The Best-Kept Secret In Cruising - Repositioning Cruises?

Every year around this time, the seas start to shift — literally. Cruise lines are busy repositioning their ships from one corner of the globe to another, and for savvy travelers, that means one thing: it’s prime time for one of cruising’s best-kept secrets — repositioning cruises! These sailings combine great value, unique itineraries, and the kind of relaxed onboard vibe you just can’t replicate on a port-heavy itinerary. Whether you're looking to truly unplug or to see the world from a new angle, these voyages are full of opportunities to live The Good Life.

Repositioning Cruises Offer Unique Experiences Like Viewing The Statue of Liberty Up Close While Departing From New York City On This Disney Cruise

So, what exactly is a repositioning cruise? Put simply, it’s when a cruise line needs to move a ship from one region to another — often because the season is changing and so are traveler preferences. Maybe the ship is wrapping up its Caribbean season and heading to Europe for the summer, or relocating from Alaska to warmer waters as fall approaches. Instead of sailing empty, cruise lines offer these trips to adventurous travelers like you and me, often at a fantastic price. The real magic of a repositioning cruise is the experience: longer stretches at sea, fewer crowds, and a chance to soak in the ship itself. Think of it as a floating retreat, where the destination is only half the fun.

A 14 Night Transatlantic Cruise From Miami To Barcelona Aboard Virgin Voyages

Let’s talk about one of the most popular or common types: Transatlantic repositioning cruises. These happen twice a year — typically in the spring and fall — as ships cross the Atlantic Ocean to switch between North America and Europe. One week you’re sipping espresso in Rome, and the next you’re strolling through Old San Juan or soaking up Miami sunshine. Not only do these sailings offer a relaxed pace and luxurious sea days, but they also appeal to those who’d rather skip the long-haul flight and turn the journey itself into part of the vacation. Many travelers even combine a transatlantic cruise with another itinerary or a land vacation on either side, creating the ultimate extended escape.

An 18 Night Transpacific Cruise From Tokyo to Vancouver Aboard Oceania Cruises

Now, if you want to take it up a notch, Transpacific repositioning cruises are where it’s at. These are usually longer journeys — we're talking two, sometimes even three weeks — and often include ports of call you wouldn’t easily reach any other way. Imagine waking up in Bora Bora, lounging on a beach in Hawaii, and ending your adventure in Sydney or Tokyo. These itineraries aren’t just about moving from point A to point B; they’re about unlocking bucket list destinations along the way, including gems in French Polynesia or other remote slices of paradise that are hard to get to on a typical cruise.

16 Night Repositioning Cruise From Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale Aboard Princess Cruises

And repositioning cruises aren’t just limited to ocean crossings! Ships also reposition for seasonal itineraries, like heading up to Alaska for summer’s wild beauty or settling into New England and Canada for a cozy, foliage-filled fall. Others may relocate to the Caribbean or South America when the temperatures drop elsewhere. Some routes even include epic journeys like traversing the Panama Canal — a true cruiser’s bucket-list moment that offers both natural wonder and engineering marvel. These itineraries are often one-of-a-kind and perfect for travelers looking for something more than the usual cruise circuit.

The Ample At Sea Days Gives Plenty Of Time To Relax And Unwind

So, why do these repositioning cruises appeal to so many? For one, you get more time onboard — which means more time to truly enjoy all the ship has to offer, from world-class dining and entertainment to serene poolside lounging. It’s a rare chance to slow down and unwind, away from packed schedules and back-to-back port stops. Plus, these itineraries often include uncommon destinations, making them perfect for travelers who crave new and off-the-beaten-path experiences. And let’s be honest: they usually come with a price tag that offers unbeatable value, especially for longer sailings.

Right now, we’re in the heart of repositioning season — spring is prime time for these unique voyages. While availability can be limited this close to departure, there are sometimes last-minute gems just waiting to be discovered. And if this type of cruise adventure has piqued your interest, there’s no better time to start planning for the future. Whether you’re dreaming of crossing the Atlantic in style, embarking on a transpacific adventure, or simply trying a shorter repositioning cruise, the options are truly endless. And the best part? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. When you work with a full-time travel professional (like yours truly!) you’re not just booking a cruise — you’re tapping into the knowledge, experience, and insider tips that will turn your repositioning adventure into the trip of a lifetime. Let me help you chart your course, discover the hidden values, and make every mile unforgettable. After all, this is about living The Good Life — and there’s no better place to start than at sea.

Michael is the Cruise Travel Specialist at The Good Life Travel Company. Because of his extensive knoweldge and experience, he is your goto expert for ocean, river, and expedition cruising. Whether you're considering a longer repositioning cruise like mentioned above or another cruise experience, contact him today for your next cruise vacation.

419-508-8031 | mroemmele@tgltravelco.com