London to Southampton Transfer: Taxi, Private Transfer & Cruise Port Guide
Travelling from London to Southampton is a popular journey for visitors to the UK, particularly for passengers travelling to Southampton Cruise Port. Whether you are arriving in London for a holiday, staying at a London hotel before your cruise, or travelling directly from central London to your ship, choosing the right transportation can make the journey considerably easier.
A London to Southampton transfer provides a convenient way to travel directly from London to Southampton without having to manage several stages of public transportation. For passengers travelling with cruise luggage, families, couples and groups, a private transfer can be especially useful because it provides door-to-door transportation from your London hotel, airport, home or another agreed pick-up location.
Southampton is one of the UK's leading cruise destinations. Associated British Ports operates Southampton's cruise facilities, with dedicated terminals including QEII, Ocean, City, Horizon and Mayflower. The port handles millions of cruise passengers each year, making the journey between London and Southampton an important route for both domestic and international travellers.
This guide explains everything you need to know about travelling from London to Southampton by taxi or private transfer. It covers the journey, transportation options, Southampton cruise terminals, luggage, travelling with families and groups, private transfers, the return journey from Southampton to London, and optional sightseeing stops such as Stonehenge.
Whether you are searching for a London to Southampton taxi, London to Southampton transfer, private transfer London to Southampton, taxi from London to Southampton cruise terminal, or transportation from London to Southampton, this guide will help you plan your journey with confidence.
London to Southampton Transfer at a Glance
If you are looking for a quick overview, here are the main points to consider when arranging your journey:
A private London to Southampton transfer provides direct door-to-door transportation.
You can travel from a London hotel, residence, airport or another agreed location.
Southampton has several cruise terminals, so you should confirm your terminal before travelling.
Journey times vary depending on your London pick-up point, route and traffic.
Travelling with several suitcases can make a private transfer particularly convenient.
Families and groups can arrange vehicles according to passenger and luggage requirements.
A private taxi can take you directly to your Southampton cruise terminal.
You can also arrange a Southampton to London transfer after your cruise.
Stonehenge can potentially be included as a sightseeing stop if your schedule allows.
It is advisable to book cruise transportation in advance and provide accurate travel details.
The most important thing to remember is that your transfer should be planned around your complete itinerary rather than simply the distance between London and Southampton.
Why Choose a London to Southampton Transfer?
There are several ways to travel between London and Southampton. Public transport can be suitable for some travellers, but a private transfer provides a different level of convenience.
The biggest advantage is simplicity.
Instead of travelling from your hotel to a railway station, finding the correct platform, managing your luggage on a train and then arranging another taxi after arriving in Southampton, a private vehicle can take you directly from your London pick-up location to your final destination.
For cruise passengers, this can be particularly valuable.
Door-to-door transportation
A private transfer London to Southampton service can be arranged from a wide range of London locations.
For example, you may be staying at a hotel in:
Central London
Westminster
Kensington
Paddington
Victoria
Mayfair
Bayswater
Canary Wharf
London Bridge
The City of London
Your driver can collect you from the agreed location and take you directly towards Southampton.
If your final destination is a cruise terminal, the journey can continue directly to the terminal allocated to your ship.
No need to change transportation
A private London to Southampton taxi means you do not have to change between multiple forms of transportation.
This can be particularly helpful after spending several days sightseeing in London.
You can leave your hotel, load your luggage into the vehicle and continue directly to Southampton.
For international visitors, avoiding unnecessary transport changes can also make the journey easier because you do not need to navigate unfamiliar railway stations while carrying cruise luggage.
Convenient for cruise passengers
Cruise travel often involves more luggage than a normal city break.
Passengers may have large suitcases, hand luggage, travel documents and other personal belongings.
A direct London to Southampton cruise transfer allows you to travel with your luggage in one vehicle throughout the journey.
This can be particularly useful for passengers travelling directly from a London hotel to Southampton Cruise Port on embarkation day.
London to Southampton Distance and Journey Time
The exact distance between London and Southampton depends on your London starting point and the route taken.
Southampton is located on the south coast of England in Hampshire, while London is approximately 70 miles to the north-east by road, although the actual road distance varies according to where your journey starts and finishes.
The driving time can also vary considerably.
Under favourable road conditions, the journey may take around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, but this is only a general planning estimate.
Traffic can significantly affect travel time, particularly when leaving London.
Factors that can affect your journey time
Your London to Southampton transfer may take longer because of:
London traffic
Rush-hour congestion
Roadworks
Accidents
Weather conditions
Bank holidays
Weekend travel
Major events
Delays on major roads
Your exact London pick-up location
Your exact Southampton destination
For this reason, passengers should not plan a cruise transfer based solely on the average driving time.
Allow additional time for your cruise
If your cruise departs on the same day as your transfer, allow a reasonable buffer between your expected arrival at Southampton and your cruise check-in or boarding time.
A journey from London to Southampton involves more than simply driving time.
Your complete itinerary could look like this:
London hotel → driver pick-up → luggage loading → journey to Southampton → Southampton Cruise Port → terminal check-in → boarding
Planning the entire process helps avoid unnecessary pressure.
London to Southampton Cruise Port
Southampton is a major cruise hub and has several dedicated cruise terminals.
According to Associated British Ports, Southampton's cruise facilities include:
QEII Cruise Terminal
Ocean Cruise Terminal
City Cruise Terminal
Horizon Cruise Terminal
Mayflower Cruise Terminal
ABP's published cruise information gives the terminals different berth locations and facilities, so knowing your ship's allocated terminal is important when arranging transportation.
Why the cruise terminal matters
Southampton Cruise Port is not simply one single passenger building.
Your cruise ship will be assigned to a particular terminal, and that terminal can vary depending on the ship and sailing.
Southampton VTS advises cruise passengers to check the terminal and boarding information with their cruise line or tour operator.
Before your London to Southampton cruise terminal transfer, check your cruise documents and confirm the latest terminal information.
Provide your cruise details
When booking your taxi or private transfer, it is helpful to provide:
Cruise line
Ship name
Sailing date
Cruise terminal, if confirmed
Number of passengers
Number of suitcases
London pick-up address
Desired pick-up time
Providing these details makes it easier to arrange the journey correctly.
Drop-off at Southampton Cruise Port
Southampton's dedicated cruise terminals provide passenger drop-off facilities. ABP's cruise information lists drop-off lanes and taxi facilities at its cruise terminals.
Your driver can take you towards the terminal assigned to your ship, where you can follow the cruise line's instructions for luggage and check-in.
How to Travel from London to Southampton
There are several transportation options for travelling between London and Southampton.
The right option depends on your budget, schedule, luggage and preferred level of convenience.
1. Private London to Southampton Taxi
A London to Southampton taxi provides a direct road journey.
This is one of the simplest choices for passengers who want door-to-door transportation.
You can be collected from your hotel or another London address and taken directly to your Southampton destination.
This can be particularly convenient when travelling with cruise luggage.
2. Train from London to Southampton
Train travel is another popular option.
National Rail provides journey planning information for London to Southampton Central, allowing passengers to check current routes, times and ticket information.
The railway can be a practical choice for travellers who are comfortable managing their luggage and making their way between the station and their final destination.
However, Southampton Central is a railway station rather than a cruise terminal.
After arriving at Southampton Central, you may still need a taxi or other transportation to reach your cruise terminal.
3. Coach or bus
Coach services may also be available depending on the departure point and travel date.
Coach travel can be useful for passengers looking for a lower-cost option, although journey times and schedules can vary.
If you are carrying several cruise cases, consider how easily you can manage your luggage throughout the journey.
4. Car hire
Hiring a car may be suitable if you are planning to explore southern England before your cruise.
However, for a simple London-to-Southampton journey, car hire may involve additional considerations such as rental arrangements, parking and returning the vehicle.
A private transfer can be simpler when your only requirement is transportation between two destinations.
London to Southampton Taxi vs Train
One of the most common decisions travellers make is whether to book a taxi or use the train.
Both options have advantages.
Taking the train
Train travel can be useful for passengers who:
Are travelling alone
Have limited luggage
Are comfortable using railway stations
Want to compare ticket prices
Prefer rail travel
Are not travelling directly to the cruise terminal
National Rail provides journey planning tools and current timetable information, so passengers should check the journey for their specific travel date rather than relying on a general timetable.
Taking a private taxi
A private taxi from London to Southampton may be preferable when you:
Have several suitcases
Are travelling with children
Are travelling as a group
Want door-to-door service
Are unfamiliar with the UK railway network
Want to travel directly to the cruise terminal
Prefer not to change transportation
Want a private vehicle
The important difference
The key difference is that a train generally takes you to Southampton Central, while a private transfer can take you directly to your Southampton hotel or cruise terminal.
For cruise passengers, this distinction can be significant.
Why Book a Private Transfer from London to Southampton?
A private London to Southampton transfer is designed around your journey rather than a public timetable.
This can provide several practical advantages.
1. Door-to-door service
Your driver collects you from your agreed London address and takes you directly to your Southampton destination.
There is no need to arrange a separate taxi from Southampton Central to the cruise port.
2. Comfortable luggage handling
Cruise passengers often have large bags.
A private vehicle means your luggage can travel with you throughout the journey.
When booking, always provide the number and approximate size of your bags so the correct vehicle can be arranged.
3. Travel together
Families and groups can travel in the same vehicle when an appropriately sized vehicle is booked.
This can be easier than trying to coordinate multiple train seats, luggage and taxis.
4. Greater privacy
A private transfer gives you your own vehicle rather than sharing your journey with unrelated passengers.
You can settle in, relax and enjoy the journey towards Southampton.
5. Convenient for international visitors
Visitors unfamiliar with London's railway stations may prefer the simplicity of being collected from their hotel.
Instead of navigating a busy station with several suitcases, you can meet your driver and begin your journey.
London to Southampton Transfer from Hotels
Many passengers travelling to Southampton begin their journey from a London hotel.
This is especially common for international cruise passengers who arrive in the UK several days before their cruise.
Staying in London first allows visitors to explore attractions before travelling south towards Southampton.
A private transfer can collect you directly from your hotel.
Popular London areas for Southampton transfers
Transfers can be arranged from many parts of London, including:
Westminster
Victoria
Paddington
Kensington
Chelsea
Mayfair
Knightsbridge
Bayswater
London Bridge
Canary Wharf
The City
Greenwich
The exact availability depends on your transfer provider and booking.
When making a reservation, provide the complete hotel name and address.
Why hotel pick-up is convenient
A hotel pick-up eliminates the need to travel to a railway station before beginning your Southampton journey.
Your luggage can be collected from the hotel, loaded into the vehicle and transported directly to Southampton.
This can be particularly helpful when checking out of a hotel with several large cruise cases.
London to Southampton Transfer for Cruise Passengers
Cruise passengers have different transportation requirements from ordinary day travellers.
A cruise departure is fixed, and passengers need to arrive according to their cruise line's check-in and boarding arrangements.
Plan around your cruise time
When booking your London to Southampton cruise transfer, work backwards from the required arrival time.
Consider:
Your preferred hotel departure time.
Estimated driving time.
Potential traffic.
Additional time for unexpected delays.
Southampton terminal arrival.
Cruise check-in.
Boarding.
This approach is safer than simply booking a transfer based on the average driving time.
Should you travel the day before?
If your schedule allows, travelling to Southampton the day before your cruise can be a sensible option.
You could leave your London hotel, travel to Southampton and spend the night in a local hotel.
This means that on cruise departure day, you are already near the port.
It can also give you additional protection against London traffic or unexpected delays.
Travelling from London to Southampton with Luggage
Luggage is one of the strongest reasons many cruise passengers choose a private transfer.
A typical cruise passenger may have multiple large suitcases.
Managing these bags through a railway station can be tiring.
With a private transfer
Your luggage can generally be loaded directly into the vehicle.
You then remain in the same vehicle until arriving at your destination.
Tell your transfer company about your luggage
When booking your private transfer London to Southampton, provide accurate information about:
Number of passengers
Large suitcases
Hand luggage
Pushchairs
Mobility equipment
Other bulky items
The vehicle should have enough space for both passengers and luggage.
Do not assume that a standard saloon vehicle will accommodate a large family's cruise luggage.
London to Southampton Transfer for Families
Families often benefit from private transportation because everyone can travel together.
If you are travelling with children, consider the following before booking:
Number of adults
Number of children
Child-seat requirements
Pushchairs
Suitcase capacity
Pick-up location
Cruise terminal
Desired arrival time
Provide these details during the booking process.
Why families often prefer private transfers
A private vehicle can eliminate the need to move children and luggage between multiple transport connections.
Parents can also focus on the children instead of navigating a busy railway station.
For larger families, ask about suitable larger vehicles.
London to Southampton Transfer for Groups
Groups travelling to Southampton for a cruise can also benefit from private transportation.
A group transfer can simplify the journey by keeping passengers together.
This can be particularly useful for:
Families travelling together
Friends
Wedding groups
Corporate groups
Multi-generational families
Cruise groups
For larger groups, a minibus or larger passenger vehicle may be more suitable than several standard taxis.
Always provide the complete passenger and luggage requirements when booking.
London to Southampton via Stonehenge
For visitors with extra time, travelling from London to Southampton via Stonehenge can turn a simple transfer into a sightseeing experience.
Stonehenge is one of England's best-known prehistoric monuments and can be an attractive addition to a southern England itinerary.
A private transfer provides greater flexibility for passengers who want to combine transportation with sightseeing.
Example itinerary
One possible itinerary is:
London hotel → Stonehenge → Southampton hotel
Another option could be:
London hotel → Stonehenge → Southampton Cruise Port
The second option requires particularly careful timing.
Is Stonehenge suitable on cruise day?
It depends on your schedule.
If you have a cruise departure later in the day and a generous amount of time, a Stonehenge stop may be possible.
However, cruise passengers should never create an unnecessarily tight itinerary.
Traffic, sightseeing time and delays can all affect your schedule.
If you want to visit Stonehenge, consider travelling to Southampton the day before your cruise.
This allows more time for sightseeing without putting your cruise departure at unnecessary risk.
London to Southampton Transfer for Business Travellers
The route is not only used by cruise passengers.
Business travellers may also need transportation between London and Southampton for meetings, conferences, port-related business and other professional activities.
A private vehicle can provide a quiet environment for the journey and direct transportation between addresses.
For business travel, provide the exact pick-up and drop-off addresses and any timing requirements when making your booking.
Southampton Cruise Port: What You Need to Know
Southampton is a major cruise destination with several dedicated terminals.
ABP's published information lists five Southampton cruise terminals and provides details such as their berth locations, facilities, passenger areas and drop-off arrangements.
The terminals include:
QEII Cruise Terminal
Located in the Eastern Docks, the QEII Cruise Terminal is one of Southampton's established cruise facilities.
Ocean Cruise Terminal
Also located in the Eastern Docks, Ocean Cruise Terminal serves cruise passengers and ships using the relevant berth.
City Cruise Terminal
City Cruise Terminal is located in the Western Docks.
Horizon Cruise Terminal
Horizon Cruise Terminal is another Western Docks facility and is one of Southampton's newer cruise facilities.
Mayflower Cruise Terminal
Mayflower Cruise Terminal is located in the Western Docks.
Southampton VTS provides specific passenger directions for the terminals and advises passengers to follow the information provided by their cruise line.
Because terminal assignments can vary, always confirm your terminal before travelling.
Heathrow to Southampton vs London to Southampton
If you are comparing your options, it is important to distinguish between two common routes.
Heathrow to Southampton
This route is primarily used by passengers arriving at London Heathrow Airport before continuing to Southampton.
A Heathrow to Southampton taxi is ideal for travellers who want to travel directly from the airport.
London to Southampton
This route is commonly used by passengers staying in London before their cruise.
A London to Southampton taxi can collect passengers directly from their hotel or another London address.
Both journeys have the same final objective for cruise passengers: reaching Southampton Cruise Port comfortably and with enough time to complete the cruise boarding process.
Southampton to London Transfer After Your Cruise
The journey does not necessarily end in Southampton.
After your cruise, you may want to return to London for another holiday, a hotel stay or a flight from one of the London airports.
A Southampton to London transfer provides a direct option for the return journey.
You can be collected from the Southampton cruise terminal and transported directly to:
London hotels
Central London
London Heathrow Airport
London Gatwick Airport
London City Airport
London residences
Other destinations in the London area
Southampton to Heathrow
If your return flight departs from Heathrow, a Southampton to Heathrow transfer can take you directly from the cruise terminal to the airport.
This eliminates the need to travel from the cruise terminal to Southampton Central and then continue by train.
Southampton to London taxi
Passengers searching for taxi from Southampton to London, taxi Southampton to London, or transportation Southampton to London are generally looking for the same basic service: direct road transportation from Southampton to a London destination.
A private transfer can be arranged according to your disembarkation and onward travel plans.
How to Book a London to Southampton Taxi
Booking your transfer in advance is recommended, especially when the journey is connected to a cruise.
Step 1: Choose your pick-up location
Provide the full London address.
If you are staying at a hotel, provide:
Hotel name
Street address
Postcode
Contact number if required
Step 2: Provide your travel date
Make sure the date matches your cruise itinerary.
Step 3: Provide your preferred pick-up time
Your departure time should allow sufficient time to reach Southampton and complete cruise check-in.
Step 4: Provide passenger numbers
Tell the company how many adults and children are travelling.
Step 5: Provide luggage information
Include the number of large suitcases and hand luggage.
Step 6: Provide cruise details
Include:
Cruise line
Ship
Sailing date
Terminal, if confirmed
Step 7: Confirm the destination
Specify whether you need:
Southampton Cruise Port
A specific cruise terminal
Southampton hotel
Southampton Central
Another Southampton address
Providing complete information helps avoid confusion on the day of travel.
What Makes a Good London to Southampton Transfer Company?
Not all transfer services operate in exactly the same way.
When choosing a provider, consider the following.
Professional drivers
A professional driver should understand the route and provide a reliable service.
Suitable vehicles
The vehicle should have enough seating and luggage capacity for your group.
Clear communication
You should receive clear information about your booking, pick-up arrangements and driver contact details.
Cruise experience
A company familiar with Southampton Cruise Port can be particularly useful because the port has multiple terminals.
Transparent pricing
Ask about what is included in the quoted price and whether there are additional charges for waiting, extra stops, larger vehicles or sightseeing.
Reliable scheduling
Your transfer should be planned around your travel itinerary rather than treated as a generic taxi journey.
Tips for a Stress-Free London to Southampton Journey
A little preparation can make a significant difference.
1. Book in advance
Do not leave your cruise transfer until the last minute if you already know your travel plans.
2. Confirm the cruise terminal
Check your cruise documents before departure.
3. Allow extra travel time
London traffic can be unpredictable.
4. Keep your phone available
Make sure the transfer company can contact you if necessary.
5. Keep important documents with you
Do not place passports, cruise documents or other essential items in checked luggage.
6. Give accurate luggage information
This helps ensure that the appropriate vehicle is provided.
7. Consider travelling to Southampton the day before
This can reduce pressure if your cruise schedule allows it.
8. Check your booking before departure
Confirm the date, time, pick-up address, passenger count and destination.
9. Check the terminal again
Cruise terminal information can change, so confirm the latest information with your cruise line.
10. Have a backup plan
Keep your transfer company's contact details available in case your flight, hotel departure or cruise schedule changes.
Frequently Asked Questions About London to Southampton Transfers
How long does a London to Southampton taxi take?
A London to Southampton taxi can commonly take around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours in favourable road conditions, but the actual journey time depends heavily on traffic, your London pick-up location and your destination in Southampton.
Allow additional time when travelling to catch a cruise.
How far is London from Southampton?
The road distance is approximately 70 miles, although the exact distance depends on where in London you start and where in Southampton you finish.
What is the best way to get from London to Southampton?
There is no single best option for everyone.
A train can be useful for travellers looking for public transport, while a private London to Southampton transfer is particularly convenient for passengers with luggage, families, groups and cruise passengers who want direct transportation.
National Rail provides current journey planning information for London to Southampton Central.
Can I get a taxi from London to Southampton Cruise Port?
Yes. A private taxi from London to Southampton cruise terminal can take you directly from your London hotel or another agreed location to your cruise terminal.
Confirm your cruise terminal before travelling.
Can I book a private transfer from London to Southampton?
Yes. A private transfer London to Southampton can provide door-to-door transportation from your London address to Southampton.
Is Southampton Cruise Port close to Southampton Central Station?
Southampton Central is the city's main railway station, while the cruise terminals are within the wider port area. Passengers travelling by train will generally need additional transportation between the station and their cruise terminal.
For passengers with significant luggage, a direct private transfer can avoid this additional connection.
Can I travel from London to Southampton the day before my cruise?
Yes, and this can be a sensible option for international travellers.
Staying overnight in Southampton can provide more flexibility and reduce the pressure of travelling from London on the same day your cruise departs.
Can I book a London to Southampton transfer for a family?
Yes. Families can book private vehicles based on the number of passengers and luggage.
Tell the transfer company about children, pushchairs and child-seat requirements.
Can large groups travel from London to Southampton together?
Yes, subject to vehicle capacity.
Larger groups may need a minibus or another larger passenger vehicle.
Provide the complete passenger and luggage details when booking.
Can I stop at Stonehenge on the way to Southampton?
A Stonehenge stop can potentially be incorporated into a private transfer.
However, you need to allow enough time for the visit and the onward journey.
It is generally better suited to passengers with a flexible itinerary or those travelling to Southampton the day before their cruise.
Can I travel from Southampton to London after my cruise?
Yes. A Southampton to London transfer can take you directly from the cruise terminal to a London hotel, airport or other address.
Can I book Southampton to Heathrow after my cruise?
Yes. A Southampton to Heathrow private transfer can provide direct transportation from the cruise terminal to Heathrow Airport.
Allow enough time for disembarkation, luggage collection, traffic and airport check-in.
What information should I provide when booking?
Ideally provide:
Pick-up address
Destination
Date
Time
Passenger numbers
Luggage numbers
Cruise line
Ship name
Cruise terminal
Contact telephone number
The more accurate your information, the easier it is to arrange the correct vehicle and journey.
Is a private London to Southampton transfer expensive?
The price varies according to factors such as vehicle type, passenger numbers, pick-up location, travel date, luggage requirements and additional stops.
For an accurate quote, request a price based on your exact itinerary.
Is a London to Southampton taxi better than a train?
It depends on your priorities.
A train can be suitable if you are comfortable using public transportation and travelling with your luggage.
A private taxi can be more convenient if you want direct door-to-door transportation, particularly when travelling to the cruise terminal.
Can I travel from a London airport to Southampton?
Yes. Transfers can be arranged from London airports depending on the provider.
For passengers arriving at Heathrow, a dedicated Heathrow to Southampton transfer provides direct transportation to Southampton.
Other London airports can also be used as starting points, subject to availability.
Book Your London to Southampton Transfer with Confidence
Travelling from London to Southampton should be an enjoyable part of your UK journey rather than a stressful transportation problem.
For cruise passengers, the most important considerations are reliability, timing, luggage and reaching the correct Southampton cruise terminal.
A London to Southampton transfer offers a straightforward solution for travellers who want to travel directly from their London hotel, home or another agreed location to Southampton.
A private London to Southampton taxi can be particularly useful for families, couples, groups and passengers carrying multiple cruise suitcases. Instead of travelling to a railway station and then arranging another connection in Southampton, you can travel directly to your hotel or cruise terminal.
Southampton's cruise facilities include several dedicated terminals, so passengers should always confirm their allocated terminal with their cruise line before travelling. ABP lists QEII, Ocean, City, Horizon and Mayflower among Southampton's cruise terminals, while Southampton VTS provides passenger directions and advises travellers to check their cruise information.
If you are travelling by train, National Rail provides current journey-planning and timetable information for services to Southampton Central.
However, if your priority is direct transportation, convenience and a simple door-to-door journey, a private transfer can be an attractive alternative.
You can also arrange a Southampton to London transfer after your cruise, including a direct Southampton to Heathrow journey if you are flying home from Heathrow.
For travellers with additional time, a private itinerary can potentially include a sightseeing stop such as Stonehenge before continuing to Southampton.
The key to a successful journey is preparation. Book your transfer in advance, provide accurate passenger and luggage details, confirm your cruise terminal and allow enough time for traffic and cruise check-in.
Whether you are searching for a London to Southampton taxi, London to Southampton cruise transfer, private transfer London to Southampton, taxi from London to Southampton, or transportation from London to Southampton, choosing the right service can make the journey from London to the cruise port much easier.
Ready to travel from London to Southampton?
Book your private London to Southampton transfer in advance and enjoy a comfortable, direct journey from your London hotel or chosen pick-up location to Southampton Cruise Port. If you need transportation after your cruise, you can also arrange a Southampton to London transfer or Southampton to Heathrow private transfer for the return journey.
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