In an era of fast flights and instant arrivals, slowing down can feel like a luxury. A transatlantic cruise offers a chance to cross the ocean traditionally, with all the comfort and elegance of modern cruising. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about the experience of the journey itself. And for many, a transatlantic cruise is one of the best cruises they’ll ever take.
What is a transatlantic cruise?
A transatlantic crossing cruise is a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, most often between Europe and North America. One of the most iconic examples is the UK to US cruise, typically sailing between Southampton and New York City.
Transatlantic cruises can take various forms. There are two main ways they can be categorised:
A cruise without stops
- Some are repositioning cruises, when ships move between continents at the start or end of the season. Whilst some repositioning cruises have stops, these are usually very limited and the focus is on getting from point A to B.
- The lack of stops means you’ll spend more time on the ship, making the most of the ship’s amenities and activities and the journey will be shorter.
A cruise with stops
- Cruises with stops will likely have shore excursions with optional activities separate from the ship.
- These cruises take longer as there are occasionally overnight stops and less time for the boat to move forward.
How long does it take to sail across the Atlantic?
The length of a transatlantic cruise can vary, depending on a few factors. The most notable of these are the specific itinerary and the type of cruise chosen, as well as whether or not there are scheduled stops along the way.
For example, a direct route, like the Southampton to New York, usually takes 7 nights with no stops in between, offering a quick journey straight to the desired destination. On the other hand, cruises with stops may include ports in the Canary Islands or the Caribbean. These cruises can last two weeks or more and offer a blend of sea days and exploration.
The cruise line and the ship’s speed can also play a role, with some luxury liners offering quicker passages than more leisurely voyages on traditional ocean liners.
Are transatlantic cruises safe?
Safety is a frequent concern for first-timers. So, are transatlantic cruises safe? The clear answer is yes. They are conducted by experienced crews on ocean-rated ships that are fully equipped to handle the open sea.
Modern ships have advanced navigation technologies, stabilisers for rough waters and constant weather monitoring. They also have medically trained staff present around the clock.
For peace of mind, it is advisable to choose an established cruise line with a strong safety record, such as Cunard or Celebrity Cruises. Equally, follow normal health and safety protocols, such as hand washing and hygiene, avoiding overdrinking and bringing any necessary medications.
Why choose a cruise over flying?
While flying takes less than a day, a transatlantic cruise turns the journey into an experience in and of itself. Here are a few reasons why so many travellers opt for this option:
- With amenities and plenty of options for activities and entertainment, days at sea are an opportunity to rest and reset.
- Many cruises are all-inclusive, so you can enjoy everything from food and drink to plays and fitness classes. You can decide on the day without having to factor in additional spending.
- You won’t have jet lag! Many ships adjust the time gradually during the crossing, making adapting to the new time zone easier.
- There’s a nostalgic appeal to doing it by sea that feels authentic to travel before the existence of flights.
Should you take a transatlantic cruise?
A transatlantic cruise isn’t for everyone, but for those open to a slower form of travel, it can be deeply rewarding. With spacious ships, world-class cuisine and time to unwind and experience different things, it offers something that modern travel experiences do: an actually enjoyable journey.
A transatlantic cruise offers a unique and memorable travel experience, whether you’re travelling between Europe and the US or simply seeking a cruise experience.
