In this local crime report, we cover a recent incident where 17 cars were stolen from Southampton cruise parking facility.
Quick summary:
- Seventeen vehicles were stolen from a Southampton cruise parking site earlier this month.
- The facility advertised 24-hour CCTV monitoring and secure indoor parking.
- Police are investigating, while customers call for tighter parking security.
Vehicles stolen from Millbrook parking facility
Police are investigating after 17 cars were stolen from a cruise parking site in Southampton. The thefts took place between 9 and 10 September at a facility on First Avenue in Millbrook, operated by Southampton Cruise Parking Services.
For full coverage of the investigation, see the original report in the Daily Echo.
The company markets the site as “indoor and secure”, with locked warehouse parking, shuttle transfers to the terminal, and 24-hour CCTV monitoring. Its website even states: “We guarantee that your car will not leave our premises.”
However, returning passengers were shocked to find their cars missing after disembarking from recent cruises.
Investigation under way
Officers have not released details about the makes or models of the stolen vehicles, nor whether specific types of cars were targeted. Enquiries are ongoing to identify suspects and establish how the thefts were carried out.
The company has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, though security protocols are reportedly being reviewed.
Impact on cruise passengers
For many travellers, driving to the port is the most convenient option when sailing from Southampton. The theft of 17 vehicles in a single incident has caused alarm among cruise passengers who rely on secure parking while away.
Some customers have questioned how vehicles could be removed despite advertised CCTV coverage and locked storage.
If you don’t have solid security in place, this incident should really now renew your interest in having CCTV installed to protect your sites. Businesses looking to strengthen surveillance across the city can learn more about CCTV installation in Southampton and how modern systems protect commercial premises, parking facilities, and industrial estates.
Parking security under scrutiny
The case has placed a spotlight on the importance of reliable parking security for ports, airports, and travel hubs. Travellers are being urged to check the credentials and reputation of parking providers before booking.
For operators, incidents like this highlight the need for comprehensive security—including monitored CCTV, perimeter protection, and access control measures—to deter theft and protect customer confidence.
Facilities like cruise parking depots, vehicle compounds, and freight terminals share many of the same risks as warehouses. Investing in warehouse CCTV monitoring can deliver 24/7 oversight, detect intrusions early, and support police investigations when incidents occur.
Interested to learn more about crime in Hampshire?
To understand wider trends across the region, explore our Hampshire crime news report , featuring recent incidents and theft prevention insights for local businesses.
If you are looking to improve site security, call us now on 0800 689 1835.
