Passenger ships leaving or arriving at Southampton docks

[Starman 2112]

Where are the best places to view ships either leaving or arriving at Southampton dock?

Do you have to get to these places in plenty of time to ensure a good view?

[Buenchico]

I used to have a ten-year-old friend who was almost obsessed with watching ships. Although he's now in his twenties, I still remember driving all over the country to take him to some of the best viewing points. With that knowledge behind me, I can assure you that you won't face any 'crowd problems' for day-to-day ship watching.

Unfortunately, he only persuaded me to drive (from East Anglia) to Southampton once, so I don't claim to be an expert on the best places to view ships around there. However, this might help:
http://www.shipfoto.co.uk/Places.html

Chris

[1rovert]

I live in Titchfield, just outside Southampton, where I also used to live. I am also an ex Merchant Seaman, and am able to in form you of where to go.
1 - Ocean Village, This was known as 'the Old Docks' which is on the east of Southampton, where the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary (Cunard Line) used to dock, and where the Titanic and Britanic (White Star) left for New York. The Old Dock were also where the Mauritainia (Cunard) and RMS Andes (Royal Mail Line) docked, its now a Yacht Marina.
2 - Mayflower Park, This is on the West of the City, Where the Union Castle Line ships (Athlone - Cape Town - Stirling and several other 'Mail ships') used to sail from. Now apart from the odd one or two ships, you will only see Container Ships, and from the park you can see the Container dock,
where once was a Dry Dock. These used to be known as the New Docks.
Its easy to find, just go into Southampton, and keep driving south, until you get to the Isle of Whight Ferry, left to Old Docks, right to the New Docks.

[normski]

Go to Hythe on the opposite side to Southampton catch the little train to the end of the pier then the ferry if you want. Or just walk to the end of the pier brilliant place for watching ships.