Transatlantic cruises offer a unique adventure: crossing the Atlantic while enjoying the comfort of a modern ship. Between delicious meals, varied entertainment, and captivating stops, each day onboard promises new and enriching experiences.
What is a transatlantic cruise?
A transatlantic cruise connects the Americas, whether North America, the Caribbean, or South America, with the European continent or vice versa. These iconic sea cruises are notable for having several days of sailing, giving passengers the opportunity to fully enjoy the wide range of activities offered onboard the ship. Transatlantic cruises often include cultural and historical stops in the Atlantic Ocean, allowing travelers to discover fascinating and enriching destinations.
What are the main itineraries for a transatlantic cruise?
In the Americas, you can find many transatlantic cruises departing from New York, as well as cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale or Miami in Florida.
The main itineraries for a transatlantic cruise from Europe usually depart from the port of Southampton in the United Kingdom or from the Mediterranean, with cruises departing from Barcelona in Spain and Marseille in France. These cruises travel across the Atlantic Ocean to reach various ports in North America (New York, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami in Florida), the Caribbean and the Antilles, or even South America (Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Buenos Aires in Argentina, or Montevideo in Uruguay).
The itineraries often include stops in the Macaronesia archipelagos, as well as cruise stops in the Canary Islands (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Madeira (Funchal), the Azores (Ponta Delgada), and sometimes Cape Verde (Praia).
What to do on a transatlantic cruise?
During a transatlantic cruise, enjoy a variety of activities onboard the ship: shows, cooking workshops, fitness classes, relaxation in the spa, and a wide range of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. The ships generally have pools, a casino, and also clubs for children and teenagers, an arcade game room, and a water park for all the family.
As part of the journey, you may enjoy stops at various Caribbean cruise destinations, including islands in the Antilles like Guadeloupe. Martinique, Saint Martin, and Barbados, as well as the Canary Islands and Madeira. Explore historic cities, admire diverse landscapes, snorkel, and relax on idyllic beaches.
If your transatlantic cruise heads to New York, you’ll have the chance to discover iconic landmarks before arrival, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Which companies offer transatlantic cruises?
Several companies offer transatlantic crossings, providing a variety of experiences and services tailored to different types of travelers.
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises offer premium cruise experiences, with attentive and personalized service, as well as fine dining under full-board plans. They offer numerous cruises departing from Miami and Fort Lauderdale bound for the Mediterranean (Barcelona in Spain, Rome-Civitavecchia in Italy) or Southampton in the United Kingdom (or vice versa). Some of these itineraries may include a fascinating stop in Bermuda.
Cunard emphasizes British luxury and elegance. Renowned for its iconic transatlantic itineraries, Cunard offers cruises departing from Southampton bound for New York, aboard comfortable ships that combine historical legacy with modern design.
Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises are ideal for families. MSC and Costa ships offer many onboard attractions, such as water parks, cinemas, a variety of bars and restaurants (the main restaurants are included in the full-board plan, while specialty restaurants are available for an additional cost), as well as clubs for children and teenagers. With MSC, children under 18 travel free (excluding port taxes) when sharing a cabin with two adults, while at Costa, this offer is valid for children under 12.
MSC and Costa’s transatlantic cruises primarily depart from the Mediterranean (Barcelona and Marseille) bound for the Antilles (Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe and Fort-de-France in Martinique) or South America (particularly Brazil), with stops in Madeira, the Canary Islands, or the Azores. With MSC Cruises, you can stay in a suite at the exclusive MSC Yacht Club complex. MSC Yacht Club cruises offer a wide range of benefits, including access to private areas such as an exclusive restaurant, butler service, and free access to the thermal area of the MSC Aurea Spa.
When to take a transatlantic cruise?
Transatlantic cruises are available year-round, and the choice of departure period depends on your destination. For itineraries to Europe, departing in spring or summer (March to September) is ideal for enjoying warm and mild weather upon arrival. For cruises from Europe to New York, summer (June to September) is perfect for enjoying long and pleasant days, ideal for exploring. For itineraries to the Caribbean and South America, departing in fall or winter (October to February) is ideal for enjoying warm and sunny weather while escaping Europe’s colder temperatures.
FAQ about transatlantic cruises
What are the main departure ports for a transatlantic cruise?
In North America, the main departure ports are New York, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami in Florida. The main ports for a transatlantic cruise departing from Europe are Southampton in the United Kingdom and Barcelona in Spain. Cruises departing from Marseille in France are also available.
What is the typical duration of a transatlantic cruise?
The duration of a transatlantic crossing varies greatly depending on the itineraries, with an average of about fifteen days. Shorter itineraries, such as those connecting New York with Southampton without stops, can last between 7 and 9 days, while longer itineraries, including several stops in the Caribbean or South America, can last up to 25 days.
How much does a transatlantic cruise cost?
Prices for transatlantic cruises vary primarily depending on the company, duration, travel dates, and cabin type. Rates (excluding flights) start at $500 USD for cruises with Costa Cruises. Staying in a luxury suite at the MSC Yacht Club can cost up to $5,000 USD, with benefits including butler service and 24-hour room service.
514 8190600
