How long is a transatlantic cruise take? Transatlantic cruises are usually some of the longest trips you can take. They often last between twelve to sixteen nights, with at least six nights spent sailing across the Atlantic Ocean.
What is a Transatlantic Cruise?
“A transatlantic cruise crosses the Atlantic Ocean, usually traveling from Europe to the Americas or vice versa. These cruises can go directly between two ports or make stops at several ports on both sides of the ocean.”
Spending several days in a row at sea might not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to be comfortable with staying on the ship without getting off for a while. On the largest ships, like those on transatlantic routes, there’s so much to do that there isn’t time to experience everything they offer.
On smaller ships, you might experience more downtime, where you could find yourself relaxing by the pool. It’s worth noting that the weather might not always be favorable, so having an indoor pool can be a great benefit. Some may enjoy this relaxed atmosphere, while others might feel the urge to explore ashore.
Are Transatlantic Cruises Still Available?
“Transatlantic cruises still exist but they’re not regular trips back and forth between Europe and the Americas. They’re usually repositioning cruises or part of larger world cruise plans.”
Most transatlantic cruises are repositioning voyages, where ships are moved to different areas for upcoming cruise seasons.
“European transatlantic cruises are most popular in the summer, typically from April to October, due to the pleasant weather and the appeal of exploring ports in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe. The Caribbean, known as a significant cruise destination, experiences good weather year-round, especially from November to March, outside the typical hurricane season.”
As a result, many cruise ships divide their time between Europe in summer and the Caribbean in winter. Transatlantic cruises occur during these repositioning periods, offering one-way trips where passengers often need to fly to or from the ship for embarkation or return home, as is typically the case.
How Long Do Transatlantic Cruise Take?
“Transatlantic cruises usually range from 7 to 16 nights. Most cruise lines offer trips of about 11 to 12 nights, with some lasting 14 nights or longer. There are few cruises shorter than 11 nights, while others can last much longer than 16 nights.”
The transatlantic cruise length depends on the ports it visits. The fastest routes go straight from Southampton to New York without stopping. Others might stop at ports further south along the US coastline or start from more eastern ports in Europe.
A cruise to Rome takes longer than one to Barcelona because it needs an extra day or two of sailing. Also, the cruise ship might stop at other ports along the way, making the itinerary even longer.
What is the Shortest Transatlantic Cruise Ship?
“Cunard offers the shortest transatlantic cruise, spanning just 7 nights between Southampton and New York, without stopping at other ports.”
Cunard’s transatlantic cruises are all hosted on the Queen Mary 2. Unlike the family-oriented ships of Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or NCL, there are fewer activities on this vessel. However, it stands out as a luxurious liner, blending the charm of classic cruising with modern comforts.
A transatlantic cruise on the Queen Mary 2 offers a classic cruising experience with plenty of relaxation, great service, and entertainment through lectures and shows.
Cunard specializes in round-trip transatlantic cruises on the same ship, sailing from Southampton to New York and back. Although you’ll spend almost two weeks at sea with just a short stop in New York, it’s perfect if you’re looking to get away from it all for a while.
What Are The Destinations of A Transatlantic Cruise?
“Transatlantic cruises typically travel between major ports. On the western side, they often depart from Florida or New York. On the eastern side, common departure points are Southampton, Barcelona, or Rome. Some cruises also include a stop at Ponta Delgada.”
Atlantic cruises often offer the unique chance to visit the Azores, with Ponta Delgada being a popular port of call. This island in Portugal provides a stunning collection of sights and experiences but it serves as a good resting port.
As the ship sails from the west to the east, guests can enjoy various islands along the way. The itinerary often includes several ports so that it’s not endless sea days, allowing guests to explore beyond the confines of the ship.
Another favored port on Mediterranean cruise routes is Funchal on the island of Madeira. This Portuguese island is situated further south, closer to the Moroccan coastline than to Portugal. It’s typically not included in transatlantic voyages to or from Southampton, but it frequently appears on itineraries for cruises to or from Rome or Barcelona.
Which Cruise Lines Offer Transatlantic Crossings?
Many cruise lines operate transatlantic sailings to move ships between Europe and the Caribbean or Americas. Some ships stay in Europe year-round, while others focus on the Caribbean or other destinations across the American continents.
However, there are impressive ships that provide transatlantic sailings, such as:
- Azamara Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Oceania Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Cunard Line
- Fred Olsen
- Holland America Line
- Princess Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Royal Caribbean
- Seabourn
- Silversea
- Virgin Voyages
P&O Cruises does not refer to their cruises as transatlantic. Instead, you can find Caribbean cruises that depart from Southampton and cross the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, they offer round-trip transatlantic cruises, although these tend to be much longer, lasting up to 35 nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long To Cross The Atlantic By Ship In 1920?
In the early 1920s, a ship voyage from Europe to America generally lasted 7 to 10 days, depending on factors such as the departure port, ship type, and weather conditions. However, the duration could vary, with some ships taking more or less time based on their route, speed, and other circumstances.
How Long is A Transpacific Cruise?
These itineraries, much like transatlantic voyages, are usually lengthy, lasting at least two weeks and sometimes extending over 80 nights.
How Long to Cross The Atlantic By Ship In 1776?
The American colonies were expansive and distant from Britain. Although the Atlantic crossing could be completed in as little as five weeks, trips lasting up to two months were not uncommon.
How Long is A Transatlantic Crossing?
A well-traveled route stretches from Bermuda to Portugal, covering just over 2,706 nautical miles and typically taking 20 to 25 days to finish.
How Long is A Transatlantic Cruise From New York To Europe?
The Queen Mary 2 is the only cruise ship that sails directly from North America to Europe, completing the voyage from New York to Southampton in 7 days.
How Long is A Transatlantic Cruise From Southampton?
With Cunard’s transatlantic cruise, you can sail between Southampton and New York in seven days, enjoying the freedom to spend your time however you like during the voyage.