Cruise ship plug sockets UK guide: what to pack
Cruise Advisor planning guide. Verify changing prices, policies and itineraries with the relevant provider before booking.
If you’re sailing from the UK this year, this cruise ship plug sockets UK guide explains exactly what you’ll find in most cabins in 2026, what adapters to bring, and what’s usually restricted by cruise lines. We’ll cover UK lines like P&O, Cunard and Marella, plus the big international fleets, so you can charge phones, cameras and medical devices without stress. Because onboard policies and fittings can change, always verify details on your cruise line’s official website before you pack.
Most cruise cabins mix US 110V two‑pin and European 220V two‑pin sockets; some UK‑focused ships add UK 3‑pin. USB‑A is common and USB‑C is appearing on newer ships. Pack a non‑surge universal travel adapter (and a multi‑USB charger) and check your line’s prohibited items before you sail.
On cruise ships you’ll typically encounter a blend of socket standards because vessels sail globally: - UK Type G (three‑pin, 230V): Often found on UK‑market ships, but not guaranteed fleet‑wide. - European Type C/F (two‑pin, 220–230V): Very common in cabins. - North American Type A/B (flat two/three‑pin, 110–120V): Also very common in cabins. Voltage matters for heat‑generating appliances (straighteners, curlers, razors). Many travel electronics (phones, tablets, laptops, cameras) are dual‑voltage (100–240V) and will work with a simple plug adapter. Always check the rating label on your device or charger; if it reads 100–240V, you only need the right plug shape. If a device is single‑voltage, do not use it on the wrong voltage. Most cruise lines provide a hairdryer in the cabin; irons are typically banned for fire safety.
What generally works: a compact, non‑surge universal travel adapter (covering UK/EU/US) and a quality multi‑USB charger (ideally with USB‑C PD for faster charging). What to treat with caution: household extension leads and surge‑protected power strips. Many cruise lines list surge‑protected and/or daisy‑chain extension devices as prohibited due to fire risk; policies differ, so check your line’s official prohibited items list before you pack. If you rely on a medical device (e.g., CPAP), most lines will arrange an approved extension lead on request—contact the accessibility or medical team in advance and reconfirm in your booking.
P&O Cruises, Cunard and Marella sail primarily with UK guests in mind, and you may see UK 3‑pin sockets more often than on US‑centric fleets—especially on newer or recently refurbished ships. That said, not every ship or cabin grade is identical. Treat the following as directional guidance, not a guarantee; confirm on the official site for your ship and sail date.
Official sources
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