transatlantic cruise experience

Should You Take a Transatlantic Cruise?

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Transatlantic cruises rank among the most iconic types of travel. They generally fall into two categories. The first type is a regularly scheduled transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2 , the only cruise ship that routinely sails back and forth across the Atlantic Ocean between New York City and London (Southampton). These cruises run between late April and early January and take about six or seven days in each direction because the ship does not have any ports of call. The Queen Mary 2 crosses the Atlantic about 50 times a year on this week-long route.

The second type of transatlantic crossing is a repositioning cruise for ships that sail in the Caribbean, Central America, or South America in the winter and in Europe for the rest of the year. Most transatlantic repositioning cruises sail in the spring and fall months, but travelers can find one or more ships crossing the Atlantic every month of the year. These crossings are usually longer than a week since they include a few ports of call in the Caribbean or the Atlantic Ocean.

Both types of transatlantic crossings are different than a cruise where the ship is docked at a new port of call each day. Travelers planning a transatlantic cruise vacation need to think about the pros and cons of what it's like to be out of sight of land for days at a time.

Pro: Bargain Prices

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Cruise lines follow the sun, moving most of their ships to another part of the world to help guests enjoy the best weather and most daylight on their vacation. Because these repositioning cruises are often longer (10 or more days) and include only a few ports of call, the cruise lines usually reduce the price per day to attract more travelers. The ships have a "captive audience" on sea days, and onboard guests tend to spend more money on drinks, gambling, and in the retail boutique shops. So, cruise lines need to have the ships full when making the crossing.

When planning a repositioning cruise across the Atlantic, be sure to check out the cruise right before or after your transatlantic crossing. The cruise lines often discount these cruises for those willing to book back-to-back.

Pro: No Flying

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A long flight across the Atlantic is stressful, tiring, and often not a good beginning or ending to your vacation. A transatlantic cruise at the beginning of your vacation can get you into a relaxed mood, and one at the end of your vacation can help ease you back to the normal work life. North Americans with more vacation time can cross the Atlantic at the beginning of their vacation, travel around Europe via land or on another cruise, and then take a second transatlantic cruise back home. They only have to drive or fly to the embarkation port.

Pro: No Jet Lag

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One of the factors every traveler loves about a transatlantic cruise is the lack of jet lag when arriving at their destination. Since continental Europe is about six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in North America (depending on the time of year), ships traveling westbound lose an hour almost every day. Those traveling eastbound gain an hour, making some cruise days 25 hours long! Although losing or gaining an hour each day can be a little disconcerting, it's far better than the jet lag you can get from flying across the Atlantic.

Pro: Learn Something New

Cruise ships on transatlantic crossings offer many educational, entertaining, and fun activities on the many sea days. For example, guests can take classes in computing, photography, cooking, bridge, fitness, or ballroom dancing. Or, they can attend lectures on a variety of topics that expand their knowledge on history, travel, health, music, or art. Smaller ships and more luxury brands tend to feature more guest lecturers and educational opportunities than larger ships do. 

Pro: Relax and Unwind

When arriving home from vacation, many travelers often complain that they "need a vacation from their vacation!" Although many are surprised at how quickly the sea days fly by on a transatlantic cruise, no one is forcing guests to do anything other than whatever they want to do. Some guests bring along an e-reader full of novels, while others catch up on movies, try their luck in the casino, or spend time unwinding in the spa or fitness center. On a transatlantic cruise, someone else is cooking and cleaning up after you. Guests can sleep in as long as they wish or go to bed right after dinner. It's their choice.

Con: No (or Few) Ports of Call

The traditional transatlantic crossing of the Queen Mary 2 does not feature any ports of call, leaving New York and arriving in Southampton seven days later (or vice versa). 

Most transatlantic repositioning cruises taking the southern route between the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas make stopovers at ports of call in the Caribbean, the Cape Verde Islands, and the Canary Islands. Ships crossing the northern route might stopover in Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, Bermuda, Newfoundland, or Atlantic Canada.

While you won't have as many ports of call as on a seven-day Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise, some of the ports are unique and can only be seen on an extended voyage like a transatlantic crossing.

Con: Weather and Rough Seas

Weather can be a major concern for some travelers planning a transatlantic cruise. On traditional cruises, ships are sailing most nights and in a different port each day. They often are not far from land, so even though the weather can be rough, it doesn't last long.

Crossing the Atlantic can be different since the ship might not see land for several days. 

The good news is that modern cruise ships have amazing stabilizers, so most guests won't feel the wave action. Those who are prone to seasickness should have a variety of remedies to prevent or treat this malady. 

It's no guarantee, but transatlantic cruises in the summer months usually have the best weather, although hurricanes and tropical storms can affect ships sailing either the southern route or northern route.

Believe it or not, there are cruise travelers who love stormy weather and rough seas. A transatlantic crossing in the winter months of November through March is ideal for these die-hard travelers. They can get a good price and might even "enjoy" a storm!

Con: Passengers Tend to Be Older

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A general rule for cruises is the longer the cruise, the older the passengers. This is not surprising, because senior travelers have more time off and more disposable income. Although many younger travelers enjoy socializing with seniors, most transatlantic crossings are not "party" cruises. The bars and discos probably won't be packed after midnight like on shorter voyages where travelers are trying to cram as much as possible into their vacation time.

Con: Too Much Free Time

Although most travelers can get into the rhythm and routine of a transatlantic cruise, some people feel almost claustrophobic when surrounded by water 24 hours a day for several days. This feeling is rare, but a transatlantic cruise might not be for everyone. If you can't wait to get off the ship each day when on a traditional cruise moving from port to port, you might not embrace several consecutive days at sea. If you are a self-starter who appreciates free time alone or doesn't require constant entertainment, you probably will come home planning your next transatlantic voyage. 

Is a Transatlantic Cruise For You?

If you consider these pros and cons and your own personality type, you can decide if a transatlantic cruise is the right vacation for you. Since this type of cruise is often a good bargain, offering no-jet-lag travel and the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate, a crossing might be a perfect cruise vacation for you.

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Best transatlantic cruises for 2024 and 2025, plus tips and what to expect

A transatlantic cruise ranks high on many travelers' bucket lists, especially those who love the camaraderie and adventure of a voyage by ship. Today's roughly 4,000-nautical-mile transatlantic crossing is more akin to the pre-aviation "Grand Tour" wealthy Americans once enjoyed than the immigration journeys many of our European ancestors made from the 17th to early 20th centuries.

Leisurely and luxurious, a one-way sailing offers fine dining, wellness-oriented pampering, enlightening lectures, glamorous nightlife and plenty of time to relax. Transatlantic cruises are also a solution for travelers who prefer not to fly and a tempting option for cruise lovers seeking a longer itinerary at an affordable price.

Is a transatlantic cruise right for everyone? Not necessarily, especially for anyone prone to moderate to severe sea sickness. However, for those who love sea days — and many cruisers do — a crossing can offer an uninterrupted "floating resort" experience; plus, it provides the added bonus of delivering you to Europe or returning you home without a cramped transatlantic flight.

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Here's everything you need to know about cruising the Atlantic — plus a selection of the best transatlantic cruises you can book in 2024 and 2025.

Which cruise lines offer transatlantic crossings?

While Cunard Line is most famous for its weekly crossings between Southampton, England, and New York City — which sail from April to December on its ocean liner Queen Mary 2 — pretty much every major cruise line offers transatlantic crossings.

These generally occur in the spring (late March to early May) and fall (September to November). In the spring, ships are repositioned from the Caribbean to Europe, and in the fall, vessels sail from Europe to the U.S. to begin Canada-New England and Caribbean itineraries.

Also known as repositioning cruises , these sailings are usually longer than a traditional crossing and often include several port calls beyond the city of embarkation and disembarkation.

Even better, cruise fares for these itineraries are typically one-third to one-half the price of a cruise of the same length that visits a new port daily. This makes them a great deal for travelers looking to settle into shipboard life rather than just sightsee.

These types of transatlantic/repositioning itineraries are offered by Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Oceania, Regent, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Seabourn, Sea Dream Yacht Club, Silversea, Star Clippers, Windstar, Viking and Virgin.

When is the best time of year for transatlantic cruises?

The best time to take a transatlantic cruise depends on what you're looking for: great weather, smooth seas, the best price or specific ports of call.

Generally speaking, May, June and July are recommended for warmer weather and gentler seas — before the Atlantic hurricane season peaks in August, September and October — although storms can arise any time of the year.

March, April and November — while not ideal due to cooler temperatures that can limit on-deck and poolside enjoyment — are a good option and a terrific value. This is especially true if the ship's route is a southerly one between Florida and the Mediterranean rather than between northern Europe and New York.

As noted above, the best prices are generally in spring and fall for repositioning cruises. These itineraries may also visit several appealing ports in the Mediterranean or Caribbean as well as call on the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, Iceland or Bermuda in the Atlantic.

Related: Why I was wrong about transatlantic cruises

How long does the crossing take?

It varies. The classic nonstop transatlantic itinerary aboard Queen Mary 2 is a seven-night voyage between New York and Southampton (and vice versa). On the other hand, transatlantic repositioning cruises generally range in length from 11 to 21 nights, with an average of 14 nights (seven or eight of them typically sea days).

Will the seas be rough?

It's up to Mother Nature. At times, the Atlantic can be smooth sailing, even in spring and fall. Yet unpredictable wind and water current patterns can create rough seas seemingly out of nowhere any time of year.

Captains can generally maneuver around storms — and try to do so whenever possible for the comfort of all onboard. Additionally, modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that reduce a ship's rolling motion due to wind or waves.

However, if you're even slightly prone to seasickness, don't throw caution to the wind. You'll be better off on a larger ship (pick a midship cabin on a lower deck); also, be sure to pack medication, patches, bands or whatever works best for you. While it might seem counterintuitive, having a window or balcony actually helps offset seasickness since it offers fresh air and a horizon view. If you're concerned, opt for an ocean-view or balcony cabin over an inside one.

Which side of the ship is best for a transatlantic crossing?

It honestly doesn't make much difference whether you book a cabin on the port (left) or starboard (right) side of the ship since most daytime views will be of the ocean. However, if you're departing from a Mediterranean port, say Rome or Barcelona, for a southerly crossing, book a starboard cabin; this might offer a view of the Rock of Gibraltar if your ship transits between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic during daylight hours. For a U.S.-to-Europe eastward crossing, you'd want the opposite — a port-side cabin.

Similarly, if your crossing takes you from northern Europe on a northerly route to the U.S., and you want to be among the first to spot land (perhaps Greenland or Newfoundland), book a starboard cabin. If you are cruising into New York Harbor just before dawn and want to see the Statue of Liberty from your cabin, book on the port side.

More important for an Atlantic crossing location-wise is your cabin's deck number and whether the cabin is situated forward, midship or aft. Generally, the ship's movement through rough seas will feel less severe if your cabin is midship and on one of the lower or middle decks versus the top-most decks.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

Which ports do transatlantic cruises visit?

Where you embark and disembark will determine your route and the ports you potentially call on. Ships repositioning to or from the Baltic Sea and the British Isles generally take a northerly route. Vessels sailing from the Mediterranean cross on a more southerly route, especially if they are repositioning to or from a winter home port in Florida.

On a northerly crossing, you can expect to embark in a port such as Copenhagen; Rotterdam, Netherlands; Southampton or New York. Depending on the length of the cruise, expect to call on ports in Ireland (Dublin or Cork), Iceland (Reykjavik), Greenland (Qaqortoq or Nuuk), Atlantic Canada (St. John's in Newfoundland, or Sydney or Halifax in Nova Scotia) and Bermuda (King's Wharf).

On a southerly crossing between Barcelona or Rome in the Mediterranean and Miami or Fort Lauderdale, typical ports of call include Madeira; Grand Canary or Tenerife in the Canary Islands; Ponta Delgada in the Azores; and one or two islands in the Caribbean, such as St. Maarten or Puerto Rico.

Is it better to book an eastbound or westbound cruise?

Which direction you book really depends on whether you're aboard for the experience or you're using the crossing as a substitute for a flight to reach the other side of the ocean. Below are a few factors to keep in mind.

Aside from Queen Mary 2 crossings, westbound transatlantic repositioning cruises (from Europe to the U.S.) take place in the fall during the Atlantic hurricane season; some are also scheduled for mid-to-late November when storm formation has generally diminished. Eastbound cruises (from the U.S. to Europe) happen in spring, a season also often known for periods of gray skies and rain.

When considering westbound versus eastbound crossings, factor in the time change. While a transatlantic cruise is a terrific way to avoid the jet lag caused by flying across multiple time zones in a single day, you will be subject to almost daily reminders to reset your clock.

On westbound cruises, you'll have to set your clock back at night, thus gaining an extra hour of sleep on most days. On eastbound cruises, you'll set it ahead an hour and lose an hour of leisure time or sleep.

Another factor to keep in mind is that unless you plan to return home on another transatlantic cruise, you'll also need to book a one-way flight. Before committing to a specific eastbound or westbound itinerary, always check your flight options. One-way tickets are sometimes more expensive than round-trip fares.

Best transatlantic cruises for 2024 and 2025

There are dozens of opportunities to cross the Atlantic by cruise ship, but here are some of the best itineraries available in the next two years.

Cunard's Queen Mary 2

• Transatlantic crossings: May to December 2024 and 2025

There's nothing quite like it. Cunard 's weekly transatlantic crossing between New York and Southampton aboard the 2,691-guest Queen Mary 2 celebrates the grand age of ocean liners with a level of pomp and ceremony that appeals to Cunard loyalists, bucket-listers and memory-making couples or families celebrating a milestone anniversary or birthday.

These eight-night eastbound and six-night westbound voyages are all about the sea. There are interludes of culinary enjoyment and evening entertainment designed for travelers who appreciate formality and glamour.

A typical day might include time in the library perusing the largest book collection at sea, getting an illuminating astronomy lesson in the onboard planetarium and enjoying traditional afternoon tea.

The evening lineup generally starts with a multicourse dinner (same table and same waiter nightly) followed by a Broadway-inspired show, an abridged Shakespeare play or even a magic act. The ship is also famous for its Gala Evenings, capped off with Champagne sipping and dancing to a live orchestra. Yes, pack those ballgowns and tuxes.

Cruise fares start at $1,129 per person for an inside cabin and $1,619 per person for a balcony room.

Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady

• 16-night Rome to Miami: Nov. 28-Dec. 14, 2024
• 15-night Miami to Casablanca and Barcelona cruises: May 3-18, 2025

Virgin Voyages ' 2,770-guest Scarlet Lady has an onboard ambience that rivals a youthful beach club. Passengers and crew will keep the party going day and night this fall on a 16-night Rome to Miami transatlantic sailing. The sailing has calls on Barcelona and Malaga in Spain; Funchal on the island of Madeira; and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands.

Or, party in reverse on the ship's 15-night Miami to Casablanca and Barcelona crossing in May 2025. It stops in Grand Canary and Santa Cruz de Tenerife; Casablanca, Morocco; and Barcelona.

The ship's 20 excellent dining venues, cutting-edge entertainment (campy and a bit naughty — think Drag Queen Bingo), impressive lineup of wellness classes (from yoga at sunrise to On-the-Upswing Bungee aerobics) and fun activities ('90s Boy Band Dance Class, anyone?) provide plenty of ways to pass the time.

Cruise fares start at $4,384 per cabin (or less than $2,200 per person) for the Rome-to-Miami sailing and $3,706 per cabin (or less than $1,900 per person) for the Miami-to-Barcelona sailing.

Disney Cruise Line's Disney Dream

• 13-night eastbound transatlantic cruise: May 5-18, 2024
• 13-night westbound transatlantic cruise: Oct. 20-Nov. 2, 2024

Certain Disney fans — namely childless adult couples and empty nesters — love the brand's storytelling and Imagineering but prefer not to share a two-week cruise with hundreds of kids and teens. These 13-night eastbound and westbound crossings from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona and from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale aboard 2,500-passenger Disney Dream offer a solution to that dilemma.

Each of these transatlantic cruises occurs when almost everyone ages 5 to 18 is still in school. Yes, some kids will likely be on board, but certainly not in overwhelming numbers.

These crossings feature nine to 11 sea days during which Disney Cruise Line offers all kinds of immersive entertainment, excellent onboard dining and a southerly route in spring that means plenty of pool time. On top of that, each sailing includes a mix of culturally rich ports.

On the eastbound crossing, they are Ponta Delgada; Lisbon; and Cadiz, Cartagena and Barcelona, Spain. On the westbound crossing, the ports are Ponta Delgada and the new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Eastbound fares for balcony cabins start at $4,516 for two adults (or about $2,258 per person). Westbound fares are a bit pricier, starting at $5,517 for an inside cabin ($2,708 per person).

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Holland America's Nieuw Statendam

• 28-night Adriatic Dream and Passage to America: Nov. 2-30, 2024

For a shoulder-season meander through the Adriatic and Mediterranean followed by a transatlantic crossing, Holland America 's 28-night Adriatic Dream and Passage to America visits 14 ports in seven countries. This makes it a true hybrid of an ocean crossing and a traditional cruise.

The sailing, aboard the 3,665-passenger Nieuw Statendam, departs from Athens and visits ports in Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, Albania, Spain and Portugal before arriving in Fort Lauderdale. Of the 12 sea days, two include scenic cruising.

The voyage takes place in November, so expect temperatures to be on the cooler side in most ports and during the crossing. It's a good thing, then, that Nieuw Statendam has an indoor pool with a retractable roof. Holland America passengers, mostly older retirees, can also pass the time dining at each of the 10 onboard restaurants and enjoy entertainment that includes live bands at the B.B. King's Blues Club and Rolling Stone Rock Room.

At $2,499 per person for an inside cabin and $3,749 per person for a balcony cabin, fares are a great deal for a four-week sailing.

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Apex

• 13-night Spain, Portugal and Bermuda transatlantic: Oct. 26-Nov. 8, 2024
• 13-night Bermuda and Portugal transatlantic: March 8-21, 2025

Celebrity Cruises ' Spain, Portugal and Bermuda transatlantic sailing from Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale offers 13 nights aboard its newest ship, Celebrity Ascent. The sailing features port calls in Alicante, Spain; Gibraltar; Ponta Delgada; and King's Wharf, along with eight sea days.

Accommodating 3,260 passengers, Celebrity Ascent is a megaship designed with adults in mind. On board, you'll find multiple hot tubs but no waterslides, contemporary decor, 32 sophisticated food and beverage venues (including Voyages, Daniel Boulud's restaurant at sea, bookable at extra cost), an indoor solarium pool, a glittering Grand Plaza housing the line's signature Martini Bar, and nightly entertainment ranging from high-tech theater productions to multisensory events in Eden.

Inside cabin fares start at $1,353 per person and balcony cabin fares at $2,399 per person.

If you prefer to cross the Atlantic in spring 2025, take sister Edge Class ship Celebrity Apex , which carries 2,910 passengers. It will sail a 13-night Bermuda and Portugal transatlantic cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona with port calls at Bermuda's Royal Naval Dockyard; Ponta Delgada; and Valencia.

Inside cabins for that cruise start from $799 per person and balcony rooms from $1,272 per person.

Viking's Viking Mars

• 20-night Atlantic and Mediterranean Horizons: March 27-April 16, 2025

Passengers aboard Viking Mars for its 20-night Atlantic and Mediterranean Horizons sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Rome will meander through the Caribbean to the French-Dutch island of St. Martin/St. Maarten. They will spend six days crossing the Atlantic and call on Madeira and then overnight in Barcelona. Then, they will visit the French ports of Sete and Marseille, followed by Monte Carlo, Monaco, and another overnight in Livorno, Italy (gateway to Florence).

The 930-passenger Viking Mars is an adults-only ship featuring a sleek Scandinavian design. Guests can enjoy elevated (and complimentary) dining in eight venues, as well as daily activities that include lectures by guest speakers and resident historians. ( Viking bills itself as "the thinking person's cruise.")

They will also get unlimited access to the thermal suite at the Liv Nordic Spa, a main pool with a retractable roof (there's also an aft infinity pool and hot tub), and complimentary beer and wine with lunch and dinner.

Better still, the transatlantic cruise fare is about one-third less than a typical three-week Viking itinerary, with balcony cabins starting at $7,198 per person.

Princess Cruises' Sky Princess

• 27-night Moroccan and Iberian Grand Adventure: March 9-April 5, 2025

To snag an excellent deal on an almost month-long journey, check out the 27-night Morocco and Iberian Grand Adventure . It sails from Fort Lauderdale to Southampton aboard the 3,660-passenger Sky Princess. Princess Cruises guests will enjoy a southerly spring crossing that culminates with visits to 10 ports in four countries (Portugal, Morocco, Spain and England) — including Madeira, three Canary Islands and Casablanca.

Sky Princess , which debuted in 2019, is a Royal Class ship featuring three pools, a glittering Italian-style Piazza (home to Alfredo's Pizzeria — some of the best pizza at sea), four specialty dining venues (at an extra cost), poolside Movies Under the Stars and original production shows in the Princess Theater.

Inside cabins start at $2,847 per person and balcony cabins at $4,747 per person.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Splendor

• 14-night Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: Jan. 5-19, 2025

If crossing the southern Atlantic Ocean from Africa to South America on a small luxury cruise ship is on your bucket list, consider Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' early 2025 Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro sailing.

While not a bargain by any means, this 14-night itinerary aboard the 750-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Splendor is all-inclusive. Business-class airfare, transfers, top-notch cuisine, unlimited beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi and most shore excursions are all included in the fare.

Start by taking in the scenic beauty of Namibia, with a port call in Luderitz, known for its colorful colonial architecture. Another call is Walvis Bay, where the ship will overnight. Here, you'll get a chance to experience the country's dramatic sand dunes and resident flamingos. Then, as you cross the Atlantic, you'll visit the remote island of St. Helena, where Napoleon died in exile, before continuing on to an overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro ahead of disembarkation.

All-inclusive fares start at $12,949 per person for a suite with a balcony.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima

• 16-night Transatlantic (Italy, France and Spain): Nov. 7-23, 2024

Board in Rome and tour the Mediterranean in the shoulder season before crossing the Atlantic to New York on a November 2024 Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. The Transatlantic (Italy, France and Spain) sailing aboard Norwegian Prima visits Livorno (for Pisa and Florence); Cannes, France; Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, Malaga and Cadiz, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; and Ponta Delgada. You'll spend six days at sea.

The 3,099-passenger Norwegian Prima , which debuted in 2022, features 14 restaurants (six included and eight specialty options for an added fee) and 19 bars and lounges. It also sports a three-level go-kart racetrack and virtual-reality gaming. Entertainment options include "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," stand-up comedy at The Improv at Sea and a rock cover band in Syd Norman's Pour House.

Inside cabins start at $1,499 per person and balcony cabins at $2,199 per person.

Silversea Cruises' Silver Ray

• 25-night Rome to Fort Lauderdale: Nov. 7-Dec. 2, 2025

Plan ahead to score a suite on the 25-night Rome to Fort Lauderdale transatlantic crossing in late 2025 aboard Silversea Cruises ' newest all-suite luxury ship, Silver Ray, debuting in summer 2024.

Not only is the price all-inclusive, but the 728-passenger ship will visit 11 ports in five countries. You'll experience Livorno; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille; Valencia, Barcelona (overnight), Palma de Mallorca, Malaga and Cadiz, Spain; and Lisbon and Madeira. Then, you'll cross the Atlantic and spend an overnight in Hamilton, Bermuda before disembarking in Fort Lauderdale.

Silver Ray is Silversea's second Nova Class ship. It features spacious suites and inviting exterior and interior spaces perfect for late-season Mediterranean cruising and a cool-weather transatlantic crossing. Its culinary-focused S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program tempts tastebuds with region- and port-inspired menus, cooking classes and cocktails.

All-inclusive, door-to-door fares — which include economy-class flights, transfers, complimentary beverages and gourmet dining, butler service, gratuities and select shore excursions — start at $13,100 per person for Classic Veranda Suite.

Bottom line

No matter your reason for considering a transatlantic cruise, you're guaranteed to experience the secret magic of sea days, with ample time to relax and unwind. With no land in sight for roughly a week, you can enjoy the ship's amenities without feeling rushed.

Make new friends over coffee or a game of bridge, watch movies in your cabin, learn more about the world during lectures by onboard experts, or treat yourself to rejuvenating massages and facials in the spa.

Even better, per-night rates are typically lower on crossings than on round-trip, port-intensive cruises. So, you can enjoy a longer sailing at a fraction of the usual cost. No matter which transatlantic cruise you deem best for your travel style and interests, it will surely be a memorable bucket-list trip.

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Transatlantic Cruises

The best of classic sailing.

Experience the golden age of ocean travel on a Transatlantic cruise with Princess®. Get to know the tranquility of the sea, and meet the cultures and stories that lie ashore. Choose from itineraries that take you to the castles of the British Isles, the beaches of the Mediterranean and the fjords of Scandinavia and Russia. Feel the thrill of classic cruising while basking in the comfort of home on a cruise across the Atlantic Ocean.

Transatlantic Cruise Departure Ports

Our departure ports are as iconic as the destinations on each itinerary. Arrive a few days early to your Transatlantic cruise or spend time upon arrival exploring the wonders that lie within these cities.

• Ft. Lauderdale
• London (Southampton)

Until it was popularized by the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona was a hidden gem amidst Europe’s diverse landscapes. Now it’s widely recognized for its architectural masterpieces and spirited customs. On European cruises from Barcelona, leave enough time before you depart to visit Park Güell — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and feel inspired by the colors and unique artistry that lies in the park and throughout the entire city.

Copenhagen boasts equal parts charm and culture. Before you set sail on your European cruise, indulge in thrills at Tivoli Gardens, and ride a bike along Nyhavn’s waterways, passing multi-colored homes on the way. Tour ancient fortresses, like Kronborg Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Or make a stop to see Copenhagen’s most famous symbol, The Little Mermaid.

Fort Lauderdale has long been known for its white-sand beaches, but has recently become famous for its blossoming art scene — among many other things. Before your Transatlantic cruise, browse galleries on Las Olas Boulevard. Stop for a drink at one of the waterfront cafes. Or ride through the Everglades, a 1.5-million acre UNESCO World Heritage Site, and look for the wildlife that call these lands home.

From double-decker buses and telephone booths to medieval castles and monuments, experience the best of the city and countryside on a European cruise from Southampton. Ride on the London Eye, and watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Then head west and walk the hallways of Windsor Castle, or travel even further to learn about the mystery of Stonehenge.

The cosmopolitan center of America, New York City, is waiting to be explored. On a Transatlantic cruise with Princess, arrive early to spend the day shopping in SoHo, and then stroll through the Museum of Modern Art. Sail past the Statue of Liberty, walk through Central Park and snap a photo in front of the 238 billboards in Times Square. Or ascend the Empire State building and take in sweeping views of it all from 1,250 feet above.

Italy’s capital city is something of a dream. Grand chapels and stone angels line the roads, whispering secrets of Rome’s past. On a cruise to Europe from Rome, arrive early to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain. Legend has it, you’ll be guaranteed return to The Eternal City. Then walk in the footsteps of Emperors at the Colosseum, and receive a blessing from the Pope at St. Peter’s Square.

Why a Transatlantic Cruise

A classic cruise experience.

Just as enjoyable as the excursions ashore is the time spent at sea. With all Transatlantic cruises beginning or ending stateside, cut down on air travel and spend more time luxuriating in the ship’s amenities en route to your destinations. Our itineraries were crafted to maximize time at sea with unique port visits, giving you ample time to relax on board and adventure on land. Experience the best of both worlds with Princess.

Transatlantic excursions

Our award-winning Transatlantic cruise shore excursions bring you up close to ancient history, cultures and architecture. Live like a royal in England, uncover medieval mysteries in Scotland and venture to geothermal wonders in Iceland. Or sip flavorful wines while overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. With ports that change every year, experience all the best destinations on a Transatlantic cruise with Princess.

Transatlantic Cruise Onboard Experience

Curated comfort, world-class entertainment and international flavors await you.

On Transatlantic cruises, indulge in international flavors and world-class entertainment – like Broadway-style productions and an onboard casino – without ever leaving the ship. Unwind with comfortable stateroom accommodations and refreshing spa treatments, and feel at home with Princess’ signature service. No matter the ship or itinerary you choose, experience the best of ocean travel with Princess.

Accommodations

Your home away from home

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Flavors that inspire

From the spice of Moroccan tagine to the sweetness of Greek Baklava, Europe’s flavor profile is incredibly diverse. On a Transatlantic cruise with Princess, taste the best of the Europe on board with specialty dining. Enjoy lunch at a British-style pub and try English favorites like bangers and mash or shepherd's pie. Or savor hearty Italian pastas at Sabatini’s℠ Italian Trattoria and top it off with homemade gelato.

Entertainment

Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Celebrations & Romance

Love blooms on the love boat

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the alluring cities and charming countryside of Europe. While on board your European cruise, we cater to your sentimental side with private dining on your balcony — like breakfast for two or a sunset dinner — honeymoon packages, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Ships sailing transatlantic cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Transatlantic cruise.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

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Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

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Looking for a cruise vacation from Southampton? Set sail to Canada, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Florida and around the British Isles with Princess Cruises.

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Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. The best part is, their services are completely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Europe Connections

See Europe through our guests’ eyes.

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Transatlantic Cruises

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There’s something timeless about a transatlantic cruise as you’re swept gently into the rhythm of the waves, sunrises and sunsets, relaxing days on deck, and elegant evenings. With time to commune with the sea and immerse yourself in the buzz of life on board, from gourmet dining to glittering entertainment, a cruise across the Atlantic is the ultimate indulgence. 

Each voyage begins and ends with thrilling experiences in port, whether you’re exploring some of Europe’s most historic cities or basking on Bermuda’s pink sand beaches.

Featured Transatlantic Cruises

Cruises from europe to florida.

Sail on a transatlantic voyage from Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon, or Southampton to Florida. En route, you’ll stop at sub-tropical Bermuda, filled with pretty villages and palm-fringed beaches. In Ponta Delgada in the volcanic Azores, you can explore blue-green crater lakes, admire colorful Portuguese colonial architecture, and experience some of the world’s most exciting whale watching.

Cruises From Florida to Europe

Head east from Florida to the Mediterranean, with long, dreamy days at sea before arriving in charming Cartagena, dotted with awe-inspiring Roman ruins. Or follow a course to northern Europe to the stately castles and friendly pubs of Ireland, the rolling countryside of southern England, and the elegant boulevards and world-famous galleries of Paris.

Cruises to South America

Crossings between Europe and South America promise leisurely days to unwind by the pool or in The Spa, and to while away evenings indulging in award-winning dining and dazzling entertainment. In South America, you’ll trace the verdant east coast, with time in seductive Rio de Janeiro, elegant Montevideo, and sultry Buenos Aires, home of the tango, and excellent steaks.

View Popular Transatlantic Cruise Destinations

Buenos Aires

Fort Lauderdale

Ponta Delgada

Rio de Janeiro

Royal Naval Dockyard

Southampton

Find Your Perfect Transatlantic Cruise

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Transatlantic Ships

Transatlantic Shore Excursions

Why Cruise Across the Atlantic With Celebrity Cruises

Experience a transatlantic cruise vacation of a lifetime with Celebrity on one of our nine award-winning ships. You’ll enjoy wonderfully relaxing days at sea bookended by some of the world’s most exciting destinations, from the picturesque island of Bermuda to enchanting Lisbon, or fun-filled Amsterdam, where patrician buildings gaze over serene canals.

Relax into the rhythm of life at sea, enjoying the luxurious features of your Celebrity ship. Unwind at the chic Rooftop Terrace and gaze into the infinite blue of the Atlantic from the Magic Carpet® on Edge® Series ships. Sip hand-crafted cocktails in the glamorous Martini Bar. You’ll be delighted at every turn by the attentive service of our crew, and wowed by the sheer variety of things to do on board, from yoga classes to wine tasting from our acclaimed cellar.

Upgrade your experience with The Retreat®, with suite accommodation, gourmet dining in the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat, and access to a stylish private sundeck and elegant lounge. We’ll take care of the details, so you can enjoy your transatlantic vacation to the fullest.

Cross the vast expanse of the Atlantic in a journey from 11 to 16 days at a pace to suit your own style. With nine of Celebrity’s award-winning ships, including all four of the revolutionary Edge-Series making this epic voyage, and multiple departure and arrival ports to choose between, you’ll easily find the perfect transatlantic cruise.

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Top Transatlantic FAQs

What is a transatlantic cruise?

A transatlantic cruise is a voyage that takes you across the Atlantic Ocean. You can sail either eastbound, from Florida to Europe, or westbound, from Europe to Florida. The journey takes between 11 and 16 nights, with several days at sea to relax and enjoy the ship.

What’s the difference between a repositioning cruise and a transatlantic cruise?

A repositioning cruise is a seasonal voyage when a ship makes its way from one cruising area to another, for example, from the Mediterranean at the end of summer to Florida, for the winter Caribbean season. So Celebrity’s transatlantic cruises are in effect repositioning cruises – but not all repositioning cruises cross the Atlantic. Some of our repositioning cruises, for example, sail from the Caribbean to South America, or through the Panama Canal.

When’s the best time to cruise?

Transatlantic cruises with Celebrity take place as the seasons change, so you can either sail eastbound in the spring, or westbound in October and November as the European season winds down. Either is a great time to cruise and enjoy relaxing days on board as your ship sails across the Atlantic.

How long does a transatlantic cruise take?

Celebrity’s transatlantic cruises take from 11 to 16 nights. Some voyages stop at several different ports along the way, which is why they are longer. Typically, though, an 11-night voyage will spend seven days at sea, with stops in the mid-Atlantic Azores islands and Bermuda’s Royal Naval Dockyard. These days at sea are a wonderful opportunity to commune with the ocean and enjoy the many amenities of your Celebrity ship.

Do I need a passport and/or a visa?

Yes, you do need a passport for transatlantic cruises. It is the responsibility of each guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available at the pier when necessary. Before your cruise, familiarize yourself with the required travel documents you will be asked to provide prior to boarding the ship. You’ll find more information here . 

The vast majority of countries visited by European cruises do not require a visa. From 2024, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens will be required to register for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter 30 European countries. 

This will be easy to apply for, inexpensive, and is simply a pre-authorization system similar to the ESTA that Europeans need to travel to the U.S. and Canada. Once you have the ETIAS, it will be valid for three years. You should make sure you have at least six months before your passport expires, too.

What itineraries are available?

Celebrity offers a wide choice of transatlantic itineraries. European departure ports include Barcelona, Rome (from Civitavecchia), Lisbon, and Southampton, England. These cruises sail to or from Tampa and Fort Lauderdale. 

The shortest cruise is from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale, an 11-night journey with stops in the volcanic Azores, Bermuda, and Nassau in The Bahamas. In the opposite direction, from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon, you’ll stop at Bermuda, the Azores, and Porto, Portugal. 

A longer, 13-night westbound crossing from Barcelona takes you to Valencia, Málaga, and Gibraltar before heading out into the ocean. If you have more time, you could choose a 16-night crossing from Rome to Tampa, which starts off with a leisurely tour of the Mediterranean, visiting Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Cartagena, and Málaga, with further stops at Ponta Delgada in the Azores and Nassau.

What onboard activities and entertainment can I expect during sea days?

You’ll find a wonderful choice of activities during the sea days of your transatlantic cruise. Relax by the pool or join a workout class in the Fitness Center. Listen to live music, get competitive at a quiz, or try a wine tasting. Indulge in all the different restaurants on board, which range from poolside made-to-order burgers and salads to delicious sushi, contemporary Italian, and clean cuisine in Blu. Take in the endless ocean views from the Magic Carpet on Edge-series ships, and on Solstice-series ships, lie back on the soft grass of the Lawn Club or challenge friends to a game of croquet.

Elevate your experience at The Retreat® , which gives you suite accommodation and access to a luxurious lounge as well as the fine dining restaurant Luminae at The Retreat.

What should I pack for a transatlantic cruise?

You’ll need clothing appropriate to the season for the ports of call you’ll visit on your transatlantic cruise. For example, pack swimwear and beach outfits for Nassau and Bermuda, and comfortable day wear for sightseeing in Europe in the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant but not overly hot. Pack walking shoes if you want to explore the Azores, which is a great place for hiking. Binoculars are a good idea for spotting marine life from the ship; the Azores in particular has abundant whales and dolphins.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through cover-ups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the theater. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip-flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features at least one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

How do transatlantic cruise prices compare to traditional cruises?

Because they generally feature fewer ports of call, transatlantic cruises can be a chance to enjoy a longer cruise for a great price. This presents the perfect opportunity to upgrade your experience. Book an all Included cruise fare , which means drinks and Wi-Fi are covered. Or choose The Retreat for accommodation in a beautiful suite and access to exclusive dining and lounge spaces.

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What Is A Transatlantic Cruise?

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Transatlantic Europe Cruises

Our transatlantic cruises go sail to both seldom-visited and iconic European and American destinations, true hidden treasures that offerlike Athens, Barcelona, and Key West, where so much to dounique experiences and immersive shore excursions await. But it’ is also the journey that makes a transatlantic cruises so special, as you join centuries of nautical history and become very familiar with the sea. Gaze at the stars or watch the sun set over the horizon; you’ll feel like you have the ocean all to yourself on our perfectly sized ships. UUnwind at the spa, or take in enriching entertainmentlive music, and enjoy carefully crafted culinary experiences aboard our perfectly-sized shipsthat deepens your understanding of the places you visit. Take a round-trip transatlantic cruise or go from one continent to the other and then explore on your own time. Welcome to the cruise of a lifetime.

Explore Transatlantic Cruise Ports

(Civitavecchia) Rome, Italy

Architectural treasures abound here, where the glory that is Rome spans more than two thousand years. Walk in the footsteps of emperors and saints. Make a wish at Trevi fountain. Climb the Spanish Steps and treat yourself to a gelato al limone.

(Cádiz) Seville, Spain

Over the centuries, Moorish and Spanish cultures have intermingled in Andalucía to spectacular effect. Explore the results in Seville Cathedral and the magnificent Alcazar. Then head to a wine cellar to sample the region’s legendary sherry.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a trove of architectural treasures. Explore the city’s exquisite landmarks, including the Tower of Belém, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Jerónimos Monastery. Venture beyond to Sintra, dubbed “a glorious Eden” by Lord Byron.

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Start your transatlantic cruise in Fort Lauderdale. Relax and explore the city while gliding down the New River in a gondola. Take an airboat ride through the Everglades. Discover the chic cafés and galleries of Las Olas Boulevard.

Head East or West on Your Transatlantic Cruise

Journey West to the New World

Voyage East to the Old Continent

150th anniversary sailings.

Join us on anniversary cruises that commemorate the maiden voyage of the original Rotterdam I. We’ve re-created these historic sailings exactly 150 -years later with calls in Plymouth, United Kingdom, and New York City.

Transatlantic Cruise Onboard Experience

Your ship becomes a second home on transatlantic cruises. Relish in sumptuous staterooms and suites, and an immersive experience with engaging presentations and plenty of live music options. Live the good life on these incredible voyages.

Perfectly Sized for the Passage of Time

Dining Experiences

Onboard Entertainment

Transatlantic cruise ships.

Nieuw Statendam

This modern ship fills every day with dramatic beauty. The second in the line of our Pinnacle-class ships, it draws inspiration from musical instruments. Enjoy many entertainment options, including the two-level World Stage.

Blissfully glide from continent to continent aboard Rotterdam, our newest ship. With exquisite dining, innovative entertainment, and luxurious staterooms and suites, Rotterdam is the soundtrack to your transatlantic discoveries.

A recent update with new bar, entertainment, and dining venues and completely reimagined staterooms makes Oosterdam an excellent choice for your transatlantic cruise. Find out why Oosterdam has won multiple “Best Ship” awards.

Self-Care on Sea Days

A transatlantic cruise means plenty of time for you to take care of you. Unwind with a massage, get a new hairstyle, or take a fitness class.

Spa Services

Full Service Salon

Whether you want a new look for a night on the ship or just a simple touch-up, our professional and creative stylists can help.

Thermal Suite

Pamper yourself with soothing heat. Warm up on a heated lounge chair, step into the sauna, and take a dip in the hydro pool.

Fitness Class

Keep it moving on leisurely sea days at our Fitness Center. Take an indoor cycling or yoga class. Or go at your own pace with cardio and weight machines.

Body Treatments

Treat yourself and nourish your body with stone-therapy, acupuncture, and solution focused messages.

Manicure Pedicure

Fresh nails are always a good idea. Get Gala-ready with manicures and pedicures.

Leave the stress behind with massages that use time-honored techniques from around the globe.

Men's Grooming Services

If you feel scruffy at sea, relax with a facial cleansing treatment, shave, manicure, or other men’s grooming service.

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My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Best Transatlantic Cruise Tips for the Boomer Traveler

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Are you looking for Transatlanic cruise tips from a boomer travel writer who’s been there and done that? You’ve come to the right place. I’ve traveled on 5 of them!

What is the best Transatlantic cruise and will we like it? At My Itchy Travel Feet, readers ask us that question a lot. 

Since Alan and I have cruised on five Atlantic crossings—Regent (Voyager and Navigator), Silversea ( Silver Sprit and Silver Wind) and Seabourn ( Sojourn )—our answer is a resounding YES!

In fact, we’ve gathered our experiences to create the best transatlantic cruise tips for you. Like you, through the years, we’ve had many questions about transatlantic cruises. Sorting through ours, and anticipating yours, here are 10 questions to ask before booking a Transatlantic Cruise.

Table of Contents

What IS a Transatlantic Cruise?

Basically, a Transatlantic cruise is a repositioning cruise that crosses the Atlantic Ocean. They most often occur in the fall and spring, when cruise lines are relocating ships from one region of the world to another.

In the fall, cruise lines send their ships from Europe, usually the Mediterranean (but not always), to the Caribbean or eastern United States . Spring crossings reverse the process with ships sailing from the eastern U.S. or Caribbean to Europe.

Which are the best transatlantic cruise ships?

Step onboard Seabourn, Silversea, or Regent for an all-inclusive, luxurious journey across the Atlantic. If you’ve ever wondered about cruising on a luxury ship , this can be a more affordable way to find out if luxury cruising is for you.

Well-heeled travelers will find luxury transatlantic cruises usually offered at discounted prices. However this is not always the case. Cruise lines are currently seeing high numbers of bookings in 2023 (and predicted to be the same in 2024 and 2025 due to pent up demand).

If you are looking for value combined with small ship experiences, consider Viking, Azmara, or Oceania.

You’ll find plenty of  large cruise ships with transatlantic cruise routes, too. If your idea of cruise travel is a big ship with plenty of things to do and prices offering an economy of scale (as in budget-friendly), consider: Princess , Norwegian, Holland America, Celebrity , MSC or Royal Caribbean.

Even Disney offers an Atlantic cruise, although I’m not sure that children would enjoy six days at sea. But, then again, it’s Disney and the company is a master at entertainment.

However, I’d recommend skipping a multigenerational Atlantic crossing. There are many other cruise locations such as Alaska that would be more enjoyable for a multigenerational cruise with the kids. And Alaska cruise excursions , especially, are filled with fun things to do.

Boomer Travel Tip

In today’s travel climate, trip insurance is a must. Compare policies and rates at InsureMyTrip .

What time of year is best for an Atlantic Crossing?

Travelers on a fall transatlantic cruise enjoy an extra hour of sleep almost every night as the ship travels east to west. Yay! More time to enjoy long dinners, great entertainment, and a few nights of late dancing.

Of course the reverse is true for spring Atlantic crossings where an hour is lost each day.

Alan and I definitely prefer fall for those extra hours of sleep. And the long voyage is a good way to relax after a couple of weeks exploring Europe , which we prefer to do in the fall.

Which route should I choose for crossing the Atlantic?

You’ll discover more variation in Atlantic cruise routes than you would expect. Consecutive sea days vary between 6 to 8 days (sometimes less on the northern route) and usually includes several ports of call either at the end or beginning of the cruise. Expect the entire itinerary to last between 14 to 21 days.

North Atlantic crossing

These cruise itineraries usually travel from the United Kingdom to New York City. Or there are cruises that sail between Iceland and the U.S., with off-the-beaten-path ports in Canada .

In both cases, you’ll experience fewer sea days and the possibility of stormier seas in the North Atlantic. If you like lots of sea days, or if you really need sunshine by the ship’s pool, a north Atlantic voyage may not be the cruise itinerary for you.

The Cunard ship Queen Mary 2 offers regular service between New York City and Southhampton. More of a voyage than a cruise, there are no ports and dress tends to be formal. But it’s an economical way to avoid costly international flights between Europe and North America .

Middle Atlantic itinerary

The most typical Atlantic crossing routes are ones that sail between the Mediterranean and Florida (Ft. Lauderdale or Miami), or the Caribbean. Four of our five Atlantic crossings have been on a route from Rome , Nice, or Lisbon to Ft. Lauderdale.

Even on fall crossings, we’ve found the weather to be mild enough to enjoy the outside decks. Most fall itineraries travel late enough in the season that hurricanes aren’t an issue. And the only truly stormy crossing we’ve experienced was in the spring from Ft. Lauderdale to Monaco.

South ern Atlantic cruise crossing

Sailing from Africa to South America is not a typical route but some cruise lines do offer it on occasion. We cruised from Cape Town, South Africa, to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, after a South African safari . Ports included Namibia and St. Helena .

Of course this itinerary requires two long international flights to and from the United States. But it’s a fun way to travel between the continents of Africa and South America . And the weather tends to be warm and sunny.

MedjetAssist Members who are hospitalized 150 miles from home receive medical transport to a home-country hospital of choice. Memberships from $99 .

How much does a transatlantic cruise cost?

Traditionally, cruising on a transatlantic crossing offers special pricing, sometimes as low as 50% off or as a 2-for-1 fare. Since you’re saving money, this may be the perfect time to move up to that luxury cruise line that you’ve had your eye on. And it’s also a good opportunity to experience a series of days at sea, especially if you are considering longer cruises in the future.

Beware of cruise lines selling Atlantic cruise fares that seem too good to be true. They probably are.

Many mainline cruise companies offer inexpensive cabin fares. After factoring in the cost for all the extras like alcoholic beverages, water, special dining surcharges or tips, and you may be paying much more than intended.

You can also use Atlantic crossing cruises as transportation to or from Europe, reducing the number of international flights needed for the trip. I don’t know about you, but Alan and I are always happy to avoid international flights whenever possible.

We also like the idea of adding a land trip to the beginning of the journey. Keep reading to discover our thoughts on that.

Should I add a land excursion to a Transatlantic cruise?

I highly recommend adding a land excursion to a Transatlantic cruise itinerary. This is one reason that Alan and I prefer fall crossings. We enjoy exploring Europe by land then hopping on a ship to cross the Atlantic.

Twice, we’ve toured Italy with Claudio Fontana of A La Carte Italy Tours. After roadtripping around northern Italy or southern Italy , Claudio drove us to Civitavecchia, where we boarded a cruise ship. And our cruise luggage traveled along with us!

After enjoying several more Mediterranean cruise excursions , it was time to rest and relax on the long ride home across the Atlantic. We can’t think of a better travel combination.

One spring, we tried another version to a crossing by adding a cruise segment to the Ft. Lauderdale to Monaco itinerary. The seven additional days, Monaco to Rome, introduced us to ports in Corsica, Sardinia and Sicily—the cruise excursion to Selinunte was amazing—before ending at Civitavecchia.

How early should I book a Transatlantic cruise to Europe (or back to the USA)?

If you’re picky about cabin location, book your Atlantic crossing cruise sooner rather than later. But if location on the ship doesn’t matter to you, this is one time when waiting closer to sailing will work—and possibly save you money on a cruise deal .

On many of the other cruises that Alan and I take, the ship is booked up fairly early. But that’s not the case for most Transatlantic cruises. And you might find last-minute savings.

Just remember to check flight availability before committing to the cruise. Kayak is a good place to start your research .

Are you planning a cruise? Use our Luxury Cruise Travel Planner to begin your research.

And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance when making the final payment. We prefer policies that cover pre-existing conditions for the transatlantic traveler and immediate family members. This is especially important if you have elderly parents. InsureMyTrip is a good website to compare insurance quotes .

We also don’t leave home before making sure that our medical evacuation membership with Medjet Assist is up-to-date. It saved us thousands of dollars during my medical emergency in Switzerland .

Of course these days, it’s imperative to educate yourself about cruise cancellation policies as well as medical requirements for boarding. Since these vary and seem to change with the wind, consult your cruise line or travel advisor for the most up-to-date information. Ask to see policies in writing and keep them with your records, just in case.

Will I be bored on ocean crossing cruises?

Many boomer travelers are afraid they’ll be bored on an itinerary with lots of sea days. That hasn’t been our experience. In fact, there’s almost too much to do with lectures, fitness or language classes, dance lessons, cooking demonstrations , socializing with other guests, and nightly entertainment.

Alan and I especially enjoy the opportunity to step away from the Internet (although it’s available) to slow down and relax. We also find the atmosphere on a crossing more conducive to meeting new people. Without as many busy port days, there’s time for long dinner conversations or staying up late after the show for dancing.

Will I get seasick on a cruise across the Atlantic?

You might. I sometimes do if the seas are rough. It helps to have a strategy:

• Choose a larger ship. Our spring crossing on Silver Wind was especially rough. And I should have known better than to choose such a small ship to cross the Atlantic. I do not have too much of a problem with slightly larger ships—350 passengers and above.
• Choose a midship cabin on a lower deck for the most stability. Our Medallion Suite on Silver Wind (fabulous, by the way) was up high and toward the front. Not good for such stormy seas, so I found a midship seating area on a lower deck for reading or working on the computer.
• Have a plan of action. I wear sea bands when I first board the ship, until my body has adjusted to the movement. I put them on again if seas become rough. If I’m still having issues, I rely on ginger capsules, gingerale or candied ginger from the ship’s restaurant to settle my stomach. I might also move up to a more advanced motion sickness band . If those strategies don’t work, I take meclizine that I purchase from the pharmacist before leaving home—but ask your doctor, first.
• Some cruisers have success wearing seasickness patches but I don’t care for the side effects that they give me.
• And if all else fails, visit the ship’s doctor for even stronger medication (although this might be a charge to your shipboard account).

Do I need to pack formal clothes for Transatlantic ship travel?

My answer: that depends. First, the cruise line that you choose may or may not have formal nights.

Second, even if there are formal nights, getting dressed up is easy to avoid by choosing alternate restaurants on nights when the dress code is formal. But you’ll be missing a lot of fun.

Alan and I enjoy dressing for formal night. In fact, it’s one of the reasons that we enjoy luxury cruises. At home, we wear sweatshirts, t-shirts and jeans most of the time.

Dressing up provides a change of pace. And it’s easy to do without over packing. How many formal nights will there be? That depends on the cruise ship but generally speaking expect 3 to 4 formal nights on an 18-night itinerary.

My best cruise fashion tip: Don’t let formal night scare you off. Follow my tips for what to wear on a luxury cruise .

Glitzy separates for women make it simple to mix and match outfits. Or go all outfit with a new formal wear outfit .

Men have it easy. Bring a tuxedo or suit with a tie and you’re set no matter how many formal nights are on your Atlantic itinerary.

And if you’re the carryon only type of flyer, ship your luggage to the cruise . This works especially well if you’re planning a land adventure beforehand. And, as we age, it’s also less wear and tear on the body, especially if you tend to check luggage that weighs 50 lbs or more.

Best Transatlantic cruise tips for planning your trip

That Atlantic crossing deal you just found is only as good as the entire cost of the voyage. What do I mean? The trip will usually involves a one-way international air ticket and those can be pricey, especially if you travel business class. Here’s how we do it:

• Start with a search to determine the airline, schedule and itinerary that’s best for us.
• Check to see if using airline miles is a workable option. It rarely is for us.
• Determine if we will save money by booking the international portion of the ticket to or from a major city near our home rather than from the small airport where we live.
• Ask our travel advisor to price out the itinerary that we’ve chosen with what the cruise line is offering for air so that we can compare prices.
• Budget the cost of traveling to and from the airport. Will we be using the long-term parking lot, renting a car or hiring a car and driver during any portion of the journey?
• Factor in the cost of hotels on the front or back end of the trip. These days, with the unreliability of air travel, it’s especially important to arrive at your embarkation location a day or two ahead so that you don’t miss the ship. Start your hotel search here .

Did I answer all your questions about a Transatlantic voyage? It’s truly a travel experience that is more about the journey rather than the destination. I hope you’ll give it a try!

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What’s a TransAtlantic Cruise Really Like?

Last Updated on August 12, 2018

Are you wondering what’s a transatlantic cruise like? I’ve just returned from a transatlantic cruise with my kid and I’m sharing my experience and some tips here on transatlantic repositioning cruises.

Table of Contents

My Experience on a Transatlantic Cruise

What’s a transatlantic cruise, where does a transatlantic cruise go, why travel on a transatlantic cruise, how much does a transatlantic cruise cost, what are the extra charges, what to do on a transatlantic cruise, what kind of people do you find on a transatlantic cruise, is a transatlantic cruise suitable for kids, how’s the food on the transatlantic cruise, how’s the service on the transatlantic cruise, do people get sick on the transatlantic cruise, would you recommend a transatlantic cruise, do your research, bring entertainment, pack carefully, know the dress code, pack seasickness medication, set your time.

Before my recent transatlantic journey with my 3-year-old daughter, I was honestly worried that I wouldn’t enjoy the trip.   I knew my daughter would love the transatlantic cruise — with all the kid-friendly amenities — but I didn’t know if I would enjoy cruise travel. I have mix feelings towards cruise travel, having been on a Mediterranean cruise which I didn’t like, and expedition cruises to Antarctica , the Arctic and Alaska which I absolutely loved.

As it turned out, the transatlantic experience was pretty disappointing. I’d perhaps romanticised the whole idea of crossing the Atlantic Ocean — it was nothing as dreamy or adventurous as I’d imagined. My transatlantic cruise with Costa Cruises was similar to those typical holiday cruises, where all people did was sunbath, eat, drink, dance, sleep and repeat. While we did enjoy our stops in the Caribbean, we found the transatlantic voyage itself (crossing the ocean for six days straight with no land in sight) rather boring and meaningless.

Read on to learn more about our transatlantic cruise experience and why it didn’t turn out to be how I’d imagined it to be.

As its name implies, a transatlantic cruise is a cruise that crosses the Atlantic Ocean, either from Europe to the Americas or in the other direction. Many cruise companies do such journeys at the start and end of each season. I traveled with Costa Cruises, an Italian cruise line that usually travels from Europe to the Caribbean in November and returns to Europe around May or June.

On these transatlantic journeys, most of the time is spent at sea, with no land in sight. Our cruise took six days to cross the Atlantic. Six full days with no stops and nowhere else to go can be hard. It felt like being in prison, except that the prison was luxurious and fed us well. There were pools, jacuzzis, activities and kids’ facilities, but things got old pretty fast.

As transatlantic journeys are longer and more expensive than standard cruise trips, there are usually less people on the cruise during these voyages. Our vessel, Costa Pacifica, has the capacity to take 3,078 passengers and 1,078 crew, but it was only half full during our transatlantic voyage. I already felt suffocated with so many people around all the time and so little personal service — I cannot imagine how it would be at its maximum capacity.

Some cruise voyages add on stops at the start or/and end of the trip so you get to visit some islands and do a bit of traveling. Our 14-day cruise started in Guadeloupe and took us to three different Caribbean islands (St Lucia, St Vincent and Barbados) at the start of the voyage and three different parts of Spain (Tenerife, Malaga and Barcelona) at the end. We had fun at all our stop and definitely enjoyed every single port we stopped at.

St Lucia was my favorite stop as we got to see the rainforests, hills and volcanoes of the island. It was very diverse and surprising, definitely nothing I’d expected. Barbados was quite disappointing as I didn’t imagine it would be so developed, with so many fancy mansions (including Rihanna’s) and condominiums. On Tenerife, I was thrilled to be able to go all the way up to the peak of El Teide (at 3,700m) on cable car with Kaleya. It felt like an adventure, climbing up all that altitude in such a short time, especially with a small kid like her but we both loved it! 

I booked the transatlantic cruise for a few reasons. Firstly I found a ridiculously cheap deal: the 14-day cruise only cost me 250 euros (US$305) per person, for an oceanfront room and all meals included.

I’ve traveled quite extensively in the Caribbean and I know going from one island to another can be expensive (only via flights or luxury yachts) so this would be a good way to see four on one trip. With just one day on each island, we would be barely scratching the surface, but we could get a taste and return for longer trips in future.

I also wanted to do a mother-daughter trip with Kaleya somewhere warm, and a cruise seemed like an easy and comfortable way to let her have fun and give myself some downtime. We really needed some sun and warmth after spending the past few months in cold Amsterdam and taking winter trips to Slovakia and Ukraine.

Plus, a transatlantic voyage sounded like an epic journey and a rite of passage for any traveler. Crossing the Atlantic on cruise would give us the chance to relive history and experience the passage that migrants took in the 19th and 20th centuries on steamships. 

I met plenty of people on the cruise who were avid cruisers who have cruised around the world. A Tranatlantic journey was the goal for most of those who love cruising. As one of them shared with me, “They say that you haven’t really cruised until you’ve crossed the Atlantic on a cruise.”

Our 2-week cruise trip cost me only 250 euros (US$305)  per person including taxes. I was lucky enough to nab a promo fare via fly4free.com , most people paid 3-5 times of what we did.

Compulsory service charge, which had to be paid at the end of the cruise, was 10 euros (US$12) /person/day. Kids don’t have to pay. In total, it added up to 140 euros (US$170).

All meals were covered, including the excellent breakfast buffets, lunches and gourmet style dinners in their fancy restaurant, water during meals, and juice at breakfast.

Most of the cruise facilities are free for everyone to access — including the slide, jacuzzi, swimming pools (one is for adults only), gym, kids club, and nightly entertainment. Spa, yoga sessions, laundry, ice cream and some sweet snacks come with an extra charge.

That’s the thing: even though I paid so little for our cruise fare, I soon realized that there were lots of extra charges once on board. 

Firstly, all drinks (except water and coffee/tea) come with a charge. The prices are pretty ok for wine and beer (around 5 or US$7) but cocktails are expensive, at 16 euros or US$18 each.

Most people get drink packages (there were four, offering different privileges). I got the Brindiamos package, which cost 338 euros (US$413) and included free flow of wine, juices and beer at meals, non-alcoholic mocktails and certain long drinks.

Internet is not too expensive and works even in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. A social media package costs 5 euros (US$7) per day for unlimited usage (which was pretty worthwhile) and a 500mb internet pack costs 47 euros (US$57). The social media package allowed me to upload photos and videos onto Facebook and Instagram, and make video calls on Whatsapp.

Besides these, the cruise also has two other restaurants where passengers can dine at for extra charges. There’s a staff who goes around during breakfast time to invite people to dine there. There are also cruise photographers who go around taking photos of passengers during dinner. I don’t like the fact that there’s a lot of upselling on the cruise — they’re constantly trying to sell souvenirs, photos, bathrobes, and lots of other stuff.

This totally depends on the cruise line. Our vessel, Costa Pacifica , has quite a lot of amenities: three swimming pools, jacuzzi hot tubs, a big slide, library, plenty of bars, four restaurants, gym, running track, disco club, even a casino and spa. A few of these facilities were only opened for a few hours a day and the pools were either closed or too cold to be used when we were crossing the Atlantic.

For kids, Costa Pacifica has a small playground with a kids’ wading pool, as well as a Peppa Pig themed playroom and a kids club for those aged 3-11. The kids club is opened from 9am to 12 midnight (for real!), with child minders to look after the kids. Some of the staff at the kids club were great, but a few of them looked like they’d rather be somewhere else. I wasn’t happy with their attitude, and stopped leaving Kaleya there after realizing that she was often left to her own defences there.

At the start of the voyage, we enjoyed ourselves at every destination, going out to explore and seeing different things each day. We mostly spent the whole day outside (usually our landings were from 8am to 5pm) and returned to the cruise only in the evenings. But the main challenge came when we were crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Before the trip, I didn’t think it would be a problem but we got bored on day one at sea. Due to the strong winds, the slide and most of the pools were closed. It was still sunny the whole time, so most people sunbathed on the upper deck but I couldn’t do that all day long even if Kaleya wasn’t around.

The cruise organised daily activities, but none of them were my cup of tea. Zumba classes, cooking demonstrations, darts, line dancing, bingo and silly games. Most of the activities catered to older folks, who were the majority anyway. We did enjoy the nightly entertainment in the theatre. They had professional performers and each night was a different show. They ranged from acrobatic shows to pop music displays and singing performances.

I had first learned about transatlantic cruises from friends who recommended them as an interesting and affordable way to get from one continent to another without flying. Most of them were traveling for a few months and found the transatlantic cruises to be a relaxing and unique way to end their journey. I was thus expecting to meet other like-minded travelers like myself, who have chosen an unconventional life. 

But I found that most of the people on our cruise were retirees from France, Italy and other parts of Europe. Many of them didn’t speak any other language besides their own. The majority of the people were above 60 years old. Most people were nice, saying hi and smiling every now and then, but there wer e a few rude and impolite people around.   I saw one older passenger shouting at the top of his voice at the pool attendant and making a scene just because the attendant asked him to get one at the reception.

On the tours we went to (which I regretted signing up for), many of them were pushing and shoving to get onto the bus as if they were afraid to be left stranded on a foreign land. One time, I was carrying Kaleya in my arms and an older man jostled his way past us so hard and hurt Kaleya. That was really shocking behavior.

Most passengers seemed to be ok with having children around, but a few were intolerant and grumpy with kids. I was hissed at by a passenger once because Kaleya was walking slowly and we were in his way. Another French lady shouted at Kaleya and said she shouldn’t be climbing on the theatre seats. There wasn’t any show going on, and I’d brought her to a quiet corner of the theatre so we weren’t disturbing anyone. Kaleya was just being a kid and I didn’t think she was out of line here. 

That said, I did meet a few lovely people onboard who were great. There was a young Brazilian couple with a toddler, who love travel as much as I do; a Dutch couple who shared a few cocktails with me; three Danish families who were spending six weeks in the Americas traveling; and a friendly couple from Martinique who sat next to us every night at dinner.

It was definitely very easy to travel with Kaleya on a cruise. Being on a floating hotel for two weeks meant that we ate and slept at the same place and had a routine. She slept extremely well (perhaps lulled to sleep by the hypnotic movement of the ship) and ate very healthy and balanced meals. I definitely see the draw of cruise travel for families with kids.

In general, young kids like Kaleya flourish with routines. Cruises definitely make it easy for them to have a routine, plus there are lots of kids-oriented facilities on board. We’ve traveled lots with Kaleya — She’s been to almost 30 at the age of 3 — and can say that cruising has been the easiest travel experience I’ve had with her to date. Even though I was traveling solo with Kaleya, I didn’t find it challenging at all.

On our cruise, there were only a handful of families with children. I would estimate a total of 20 kids. Only a few of them were around Kaleya’s age and none of them spoke English or Spanish. Although she didn’t have any problems playing with kids whom she couldn’t communicate with, the parents weren’t quite as friendly mainly because of the language barrier. I did end up becoming good friends with the Brazilian couple and their adorable son, Daniel, also loved hanging out with Kaleya.

Food on our cruise was probably my favorite part of the journey. The cruise line is Italian, and you can always trust the Italians to have the best food. The buffet breakfast was outstanding, with a huge spread of pastries, American breakfast and fresh fruit and yogurt. The breakfast spread was opened till late, and snacks too were available throughout the day.

Lunch was available at both the buffet diner and the restaurant. The buffet was surprisingly excellent: it was different everyday and the quality of the food was very high. They ranged from handmade mozzarella to fresh pasta, grilled steak, lamb fillet, fried fish, squid, steamed mussels, seafood rice, and lots of cakes and fruit. The menu at the restaurant changes everyday too and serves mostly Italian dishes.

I looked forward to dinner at Restaurant New York New York every night. Each meal was divine, and absolutely surprising and impressive. The restaurant was run very well, and our food was always delivered fresh and piping hot. We usually had three courses, with an appetiser like squid salad or Italian parma ham to start off, then a main course like lamb shank, grilled shrimp or beef steak, followed by dessert.

Everyone was assigned a table and a restaurant and each night we would sit at the same table for dinner. Our waiter, Florante from the Philippines, was brilliant. He got to know our preferences pretty well and he always made sure to have a dish of olives for Kaleya before we even got there.

The crew on Costa Pacifica were great — they did their job well and made our journey a very comfortable one. I really liked our cabin stewart Hoirul and restaurant waiter Florante, who often went above and beyond to make our experience positive. They were also really friendly to Kaleya and it made her feel special, and that meant the world to me.

I did notice that some bar staff didn’t look too excited about their jobs though. It was understandable, considering their long hours and being away from family for so long. The crew usually worked eight months straight, with no rest day or break in between. They also worked really long hours, with very little sleep. I don’t understand how that is legal since most European countries have labor laws enforced to protect employees.

The staff on the cruise is from around the world, though the majority of them are Asians (mainly from the Philippines, India and Indonesia). I’ve seen the same in all the other cruises I’ve been on, including the expedition cruises. To me, it shows third-world exploitation at its worst. While some of the staff told me that they are well paid, I don’t think they are offered fair conditions and working hours. I’m happy that cruises provide so much employment and many of these people are grateful to have jobs that allow them to support families back at home — but they should be treated with respect, and given reasonable working hours and breaks.

The sea condition was generally very calm. We didn’t have big waves at all, throughout the whole journey. The first few days of cruising in the Caribbean was absolutely smooth; We only noticed a bit of rolling when the cruise started crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

I got a bit dizzy on our first day at sea, but I got used to it by day two. Kaleya kept saying she felt perfectly fine, but she refused to eat and do anything basically on day one so I think she was affected too. She was absolutely fine from day two onwards as well. We brought Diamox (seasickness pills) but the cruise provided them for free at the reception.

Whenever we felt the ship’s motion, we would lie in bed and feel better immediately. In fact, the motion was very relaxing and often rocked us to sleep. Our cabin was on the first floor of the ship and we still didn’t feel much rolling. We had great views of the ocean and waves right outside our window.

This experience has shown me that cruise travel is not my cup of tea. I’ll still definitely go on expedition cruises in future as those are educational and filled with adventure, but I don’t think I’ll go on another transatlantic cruise on the same route or with the same company again.

While translantic cruises aren’t for me, that doesn’t mean that it’s not suitable for you. If you’re looking for a completely relaxing experience, then this might be what you’re looking for. Transatlantic cruises with kids are also easy and comfortable, so families who are looking to truly unwind and spend quality time together might like them as well.

I do believe that a transatlantic cruise can be suitable for certain types of people:

• Those traveling for an extended period of time (months or years) and looking for a cheap way to get from the Americas to Europe or vice versa
• Those who absolutely hate flying and have a lot of time on their hand
• Big fans of cruises who enjoy the idea of being pampered and not doing much besides lounging around by the pool

Another thing to note that experiences depend largely on the cruise line and the itinerary. A few bloggers have written about their positive experiences on transatlantic cruises, such as Steve and Amie who cruised on the Queen Mary 2 and World Travel Family who traveled on the Norwegian Epic. Both really enjoyed their transatlantic journeys and one of them have even gone on a second transatlantic cruise after that first experience.

Transatlantic Cruise Tips

My top advice would be to do your research before booking, and read reviews from people who have traveled on the cruise line and even better still, on the same route as the one you’re interested in. Check out cruisecritic.com  to read reviews of the vessel from people who have traveled on it before.

On transatlantic repositioning cruises, you’ll be spending at least six days at sea. Certain cruise lines will add some additional activities to occupy passengers on all those consecutive sea days, but you’ll still find yourself with lots of free time on board. Bring lots of reading materials and toys for your kids. You might want to load up your iPad or Kindle, or pack books you can leave behind once you’ve finished them.

Depending on your itinerary, the weather can be unpredictable. Our Atlantic crossing was in April, so the weather was mild and relatively warm. Even though it was warm sunbathing weather in both the Caribbean and Spain during our visit, it got rather windy and cold when we were in the upper decks during the crossing. If you’re traveling from the UK to New York, or in cooler months, remember to layer up. We also needed our jackets and trekking shoes on the top of Mount Teide on Tenerife.

Most transatlantic cruises have gala evenings (usually at the start and end of the crossing) where guests are expected to dress in formal wear — tux for men and evening gowns for women. I didn’t bother bringing an evening gown, but I did carry a few short dresses. You can’t pop out to a shop if you’ve forgotten to pack a nice dress, though the ship shops will stock formalwear.

Seas can be rough; remember to pack Dramamine. I only used it once, on day one of the crossing. Most ships only offer them at the reception.

This depends on which way you’re traveling on your transatlantic cruise. If you cruise westward like we did, you’ll wind up with a handful of 25-hour days. Going east? You get cheated of an hour, with some 23-hour days. In either case, you get to avoid jet lag on any Atlantic crossing.

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Very interesting. We are a family of 7. 5 kids. I would love a cruise from the US NC to Europe to visit my mom but also to have an unforgetable vacation with my kids and husband. Would you recommend it ? How much time would I have in Germany before returning back to the US ?

hi Virginia, good to hear from you! Well it depends on the ages of your kids and whether you like cruises in general. Have you and your kids traveled on a cruise before? Kids in generally really like cruises, as they usually have kids’ clubs, games and entertainment for them. My 3-year-old daughter loved it. You can absolutely plan the trip yourself and book extra days in Germany before returning to the US. I booked my flights such that I had extra days in Guadeloupe before the cruise. And whether I would recommend it – read the blog post and you’ll know! :)

Omg, you really missed out on the transatlantic cruise experience, we have taken the QM2 about 7-8 times. Love it, my kids love it! My kids have met friends again from previous voyages and they love the time on the ship! We go to the pool, tea time, planetarium, gym, spa etc…we try not to spend crazy amount of money on extra. Food is great, entertainment pretty decent, great people! Great way to go to or back Europe without jet lag, and be pampered before crazy packed “vacation” with European family starts!

hi Catherine, thanks for the comment! Perhaps I should try the QueenMary2 next time! I’m not a cruise fan though – and this trip just made me certain that I don’t really like cruise travel. It’s not the type of travel I enjoy.

You obviously took the wrong cruise and did not research Costa as they tend to be more European than other cruises. I have been on about 10 transatlantic cruise and have found them to be cheaper and they usually have great speakers and things to do

SISSY Pierce

Our family of six, 2 grandparents, our daughter, her husband and 2 kids, girl 8 years and boy 12, cruised from ny city to Southhampton in April of 2018. Norwegian Breakaway, 12 days. Loved it. Going on a similar one in May this year.

Clarence Lundy

Getting ready to take a 25 day transatlantic cruise from Florida to Mediterranean with Holland America. We are both in our 60s and have cruised before. This will be our first transatlantic cruise. I hope we’ll enjoy it.

We have done a transatlantic cruise from Southampton to New York. We loved it!!! We stopped every few days (Scotland, Iceland, New Foundland, Portland and New York). No long stretch without a port and wonderful ports of call. Highly recommend choosing an itinerary you would enjoy. We enjoyed relaxing days at sea, great food and lots of choices for entertainment. We sailed NCL 2017 and loved our trip and look forward to booking our next trip.

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2024 Transatlantic Cruises: Relaxing Days & Diverse Destinations

For some, the allure of cruising stems from exploring diverse ports, each day of their trip offering a new destination. Others relish the journey itself, savouring the ship's luxuries and facilities. Why not experience both? With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can. Consider a Transatlantic cruise , where you'll have plenty of time to relax onboard and enjoy some port days.

Learn more about Norwegian's options for a Transatlantic cruise.

Ready to start planning? Explore all 2024 Transatlantic cruises .

What Makes a Transatlantic Cruise Special?

Transatlantic cruises with Norwegian offer an unmatched experience:

• Setting sail from one continent.
• Crossing the vast Atlantic Ocean.
• Concluding your journey on another continent.

Picture departing from Miami and disembarking in Europe. Alternatively, envision sailing from Barcelona , only to disembark in the United States. Transatlantic cruises are the perfect choice for those who relish their time onboard. Extra sea days mean more opportunities to:

• Experiment with various speciality dining options.
• Timetable relaxing spa treatments.
• Lounge by the pool, soaking up the sun.
• Immerse yourself in vibrant evening activities that you might usually miss after a tiring day of exploration.

Although you'll have plenty of sea days, your Transatlantic cruise will not be short on captivating ports of call. Unlike regional cruises, which usually offer consecutive port days, Transatlantic cruises offer a more relaxed pace. Additionally, these cruises often provide significant savings, as they're typically less costly than other cruises of a similar duration.

Remember, these unique cruises only embark a few times a year, typically during the transition between cruise seasons. As such, the sailings are limited, making these cruises more likely to sell out.

Norwegian's 2024 Transatlantic Cruise Ports of Call

For 2024, we have an exciting range of ports to explore. Here are a few places to see and things to do on a Transatlantic cruise with Norwegian:

Brussels/Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium

Zeebrugge, the port of Bruges , serves as your gateway to the charming cities of Brussels and Bruges. In Brussels, don't miss iconic sights such as the Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its ornate guild houses and the Gothic-style town hall. Meanwhile, stroll through the idyllic, canal-lined streets in Bruges, and taste the famous Belgian chocolates.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is Iceland's capital and the world's northernmost capital city. It boasts a surreal landscape of geothermal hot springs, expansive lava fields, and imposing glaciers. Take advantage of the opportunity to bathe in the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's premier attractions. Or explore the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route featuring the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon enchants travellers with its combination of traditional heritage and striking modernism. Wander through the Alfama district with its Moorish influence, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, or explore the historic Belém Tower. And don't forget to try the delectable Pastéis de Belém, a traditional Portuguese egg tart.

Punta Cana (La Romana), Dominican Republic

Opt for a Transatlantic cruise departing from Puerto Rico, and you'll visit a few spots in The Caribbean before making your way across the Atlantic. One of these is Punta Cana in the La Romana region of the Dominican Republic. This port city has stunning beaches and a vibrant Caribbean vibe. Dive into one of the many water sports, or explore the mesmerising underground caves at the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park. And don't forget to sample the local rum!

Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca is a bustling metropolis combining Moroccan tradition and modernity. Don't miss the chance to visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, or stroll through the old Medina to explore myriad shops and traditional Moroccan architecture.

Arrecife (Lanzarote), Canary Islands

Arrecife (Lanzarote) is a vibrant port city on the island of Lanzarote, Canary Islands. Visitors love its history, stunning beaches, and unforgettable volcanic landscapes. Explore the Timanfaya National Park to marvel at the otherworldly moon-like landscapes created by 18th-century volcanic eruptions, or unwind at the tranquil Playa del Reducto with its golden sand and calm, crystal-clear waters.

RELATED CRUISES: 14-Day Transatlantic From New York to London: France & Ireland 14-Day Transatlantic From Miami to London: France, Spain & Portugal 13-Day Transatlantic From Rome to Orlando: Italy, France & Spain

Rome, Italy

Embark or disembark your cruise in the Eternal City, Rome . This historic city has countless iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the St. Peter's Basilica. Savour delightful Italian cuisine, sip on world-class wines, and lose yourself in the city's romantic atmosphere. Rome is a treasure trove of antiquities and a living testament to thousands of years of civilization.

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Discover the stunning beauty of Ponta Delgada , the heart of tourism in the Azores. This enchanting city offers breathtaking natural landscapes, including the mesmerising volcanic lakes of Sete Cidades and the famous pineapple greenhouses of Faja de Baixo. Witness geothermal activity at the bubbling hot springs of Furnas Valley, and enjoy the scenic views of the largest volcanic crater from the Pico de Ferro viewpoint.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands

Santa Cruz de Tenerife welcomes you with its beautiful beaches and year-round favourable weather. The natural shoreline provides a home for dolphins and pilot whales, whilst the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Cristobal de la Laguna offers a chance to indulge in delicious local wines. Enjoy the vibrant energy of this island city and its captivating natural beauty.

Dublin, Ireland

Experience the lively charm of Dublin , the capital of Ireland. The city offers a blend of rich history and modern dynamism. Whether you're tasting the famous Guinness beer at its brewery or touring the renowned Jameson whiskey distillery, Dublin promises a memorable visit.

Choose your ideal Transatlantic cruise for 2024, and savour the journey across continents with Norwegian and stay updated on the latest deals & offers by signing up for Norwegian's cruise deals .

6 Top Transatlantic Cruises for 2024

T ransatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
• Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

You won't be 'overcrowded by thousands of tourists': What to know about Montreal cruises

• Montreal is the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province.
• The city offers a relatively quaint cruise experience.
• The port welcomed just over 51,000 cruise guests in 2023.

On a recent afternoon, I strolled beside patches of purple flowers on a wooden walkway at the Port of Montreal. The Promenade d'Iberville green roof, with western red cedar decking and more than 24,000 aromatic and flowering plants, was built on top of the city’s main cruise terminal.

The effect was less industrial infrastructure – like many ports – and more charming urban parks.

Montreal may be the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province, but it offers a relatively quaint cruise experience. Bridges between Montreal and Quebec City block vessels with air draft – the distance from the waterline to the highest point on a ship – over 49 meters (or about 161 feet) from berthing at its facilities in Old Montreal.

The ships that visit are generally smaller (though the city can accommodate those with a maximum 50-meter (164 feet) air draft east of the Jacques Cartier Bridge).

“We are positioning Montreal as a niche port for luxury ships,” Yves Gilson, associate director of cruises at the Port of Montreal, told USA TODAY during a visit in May. Here’s what to know about sailing into and out of the city.

The cruise inventory tends to be upscale

Montreal typically welcomes ships carrying 2,000 passengers or less from several upscale cruise lines, which tend to operate ships with lower capacity. Those include Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Viking, Ponant and more. Though not a luxury brand, one of the city’s main clients is Holland America Line, which will send its 1,432-guest Volendam ship there this season.

The port welcomed just over 51,000 cruise guests in 2023. By contrast, its neighbor to the northeast, Quebec City, saw 154,000 passengers . Despite its smaller population, large ships from operators like Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line will visit Quebec City this season (along with smaller vessels).

Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel, added that it’s not just ocean cruise ships that stop in Montreal. “There are river cruises that can get in and out of there as well,” he said.

Gilson noted that the city “could absorb” traffic from bigger ships if not for the bridges. “But on the other hand, the experience for the guest is marvelous because you know they will not be overcrowded by thousands of tourists,” he said.

You can hit the ground walking

The main cruise terminal is close to many of the city’s popular attractions. Old Montreal’s Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica and the Place d’Armes are less than a 10-minute walk away, and numerous restaurants, shops, and museums are also nearby. 

I grabbed a prosciutto sandwich at Italian grocery store Dispensa; ate on a bench outside; picked up a coffee at Cafecito and was able to be at the main terminal within 15 minutes or so on foot while taking in views of the water and architectural landmarks like Habitat 67.

There are also multiple close bicycle rental and Metro stations, and waiting taxis (the port works with software platform, Véco Taxi, which gives priority to electric vehicles).

Gilson said more lines are offering overnight stays in Montreal, giving guests more time to explore.

When is the best time for a Montreal cruise?

Montreal’s cruise season begins in May and ends in October, hitting its peak during the last two months of that period. Feldman said fall foliage is a particular draw for passengers. 

Montreal often features on Canada and New England itineraries alongside ports such as Boston, Massachusetts and Halifax, Nova Scotia. The port’s cruise calendar can be found by clicking here .

The sailings tend to last around 10 to 14 days. “The distances between the ports in this region can be significant and navigation through areas like the St. Lawrence River and around the Gulf of Maine take time,” he said. Passengers on those sailings are looking for a “more immersive experience.”

Would you spend $14,000 on a cruise?: Here's why these travelers splurged

“Longer itineraries allow for more time in each port and often include scenic cruising days,” he added.

Cruise ships have historically avoided the area when cold sets in, but that could soon change: Ponant’s icebreaking Le Commandant Charcot will offer sailings in St. Lawrence in the winter of 2025. While the ship will not visit Montreal due to its size – though it will stop in Quebec City – Gilson hopes it will mark a shift.

“And eventually, we believe that all the cruise lines will get into the St. Lawrence during the winter,” he said. “So, it's gonna be an all-year-round cruise destination.”

The reporter on this story received access to this event from Tourisme Montréal. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Mapped: Top destinations for cruises across the world in 2024

Boatloads of brits are keen to head west for a cruise of the caribbean, article bookmarked.

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A new map has revealed the most popular cruise destinations in each country – and the Caribbean ’s tropical waters floated to the top of the list for seafaring travellers.

Travel insurance company All Clear compiled the map of over 100 cruise destinations from every continent based on Google search volumes between April 2023 and March 2024.

Though ancient harbours in the Mediterranean and frosty drifts past Antarctica ’s icebergs make for impressive cruise itineraries, island-hopping cruises around the Caribbean were found to be the most popular perspective voyage.

For tourists from Lithuania, Sweden, the UK, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius and much of South America , the Caribbean’s paradise islands topped the cruise route wish list.

With over 2.8 million searches in 11 months, holidaymakers seemed keen to explore palm-studded white sand ports, including Disney ’s Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean ’s Perfect Day at CocoCa, as part of their next getaway.

Journeys to see the sundrenched Med and marine life in Alaska were the second and third most searched destinations with 2.1 million and 1.8 million searches respectively.

Mediterranean journeys were found to be particularly alluring to Europeans seeking Spain, France and Italy, while Australians and New Zealanders long to discover Antarctica and the idyllic Maldives presented the biggest draw for Asian travellers.

With new multi-port routes making their maiden voyage each cruise season, setting sail on your choice of the seven seas has risen in popularity.

According to research from the insurance provider, 66 per cent of Brits are considering a cruise for their next trip overseas as demand for the all-inclusive holidays on the water spikes.

Letitia Smith, head of communications at AllClear, said: “It’s fascinating to see the number of travellers eager to set sail on unforgettable journeys around the world’s oceans, seas, and rivers.

“From the beautiful islands of Greece to chilly Antarctica, it’s been fantastic to see such a rise in interest in cruising holidays taking place all over the world in recent years.”

Top 20 most searched for cruises worldwide 2024

• Caribbean Cruise – 2,824,180
• Mediterranean Cruise – 2,146,670
• Alaska Cruise – 1,804,940
• Nile River Cruise – 1,025,830
• Antarctica Cruise – 969,670
• Seine River Cruise – 695,040
• Norwegian Fjords Cruise – 674,230
• Danube River Cruise – 548,840
• Mississippi River Cruise – 462,580
• Hawaii Cruise – 454,670
• Around The World Cruises – 424,920
• Rhine River Cruise – 416,320
• Greek Isles Cruise – 409,470
• Douro River Cruise – 363,060
• Panama Canal Cruise – 342,420
• Transatlantic Cruise – 339,180
• Northern Lights Cruise – 300,150
• Great Lakes Cruise – 168,580
• Baltic Sea Cruise – 153,360
• Maldives Cruise – 152,550

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9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

Read: Crystal Symphony Review: First Impressions of Crystal's Revamped Ship

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

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