The Best Transatlantic Cruise: Routes, Ships And Travel Tips

Why Legend of the Seas Is Perfect for Transatlantic Crossings

By Lissa Poirot | Published on October 30, 2025

Crossing the Atlantic by ship is a tradition that stretches back centuries, except that today’s transatlantic cruises offer travelers something entirely different. These special voyages allow passengers to slow down, disconnect and savor the rhythm of the ocean. Unlike typical cruises that hop between destinations, a transatlantic sailing is all about the journey itself, with long stretches at sea and time to fully immerse in the shipboard experience.

Legend of the Seas℠, which debuts in the Royal Caribbean fleet in the summer of 2026, is being designed with transatlantic crossings in mind. Offering state-of-the-art amenities, spacious staterooms and signature experiences, the ship is built for guests who want to enjoy every moment of a transatlantic voyage. Here’s how.

What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

Transatlantic cruises are most often repositioning sailings, meaning a ship is moving from one region to another for a new season—such as shifting from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean and its charming port towns in spring, or the reverse in fall. Eastbound transatlantic cruises to Europe typically begin in North America, though some also depart from South America. In the fall, westbound voyages sail back from Europe to North or South America. These itineraries feature long stretches of consecutive sea days, making the ship itself the primary destination.

How Transatlantic Cruises Differ From Other Itineraries

While most cruises are built around frequent port calls, transatlantic voyages flip that balance. A typical Caribbean cruise or Mediterranean itinerary might visit a new destination every day or two, with the ship acting as a comfortable way to move between ports. A transatlantic cruise, on the other hand, stretches across the Atlantic Ocean with only a few stops at the beginning or end of the sailing.

How Long Is A Transatlantic Cruise?

These crossings are usually 12 to 16 nights, sometimes even longer, depending on the route. Instead of filling days with shore excursions, passengers have more time to settle into shipboard life.

Typical Transatlantic Routes

Classic transatlantic routes connect U.S. homeports such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Cape Liberty in New Jersey with European hubs like Barcelona, Rome or Southampton, U.K.

Why Choose Transatlantic Cruising?

A transatlantic cruise’s appeal lies in value, a relaxed pace and the opportunity to enjoy every aspect of the ship. With fewer ports, guests spend less on excursions and more time relaxing. Long days at sea allow for lingering meals, multiple shows and time in serene spaces like the Solarium on board Legend of the Seas.

How To Plan A Transatlantic Cruise On Legend Of The Seas

Unlike other itineraries that run year-round, transatlantic cruises take place only during certain months when ships reposition between continents. That means the key to planning isn’t picking from endless options but knowing when these crossings happen and how to choose the sailing that best fits you. On Legend of the Seas, the experience has been designed for exactly this — letting you savor the crossing with comfort, entertainment and plenty of time to relax.

1. Choose The Right Destination For Your Crossing

Timing is everything when it comes to a transatlantic cruise. Eastbound sailings from U.S. ports typically run between April and June, carrying ships to summer homeports in Europe. Westbound voyages take place from September through November, returning ships to the Caribbean and North America for the winter season. These shoulder months often mean fewer crowds in ports and pleasant weather on both sides of the Atlantic.

It's important to note that a transatlantic cruise is one-way and you’ll need to arrange air travel either to the embarkation port or back home from the final destination.

2. Pick The Perfect Stateroom

Your cabin will be your home for the length of the crossing, so it’s worth considering your options carefully. On Legend of the Seas, options range from economical interior and oceanview staterooms to balcony rooms and expansive suites. Interior and oceanview cabins are cozy, budget-friendly picks if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship, while balcony staterooms are especially popular on longer voyages if you want more fresh air and privacy.

Families will find dedicated spaces like Infinite Family Ocean View Balcony Rooms, which add a bunk area for kids, or Surfside Family Suites, designed with family-friendly layouts. For the ultimate in space and luxury, suites such as the Sunset Corner or even the three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse offer wrap-around balconies, multiple living areas and premium amenities that make sea days even more relaxing.

3. Dine Your Way Across The Atlantic

Dining is one of the highlights of a transatlantic cruise, and on Legend of the Seas, the variety of venues ensures that every day at sea feels different. The ship brings together casual and upscale options, from quick bites and buffets to specialty restaurants that spotlight global flavors. Linger over sushi at Izumi Hibachi & Sushi℠, share family-style Italian dishes at Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar or enjoy a classic buffet at Surfside Eatery℠, among others.

4. Be Entertained Every Evening

Evenings on board Legend of the Seas are far from quiet. Royal Caribbean is dialing up the wow factor with live music across genres — Latin bands, rock, jazz, acoustic sets — and immersive performances in specially designed venues. Headliners include the AquaTheater, which hosts aquatic shows and dramatic performances set over water; Absolute Zero℠, a theater with professional ice shows; as well as Broadway-style productions in the main theatre, complete with grand sets and choreography. There are also themed nights, guest entertainers, comedy acts and interactive shows like game shows or dueling pianos, all designed to make every night onboard feel different.

5. Relax In Pools

On a transatlantic crossing, there’s nothing better than settling into a relaxing rhythm — and Legend of the Seas will provide plenty of options for doing just that. The ship features seven pools and 10 all-Zen whirlpools for a choice between family fun and quieter corners. The adults-only Solarium offers a glass-enclosed, all-weather retreat with plush loungers and peaceful views, while Royal Bay℠, the largest pool at sea, provides ways to spread out, swim and bask in the sunshine.

6. Find Activities For Every Age Group

A transatlantic cruise means long stretches at sea, and Legend of the Seas is designed so every age group has plenty to do from morning to night. Kids can dive into the Adventure Ocean® Youth Program, where supervised activities keep younger guests entertained with games, crafts and science experiments. Teens have their own dedicated hangouts with music, movies and space to socialize away from mom and dad. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of enrichment programs, fitness classes, wine tasting or simply spend time in the spa.

7. Experience Royal Caribbean Signatures

Legend of the Seas will bring many of the signature experiences Royal Caribbean is known for. Take on the FlowRider® surf simulator, test your fear of heights on the Crown’s Edge℠ skywalk or brace yourself for the largest waterpark at sea, Category 6 Waterpark. The ship’s design also creates distinct atmospheres throughout, such as the buzzing Royal Promenade and the garden-like Central Park®.

Start Planning Your Transatlantic Cruise Today

A transatlantic cruise is more than a way to cross the ocean; it’s a chance to slow down, settle into ship life and make the journey as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, time to recharge in serene surroundings or the excitement of trying something new each day, Legend of the Seas will turn Atlantic crossings into an adventure all its own.

Explore Legend of the Seas cruises to start your adventure today.