Your Guide to a Luxury Transatlantic Cruise
For travelers who value time to unwind, indulge, and explore, a luxury transatlantic cruise offers a unique kind of escape — one that blends oceanic grandeur with cultural discovery. With no airport queues, no rushed schedules, and plenty of days at sea, this is luxury travel at its most refined. Whether you’re crossing from Europe to the Americas or the reverse, the transatlantic experience is one to savor.
Best luxury cruise lines for a transatlantic crossing
Not all crossings are created equal. For the most elevated journey, we recommend choosing cruise lines known for their service, comfort, and culinary excellence:
- Cunard: The iconic Queen Mary 2 offers a classic transatlantic experience with white-glove service and formal elegance.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Known for their all-inclusive luxury, with gourmet dining, immersive excursions, and refined accommodations.
- Silversea and Seabourn: Smaller ships with spacious suites, perfect for travelers seeking personalized service and tranquility.
- Virgin Voyages: Modern luxury with a playful edge—ideal for younger travelers or those looking to blend relaxation with nightlife.
When to take a transatlantic cruise
Transatlantic sailings typically occur in spring and fall, when cruise lines reposition their ships between continents. These “shoulder season” voyages not only offer great weather but also fewer crowds in both embarkation and destination ports. For travelers who appreciate peaceful days and cooler temperatures, these crossings are ideal.
What to expect
Expect several days at sea — perfect for catching up on rest, indulging in spa treatments, or joining enrichment programs ranging from art lectures to wine tastings. Onboard, you’ll find everything from cooking classes and elegant afternoon teas to stargazing on open decks. It’s a slow travel experience that brings a welcome pause to fast-paced lives.
Many travelers use this time to celebrate special occasions, making transatlantic cruises a great option for special vacations, honeymoons, or milestone birthdays.
What to pack for a transatlantic cruise
Weather can vary across the Atlantic, so layers are key. Include:
- Daywear for onboard leisure (think resort chic)
- Smart evening attire for fine dining or themed events
- Warm outerwear for brisk sea breezes
- Swimwear, athletic gear, and comfortable shoes
- A good book — or three
Don’t forget to pack for themed nights or gastronomic experiences if you’re diving into culinary travel offerings onboard.
Which ports to visit
While the sea days are a highlight, many transatlantic cruises include exciting ports on either side of the ocean:
- Europe: Lisbon, Barcelona, Southampton, and Civitavecchia (Rome) are common embarkation points, offering rich pre- and post-cruise opportunities.
- Americas: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and New York serve as major arrival hubs, while some voyages explore the Caribbean or even the Amazon before crossing.
For those with a taste for adventure travel, look for itineraries that include Iceland, the Azores, or the Canary Islands — off-the-beaten-path gems that turn the journey into an expedition.
Who is a transatlantic cruise suited for?
A transatlantic cruise is perfect for travelers who want more than a vacation—they want an experience. It suits:
- Couples looking for a romantic, unplugged journey
- Groups of friends interested in group travel with a touch of elegance
- Families celebrating milestones with tailored celebration vacations
- Culinary enthusiasts drawn to immersive food and wine programs
- Solo travelers or adventurers seeking thoughtful introspection between ports
A luxury transatlantic cruise isn’t just a way to get from one continent to another — it’s a journey that invites you to relax, reconnect, and rediscover what travel can be. Our expert travel advisors are ready to help you plan a personalized crossing that combines all your favorite things, from adventure travel to culinary travel, and everything in between.
Let’s chart your next great voyage — contact Blue Ribbon Travel today.