Repositioning Cruises

Repositioning cruises typically offer much lower per day rates compared to “regular” sailings. This is mainly because they tend to have a more specific appeal, but also because it helps the cruise line offset the expenses of relocating the ship from one port to another. But keep in mind, that you will also need to budget for your airfare to meet the cruise, or return home afterwards.

The seasons define the dates for repositioning cruises, so you will only find them during select times of the year. Typically, repo cruises from Australia depart our waters between February and March each year, at the end of our summer cruise season. For the return trip, you will usually find these are available in September up to December, as ships return to our warmer climates. 

To find a cheap repositioning cruise deal, you will need to keep an eye out for regions with specific seasonal patterns. For instance, ships that spend their summers in Alaska will relocate in the autumn, often presenting unique itineraries along the California coast, across the Pacific to Hawaii, or through the Panama Canal. These same ships then reverse their routes in the springtime to head back to Alaska. 

If you’re interested in an ocean-crossing cruise, keep an eye on cruises departing from U.S. East Coast ports such as New York and Fort Lauderdale, to start a new season in the Western Mediterranean or Northern Europe. They then return for Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda sailings during the colder months. Other itineraries may take you on a voyage to the Middle East, South America, or Africa, and some cruise lines break up their crossings into smaller itineraries so you don’t have to cruise for the entire passage.

A transatlantic cruise is a fantastic voyage that takes you across the mighty Atlantic Ocean, typically when a ship is relocating. One popular example is when ships cruise through the warm Caribbean waters during the winter months and then make their way to Europe for the summer season. But it’s worth noting that not all ocean-crossing cruises are solely for repositioning purposes. Cunard’s magnificent Queen Mary 2 crosses the Atlantic numerous times throughout the year, offering passengers a remarkable ocean-liner experience. The cruise liner isn’t crossing the Atlantic to start a new season in a new region but simply does regular crossings. Similarly, you can have a relocation cruise that is not a transoceanic crossing, such as a ship finishing a season in Alaska, and sailing from Vancouver to Miami to do a Caribbean season. 

There are certainly cross-overs between the two types of cruises, but they are not always one and the same.

Repositioning itineraries are light on ports of call, heavy on sea days. You’ll spend multiple days at sea at a time, so if you enjoy the idea of leisurely and relaxed days at sea, then this type of cruise might right up your alley. During this lengthy stretch of time, you can finally dive into those books you’ve been meaning to read, engage in a new knitting project, or even dedicate time to daily workouts. It really gives you the opportunity to take a break from your daily life and dedicate the time to rest and relaxtion.

Of course, you’ll also find an array of activities and entertainment to keep you entertained while at sea. Comedy nights, fitness classes, boutique shopping, art auctions, wine tastings, and evening shows are just some of the exciting options available. In fact, you may be able to experience even more than you normally would on other cruises because you won’t be rushing off the ship to explore a different port every other day.

Embark on a repositioning cruise and embrace the tranquility and unique opportunities it offers. Whether it’s relaxation, entertainment, or indulgence, there’s something for everyone.

The majority of repositioning sailings take place at the end of the ship’s main cruise season – typically in spring and fall – as the ship transitions between their summer and winter destinations. Springtime, in particular, is a favorite among travellers as ships move from the Caribbean towards Alaska and Europe. Likewise, in the fall, these ships sail back south, venturing towards the warm tropics.

It’s important to note that each cruise line operates on its own independent schedule, allowing for some variations from the above standard. However, with a degree of flexibility, you’re likely to find a repositioning cruise operating somewhere on the globe at any given time of the year.

Repositioning cruises are known for their extended durations, as they cover vast distances across the open waters. These voyages can range from six days to well over a month, although most typically span from seven to 18 days. It’s important to note that due to the long distances covered, these cruises often allow for less time in port and more days navigating the sea. While this may be an advantage for some, it can occasionally be seen as monotonous by others.