Explore the world’s most famous ships at this go-to destination for exploring iconic naval history.
During this 1-day tour, you’ll get to step aboard the HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s ship at the Battle of Trafalgar, and experience a walk-through tour with a detailed guide. This day tour is perfect for anyone fascinated by naval history or eager to explore centuries-old ships
Itinerary
Meet in Portsmouth
Begin your adventure at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, or, for added convenience, start your journey with an optional Southampton pick-up.
Explore Iconic Naval Attractions
Step into history by exploring some of Britain’s most legendary ships, each located within easy walking distance of the others.
Mary Rose: Discover the fascinating story of King Henry VIII’s flagship, meticulously preserved after centuries beneath the sea.
HMS Victory: Walk the decks of Lord Nelson’s iconic vessel from the Battle of Trafalgar.
HMS Warrior: Marvel at this 19th-century ironclad battleship, a testament to Britain’s maritime innovation.
After exploring these impressive ships, take time to immerse yourself in the stories and grandeur of their exhibits, deepening your understanding of their significance.
Gunwharf Quays and Spinnaker Tower
Take a short 5-minute walk to Gunwharf Quays, a vibrant area for dining and shopping. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing break before your visit to the Spinnaker Tower, where ascending this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views over Portsmouth, the harbour, and the surrounding coastline.
Head Back
Conclude your day with a return journey, carrying memories of Portsmouth’s maritime history and scenic views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ships do we see at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard?
Three, and they cover several centuries between them. HMS Victory is Lord Nelson’s ship from the Battle of Trafalgar, and you walk her decks rather than view her from a rail. The Mary Rose is Henry VIII’s flagship, preserved after centuries beneath the sea. HMS Warrior is a nineteenth-century ironclad. All three sit within easy walking distance of one another on the same site.
How long does it take to go around Portsmouth Historic Dockyard?
A full day, comfortably, which is why the tour is built around it. The three ships alone take most of a morning and an afternoon once you allow time for the exhibits that go with them, and hurrying between decks is the quickest way to spoil the thing. Having a guide with you means less time working out where to go next and more time aboard.
Can the tour start from Southampton instead of Portsmouth?
Yes. Most guests meet us at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard itself, but an optional Southampton pick-up is available if that is where you are staying or where your ship is berthed. If you are arriving by cruise, our Southampton cruise excursions page explains how we work around a sailing time.
What is the Spinnaker Tower and is it part of the day?
It is the tall sail-shaped tower above Gunwharf Quays, and yes, going up it is part of the tour. The view takes in Portsmouth, the harbour and the surrounding coastline, which is the clearest way to understand why the navy has been based here so long. Gunwharf Quays itself is a five-minute walk from the dockyard and is where most guests stop to eat.
What is the most famous old ship in Portsmouth?
HMS Victory, without much argument. She was Lord Nelson’s ship at the Battle of Trafalgar and she is still in the dockyard today, which makes her the one most visitors come for. The Mary Rose has the better recovery story, having spent centuries on the seabed before she was raised, and plenty of guests find her the surprise of the day.
Is Portsmouth a good day out if naval history is not our thing?
It can be, though the dockyard is the heart of it. Between the ships there is Gunwharf Quays for lunch and shopping, the Spinnaker Tower for the view, and a working harbour that is interesting in its own right. If the ships hold no appeal at all, one of our other English day trips will suit you better.
