotels with cruise parking, this is often one of the more budget-friendly options. But as it offers these packages (like the nearby Novotel and the Ibis which are on the same complex) you can see how to car park can be constantly full. Although it might clear up mid morning on the day of your cruise as returning passengers collect their cars after disembarking.

Breakfast & Dining Options

Breakfast is included in the room rate, though it is fairly basic. The staple offer is pastries, cereals and other continental option. There was a juice machine (although it wasn’t working properly during my stay). Tea and coffee from the machine require an additional payment.

Some items were left uncovered when I visited, so I chose to skip most of the breakfast offering. The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives nearby. McDonald’s next door and TGI Fridays just steps away. There are also numerous restaurants, cafés and shops within walking distance in central Southampton. So if
If breakfast quality is important to you, you may prefer heading out locally instead.

Who Is This Hotel Best For?

In my opinion, the Ibis Budget Southampton is ideal if want to walk to Southampton cruise terminals. It’s also easy walking distance from the rail and coach station so perfect of you’re not driving. It’s a great cheap pre-cruise hotel that allows you to save bit of money so you have extra budget for on board spend. If location over luxury is a priority for you – then this fits the bill. The ibis budget hotel in Southampton is not a hotel you book for a romantic getaway or extended city break – but if you’re after a simple, affordable, convenient overnight stay before embarkation, it works very well.

My Final Verdict: Is Ibis Budget Southampton Worth It?

The Ibis Budget Southampton is exactly what it claims to be, simple, affordable and extremely convenient. So if your priority is staying close to the cruise terminals without spending a fortune, it’s a practical choice. For a one-night pre-cruise stay, I would happily use it again.

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