Does anyone have a suggestion as to the best, and most inexpensive way to travel from Gatwick or Heathrow to the Southhampton Pier to catch a ship for the start of a cruise? .

It's very unlikely that the best and cheapest will be the same.

How many of you are there and how much luggage will you have? F

For several people with a lot of luggage (more than 1 22" bag and a carry-on) you might want to consider a car service. Also, assume this is for a cruise - do they offer a bus transfer?

as ny says if not

check

http://www.transportdirect.info/Web2...epeatingloop=Y

which shows how to use the UK public transport

If Heathrow and not too much luggage (as above) , then the National express coach to Southampton, and a taxi to the pier.
Prices for the bus from about £15 if you book early.

Car services range from about £100-120 depending on vehicle type. For Gatwick the car service will be slightly (£10-20) more expenive.
There is an hourly direct train that takes around 2 hours. I believe the coach takes far longer as it goes via Heathrow.

Check out Londontoolkit website - options and links. If you are going from London - the Megatrain is a steal of a deal

www.nationalrail.co.uk for train times.

Thanks!

I think if you check on this website as well http://www.rome2rio.com/ you can decide which option would be best for you. But I'm guessing from my own experience that if you have plenty of luggage you better hire a car service (for a perfect start of the cruise with no stress).

We booked through the London toolkit site in 2012, took a tour of Stonehenge before getting to the cruise terminal at Southampton. Megatrain offers ridiculously low fares if booked well in advance, you'll probably need a taxi at both ends with luggage but should still come out ahead.