sea born cruise

Review: Seabourn Venture

Reviewed by Janice Wald Henderson

What is the line? Seabourn

Name of ship? Seabourn Venture

Passenger occupancy? 264

Itinerary? Lima to Santiago

Seabourn does an impressive job of morphing adventure into its signature luxury experience onboard Seabourn Venture , its first expedition vessel.

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?  

Seabourn, a longtime luxury cruise player, garners kudos for all-suite accommodations, attentive passenger service, elegant ship designs, fine dining and many inclusives such as complimentary alcohol and caviar. Cruisers, well-heeled and well-traveled, are primarily Seabourn devotees. Definitely not the party crowd, passengers skew in the 55+ age category and appreciate the casually elegant country-club vibe.

Tell us about the ship in general  

Seabourn Venture launched in July 2022 with 122 all-veranda oceanfront suites (some are two-story) and a PC6 Polar Class-rated hunter-green hull. It’s one of the prettiest expedition ships I’ve seen, evoking a sleek adventuresome yacht. Despite a small passenger capacity, the ship feels so spacious. There’s plenty of intimate bars and lounges, and outdoor space - not just for viewing wildlife or lounging, but also for swimming in an infinity pool or soaking in one of four hot tubs (two by the cool outdoor Sky Bar). The well-equipped fitness center is large for the ship size. Built for polar exploration, this vessel features a cozy alpine-meets-the-sea vibe, with faux-fur pillows, plush blankets for staying warm and three fireplaces with dancing water vapor flames. The design keeps the focus on expeditions and wildlife, from art to screens projecting videos of Antarctica or the Arctic in all their pristine glory. Expedition thrills include submersibles, sea kayaks and Zodiacs. Seabourn ocean liner fans will recognize Seabourn Square, the popular meeting place with comfy seating, library books, snacks and espresso drinks brewed to order.

Who is onboard?  

Expect an abundance of upmarket couples, many bucket-listers, some traveling with friends.Some passengers joined this cruise as an add-on to visiting Machu Picchu; others were staying on when our cruise indeed, to sail to Antarctica. The crowd was mostly Americans, with a smattering of Brits and European voyagers such as Belgians and French. They were a friendly bunch,  particularly open to chats in lounges and when playing trivia.

Describe the cabins  

 All accommodations are suites, and range from entry level, which includes a bath with a separate tub and shower and Molton Brown soaps, to stunning bi-level Wintergarden Suite accommodations. A heated locker for expedition gear is a nice inclusion, as is the analog wall clock which changes time automatically - a plus when sailing through multiple time zones.Beds come with three pillows for each passenger; soft, medium and hard. Duvets are at their silky best. 

I stayed in a Panorama Veranda Suite, which I highly recommend. Such accommodations are worth the extra fee above standard suites and less expensive than other higher-end accommodations, such as Penthouse and Owners Suites. Expect a staggering floor-to-ceiling ocean view everywhere - from the bed, spacious living area, and even in the expansive bathroom. Imagine soaking in the tub and viewing penguins diving off ice floes. Floors are wood-like tile and can be heated throughout the suite, not just in the bathroom. Brew coffee from a high-end Nespresso machine, although, of course, you can order a pot or specialty cup of joe. 

Tell us about the crew   

The crew impresses with warm friendly service rather than opting for stiff and formal. Most servers seemed genuinely happy, and when asked how their day was going, they often answered “amazing” and it never sounded fake. Suite attendants - this line doesn’t offer butler service - kept accommodations spotless. They were also excellent at remembering daily requests, such as placing fresh orange juice in your fridge daily. Guest Services staff is most helpful and patient.

What food and drink options are available on board?  

Got a craving for caviar, even for breakfast? Order eggs Benedict topped with two generous heaps of caviar and no one blinks. Complimentary caviar (Regiis Ova, partially owned by star chef Thomas Keller) is offered, anywhere, anytime, with a once-a-sail deck party delivering a seemingly endless supply. You will not see caviar listed on the menu; it’s like a Seabourn devotee secret. Complimentary alcohol, including wines and spirits, is another perk. No need for reservations anywhere; it’s all open seating. The Restaurant dinners, like honey-roasted quail, were highlights, with deft chefs cooking intricate repasts with the finest ingredients. Sauces were silken and consommes (love the duck) tasted like the bones were simmering for hours. In the alternative dining venue Colonnade, breakfasts and lunches are buffets with an impressive variety of dishes. Count on a lunchtime carving station, with a chef slicing everything from a giant roast beef haunch to whole suckling pig. Some Colonnade meals were themed, dishing up tastes of the world, such as Indian or Mexican. Afternoon tea was excellent, especially the tender scones and smoked salmon mini-bagels. In the Club lounge beginning at 6 p.m, sushi chefs fashioned primo sashimi, such as yellowtail and salmon, and sushi. Passengers came for pre-dinner snacks and often never left, ordering plate after plate. The club offered cool cocktails, like Honey Dew Wop, made with Ketel One vodka and honeydew juice.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?  

The small spa offers multiple treatment choices. Some passengers raved about their facials and I actually saw (and envied) their clearly glowing skin. I tried a 75-minute deep-tissue massage; my masseur may have been slight but he had hands of steel. I could barely stagger off the table. I also liked that he didn’t push extra services. There was an ocean-view sauna in both the men’s and women’s changing rooms. 

Activities and entertainment    

Like most small expedition ships, Venture ’s entertainment was limited. There were high-quality singers and pianists and such in lounges. I’m not sure how many passengers hit the DJ-driven dance floor post-dinner, but some showed up in the Discovery Center for a magician/comedian. (He was just okay.)  On our cruise,  the star was the cruise director, who sang opera. 

How was the experience for families?  

None was onboard our sail. The ship doesn’t offer youth programming, but when asked, the onboard team said they’ll cater to passengers of all ages. 

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?  

This Lima-to-Santiago route was more of a repositioning cruise than an adventuresome one. Unfortunately, we hit some unexpected permit issues and rougher seas that didn’t allow us to enjoy the expected Zodiac and kayak explorations. That said, we had still had some amazing experiences, including flying over Peru’s Nazca Lines, exploring the Atacama Desert (the planet’s driest), and visiting a well-preserved former mining town, now a ghost town. We also what was touted as the world’s oldest mummies, about 8,000 years old. This itinerary is not a common one, more like a one-off; it’s really a way to get “in position” for the Antarctic season. I loved the video that the expedition team filmed during our voyage and screened on our final night; what a way to re-live an adventure. Best of all, we could scan a QR code or download a link so that we could share it with family members or keep it for ourselves. Many expedition lines used to charge for that video, and maybe some still do.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Three cheers for its desalinated water (which can taste awful on expedition ships), which tastes much like fresh spring H2O.  It’s accomplished by reverse osmosis, consuming about 30 percent less energy compared to traditional systems. Filling stations for personal water bottles are everywhere. Even to-go coffee mugs are reusable. Molton Brown liquid soaps in suite bathrooms are refillable; no more single use plastic bottles. Most daily information is available on the Seabourn app and suite televisions, minimizing paper use. On the more technical side, bow thrusters are outfitted with fixed pitch propellers, frequently driving a reduction of energy consumption by 30 percent compared to traditional thrusters. The underwater hull was painted with an ultra-low-friction coating system, which also reduces energy consumption by up to 10 percent. Also, the ship uses dynamic positioning in many cases versus anchoring and disturbing the ocean. 

Anything we missed  

Perhaps what lingers most in my mind was the expedition team’s passion. I was skeptical before boarding with expedition cruising’s explosion of popularity, and wondering how challenging it must be for so many lines to find qualified personnel. My fears were assuaged by the knowledge and heart of the onboard team. They were eager to share information, not just in lectures or on expeditions, but in one-on-one meetups. Also, not all passengers loved the cruise formal nights; some grumbled that they made little sense on expeditions. A few packed tuxes and seemed happy dressing up. To avoid dressier attire, you can dine more casually in the Colonnade, Club or via room service. I didn’t notice attire censoring in the Restaurant on formal nights; many cruisers sailed by in dressier slacks, with men wearing sport jackets.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.  

If you want to savor an expedition sail delivering adventure with high-end indulgence, uber-pampering and cushy accommodations, you’ll find Seabourn Venture a worthy choice. If you’re already a Seabourn fan, you’ll particularly appreciate the amenities so similar to the line’s ocean liners. Note that twin Seabourn Pursuit launches in September 2023, meaning even more itineraries to choose from. 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

• +1 800-442-4448
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Seabourn Special Offers

Let Seabourn help you plan and book your extraordinary vacation experience. Take advantage of limited-time values. Plus,  unlock an extra 5% savings  on select voyages with your  Seabourn Club membership . 

Additional Seabourn Offers

Seabourn Club Savings

Unlock an extra 5% savings on select voyages with your Seabourn Club membership.

Solo Travelers

Seabourn is pleased to offer solo travelers a reduced single supplement starting at only 10% above current fares on select voyages and in select suite categories.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

The Finale Sail

Our last-remaining suites are your chance for a spontaneous adventure and savings up to 30% on select sailings when you book a fully non-refundable cruise fare.

Seabourn Combo Savings

Combine two or more consecutive voyages for a more in-depth exploration and receive up to a 10% savings. 

Sign Up for Special Offers

Have news, announcements and special offers delivered to your inbox..

This field is required.

All fields are required unless noted as optional.

Yes, I want Seabourn to contact me via email using the email address provided. I understand I can opt out at any time. For more details, see our  Privacy Notice and Website Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Your Email Has Been Submitted. Thank You.

Thank you for signing up for our newsletter.

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Lines

Seabourn Cruises

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

•   Fleet
•   Review
•   Itinerary
•   News

Seabourn Cruises fleet

Seabourn pursuit, seabourn venture, seabourn ovation, seabourn encore, seabourn quest, seabourn sojourn, seabourn odyssey, review of seabourn cruises.

Seabourn (seabourn.com) is a luxury cruise line (1986-founded, operational since 1988) headquartered in Seattle (WA USA) well-established as an ultra-luxury, expedition-style travel brand. Seabourn operates global itineraries - from short breaks in the Caribbean to exotic 100+ day-long voyages around the world.

Seabourn is owned by Carnival Corporation and is part of the "World's Leading Cruise Lines" group, which also includes AIDA , CCL-Carnival , Costa , Cunard , HAL-Holland America Line , Princess and P&O .

NEWS : On May 24, 2022, CNBC rumored that Carnival Corporation is in discussions with Saudi Arabia's PIF-Public Investment Fund to sell Seabourn.

Company history

Seabourn Cruise Line was founded in 1986 under the name "Signet Cruise Lines" by Atle Brynestad (Norwegian private investor) and Erland Raastad (president of the companies "Kloster Cruise" and "Royal Viking Line").

The name "Seabourn Cruise Line" was adopted shortly afterward, following objections over trademark ownership by Signet Oil & Gas Co (Colorado USA).

Seabourn's current President is Natalya Leahy, who (in March 2023) replaced Josh Leibowitz. She was previously employed as Holland America Group's COO (Chief Operating Officer) managing the Carnival Corporation's subsidiaries Princess, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and P&O Australia.

Seabourn Pride (the company's first vessel) entered service in 1988, followed by sistership Seabourn Spirit in 1989. A third boat (originally planned for 1990) was delayed due to financial constraints. The vessel was eventually purchased by Royal Viking Line (1972-founded/1998- defunct ) and launched in 1992 as "Royal Viking Queen". In 1994, it was transferred to Royal Cruise Line as "Queen Odyssey".

In 1991, Carnival Corporation purchased a 25% stake in Seabourn. In 1996, Carnival upped its stake to 50%, providing Seabourn with the needed capital to buy Queen Odyssey (renamed Seabourn Legend). In 1998, Carnival Corporation purchased the remaining 50% stake in Seabourn, acquired Cunard Line (from Kvaerner ASA), and finally merged the two brands into the Cunard Line entity.

In 1999, three Cunard liners (Royal Viking Sun, Sea Goddess I, Sea Goddess II) were transferred to Seabourn under new names (respectively, Seabourn Sun, Seabourn Goddess I, Seabourn Goddess II). In 2001, Carnival Corporation bought out the NCL-Norwegian shares. Seabourn's parent company became Carnival's wholly-owned subsidiary. Seabourn Goddess 1 and Seabourn Goddess 2 were purchased for SeaDream Yacht Club by Atle Brynestad (Seabourn's founder).

In 2002, Seabourn Sun was transferred to Holland America Line (Carnival-owned subsidiary), thus reducing Seabourn's fleet to the three original vessels. The company was demerged from Cunard and reorganized as an independent brand (still part of Carnival Corporation). On March 31, 2011, Seabourn Cruise Line ceased operations from Miami Florida USA and transferred its operations to Holland America's headquarters in Seattle WA .

In 2014, Seabourn Pride left the fleet and was transferred (as Star Pride ) to Windstar . In 2015, Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit were also transferred to Windstar (now Star Legend and Star Breeze ).

Company changes

Since 2018, Seabourn offers fleetwide "K+M Chocolate" products. These are high-quality chocolates by the "Keller Manni Chocolate" company (founders Michelin chef Thomas Keller and Armando Manni / olive oil producer from Italy). The custom-made for Seabourn chocolates are hand-crafted (produced in Napa Valley, California). Among the signature flavors are the milk-based hazelnut, smoked chili, blood orange, cherry, as well as the dark chocolate "sea salt".

In late-March 2019, Seabourn signed a partnership with Pixvana Inc (Seattle-based company) to create TableVision (virtual reality/interactive training platform based on Pixvana's SPIN Studio) for Main Dining Room waitstaff training.

On August 15, 2019, Seabourn opened bookings for its new "Private Air" program (privately chartered jet service) that allows customers to fly to homeports/departure cruise ports via private jets rather than commercial airlines. The new service is global and offers a variety of private jet aircraft (as models and sizes) to charter, accommodating groups of any size (upon request) and plane capacity 5 to 16 passengers. Seabourn's fly-cruise packages offer access to thousands of airports (private and commercial) worldwide. Pricing varies by aircraft and itinerary and is inclusive of cruise and flight fares, valet luggage service, onboard food and drinks (including caviar, champagne and premium spirits by the glass), onboard Wi-Fi, transfers (to/from home, airports, seaports) and next-port protection (up to 1000 mi).

On June 6, 2022, NCLH announced an expansion of its fleetwide sustainability program "Sail & Sustain". Extending its animal welfare policy, the shipowner is now fully committed to responsible animal food sourcing practices (regarding pork, chicken, eggs, and seafood) within the global fleet's supply chain. The goal is by the year 2025, fleetwide (NCL, Oceania, Regent) to be sourced only cage-free eggs, crate-free pork, certified sustainable seafood, and chicken purchased from American and Canadian suppliers who meet GAP (Global Animal Partnership) standards.

In March 2023, Carnival Corporation (shipowner) sold the 14-year-old Seabourn Odyssey to the Japanese shipping company MOL (Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd) . Along with the sale, Seabourn signed a time-charter arrangement with MOL that allowed the company to operate Odyssey's voyages scheduled thru October 11, 2024.

In June 2023 was introduced new 24-hour in-cabin dining menus listing gourmet dishes prepared by Anton Egger (company's Master Chef and Culinary Consultant Chef) and Franck Salein (company's Senior Corporate Chef). Introduced on Seabourn Venture in June, the new menus were rolled out fleetwide by October.

In July 2023, Seabourn's culinary program was expanded with new dishes (in The Restaurant/main dining room) fleetwide as well as "Sushi in the Club" (on select ships). Most dishes are made with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients (depending on the visited regions/destinations). The Restaurant's upgraded menu includes new appetizers (Oyster au Gratin with Champagne, Fresh Oysters on Ice/with caviar and vodka) and new entrees (Lobster En Bellevue Parisienne, Blue Cheese Crusted Filet Mignon/Roquefort Crusted Beef Tenderloin, Pan Seared Sablefish/Baked Crusted Cod with Tomatoes). "Sushi in the Club" (on the ships Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest) is available every night (between 6-9 PM) and offers fresh-made sushi bites served with sake.

In October 2023 was announced that on Seabourn Quest in January 2024 debuts the fleet's first Solis Restaurant. The premium dining venue offers daily prepared dishes of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The menu is based on the Mediterranean destinations/regions visited by Seabourn, including the Italian and French Rivieras (Central Med) as well as Turkey and the Greek islands (Aegean). Solis Restaurant's menu was developed by Anton Egger (Seabourn's Master Chef) and Franck Salein (Seabourn's Senior Corporate Executive Chef). The new restaurant has limited seating, provides a chic atmosphere and also offers a large selection of premium wine brands and a separate cocktail menu. In 2024-Q2, Solis will be rolled out on three other Seabourn ships (Encore, Ovation, Sojourn).

On February 21, 2023, Seabourn signed a multi-year ship charter agreement/exclusive partnership with APT Travel Group (Australian Pacific Touring) for chartering two ships (Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit). APT expedition cruises were scheduled for 2025 with a deployment in Northern Europe (UK, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland), Australia/Kimberley, and Antarctica in 2025. The charter deal was signed by Natalya Leahy (Seabourn) and David Cox (APT's CEO).

In March 2024 was appointed Mike Fulkerson as VP/Vice President nd CMO/Chief Marketing Officer. He has 20+ years of experience in chief marketing positions, serving companies like Canyon Ranch (hospitality/resorts, spas, culinary), Marriott International Inc (hotels, residential and timeshare properties), Mattel Inc (toy manufacturing and entertainment), Activision Publishing Inc (video game publisher, parent of Activision Blizzard).

In 2016 and 2018, the fleet joined two newbuilds - Encore and Ovation .

Compared to the Odyssey-class units, the new boats are ~1/5 larger in size (LOA 210 m, volume 40350 GT-tons), ~1/3rd bigger as passenger capacity (638 max), with 1 additional deck (12 decks), re-designed venues, expanded public spaces, biggest Spa at sea, new onboard programming. Traditionally for Seabourn ships, all passenger cabins (all-suite categories) are with private balconies.

In July 2018, Seabourn signed a letter of intent with "MARIOTTI DAMEN Cruise" for building 2 polar-class expedition ships with the following specifications.

• length 170 m
• GT tonnage 23,000 tons
• ice-strengthened hull (PC6 ice-class)
• 132 balcony cabins
• capacity 264 passengers plus 120 crew (including 26 expedition crew of experts - scientists, historians, naturalists)
• 2 mini-submarines (6-guest, by U-Boat Worx), sea kayaks, 24x Zodiacs (RIBs/inflatable motorized boats used for near-shore cruising, landings and tendering)
• shell doors (at waterline level) allow convenient access to the Zodiacs.

The total open-deck space is approx 2750 m2 (29,600 ft2).

The first vessel ( Venture ) was scheduled for June 2021 (later postponed to December 2021, April 2022, and. eventually, July 2022). The second unit ( Pursuit ) was initially planned for delivery in 2022 (May) but was postponed to March 2023.

Seabourn's 30th Anniversary (2018)

In 2018, the company celebrated its 30th Anniversary featuring as highlights:

• Fleet expansion - from 4 to 5 vessels with the launch of Seabourn Ovation in May 2018.
• Adding new onboard cocktail offerings, including "Passion Pearls" cocktail by Brian van Flandern.
• Introducing a new "30th Anniversary Wine Package" with price-inclusive quality champagnes and wines.
• At the shipboard Shops were available for purchasing a unique collection of pearls and 30th Anniversary themed logo merchandise.
• Passengers on all ships were offered Seabourn company history-themed trivia games.
• Also in 2018 were introduced new onboard programs, including two Wellness Cruises (led by Dr. Andrew Weil).
• The company's 2018 itinerary program included over 170 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a selection of Seabourn Journeys (shore tours).

Seabourn's ship cruising experience

The travel brand Seabourn was established on the principle that personal service in stylish surroundings would appeal to independent-minded, sophisticated passengers with lifestyles that demand the best.

The original Seabourn megayachts and their new fleet mates have been lovingly maintained and proved to be a great success over the years. Recognized as a leading small-ship luxury line, Seabourn delivers all extras, expected by its clientele - a stocked minibar in all suites, elegant amenities, complimentary wines, and spirits.

Seabourn Cruise Line's guests may also expect the unexpected - from exclusive luggage tags and travel document portfolios to the pleasure of a complimentary massage while lounging at the pool. Seabourn will even arrange for your luggage to be picked up at home and delivered to your suite.

The line presents an intimate and exceptional cruising experience. The smaller size of its vessels allows calling at smaller ports and up-close-and-personal encounters with the destination.

The atmosphere onboard is elegant but unpretentious. All rooms are suites, equipped with designer soaps, and the latest amenities, such as flat-screen televisions and Bose Wave sound systems. A bottle of champagne greets all guests in the cabin. Beds are dressed with Egyptian cotton linens and fluffy duvet covers with feather pillows. A well-stocked in-suite bar and Pure Pampering therapeutic bathing menu are provided in each suite. In addition, guests benefit from the services of a Personal Suite Stewardess, ready to cater to every need.

The abundance of public space makes passengers feel as if they have the vessel to themselves - no annoying lines or crowds here. Bar drinks are complimentary. Seabourn cruise ship passengers may choose to dine when and where they want on any of the luxurious ships of the line. Each dining venue offers a different atmosphere and different dishes, but all use innovative cooking techniques and perfect ingredients like Black River Ossetra Caviar.

Daily team trivia contests, lectures, wine tastings, and other quiet pursuits are usually scheduled, but most passengers are satisfied to just do what pleases them. Focused on personalized service, the line has designed unique programs like Caviar in the Surf and Shopping With the Chef, to further enhance onboard experience.

Seabourn's liners attract a broad mix of ages (40-something and above), and offer a variety of itineraries from more mainstream calls to the offbeat, in order to continue to draw new passengers.

While most of the cruisers are likely to be American, Seabourn appeals to well-off and well-traveled vacationers from a variety of countries, particularly English-speaking Great Britain, South Africa, and Australia, among others.

In 2019, Seabourn signed a partnership deal with the company "Shaoching Bishop and Chef Thomas Keller" to provide fleetwide the Regiis Ova Caviar brand. The company partners directly with selected sturgeon farms to source high-quality caviar.

Shipboard smoking policy

According to the new Seabourn Cruises smoking policy (implemented in 2017), smoking is not allowed in all the ship's indoor venues, also in cabins and on cabin balconies.

Smoking is also banned in the ships' Observation Lounge (previously allowed after 8 pm). Smoking is allowed on Sky Bar's open-air starboard area (midship Deck 9 / Deck 10 on Encore and Ovation ships) and also on the starboard open-air pool terrace of The Club lounge (Deck 5 aft).

Smoking cigarettes, as well as cigars and pipes smoking is allowed on Seabourn Square lounge's open-air terrace (deck 7 aft).

Smoking E-cigarettes in cabins is allowed.

Passengers who don't comply with the company's smoking policy are fined a cleaning fee (USD 250 per day).

“Seabourn Source” Web App

The Seabourn Source app was launched in August 2017. It can be accessed by all passengers (on a complimentary basis) and fleetwide. Seabourn Source offers up-to-the-minute access to the voyage's daily details directly on passengers' smartphones, tablets or laptops. Users can tap the new app to instantly:

• stay on top of shipboard account records;
• review daily activity as well as entertainment schedules;
• track port times (arrivals and departures);
• peruse meal times and menus for all dining venues;
• browse and book shore trips;
• learn about wellness classes and spa treatments;
• connect to paid satellite internet.

The mobile app further connects cruisers to the company’s complimentary digital newspaper-magazine PressReader Offline, which offers full editions of 2500+ global media sources. They can be downloaded to personal Android or iOS devices while at sea or in port. Seabourn Source operates on a shipboard network, so users do not incur additional Internet/cellular data charges while in use.

Loyalty program

The company's loyalty program ("Seabourn Club") allows earning membership points for each day. Accumulated points (onboard days) count toward Milestone Awards. The most expensive offer is a free cruise - up to 7-day itinerary (with 140 Sailed Days) and up to 14-day itinerary (with 250 Sailed Days). Every Milestone is also celebrated with an onboard event and a jewelry gift (by Tiffany & Co)

In addition to Milestone Awards, passengers earn Seabourn Club Points qualifying them for bonus perks. Seabourn points establish the membership levels.

Each onboard day earns 1 Club Point.

Each onboard day in Penthouse or Premium Suite earns 1 additional Club Point.

Each night on escorted Seabourn Journeys (shore excursions) earns 1 Club Point.

Every USD 500 spent on onboard and pre-cruise online purchases earns 1 Club Point.

The next table shows all the benefits provided by the Seabourn Club loyalty program.

Cruise Travel Awards 2016

In 2016, Seabourn wrapped up the year with a total of 22 cruise travel industry awards, several of which were readers' choice nominations. Over the years, the cruise line has consistently been rated a "top choice" in the luxury travel segment.

Follows the list of the company's 2016 awards by the industry's most renowned online publishers and brands.

• (Conde Nast Traveler) - "Best Small Ship Cruise Line", "Favourite Cruise Line - Small Ships"
• (Travel Weekly) - "Best Cruise Ship - Under 1000 Berths"
• (Cruise Awards International) - "Best Boutique Cruise Line"
• (Cruise Critic) - "Best Luxury Cruise Line"
• (Magellan Awards) - "Small Cruise Ship", ""Spa Design", "Seabourn Blog", "Shore Excursion", "Itineraries", "Direct Marketing", "Luxury Ship" (Seabourn Quest), "Loyalty Program", "Entertainment"
• (Luxury Travel Advisor) - "Luxury Small Ships"
• (Porthole Magazine) - "Best Small Ship" (Seabourn Sojourn), "Best Service"
• (SHAPE Healthy Travel) - "Best Cruise to Refresh and Rejuvenate"
• (Town and Country Travel / "Classic Luxury" category) - "Design", "Active Travelers", "Food", "On-Shore Activities".

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Seabourn expanded its cancellation policy fleetwide (all vessels) with penalty-free cancellation of voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through June 30, 2021.

Seabourn's fleet was fully operational by June 6, 2022.

Operations resumed in 2021-2022 with the ships ODYSSEY (July 18, 2021/Caribbean from Bridgetown Barbados), OVATION (July 3, 2021/Mediterranean-Greek Islands from Athens), QUEST (May 10, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), SOJOURN (June 6, 2022/Europe-Mediterranean from Athens), ENCORE (February 19, 2022/Europe-Canaries-Mediterranean from Lisbon), VENTURE (April 10, 2022/ Maiden Voyage from London-Greenwich), PURSUIT (May 23, 2023/ Maiden Voyage from Reykjavik Iceland).

• SOJOURN's "World Cruise 2021" (141-day from Miami to Barcelona), Europe 2021 program (Baltic-Mediterranean) and "World Cruise 2022" (145-day from Los Angeles) were canceled.
• ENCORE's Mediterranean 2021 program (homeporting in Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome) and Asia 2021-2022 program (homeporting in Singapore and Hong Kong) were canceled.
• QUEST's Antarctica-South America 2021-2022 program was canceled.
• The newbuild VENTURE's delivery was delayed (due to T. Mariotti shipyard closures) and the inaugural cruise was rescheduled from July 5 (Antarctica) first to December 11, 2021 (Norwegian Fjords) and eventually for April 10, 2022 (Arctic Norway from London).
• Seabourn also canceled planned for 2021 itineraries in the Caribbean (from Barbados), Alaska-BC Canada (from Vancouver and Juneau), Asia (from Hong Kong and Singapore) and Australia New Zealand (from Sydney and Auckland).

All prepurchased through Seabourn packages and services were fully refunded in FCC (future cruise credit). All canceled bookings received 125% refund in FCC (based on the fares paid) with rebooking. Customers receiving an FCC can rebook until January 31, 2021, any currently scheduled Seabourn cruises with departures prior December 31, 2021.

All booked 2020 itineraries, plus bookings on departures through December 31, 2021, can be canceled up to 30 days prior departure ("Book with Confidence") with full refunds (100% of the fare paid in FCC) valid for 12 months. Seabourn's "Book with Confidence" policy was enhanced in late-May, offering to all departures in 2021 the "Best Fare Guarantee" allowing customers to request the lowest pricing offered for their voyage - even if the fares drop after booking.

Itinerary of Seabourn Cruises

Summer 2024 and winter-spring 2025 expedition voyages (ships pursuit and venture).

Both ships explore remote corners of the world, from the South Pacific and Antarctica to the Arctic (Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Canada). The program includes Seabourn's first visit to northern Australia's Kimberley coast where Seabourn Pursuit operates between June-August 2024.

In addition to Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit (March-October 2024) visits destinations in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, Guam USA, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, and also has scheduled a Transpacific crossing from Chile to Melanesia. Meanwhile, Seabourn Venture returns for another season in the UK, Ireland, Greenland, Norway, Iceland, and Arctic Canada.

Both ships sail to "The Great White Continent" at the end of 2024-early 2025.

In the South Pacific, Seabourn Pursuit offers 6x 10-day Kimberley sailings (between Broome and Darwin ) in June, July, and August 2024. The ship also operates a series of 15-day itineraries to Papua New Guinea and West Papua (May and June) and again in August and September 2024, with combos/B2Bs of up to 35 days available.

In March-April and again in September-October 2024, Seabourn Pursuit sails between the South Pacific Islands and South America/Chilean coast with a series of voyages 14-17-20-day itineraries. Combos/B2Bs of up to 37 days are also available.

Seabourn Venture offers 3x 14-day UK voyages (between Greenwich-London England  and Leith-Edinburgh Scotland ) in April-May 2024, with 2 different itineraries and availability for up to 28-day B2Bs. In June through September 2024, the ship sails through Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic, with a series of 11-12-day Svalbard itineraries , a 15-day North Atlantic crossing (Svalbard to Greenland and Iceland), an 11-day Iceland Circumnavigation, 11 to 15-day voyages in Iceland and Greenland. The season ends with a 14-day Atlantic  crossing from Greenland to St John's, Newfoundland Canada . B2BS of 28 days are also available.

Seabourn Pursuit offers the Seabourn Antarctic Experience (21-day, Feb 2024) and then on 11x voyages (11-13-21 days) between October 2024 and mid-March 2025.

Seabourn Venture is deployed in the Arctic with 9x voyages (11-13-21 days) as well as Antarctic voyages (November 2024 through to March 2025).

2025-2026 expedition voyages (ships Pursuit and Venture)

The forthcoming 2025-2026 expedition itineraries present a series of explorations to some of the world's most remote and exotic locations on the ultra-luxury expedition ships,  Seabourn Venture  and  Seabourn Pursuit . The extensive roster comprises more than 40 captivating voyages, encompassing destinations like the Arctic, Antarctica, the Amazon, Australia's Kimberley region, the South Pacific, the  Northwest Passage , and more.

Seabourn Venture, between May 2025 and March 2026, offers 21 voyages spanning from 8 to 28 days, covering an extensive range from the Arctic to Antarctica. The itineraries promise immersive encounters in Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland, characterized by towering ice formations and cultural shore excursions in addition to breathtaking, uninhabited fjords.

In August 2025, Seabourn Venture embarks on a historic journey through the Northwest Passage, retracing the paths of earlier seafarers and explorers.

The vessel also ventures southward to Antarctica, dedicating three months to explore the "Great White Continent," providing passengers with the opportunity to navigate around impressive ice formations and encounter unforgettable wildlife.

Furthermore, Seabourn Venture embarks on a unique sea safari voyage deep into the Amazon, offering two 9-day roundtrip journeys from  Manaus  departing on October 12 and October 21, 2025, as well as a 12-day voyage from Manaus to  Rio de Janeiro  departing on October 30, 2025.

Commencing in late March 2025, Seabourn Pursuit embarks on 20 voyages spanning from 10 to 20 days. The voyages commence in the South Pacific, featuring pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and cultural interactions.

Subsequently, the ship heads to Australia's Kimberley region, famous for its red sandstone gorges, rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and rich Aboriginal heritage.

Finally, Seabourn Pursuit navigates back across the Pacific to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, uncovering the region's remarkable biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Notable voyages include two 21-day roundtrips from  Buenos Aires  departing on December 16, 2025, and February 26, 2026, along with a 28-day sailing from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires commencing on November 11, 2025.

Between May and July 2025, Seabourn Pursuit embarks on a series of 10-day departures exploring the Australia and Kimberley Coast region, connecting Broome  and  Darwin, Australia .

Four additional voyages are scheduled, including a pair of 20-day journeys departing on March 18, 2025, from  San Antonio, Chile , to  Papeete, Tahiti , and another on October 10, 2025, from Papeete to San Antonio. Moreover, an 18-day cruise from Papeete to Sydney is planned to commence on April 7, 2025, followed by a 16-day Remote Shores of New Guinea & Indonesia voyage sailing from  Sydney  to Darwin on April 24, 2025.

Both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit embark on extraordinary Antarctic expeditions, featuring zodiac excursions to towering icebergs and penguin colonies, complemented by guided hikes through pristine and seldom-visited landscapes, and the option for kayaking and submarine excursions.

Between November 2025 and March 2026, a total of 16 departures are planned, offering 11- and 13-day Antarctic voyages.

Alaska, Canada and New England USA (summer & fall 2025)

The array of cruises for 2025 encompasses a total of 24 all-inclusive voyages. These voyages are divided into two regions: Alaska during the summer and Canada/New England during the fall.

During the summer, Seabourn Quest is stationed in Alaska. Her itineraries alternate between 7-day and 14-day journeys. The shorter trips navigate between Juneau and Vancouver , while the 2-week cruises follow a round-trip route from Vancouver. Thanks to the vessel's modest size, housing 225 suites, she can adeptly traverse the intricate fjords in Southeast Alaska. This enables guests to explore noteworthy sites like Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm / Endicott Arm , in addition to prominent port towns like Ketchikan and Sitka . The cruises also incorporate Seabourn's Ventures by Seabourn program, offering expedition-style excursions such as kayaking, Zodiac cruising, and hiking for those interested.

Subsequently, beginning in September, Seabourn Sojourn , boasting 225 cabins, embarks on a series of fall foliage cruises between Montreal and New York . The itinerary encompasses various destinations including Quebec City , Halifax in Nova Scotia, Portland in Maine, and Newport in Rhode Island, contingent on the specific voyage.

Mediterranean & Northern Europe 2025

Seabourn's 2025 European season (March thru November) offers a range of itineraries encompassing the Mediterranean, Northern Europe (UK, Baltic, Norway) and Spain's Canary Islands. The program is based on three ships ( Ovation , Encore , Sojourn ) and 60+ voyages.

Seabourn Sojourn visits the Canaries and Moroccan cities before repositioning north to Norway's and Iceland's coastlines, and the rustic charm of the British Isles.

Seabourn Encore visits Easter Med ports (in Greece and Turkey) and the Adriatic Sea's Dalmatian coast.

Seabourn Ovation visits in the Mediterranean iconic Italian and French riviera ports (like Portofino and St. Tropez .

Itineraries range from 7- to 24 days (many are combinable into B2Bs) and offer late-night and overnight por stays.

Seabourn Sojourn's British Isles voyages visit Oban (Scotland) and Saint Helier (Jersey, Channel Islands) .

Arctic voyages visit Reykjavik (Iceland) and Tromso (Norway) .

Between March and November 2025, Seabourn's ships Encore and Ovation are deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic for a total of 24 sailings (7 to 14 days). Highlights include "Shopping with the Chef" experiences, guided by Seabourn chefs, at unique regional markets in destinations such as Croatia, Montenegro, Barcelona , Venice , and more.

Seabourn Encore's 7-day itineraries are to and from Piraeus-Athens), Haifa-Tel Aviv, Istanbul, Venice, or Dubrovnik (Croatia). Additionally, 14- to 32-day B2Bs provide guests with extended opportunities to savor local culinary arts, culture, and hospitality. Call ports include Kusadasi-Ephesus and Katakalon-Olympia.

From March to November 2025, Seabourn Ovation has scheduled 25 sailings (7 to 14 days) leaving from Lisbon , Rome-Civitavecchia , Barcelona, or Monte Carlo . Call ports include Cartagena (Spain) and Cagliari (Sardinia Italy).

Between February and April 2025, Seabourn Sojourn has four cruises to Morocco and the Canaries (7 to 14 days) visiting El Hierro and Casablanca (Morocco) .

2025-2026 (ships Ovation, Encore, Quest, Sojourn)

The 2025-2026 season includes several fresh itineraries in Japan, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Hawaiian Islands. Between September 2025 and March 2026, Seabourn's quartet of vessels -  Seabourn Ovation ,  Seabourn Encore ,  Seabourn Quest , and  Seabourn Sojourn  - explore 105 destinations across 40+ countries through 72 unique itineraries. Ranging from 7 to 22 days in duration, these voyages offer the option for combination to craft more extensive travel experiences. Additionally, travelers can enhance their journeys with pre- and post-cruise excursions.

In a new addition for autumn 2025, Seabourn introduces cruises amidst Japan's vibrant foliage aboard Seabourn Quest. Navigating the Japanese archipelago, the vessel makes inaugural calls on all 4 main islands.

Simultaneously, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn embark on Caribbean expeditions, with departures from  San Juan ,  St. Maarten ,  Miami , and  Barbados  featuring fresh itineraries.

Seabourn Encore, on the other hand, resumes journeys to Southeast Asia, offering 14-day cruises inclusive of overnight stays in  Ho Chi Minh City . Concurrently, Seabourn Sojourn provides holiday sailings around the picturesque Hawaiian Islands.

Seabourn Cruises related cruise news

Wunambal Gaambera people (Kimberley Australia) named Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit

Seabourn, renowned for its ultra-luxury expedition cruises, has designated the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of Seabourn Pursuit...

Seabourn unveils exclusive The Collection cruises with shoreside experiences

The ultra-premium travel brand Seabourn is introducing "The Collection," a series of meticulously crafted voyages also offering unparalleled...

Seabourn reveals segments for 2026 World Cruise aboard Seabourn Sojourn

Seabourn has unveiled 9 individual segments for sale for its 2026 World Cruise - Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems aboard the Seabourn Sojourn. These...

Seabourn Cruises unveils 2025-2026 itineraries with Japan Foliage and Caribbean voyages

Seabourn has revealed its roster of cruises for the 2025-2026 season, introducing several fresh itineraries in Japan, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia...

ASmallWorld introduces The Solo Cruise Company for female travelers aged 55+

Acknowledging the limited travel options available for mature women seeking to explore the world, the travel social network ASmallWorld has...

Crystal Cruises cancels voyage and reroutes ships due to Red Sea risks

Crystal Cruises has made operational adjustments in response to ongoing security concerns surrounding ships navigating the Red Sea. The cancellation...

Port Seattle strengthens anti-trafficking efforts with major cruise lines

On January 11, 2024, the Port of Seattle (Washington USA) disclosed the extension of its Port Allies Against Human Trafficking (PAAHT) commitment...

Seabourn Cruises installs Starlink Wi-Fi connectivity fleetwide

Seabourn has revealed the integration of cutting-edge Wi-Fi connectivity aboard its fleet of ultra-luxury vessels through SpaceX's Starlink - a...

Hamburg Port concludes 2023 cruise season with record-breaking visits from AIDAnova

Hamburg Port is concluding its 2023 cruise season with a notable finale featuring two visits from AIDA Cruises' AIDAnova during the Christmas holiday...

Seabourn's ships Pursuit and Venture meet in Antarctica

Seabourn, the trailblazer in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, marked a historic occasion as Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture, the...

•   show more news

Protect Your Trip »

6 top transatlantic cruises for 2024.

Journey across the Atlantic while enjoying all the amenities at sea.

The Top Transatlantic Cruises

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Sailing from New York to England on Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 is just one of many transatlantic offerings in 2024.

Transatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
• Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best florence tours.

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

6 Top Transatlantic Cruises for 2024

T ransatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
• Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report