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Transatlantic

A transatlantic crossing is cruising at its most classic, with days at sea to relax and the excitement of arriving on a new continent. Routes link Southampton and Mediterranean ports with Florida, New York, Canada and South America, often via the Azores, Madeira or Bermuda. It is a memorable way to travel one way and fly home.

Best time to go

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November), when many ships cross between their European and American seasons.

Season

Mainly spring and autumn.

Typical daytime highs

  • Northern route (spring and autumn). Typical daytime highs around 12 to 20°C in the North Atlantic in spring and autumn. Cool, with a chance of fog and swell.
  • Southern route (spring and autumn). Typical daytime highs around 20 to 28°C in the southern route via the Azores, Madeira and the Caribbean. Warmer as the ship heads south and west.

These are typical ranges, not a forecast.

How long

Usually 12 to 16 nights, with longer voyages to South America.

Sail from the UK

  • Southampton. Crossings to New York, Canada or Florida, with no outbound flight needed.

Fly-cruise airports

  • Barcelona El Prat (BCN). about 2 hours
  • Lisbon Humberto Delgado (LIS). about 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Miami International (MIA). about 9 hours 30 minutes to 10 hours
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL). about 10 hours, often with a connection
  • New Orleans Louis Armstrong (MSY). usually one connection, around 11 to 13 hours in total
  • Rio de Janeiro Galeão (GIG). about 11 hours 30 minutes to 12 hours

Who it suits

Experienced cruisers, couples, retired travellers and anyone who loves sea days and wants to avoid a long-haul flight in one direction.

Questions

How many sea days are there on a transatlantic cruise?

Usually around five to seven days at sea on a direct crossing, depending on the route and stops.

Will the Atlantic be rough?

The North Atlantic can bring swell, especially early and late in the season, but many crossings are calm and modern ships have stabilisers.

Can I sail one way and fly home?

Yes, this is the most common way to do a transatlantic crossing.

Show every Transatlantic cruise

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