These 7 Transoceanic Cruises Revive the Splendor of the Oceanliner Era
09.02.2024 - 09:52
/ cntraveler.com
Transoceanic voyages may be among the most romanticized cruise itineraries. With their vast scope and leisurely pace, gliding across gaping seas, these epic sailings evoke the adventure and glamor of the “Golden Era of cruising" when star-studded transatlantic crossings were the epitome of luxury travel in the early 1900s.
Once a means of trade and migration, the first Atlantic crossings are believed to have taken at least two months to complete. As ocean liners became more sophisticated, the journey was shortened to about two weeks, and later, just five days. Today, there are a wide array of pleasure cruises that cross both the Atlantic and Pacific, offering access to bucket-list ports around the globe.
Many of the most affordable transoceanic cruises are known as repositioning cruises: one-time itineraries offered when a line needs to relocate their ship, often due to seasonal changes. This means the ship's departure port will be different than the arrival port, as opposed to the typical round-trip sailing.
These epic journeys are ideal for travelers looking to leave behind the stresses of everyday life on land. Expect plenty of time to luxuriate on the ship—transoceanic voyages usually include at least several back-to-back sea days as they cross wide expanses of sea. The unhurried time on board means enjoying relaxing spa days, lounging at the pool, and indulging in traditions like afternoon tea.
If an escape to sea is calling your name, these are seven of the best transpacific and transatlantic cruises happening in 2024 and 2025, including new itineraries and ships launching this year. While some itineraries focus on the ocean crossing itself and offer fewer ports of call, we've rounded up voyages that place an additional emphasis on sightseeing and destination experiences along the way.
London to New York is probably the most well-known transoceanic voyage. But luxury small ship line Seabourn has given this classic Atlantic crossing route an update by incorporating stops in over a dozen must-see coastal cities along the way. The 24-day summer sojourn departs Greenwich outside of London on July 14 and calls upon 17 ports in England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada. See natural wonders like Icelandic fjords and the dramatic peaks and crystal waters of the Prince Christian Sound before arriving across the pond in New York on August 7. The itinerary also includes eight sea days, during which guests can enjoy onboard amenities like spa treatments and whirlpools. Plus, Seabourn’s fares are all-inclusive, and even cover luxuries like caviar, which guests can order anytime to their suite.
Traverse the Pacific and tour some of the most interesting ports in Asia on this 37-day