When a Cruise Ship Repositions

If you love the relaxed pace and big views of a “no port” day, you can take a type of cruise that features plenty of days at sea. Repositioning cruises are one-way voyages that move ships from one region of the world to another. Because they sail with seasonal changes, most repositioning cruises take place in spring and fall.

Repositioning cruises are special in several ways. A string of sea days means plenty of time to enjoy all the ship’s dining options, entertainment spaces, and other amenities. The fares can be very budget-friendly. And while there will be few ports of call, repositioning cruises often visit places that are hard to find on other cruise itineraries.

So, where do repositioning cruises go?

Transatlantic cruises sail between North America and Europe, such as from Miami to Barcelona. Some of these cruises call on the Azores Islands, an Atlantic archipelago about 900 miles west of Portugal. These islands are prized for their dramatic landscapes, geothermal springs, vineyards, hydrangeas, and a tea plantation.

Transpacific cruises sail between North America and Asia, Australia, or the South Pacific. The journey might include a rare port call in Hawaii, Java, or the beautifully rugged Marquesas Islands, to name a few possibilities.

Atlantic-to-Pacific cruises (or the reverse) that sail through the Panama Canal. For example, some ships that cruise Alaska from May to October use the canal to reposition to the Caribbean for winter. The opportunity to transit the historic Panama Canal is a bucket-list item for many travelers, and these cruises often include port calls in stunning destinations like Costa Rica.

Things to keep in mind when preparing for a repositioning cruise include:

These cruises may be two weeks or longer, so be sure to select a stateroom that you’ll be comfortable in. Low fares may mean you can reserve a larger or more luxurious stateroom.

Be sure to pack enough essentials – like medications and toiletries – for the full length of the cruise.

Bring reading material, a deck of cards, and other amusements to enjoy during your time at sea. The crew will organize plenty of activities – such as exercise classes, educational sessions, dance lessons, and cooking demonstrations – but you’ll want to be able to entertain yourself.

For more advice about repositioning cruises and to reserve your place on one, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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