Transatlantic Cruises
Harking back to the majestic golden age of ocean travel, there’s nothing like an iconic transatlantic crossing from Southampton to New York. An incredible no-fly cruise experience, you’ll be able to enjoy visits to the Canaries and Azores before heading south to the Caribbean and other US cities with these voyages.
Transatlantic Cruise Deals
Cruise lines Sailing to Transatlantic
Finding the right transatlantic cruise for you has never been easier; you’ll find a fantastic variety of cruise lines sailing from Southampton and other UK ports towards the Americas – both exquisite luxury lines and those offering more affordable options. With a unique experience and selection of interesting itineraries available with each cruise line, you’re in for a treat whoever you decide to sail with.
Cruise ships sailing to Transatlantic
From elegant ocean liners and smaller luxury vessels to larger cruise ships overflowing with entertainment and excitement, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the cruise ships that cruise to New York and the Americas. Primarily departing from Southampton, you’ll find a fantastic variety of itineraries available aboard an equally excellent selection of ships, meaning you’re certain to find something to suit your preferences and needs when it comes to transatlantic cruises and repositioning cruises involving a transatlantic crossing.
Types of cruises to Transatlantic
While sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is a defining feature of a transatlantic cruise, hence the name, you’ll still find yourself with plenty of options when it comes to the type of cruises you can treat yourself to – and what you do when you’ve sailed across the ocean. From family-friendly adventures with hotel stays in New York to singles cruises that continue on to the Caribbean, a transatlantic cruise can be whatever you want it to be.
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If you’re looking for the ultimate escape with complete relaxation, a transatlantic cruise should be at the top of your list; this is one of the most stress-free ways to enjoy a cruise holiday, and a great chance to enjoy everything a cruise ship has to offer. Cruising the Atlantic Ocean is so much more than just gazing out at the endless horizon; with a myriad of exciting activities and entertainment onboard, coupled with outstanding cuisine and stylish accommodation, you hardly even need to take notice of the outside world!
What is a transatlantic cruise?
An extraordinary way to travel, a transatlantic cruise involves a crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, from east in Europe to destinations like North America and the Caribbean in the west – and vice-versa, of course. The most iconic transatlantic voyage route is from Southampton to New York, but this isn’t the only option.
As the most refined way to cross the Atlantic Ocean, a transatlantic cruise can be enjoyed as a one-way experience with a flight to return, or you can choose a return journey for a fully jet lag-free experience. You’ll also be able to extend your stay in the Americas with hotel stays in major cities and tours – if you’re looking to make the most of this journey.
What is there to do on a transatlantic cruise?
During a transatlantic voyage, you’ll find yourself with plenty of time to enjoy all the entertainment available aboard your cruise ship – with only a few possible stops on your way such as the Canaries, Azores, or even a Bermuda cruise adventure. Cruise ships come well-equipped with entertainment offerings, though, so you’ll be far from bored during your crossing.
If you’d like to enrich your experience, there will be plenty of opportunities to listen to expert lectures and – depending on your sailing – talks from celebrities on interesting subjects like literature, film, and maritime history. Meanwhile interactive entertainment like cooking demonstrations and quizzes are offered daily during your voyage. Some cruise lines even offer things like fencing and ballroom dancing classes!
Alternatively, you can choose to simply sit back and let the days pass you by. With well-stocked libraries, bars and lounges and spas offering massages and treatments, you'll be spoilt for choice onboard your ship.
How long does a transatlantic cruise take?
A transatlantic cruise can last anywhere from 7 nights, to 14 nights for a round-trip. There’s also cruise and stay getaways available, where you can opt to stay in a destination (such as New York) for a few nights before embarking on your transatlantic journey.
What month is best for a transatlantic cruise?
If you're looking for the best time of year to embark on a transatlantic crossing, it's recommended that you go between April and December as this is when the weather is best, particularly around September. If you choose to go on an early or late crossing, the weather can be unpredictable and sometimes foggy, meaning you won't get the best views of the ocean (or the iconic vision of the Statue of Liberty coming into sight as you approach New York).
Transatlantic cruise - what should be in your suitcase?
It will all depend on the time of year that you’re travelling on a transatlantic cruise. In the summer months, you’ll want to pack t-shirts, shorts and layers, with a warm jacket for when you are exploring the exterior of the ship. In the winter, make sure to dress warmly, as the Atlantic Ocean can be wet, windy and cold. Pack trousers, thermal underwear, a winter coat and hats and scarves. To find out more information, see our blog - A Packing Guide for Transatlantic Cruises.
Top Transatlantic Cruise Destinations and Shore Excursions
A transatlantic cruise from Southampton to New York is considered to be the original one way voyage, however, crossings can also be eastbound or include the exciting destinations of Miami and Rio de Janeiro. If you want to experience the ultimate in luxury cruises, indulge in a Cunard transatlantic cruise aboard Queen Mary 2, Cunard's flagship which sets high standards in opulent transatlantic cruising.
Transatlantic cruises to New York
Known as the original transatlantic cruise, this 6-night crossing to the bright lights of New York is still the most popular destination. Offering a wide variety of onboard entertainment, luxury and a taste of tradition, it has something for everyone from couples to families alike. If you choose the round-trip crossing, you can shop til you drop in the Big Apple, safe in the knowledge that there are no baggage limits onboard to hold you back!
Transatlantic cruises to Miami
Visit the fashionable beachside city of Miami, famed for its stunning Art Deco centre and South Beach, with a 10-night Western Transatlantic cruise departing from Dover. To make the most out of your transatlantic crossing and to give you the opportunity to explore more of Miami and nearby Caribbean islands, enjoy a fly and stay Caribbean cruise holiday departing from Miami.
Transatlantic cruises to Rio de Janeiro
If you are looking for adventure from your transatlantic cruise, a 19-night Atlantic crossing to the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo are an ideal choice. Take a shore excursion to discover the gastronomic delights on offer and soak up the regional culture and history in the extensive museums, rich in fascinating local information. Extend your voyage and discover more of Rio de Janeiro and the fascinating country of Brazil with a South American cruise holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest Transatlantic Crossing available right now?
Repositioning crossings on mainstream lines such as Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises tend to be cheaper than Cunard's dedicated crossings. Check current sailings directly with a cruise line or agent for accurate pricing.
What are some tips for a transatlantic cruise?
Pack for changeable weather, bring books or activities for the sea days, and let your body clock adjust gradually with the time-zone changes rather than all at once.
Which ship sails from Southampton to New York?
Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is the only ship still operating dedicated scheduled crossings between the two.
What is the average price for a transatlantic cruise?
A 7-night crossing starts from around £900 to £1,300 per person. Cunard's classic crossings are often priced at a premium to mainstream repositioning sailings.
Is it cold on a transatlantic cruise?
It depends on the season and route. Northern crossings via Iceland or Canada are cold year-round, while southern repositioning routes via the Caribbean or Azores stay milder.
Do transatlantic cruises help avoid jet lag?
Yes. They let your body adjust gradually to time-zone changes over several days at sea, unlike a single long-haul flight.
What is the best month for a transatlantic cruise?
Spring and autumn, particularly April, May, October and November, when ships move between Europe and the Caribbean for the season change.
Which ocean is rougher, Pacific or Atlantic?
The North Atlantic is generally considered rougher, due to its stronger winter storm patterns and swell.
What is a repositioning cruise?
A one-way sailing where a ship relocates between regions for a seasonal change, such as moving from Europe to the Caribbean, often crossing the Atlantic in the process.
Is it worth going on a transatlantic cruise?
Yes. Past passengers rate it well for its relaxed pace, extensive onboard activities and being a jet-lag-free way to cross the ocean.
Which cruise line is best for transatlantic?
Cunard is the standout choice, running Queen Mary 2 on dedicated Southampton-to-New York sailings. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises run seasonal repositioning crossings.
What side of ship is best for a transatlantic cruise?
There's no strong consensus, since the ship faces open ocean for most of the voyage with limited scenery on either side.
How many nights is a transatlantic cruise?
7 to 14 nights or more, depending on the route and number of ports included.
How many sea days are on a transatlantic cruise?
Typically 5 to 8 consecutive sea days with no ports of call.
Where do transatlantic cruises depart from?
Most depart from Southampton or a Mediterranean port for the classic crossing. Repositioning routes also start from Caribbean or Florida ports.
What is the difference between a transatlantic crossing and a repositioning cruise?
A transatlantic crossing is a direct point-to-point sailing, such as Cunard's Southampton-to-New York route. A repositioning cruise is a broader seasonal relocation that may include extra port stops.
What routes do transatlantic cruises take?
A classic Southampton-to-New York crossing, a southern repositioning route via the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Azores, or a northern route via Iceland, Greenland and Canada.
Do transatlantic cruises stop in the Azores or Bermuda?
Yes. Some itineraries include a stop in the Azores or Bermuda, particularly on southern repositioning routes.
What time of year is the Atlantic Ocean the roughest?
Winter, from December to February, when storm activity peaks.
Are transatlantic cruises still a thing?
Yes, they remain popular, both as Cunard's dedicated ocean-liner crossings and as seasonal repositioning sailings on mainstream lines.
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