Following a controversial post, Carnival cruise fans are once again debating when and if saving seats for shows onboard is appropriate.
One side of the argument thinks that it’s okay to save seats under certain circumstances, but others say that the practice should never be allowed.
Notably, Carnival does not permit seat saving at any of the theaters or pools onboard its cruise ships.
An age-old debate is once again rearing its head among Carnival cruisers, and the question at hand is if it’s okay for passengers to save seats at the various venues onboard.
The topic was once again broached by a controversial Facebook post from a recent guest of Carnival Spirit, that has now made its way to Reddit.
“Just met the rudest guest. We were saving a seat for some friends at the [trivia] game area and this man and wife picked up our jackets and moved them even after being told we’re holding those seats for our friends,”the anonymous cruiser wrote, likely expecting sympathy.
But after cruise fans bashed the passenger in the comments section for saving seats, the post was quickly deleted – but obviously not forgotten.
Before we get too deep into the different arguments, it’s worth pointing out that Carnival Cruise Line does not allow seat saving in any of the theaters on its cruise ships.
Instead, the crew members are instructed to enforce a first-come, first-served policy.
Another cruise guest who put their voice into the mix shared how they sat down in the comedy club even though another family claimed to be saving the seats.
The group called over multiple crew members to try to remove the passenger, but were told that the passenger couldn’t be made to move, which shows that the seat saving policy is enforced.
“One time at said comedy club, I showed up early and snagged a spot at the front row. This was on a Spirit-class ship where most of the seating is long bench/couch seating instead of individual chairs,”they shared.
“The group sitting at one end informed me that they were saving that space for their family, but I refused to move. They flagged down the host who told them that he couldn’t make me move,” the guest continued.
The anti-seat saving policy is also enforced on the pool decks, where Carnival hascracked down on chair hoggingby “unreserving” chairs that go unused for a period of 40 minutes.
Is Saving Seats Ever Okay?
Ultimately, there is no right answer to this question, and I’m not sure that there ever will be. There are too many different sides to this heated debate.
For example, some cruisers think that saving seats is okay under certain circumstances, such as when just a couple people are running behind or someone needs to step away to use the bathroom.
“They could have had to use the restroom, went for a drink, etc. I say 10-15 minutes is fair. Anything beyond that is inconsiderate,”one cruise fan asserted.
“I think it’s ok within reason. Saving 2 seats is fine. Saving 6? That’s pretty excessive…you certainly shouldn’t be taking the better seating if your party isn’t ready,” another agreed.
Carnival Cruise Line Lido Deck (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
Others were steadfast in their belief that saving seats is never okay, no matter the circumstances.
“Saving seats to shows is ridiculous. Everyone who wants to see the show is trying to get there early or on time,” one person argued.
“The group that runs down and blocks off desirable seats because members of their group are running late are a–holes. If the show is important, have them be there on time,” they continued.
I’ve personally seen people save prime seats for production shows on multiple cruise lines, only for their party to never actually arrive.
When all is said and done, this debate is really a question of proper cruise ship etiquette.
This means being considerate of your fellow passengers, but also keeping in mind that asking someone to save you a seat can lead to awkward encounters and potential conflict.
I like to think about it this way: If you would be angry to be on the receiving end of your seat saving actions, you may want to reconsider your next move.
Pride of America left more than 300 individuals behind at her emergency departure from Hilo due to tsunami evacuation measures.
The ship will return to Hilo Harbor once a required safety assessment is complete and the harbor has reopened.
No itinerary changes have yet been confirmed, but the ship will be unable to visit Kona exactly as planned.
Following the tsunami warnings issued to Hawaii in the wake of the 8.8 magnitude earthquake late Tuesday, July 29, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America was required to immediately evacuate Hilo Harbor.
The emergency departure, an essential step to safeguard the ship and harbor from the threat of tsunami waves, meant that guests were recalled to the vessel long before the scheduled all-aboard time.
Unfortunately, not all guests made it back to the pier. Similarly, not all crew members enjoying time ashore were able to return to the ship before it had to leave.
In total, more than 300 individuals were not aboard Pride of America as she sailed away. In some cases, families were separated depending on who was aboard the ship and who was ashore at the critical time.
In a statement to Cruise Hive, Norwegian Cruise Line explained their emergency operational decisions and what will happen next.
“Before departure, all guests were notified via SMS and advised to seek higher ground and follow instructions from local authorities if they were unable to return to the ship in time for its departure,” the statement read.
“Guests participating in NCL shore excursions were brought directly to a local high school, a designated safe location in Hilo, where refreshments were provided for their comfort and well-being.”
The high school used as a tsunami evacuation shelter is Waiakea High School on Kawili Street, just over three miles from the Port of Hilo. The high school is 105 feet above sea level and equipped to handle emergency crowds as needed.
Cruise guests on independent tours or exploring Hilo on their own who were not able to return to Pride of America could also go to the school. Some choose to seek other shelter or accommodations for the night as the ship remained safely away from the port.
Pride of America Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Jose Gil)
“As a precaution and due to the temporary port closure, Pride of America has remained at sea, a safer location in situations such as this,”the cruise line confirmed.
“The tsunami warning has since been lifted, allowing for the affected ports to gradually reopen. Hilo Harbor, however, requires a safety assessment before it can receive clearance from local authorities and the U.S. Coast Guard. This assessment is scheduled to take place in the early morning of July 30, 2025 local Hawaii time, at which point our guests will reboard the ship.”
Satellite tracking data shows Pride of America remaining at sea in the early morning, though the ship has not ventured further than necessary from Hilo. This will ensure she can return promptly once the all-clear is received and Hilo Harbor has safely reopened.
At that time, the ship will be able to reunite with guests who were unable to return before the emergency departure and the 7-night Hawaiian inter-island sailing will continue.
Itinerary Adjustment Inevitable
Considering that Pride of America was scheduled to be in Kona on the other side of the Big Island on Wednesday, July 30, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., that stop will not be possible as planned.
At this time, it is not confirmed whether or not the ship will simply cancel that port visit, adjust the timing, or shift all port visits on the itinerary to accommodate the unexpected changes.
There is one sea day left on the ship’s weeklong itinerary, planned as the last day of the voyage. It is possible that all port visits could simply be shifted one day later, or else the visit to Kona may be cancelled and the itinerary will resume as scheduled.
The next port for Pride of America is Nawiliwili on Kauai on Thursday, July 31, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This is also the last port for the weekly itinerary.
Guests onboard will be updated with itinerary changes as soon as plans are confirmed.
A massive earthquake in Russia has caused tsunami warnings as far away as Hawaii, where the first wave is expected to hit in a matter of hours.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America departed from Hilo early to get to the safety of the open ocean, leaving some passengers behind.
Based on cruise tracking data, Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Regatta appears to have fled from the Kailua-Kona cruise port early as well.
Though the situation is still developing, a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off the East Coast of Kamchatka, Russia, on July 29, 2025, has already had an impact on a global scale.
“A tsunami warning continues in effect for the state of Hawaii,” reads an official update from the National Weather Service.
“A tsunami has been generated that could cause damage along coastlines of all islands in the state of Hawaii. Urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property.”
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has also issued a three-hour warning to evacuate coastal areas immediately ahead of the first wave, which is expected to hit the Hawaiian islands just after 7 p.m. on July 29.
“Sirens sounding for tsunami threat. 3HRS out from 1st wave arrival estimated at 7:10 PM HST. Evacuate coastal areas,”the emergency alert read.
I have family on a cruise in #Hawaii. They were on an excursion on the Big Island when they got the #tsunamialert. They made it back on the cruise ship right before it left Hilo. They said a lot of people out on excursions were left behind. You can hear the warning sirens.#Hilopic.twitter.com/y7Co9PfvFb
The cruise lines have taken this warning to heart, and so far, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America has already made an urgent departure from the port of Hilo because the danger diminishes significantly in the open ocean.
The up to 2,186 passengers booked on this sailing received this message: “Due to a TSUNAMI WARNING issued by the State of Hawaii, Pride of America will be departing Hilo immediately as directed by the Department of Transportation.”
“If you’re not in the vicinity of the port, seek higher ground and follow the direction of the local authorities for your safety,” the message continued.
Unfortunately, not everyone made it back to the port quickly enough, as guests didn’t expect to depart until 6 p.m. local time and many were in the middle of shore excursions.
Pride of America Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Jose Gil)
“I have family on a cruise in #Hawaii. They were on an excursion on the Big Island when they got the #tsunamialert,” One person confirmed on X on behalf of their loved ones.
“They made it back on the cruise ship right before it left Hilo.They said a lot of people out on excursions were left behind. You can hear the warning sirens,” she shared.
Some cruisers also reported that they were separated from their loved ones after only a portion of their travel party made it back onboard.
It’s unclear how Norwegian Cruise Line will compensate or assist passengers who were left behind once the danger passes.
For now, initial reports show that at least some guests that did get left behind are being brought to higher ground by tour providers.
More Cruise Ships Impacted in Intense Situation
Although we have not received direct confirmation from the cruise line, Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Regatta can also beseen on cruise tracking dataleaving Hawaii’s Kailua-Kona early.
Like Hilo, Kailua-Kona also services the Big Island of Hawaii.
As with the NCL ship, the small luxury cruise ship was not supposed to set sail again until 6 p.m. local time.
She is due to dock in Kahului (Maui) tomorrow, July 30, and it’s unclear if the tsunami will result in a change of plans for this port call as well.
No other cruise ships will be calling on the main Hawaiian cruise ports through the end of July, but it’s possible that more ships in other parts of the world will be impacted by what has been ranked as Russia’s sixth-largest earthquake of all time.
Additional warnings are in place for the US West Coast, parts of British Colombia, Japan, and several US Territories like Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa.
So far, larger waves of 3-4 meters tall (or 10-13 feet) have already hit parts of Kamchatka, which is near the epicenter of the earthquake.
Some initial 30 cm waves (or 12 inches) have also already been noticed in Hokkaido, a city in Northern Japan. While these may seem small, bigger waves could get closer to 3 meters (10 feet) tall.
In the US, Alaska (and specifically the Aleutian Islands) is most likely to be hit first, followed by Hawaii, and then finally the West Coast (Washington, Oregon, and California).
If you are in an impacted area, especially near the coast, please spread the word, get to higher ground, and stay safe.
An 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia has triggered tsunami warnings and advisories throughout the Pacific sailing region from Alaska to Antarctica.
Aftershocks may extend warnings and advisories for several hours or days as geologic activity continues.
Cruise lines will make itinerary and port visit adjustments as needed to keep ships, crew, and guests safe from any impacts.
Cruise ships sailing in Alaska, Hawaii, and even along the West coasts of the US and Mexico will be on high alert for the next few hours as a tsunami warning has been issued.
Expected arrival times of a potential wave between 8:30-9 p.m. local time are in place for the popular cruise region of Alaska.
This follows an 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck at 7:24 p.m. Eastern time just off the east coast of Russia’s Kamchatka peninsula, across the Bering Sea from the Last Frontier.
Tsunamis can travel great distances and cause significant coastal damage, depending on the potential size of the wave.
As this is the peak season for cruising along Alaska’s coast, multiple cruise ships may be in the path of any dangerous wave.
The closest cruise ship to the epicenter appears to be Villa Vie Odyssey, which is on her three-year residential sailing. Fortunately, satellite tracking data shows the ship in the Bering Sea at this time, where any wave impacts are minimized by the ocean’s depth.
Other ships sailing in Alaska’s coastal waters, however, may be at greater risk. This would include vessels visiting ports of call as well as those en route along the Inside Passage and other coastal areas.
According to the US Tsunami Warning System, a confirmed tsunami warning is in effect for the easternmost Aleutian Islands, while a tsunami advisory is in effect for the western Aleutian Islands, south Alaska, and the Alaska peninsula.
A tsunami watch is in effect for southeast Alaska and south along the Pacific Coast, including Washington, Oregon, and all of California to the Mexican border.
Tsunami Alert Map (Credit: U.S. Tsunami Warning System)
Expected arrival time of tsunami impacts is as early as 8:45 p.m. in Seward, Alaska and 8:55 p.m. in Sitka. The energy of the wave may reach Southern California, including Long Beach, at roughly 1:05 a.m. (All times local.)
Warnings associated with the advisories include instructions for boats and ships as follows:
“If at sea avoid entering shallow water, harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets to avoid floating and submerged debris and strong currents.”
Vessels are advised to move out to sea to a depth of at least 180 feet to minimize any effects as the wave may pass.
For most cruise ships, this will not be difficult. Each cruise line’s weather and emergency monitoring team will advise vessels on any course changes or itinerary adjustments as necessary.
In addition to Alaska, further tsunami warnings have been issued for Japan, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and even Antarctica. Dozens of cruise ships and ports within those regions may be impacted.
Will Individual Cruises Need to Skip Ports?
At this time, it is unknown whether or not individual cruises may need to skip ports of call, adjust scenic coastal cruising, or have other itinerary impacts due to tsunami impacts.
The presence of aftershocks following the main quake may compound tsunami activity for several hours or days, making it prudent for ships to remain away from the coast until geologic activity has stabilized.
Villa Vie Odyssey Cruise Ship
Furthermore, if a significant wave does impact cruise ports, upcoming visits may need to be cancelled until damage and safety assessments can be made and any repairs completed.
The shape and elevation of the local shoreline, tidal fluctuations, and seafloor bathymetry (topography) can all influence the direct impact of a tsunami.
In general, the further from the epicenter a location is, the impact will lessen, though the energy of these powerful waves can travel thousands of miles before fully dissipating.
Each cruise line will make whatever changes are necessary to safeguard its ships, guests, and crew members.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to Cruise Hive for confirmed updates impacting cruises and ports of call.
A transatlantic cruise crosses the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, usually taking around 12 to 14 nights, with several days in a row spent entirely at sea.
Most sailings exist because cruise lines need to move their ships between regions at the change of seasons, which is why fares are often much cheaper per day than a regular cruise of the same length.
Spring and fall are when most transatlantic cruises run; spring is the better bet for calmer seas, as fall sailings can overlap with hurricane season.
A transatlantic cruise is exactly what it sounds like: a cruise that crosses the Atlantic Ocean. Instead of sailing around a single region like the Caribbean or New England, you are making a proper ocean crossing, typically travelling between Europe and the United States or Caribbean over the course of two weeks or so.
I’ve taken many of these cruises, including working as a crew member, so let’s see what it’s all about!
At its most basic, a transatlantic cruise is any sailing that crosses the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America. But in practice, most of these voyages exist for a specific reason, and understanding that reason explains why they look and feel so different from a typical cruise.
Repositioning Cruises
Norwegian Escape in New York (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock)
For many cruise lines, a transatlantic cruise doubles as a repositioning cruise.
Think about it. Most cruise lines move their ships throughout the year. A Royal Caribbean ship may serve a Scandinavian/Northern Europe itinerary throughout the summer months and then, in the winter, the ship might move to the Caribbean.
Similarly, a Norwegian Cruise Line ship might sail around Alaska in the summer and then go down to California and Mexico in the winter.
In short, cruise ships follow the good weather. However, it would be a waste of time and money for the cruise line to simply send an empty ship across the world, to reposition it for the next season.
Thus, repositioning cruises — like transatlantic cruises that might take a ship from Spain to Florida — allow the cruise line to simultaneously get their ship where it needs to go and make money from passengers keen to enjoy this unique voyage type.
Dry Docking Cruises
Allure of the Seas in Dry Dock, Cadiz
Very similarly, in some cases, a cruise line needs to send their ship off to the shipyard for dry docking and renovations. There are several top spots that cruise ships often send their ships for dry docking.
These include Navantia’s shipyard in Cadiz, Spain; the Chantier Naval de Marseille in France; and the Grand Bahama Shipyard in the Bahamas.
If a ship is currently positioned in the Caribbean and needs to go to Spain for an overhaul, the ship must make a transatlantic crossing. Again, the cruise line doesn’t want to simply send an empty ship there, so the line will bill the voyage as a transatlantic cruise.
A Nostalgic Experience
Stern of the Titanic (Photo Credit: Anton_Ivanov)
Some cruise lines simply offer transatlantic voyages because there’s a certain novel, nostalgic element to them. They hearken back to the golden age of ship travel. Think Titanic, without the tragedy.
Cunard banks in on this nostalgia factor with its roundtrip transatlantic crossings that aren’t at all repositioning trips, but simply an opportunity to travel in the footsteps of the Titanic via a New York City to Southampton and back itinerary.
What Is It Actually Like?
I worked on cruise ships for over eight years and have sailed as a passenger more times than I can count, and a transatlantic cruise is genuinely unlike anything else in cruising. That said, it is not for everyone. The North Atlantic can be rough for long stretches, so if you struggle with motion sickness on a regular cruise, a transatlantic crossing will test you.
What surprised me most was how quickly you get to know people. With so many consecutive days at sea, you end up seeing the same faces at dinner, at the bar, on the deck. Friendships form fast, and you get a real sense of the crew as people rather than just staff.
And arriving into port after days of open ocean is something you do not forget. Seeing the New York skyline appear on the horizon after two weeks at sea is one of those moments that reminds you why people have been making this crossing for over a century.
Why are Transatlantic Cruises So Cheap?
Queen Mary 2 Ship (Photo Credit: Alexandre Prevot)
Just like any cruise, how much a transatlantic cruise costs will entirely depend on a range of factors, including itinerary, cruise line, length of cruise and more.
However, if you’re specifically sailing on a repositioning cruise, you may find that the day rates are more affordable than the day rates for a cruise of a similar length.
Cruise lines know that these transatlantic cruises aren’t for everyone, but they want to fill as many staterooms as possible, so they’re willing to drop their prices a bit.
You can find 14-night transatlantic cruises from Celebrity Cruises that go for around as low as $1,000 per person. Meanwhile, other 12 to 14-night cruises with the line that stick to regions such as Alaska can easily cost double that.
In other instances, wherein a transatlantic cruise isn’t for repositioning purposes, you may find that the prices are very comparable to what you’d normally pay for a cruise of the same length.
For example, Cunard is a luxury line and its 14-day roundtrip transatlantic crossings on the Queen Mary hover at around $2,000–$3,000 per person. You’ll pay around the same for a 14-day Cunard cruise that just sticks to New England and Canada.
How Long is a Transatlantic Cruise?
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 Ship
Most transatlantic cruises are at the absolute very least a week, though normally they average about 12–14 nights.
If you’re taking a transatlantic cruise that only lasts a week, an offering you’ll find from Cunard, note that you’ll have very few stops and the voyage will really just be about crossing the ocean rather than seeing anything interesting in port.
Where Do Transatlantic Cruises Go?
Queen Mary 2 in New York (Photo Credit: Cunard Line)
Most often, transatlantic cruises go between a handful of key destinations in Europe and North America.
Most often, embarkation or debarkation ports in North America include those in New York City, Boston and Florida. Embarkation or debarkation ports in Europe could include those in England, Spain, Italy, France or Portugal.
Between your embarkation and debarkation ports, if your cruise is going to stop at certain points along the way, it’ll generally stop by popular mid-Atlantic islands such as Bermuda or the Azores.
You may find that they also stop at Atlantic port cities along the European Atlantic coast, such as those in Portugal or Spain. A transatlantic cruise that crosses the North Atlantic might stop in Greenland or Iceland.
As an example, a 15-night transatlantic cruise on Royal Caribbean, between Southampton and Galveston might include a first day at sea, followed by stops in Spain and Portugal, another day at sea, another stop in Portugal, nine days at sea and then finally arrival in Galveston.
When is the Best Time for a Transatlantic Cruise?
Cruise Ship Wake (Photo Credit: Tony Steinberg / Shutterstock)
If you’re looking for a Caribbean cruise, you can find one that leaves Florida ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale just about every day of the week, even multiple times per day. That’s not the case with transatlantic cruises. They’re not available quite so often.
Given that repositioning generally takes place at the change of the seasons, you’ll find the greatest number of transatlantic cruises available in the spring and fall.
If you’re choosing between a spring or fall transatlantic cruise, there’s one consideration to keep in mind: weather.
The spring months, after February, are generally considered best for crossing the Atlantic if you’re worried about weather and rough seas. (Though, note that an Atlantic crossing can be rougher than what you’re used to anyway, even if you are a long-time cruiser, so don’t be surprised if you get a touch of seasickness.)
Additionally, fall sailings may coincide with hurricane season, which lasts June through November and could impact your sailing.
What Cruise Lines Offer Transatlantic Cruises?
Just about every cruise line offers transatlantic cruises, but they might not offer transatlantic cruises regularly — just when they’re repositioning.
You can find transatlantic cruises from Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Silversea, Seabourn, Viking and Carnival Cruise Line.
Pros of a Transatlantic Cruise
Plenty of Time on the Ship
Deck of MSC Opera (Photo Credit: CeltStudio)
Yes, the ample sea days during a transatlantic cruise can be a con for some, but for others, they love that you can spend consecutive days upon days on the ship during a transatlantic cruise.
If there’s a ship that you’ve been dying to sail on, or a ship with lots of amazing facilities and amenities — like the newer ships from Royal Caribbean or MSC Cruises — this type of cruise will give you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the waterparks, all the restaurants, the rides and more.
Likewise, if you’re wanting a very low-key, relaxing cruise with little pressure to go out and spend all day, every day in port, a transatlantic cruise delivers. You can kick back, relax, go to the spa, lounge by the pool, with no guilt.
It’s Not Your Normal Cruising Experience
Cruise Ship Sailing Rough Seas (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
If you’ve been on your fair share of cruises like me, sometimes you just want a little something different.
If new ships or new destinations simply aren’t scratching your itch for a more unique sailing experience, try a transatlantic cruise. It really is an experience that stands far apart from your typical Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise.
You Can Save Money on a Transatlantic Cruise
As mentioned above, you can potentially save more money per day on a transatlantic cruise. In some cases, you could spend half of what you might pay for a round-trip cruise in one region, and still get the same number of nights on vacation.
One of my greatest joys over taking so many cruises has been getting to know other avid cruisers. It’s the same for them. You take these cruises, get to know people who frequently sail the same itineraries or lines, and soon you’re planning trips together.
If you dream of establishing similar friendships with other cruisers, a transatlantic cruise may just be the best place to make it happen. You’re all together, for longer amounts of time, for more sea days, and you never know when the opportunity to form a friendship will strike.
More Time to Get to Know the Crew, Too
Crew on MSC World America (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)
Along these lines, you’ll also get to know the crew more, too, including your cabin steward or butler if you have one, and the cruise director.
Not only can this lead to better service during your current cruise, but you may find that you come to really appreciate certain crew members and want to sail with them in the future.
It’s not uncommon for frequent cruisers to track the schedules of favorite cruise directors and then specifically book cruises where they’ll be in charge.
Cons of a Transatlantic Cruise
Fewer Port Stops and More Sea Days
View of Bermuda Cruise Port from Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Nazar Skladanyi / Shutterstock)
If you cruise because it’s a mode of travel that allows you to visit multiple destinations in one easy trip, you might not appreciate a transatlantic cruise. The port stops can be minimal, depending on the cruise chosen.
For example, on Cunard’s roundtrip, 14-night crossings between Southampton and New York City, you literally are only going from New York to Southampton and back, spending all your other time at sea.
Other itineraries are a little more generous, as is the case with various transatlantic cruises from Celebrity Cruises. For instance, an itinerary between Southampton and Florida might make stops in Spain, Portugal, the Azores and Bermuda.
Still, though, that’s only four days in port out of 14 total sailing days. You’re spending the other 10 days at sea.
So, if you prefer port days to sea days, this might be a con for you.
It’s Not Your Normal Cruising Experience
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 in Southampton (Photo Credit: Skyshark Media)
This is another one that’s both a pro and a con. Since transatlantic cruises are far from your average cruise experience, they may not be the best fit for new cruisers.
If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might not know if you like sea days or port days more. You might not even know if you get seasick!
A newbie cruiser could step onto the ship, realize that cruising is not for them at all…and then they’re stuck at sea for two weeks. It’s not an ideal situation.
As such, get your feet wet with a shorter, more standard cruise first.
Transatlantic Cruises Are Often One-Way
Cruise Ship Docked in New York City (Photo Credit: Ververidis Vasilis)
While you can find round-trip transatlantic cruises from Cunard, that’s not the standard offering. Remember, most cruise lines are repositioning their ships for new itineraries or dry docking. As such, once they get to their destination, whichever side of the Atlantic it’s on, they’re staying there.
This leaves cruisers with the job of getting themselves back home. Not only does this bring in the extra hassle of getting from the cruise ship to the airport and flying back home, but it also brings in extra costs.
While you might save $1,000 per person on your cruise fare, you could easily end up spending that much or more if you have to get from, say, a European port city like Cadiz, Spain, to a small Midwest town like Cincinnati, Ohio.
Final Tips for a Transatlantic Cruise
If you decide to take a transatlantic cruise, there are just a few more things you’ll want to keep in mind during the booking and planning process.
Pick the Right Stateroom
Disney Magic Cabin (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
On a typical cruise, you might decide to save some money by booking an inside stateroom. After all, you’re going to be in your stateroom to sleep only — who cares if it’s small and cramped?
You don’t want to think that way on a transatlantic cruise. You’ll be spending more time than ever on the ship, so you want to be comfortable. If that means you need to get a larger or more luxurious stateroom, consider doing so.
Think About How You’ll Stay Entertained
Carnival Cruise Ship Theater Lounge (Photo Credit: gary yim)
If you don’t have your heart set on a particular cruise line or ship for your transatlantic sailing, really consider how you’ll stay entertained during the voyage.
As you pick your ship, will it have enough entertainment options for you to stay occupied for 10 or more days? Can you easily fill your days with pool lounging, thrill rides, shows, drinking, dining, classes and shopping?
Or will you need to pack your own fun that you might normally not even consider bringing on a cruise, such as that pile of books you’ve been meaning to read?
Consider Extending Your Trip
Plane Going Over Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky)
Lastly, since transatlantic cruises are one-way, you might consider taking advantage of this fact by extending your trip in your destination.
After all, there’s no rule that you must land in Spain and immediately fly back home. You could easily stay longer in your disembarkation port and enjoy an extended trip before returning.
This might even save you money, if you’re willing to travel to another city near the port, where airfare back home is cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are transatlantic cruises rough?
They can be. The North Atlantic is not the Caribbean, and even seasoned cruisers are sometimes caught off guard by the motion. That said, modern cruise ships are large and well stabilised, so it is rarely as bad as people fear. If you are prone to seasickness, pack medication just in case.
Do you need a passport for a transatlantic cruise?
Yes. You will be crossing international waters and arriving in a foreign country, so a valid passport is essential. Make sure yours has plenty of time left on it before you sail.
Can you fly home after a transatlantic cruise?
Yes, and most people do. Since the majority of transatlantic cruises are one-way, you will need to book a flight home from your final port. Factor this into your budget when comparing the overall cost against a roundtrip cruise.
What is the cheapest way to do a transatlantic cruise?
Look at repositioning sailings in the spring or fall, when cruise lines are moving ships between the Caribbean and Europe. Inside cabins on these voyages can work out at a very low cost per night, often less than you would pay for a much shorter cruise.
Is a transatlantic cruise good for first-timers?
Probably not as a first cruise. With so many days at sea, you want to already know that you enjoy life on a ship before committing to two weeks of it. A shorter cruise first is a sensible way to find out if cruising suits you.
Should I Take a Transatlantic Cruise?
So, is a transatlantic cruise right for you? Ask yourself a few key questions.
Do you prefer sea days or port days? Are you a new cruiser or a long-time cruiser? Do you have it in your budget to pay for airfare back home after your cruise is over? Or will the savings you get from taking a transatlantic cruise leave enough wiggle room in your travel budget to cover the airfare?
Whatever you decide, a transatlantic cruise is a one-of-a-kind experience that, at least for avid cruisers, should be on your bucket list. What’s certain is that it’s an experience that you’ll never forget.
Guests visiting Celebration Key on October 4, 2025 have had Pearl Cove Beach Club rentals cancelled and refunded.
Carnival Cruise Line has explained the cancellations as due to a private event, but without any further details.
The Pearl Cove Beach Club is the adults-only private area and requires extra fee access passes for interested guests.
Less than two weeks after opening, Carnival Cruise Line’s new private destination on Grand Bahama Island, Celebration Key, is already proving wildly popular. But is it too popular?
The cruise line has been reaching out to guests with select reservations for Saturday, October 4, 2025 with notifications that their rental choices will not be available.
“We’ve just been informed that, the Pearl Cove Beach Club area will be closed on 10/4/25 for a private event,”the email explains.“As a result, your reservation has been cancelled and a refund has been issued to your original form of payment.”
The nature of the “private event” has not been disclosed. On that Saturday, both Carnival Celebration and Carnival Glory are scheduled for visits.
It is possible the cruise line may be hosting a corporate or media event at that time, or else the space could have been fully rented by another company or organization, similar to a full-ship charter cruise. An event for the Carnival crew members could also be possible.
Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, has confirmed the closure after being asked via his popular Facebook page.
“It is something that is taking place and I do apologize again for the inconvenience of this,”he said.
Initially guests had some concern that the cancellations might be due to overcrowding at the new destination, particularly as kinks in daily operations may yet need to be ironed out.
This is unlikely, however, as two ships are scheduled for Celebration Key on most days.
On Friday, September 12, there will be three ships in port for the first time – Carnival Pride, Carnival Elation, and Mardi Gras, with no word of any cancellations.
If overcrowding was already a concern, undoubtedly there would be multiple cancellations of different rental options on multiple days. As this has not been the case, a special event is far more likely.
This could raise concerns for guests with future cruises to the destination, however. If the cruise line regularly rents out space for non-cruise events, guests might not be able to enjoy every feature of Celebration Key on their visits.
Visiting the Pearl Cove Beach Club
The Pearl Cove Beach Club is Celebration Key’s exclusive, adults-only space for visitors ages 18 and older. Located on the west end of the destination, the club offers elevated luxury with a private beach, an 11,000-square foot infinity pool, a swim-up bar, and a relaxing, quiet vibe.
“We’ve specifically designed Pearl Cove Beach Club as the perfect place for adults to lounge, unwind, or relax in their own paradise,”said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Pearl Cove Beach Club, Celebration Key
Access to the Pearl Cove Beach Club does require an extra fee of $79.99 per person, or $139.99 for an open bar pass option. Prices and availability can vary, of course.
The “luxury daybed” referenced in the email cancellation is the least expensive private rental at the beach club, priced at $349.99 for a full-day rental that can accommodate four guests.
Guests can also rent standard cabanas with an open bar for $999.99 for up to four guests. These cabanas include concierge service and an all-day pass to the two Suncastle water slides.
All-Inclusive Super Villas are the most elite option at the Pearl Cove Beach Club for the super-pricey fee of $2,799.99, but they can accommodate 10 guests.
These rentals also include highly desirable amenities, such as hammocks, lockers, a dedicated concierge, an open bar, snacks, and waterslide passes.
In the first half of 2025, 5.6 million cruise passengers called at Mexican ports.
The arrivals hike translates to an 8.4% spike.
Cozumel alone welcomed 2.4 million cruise guests.
Mexico tourism officials are looking back on the first half of 2025 with glowing pride, thanks to cruise arrival numbers showing a big increase compared to last year.
Just-released data points to a very respectable 5.6 million cruise guests arriving at Mexican ports, reflecting an 8.4% hike.
Cruise ship arrivals between January and June reached 1,639 at all ports, also a hefty 7.8% increase. The lion’s share of ship and guest arrivals goes to Cozumel. In the first half of the year, 2.4 million cruise passengers visited the destination.
“These figures confirm that Mexico is consolidating its position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for cruise tourism,” said Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, tourism secretary of Mexico.
Other ports scoring big wins in arrivals are Mahahual, better known as Costa Maya, in Quintana Roo; Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas, both in Baja California Sur; and Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco.
Ensenada is often packaged with visits to Catalina Island on sailings from Los Angeles and San Diego, while Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta are standard calls on virtually every Mexican Riviera voyage.
In the Gulf of Mexico, Cozumel is a mainstay port along with Costa Maya and Progreso on Western Caribbean cruises operated by ships based in Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; and the three main Florida ports — Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Port Canaveral.
Zamora cited the government’s strengthening of the National Port System as largely responsible for the growth. Cozumel is the busiest in terms of arrivals and has three cruise ship piers. The possible construction of a fourth has been in the conceptual stage for the last few years.
Costa Maya is the second-busiest, welcoming 1.2 million cruise guests during the first six months of 2025. Cabo San Lucas received about 480,000.
If the demand holds through the remainder of 2025, Cozumel would be on track to welcome roughly 4.8 million cruisers. That would put it well ahead of pre-pandemic records; in 2018, for instance, 4.3 million cruise passengers arrived in Cozumel.
Arrivals Spike Comes as New Cruise Tax Takes Effect
The healthy arrivals numbers were announced just as a new cruise arrival tax went into effect at Mexican ports.
Taking effect on July 1, 2025, the $5 per person tax had been delayed from its original implementation date of January 1, 2025. In 2026, it will rise to $10 per passenger, and in 2027 to $21 per cruise arrival. The tax was originally proposed at $42 per person before being pared down.
The levy is meant to expand the country’s non-resident tourist tax, which had never been charged to cruise passengers.
Cruise Ships Docked in Cozumel, Mexico (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Several mega-ships currently offer itineraries calling at Cozumel and Costa Maya. Among them are the 5,300-guest Carnival Jubilee, the 3,600-guest Carnival Dream, and 3,700-guest Carnival Breeze, and Royal Caribbean’s 3,100-guest Mariner of the Seas and 5,400-guest Harmony of the Seas, all based at Galveston.
Cruise ships currently visiting Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, on Mexican Riviera sailings, include the 4,100-guest Carnival Firenze and 4,000-guest Carnival Panorama, and Royal Caribbean’s 4,100-guest Ovation of the Seas and 3,300-guest Navigator of the Seas, all homeported at Los Angeles.
These ports are also typically included on Hawaii voyages. For instance, Holland America Line’s Zaandam will visit both destinations on her 29-night Circle Hawaii & Historical Baja Peninsula cruise sailing roundtrip from San Diego on November 19, 2025.
The Mexican government has plans to improve additional ports in the coming years. It plans to invest 55 billion pesos ($2.9 billion USD) to boost infrastructure in Ensenada, Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas, Acapulco, Veracruz, and Progreso, according to local media reports.
Last-minute bookings played a key role in the sharp rise in revenue.
The company’s multiple brands welcomed 2.3 million guests in the second quarter.
New-builds Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel are in high demand.
Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of five global cruise brands, welcomed 2.3 million passengers across its fleets in the second quarter of 2025, a healthy 10% spike compared to the year-ago quarter.
The company owns Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, and has a 50% stake in Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, operating a total company-wide fleet of 68 ships.
It revealed its latest financial results on July 29, 2025, saying bookings have accelerated since first-quarter numbers were announced in late April 2025.
Last-minute, or close-in, bookings were particularly responsible for the robust numbers, and strong demand continues for all three Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) brands and in all markets. Guest capacity in the second quarter rose by 5.8% versus the same timeframe in 2024.
The brands’ digital booking channels provided exceptional results, the company said, not only for reservations but for pre-cruise purchases of value-added packages, shore excursions, and other amenities.
In particular, advance bookings for the new-builds Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class ship, and Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises’ fifth Edge-class vessel, are doing extremely well.
“The strong demand we are seeing across our new ships and land-based destinations reinforces that our strategy is working and resonating with today’s traveler,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
“As consumer preferences continue to evolve – toward more frequent vacations, closer-in vacation planning, and a greater focus on meaningful, experience-driven travel – our experiences are designed to meet these evolving expectations,” Liberty added.
Star of the Seas has the potential to add significantly to guest load factors, given its capacity to accommodate 5,600 guests in double occupancy and 7,600 with all berths occupied — the same as sister ship Icon of the Seas. The two share the title of the biggest cruise ship in the world.
Star of the Seas is fresh out of the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and is on her way to her first homeport, Port Canaveral. The new-build will bring the Royal Caribbean fleet to 29.
Star of the Seas at Meyer Turku (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)
Icon of the Seas sails from PortMiami, giving Royal Caribbean significant capacity from the world’s two busiest cruise ports, Miami and Port Canaveral, respectively.
Star of the Seas will host four preview cruises starting on August 16, 2025, followed by her official inaugural voyage, a 7-night cruise departing on August 31, 2025.
Celebrity Xcel, with a capacity for 3,260 guests, will join the brand’s 16-ship fleet in November, sailing from Fort Lauderdale. The vessel is under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
Early Bookings for Royal Beach Club Are Robust
Royal Caribbean Group reported its total revenues in the second quarter reached $4.5 billion, up from $4 billion reported for the first quarter of the year.
For stockholders, the second-quarter results translate to $4.41 earnings per share, which is higher than the company’s earlier guidance had indicated.
The second-quarter financial announcement also cited robust advance sales for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which is due to open in December 2025. Guests sailing itineraries that call at Nassau, Bahamas, can buy day passes to the land-side resort.
The cost of day passes will vary based on ship and itinerary, but Royal Caribbean has indicated that passes will start at $129.99 for guests aged 13 and older, and $109.99 for young cruisers aged 4 to 12. Children 3 and younger are admitted free.
An inclusive pass for adults aged 21 and older, including unlimited open bar and dining, will cost $169.99 per person.
15 Norwegian Cruise ships will be sailing to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026 to experience the new Great Tides Waterpark.
Some of the newest ships in the fleet will be sailing to the private destination, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian Luna.
Cruise fans can also try to win their way in by entering the “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes online or at pop-up events in New York and Miami.
When the news dropped about the Great Tides Waterpark that Norwegian Cruise Line is adding to Great Stirrup Cay, I had two thoughts:
First, I thought the 6-acre addition to NCL’s private islandsounded amazing. Secondly, I immediately needed to know how I could get there when the expansion opens in 2026.
Luckily for eager cruisers like me, the cruise line has revamped its itineraries to meet the growing demand for Caribbeanand Bahamas voyages, as well as in anticipation of the rush that will come with the debut of the waterpark.
Great Stirrup Cay Great Tides Waterpark
The popular brand is anticipating one million guests will visit its exclusive destination in 2026.
Next year, 15 of Norwegian’s 20 cruise ships will be calling on Great Stirrup Cay, with plenty of embarkations from Florida’s PortMiami, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Tampa.
Additional sailings will also set sail from New York, New York; Galveston, Texas; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
There will even be Transatlantic crossings that visit the revamped private destination onboard Norwegian Epic from Barcelona, Spain, and from Lisbon, Portugal, onboard Norwegian Dawn.
But not only is there more flexibility in choosing a home port, many of the ships being deployed to the region are amongthe newest in the fleet.
Norwegian Luna Render
For example, Norwegian Luna will also debut shortly before the waterpark in 2026, and will begin her career by primarily operating 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami that call on Great Stirrup Cay.
According to the itineraries listed on our Cruise Hive booking feature, Norwegian Luna will be conducting these sailings between April and October of 2026.
In addition to the Great Tides Waterpark, guests who book these sailings will also get to explore bucket list destinations like Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
Of course, this is only one example of many exciting itineraries that include a day at the 270-acre resort.
Win Your Way In
The traditional way to make it to Great Stirrup Cay would be by booking a cruise, which you can doat discount with Cruise Hive.
But if you want to test your luck, NCL is also conducting a celebratory “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes from July 29 to August 31, 2025, that is open to cruise fans in the US and Canada.
250 winners will be awarded a balcony stateroom for two for an unspecified four-day voyage sailing to the Bahamian island in August 2026.
While prospective future guests can enter the competition online, those who are local to New York and Miami may relish the chance to enter in person through a fun pop-up experience.
Beginning at 3 p.m. EST on July 29, a custom “escape hatch” at 104 Grand Street, New York City, will open that will use immersive technology and LED graphics to transport passersby to Great Stirrup Cay without ever leaving the city.
This event will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until July 31, and is a great chance for cruisers to get their name in the running.
At the same time, seven additional “escape hatches” to (virtually visit) Great Stirrup Cay will be hidden throughout New York, but patrons will have to discover those on their own in areas like Grand Central Station and Times Square.
Similarly, three of these immersive “escape hatches” will be hidden in Miami throughout the month of August.
While NCL hasn’t given away their exact locations, we do know that they’ll be found in Wynwood, on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, and at Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami.
