A transatlantic cruise is any sailing that travels across the Atlantic Ocean, typically between North America and Europe. They usually last around two weeks and spend several consecutive days at sea, allowing you to enjoy the best a cruise ship has to offer on board.
Discover why these special itineraries make for an unforgettable vacation.
How long does a transatlantic cruise take?
Due to its long journey across the Atlantic Ocean, transatlantic cruises are usually one of the longest cruises you can take, with itineraries that can last anywhere from twelve to sixteen nights, including at least six nights sailing across the ocean.
What is a transatlantic cruise like?
One of the things that sets apart a transatlantic cruise from other cruise itineraries are the number of consecutive days you’ll spend at sea.
Unlike most multi-country cruises, which visit numerous ports of call throughout their itineraries, transatlantic sailings typically visit destinations at the beginning and end of their journeys. During the extended trip across the ocean, you’ll be able to enjoy a resort-style vacation in the open waters.
One of the highlights of sailing on a transatlantic cruise is the opportunity to take advantage of all the venues and amenities on board during those successive days at sea.
If you’re looking to unwind, sleep in and order a room service breakfast. Pick out a book from our library and get lost in a novel while lounging on your veranda and enjoying gorgeous views of the ocean.
For a more active vacation, wake up early and participate in one of our onboard fitness classes. Then fuel up at breakfast in our Main Dining Room, where there’s everything from pancakes to poached eggs, and later book a rejuvenating massage at The Spa in the afternoon.
Watch: What To Do On A Cruise Ship
In the evenings, sign up for a wine tasting class, dine at one of our specialty restaurants that include French nouveau cuisine and rustic Italian fare, and end the night with a thrilling theater show or some drinks at our ice-topped Martini Bar.
Aside from all the fun amenities and entertainment options on board, you’ll also enjoy more expert speakers in our Beyond the Podium enrichment program, where you’ll be able to learn all about the history and culture of your port destinations, plus hear fascinating talks from speakers who have worked in NASA, film, comedy, and more.
With more days at sea, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know the ship’s officers. Attend presentations that share the secrets of navigation and discuss life at sea. There’s also a full line-up of fun and games, such as officers versus guests gameshows, pool volleyball, and table tennis tournaments.
Enjoy even more entertainment options, including matinee showtimes throughout your cruise, additional arts and dance classes, and a Q&A session with the production cast.
Where do cruises across the Atlantic go?
Our transatlantic cruises set sail from both sides of the Atlantic. On a cruise from Europe to the U.S., our departure ports include Barcelona, Spain; Rome, Italy; Lisbon, Portugal; and Southampton, England. Most transatlantic cruises end in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Tampa, Florida, and a few itineraries finish in Boston, Massachusetts, and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
If you’re sailing eastbound and departing from North America, our itineraries depart from Fort Lauderdale and Tampa, Florida; Cape Liberty, New Jersey; and occasionally you’ll find a transatlantic sailing that departs from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
As your ship makes its way across the Atlantic, you’ll visit enthralling cities and exotic islands, where you can explore secluded beaches, tour ancient ruins, and amble around town squares.
On the North America side, your transatlantic cruise may stop in New York City or Boston, two beloved American cities with a wide range of activities and landmarks to visit.
Browse European Cruise from NY
In Europe, you’ll stop in islands and cities such as Seville, Spain; Agadir, Morocco; Lanzarote, Canary Islands; Lisbon, Portugal; Ponta Delgada, Azores; Provence, France; Florence, Italy, and many more.
What is the best transatlantic sailing?
All of our transatlantic cruises are fantastic voyages, but depending on what type of vacation you’re looking for, some journeys will suit your interests more than others.
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach experience, choose the Morocco and Canary Islands cruise that departs from Lisbon and includes stops in Lanzarote and Tenerife, two beautiful beach towns in the Canary Islands.
If you want to practice your Portuguese skills, then book a Brazil and Portugal transatlantic sailing, which departs from Rio de Janeiro and stops in Salvador de Bahia before heading across the ocean and disembarking in Lisbon.
For an unforgettable journey around Europe and across the Atlantic, book a Spain, Italy, and Tenerife cruise, which includes stops in cultural hubs such as Rome and Florence in Italy, Provence in France, and Palma de Mallorca in Spain.
Read: Things to Do in Tenerife
If you’re looking for an exotic vacation, consider an Iceland and Greenland cruise. Departing from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, this cruise will take you to cities in Nova Scotia, Greenland, and Iceland, past the Prince Christian Sound, and end with visits to Scotland and England.
How much does a transatlantic cruise cost?
You can often find special offers on cruises across the Atlantic. Since these itineraries include several consecutive days at sea, these lengthier itineraries are usually offered at lower rates than other comparable sailings.
Also, transatlantic cruises tend to sail during the shoulder season on a repositioning cruise from one destination to another, when less people are cruising.
Take advantage of these savings and book a veranda stateroom or a stay at The Retreat, our premium vacation experience that includes accommodation in one of our suites, exclusive access to a private sundeck, lounge, and restaurant, and a dedicated Retreat team.
Browse through all of our transatlantic cruise itineraries on our website or give us a call at 1-888-751-7804 to talk to a Celebrity Cruises vacation specialist, who will help you with any questions you might have.
