Exploring Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises
Transatlantic and repositioning cruises are unique opportunities to experience extended time at sea while connecting two continents or regions. These voyages often occur in the spring and fall, when cruise lines move their ships between the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and beyond.
Sailing across the Atlantic lets you enjoy the rhythm of the open ocean, with fewer port days and more time to take advantage of your ship’s amenities. Repositioning cruises, which may cross other regions such as the Pacific or from Asia to North America, combine scenic sea days with select destination stops along the way. If you’re looking for a different kind of cruise—focused on relaxation, enrichment, and the journey itself—these sailings can be a memorable option.
Why Cruise Travel is Ideal for Transatlantic & Repositioning Voyages
Unlike traditional itineraries packed with port calls, transatlantic and repositioning cruises emphasize the onboard experience. With multiple consecutive days at sea, these voyages appeal to travelers who enjoy reading, attending lectures, engaging in enrichment programs, and taking full advantage of dining and entertainment onboard.
Repositioning cruises also allow you to cover large distances while visiting ports not always included in standard itineraries. For example, a spring transatlantic might combine time in the Canary Islands, the Azores, and Lisbon before reaching Barcelona, while a fall sailing may include Madeira or Bermuda on the way to Florida. These voyages can also offer strong value, as longer itineraries with fewer port stops are often priced competitively.
Highlights of Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises
- Extended Time at Sea: Enjoy multiple consecutive days to relax, explore your ship, and settle into a slower pace.
- Unique Ports: Visit less frequently included stops such as the Azores, Canary Islands, Bermuda, or Madeira.
- Enrichment Programs: Take part in lectures, workshops, wine tastings, or cultural performances often offered on these longer voyages.
- Cultural Variety: Experience two distinct regions in one trip—such as North America and Europe, or Asia and North America.
- Value and Length: Many transatlantic and repositioning cruises offer longer itineraries at attractive pricing, giving you more days of travel for your investment.
Itinerary Routes and Ports
Eastbound Transatlantic (Spring): Ships reposition from the Caribbean or Florida to Europe. Ports may include Bermuda, the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Lisbon, or Barcelona.
Westbound Transatlantic (Fall): Ships return from Europe to North America ahead of the Caribbean season. Common stops include the Canary Islands, Madeira, Bermuda, or select Caribbean islands.
Repositioning Cruises Beyond the Atlantic: These can include sailings between Asia and North America (across the Pacific), between Alaska and the West Coast or Asia, or from South America repositioning northward. These itineraries vary widely but often include unique ports and extended sea days.
Best Times to Cruise Transatlantic & Repositioning and Weather Insights
These cruises are seasonal, generally offered in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
Spring Season (Eastbound, March–May): Ships cross from the Caribbean or Florida to Europe. Weather can range from warm (70°F–85°F / 21°C–29°C) at departure to cooler (55°F–70°F / 13°C–21°C) on arrival in Europe. This is a good choice if you want to begin a European vacation after your crossing.
Fall Season (Westbound, September–November): Ships sail from Europe back to the U.S. or the Caribbean. Expect cooler weather in European ports (55°F–70°F / 13°C–21°C) shifting to warmer Caribbean or Florida temperatures (75°F–85°F / 24°C–29°C). Autumn seas can be more variable, but many travelers enjoy the crisp days and quieter ports.
Year-Round Repositioning Cruises: Some repositioning cruises occur outside these windows, such as Pacific crossings (spring or fall) or Alaska repositioning cruises (spring to Vancouver or fall back to California). Temperatures vary widely depending on the region, but the experience remains focused on sea days and unique routes.
If you enjoy relaxing sea days, enrichment activities, and experiencing two distinct regions in one trip, transatlantic and repositioning cruises are well-matched. They are less suited to travelers who prefer daily port calls but are highly rewarding if you want time to unwind, read, attend onboard lectures, or enjoy ship amenities.
