What Is A Transitional Cruise?
If you’ve ever heard the term “transitional cruise” and wondered what it meant, you’re not alone. As a frequent cruiser and travel advisor, I often get asked about these unique sailings.
In a nutshell, a transitional cruise (also called repositioning or relocation cruise) refers to an itinerary where a ship moves from one region to another, usually at the end of a season.
Why Do Ships Offer Transitional Cruises?
Cruise lines move their ships to different parts of the world to optimize sailings based on weather patterns and demand.
For example, ships that sail in Alaska during the summer might reposition to warmer Caribbean waters for the winter season. These voyages happen during “shoulder seasons,” the periods between peak travel times.
I am currently onboard a Disney Cruise Line repositioning cruise. Our ship was in Alaska for the summer, then had a sailing to Hawaii. We joined the sailing in Hawaii and will sail 16 days to Sydney Australia, where the ship will remain for the winter (their summer.)
What Can You Expect on a Transitional Cruise?
Transitional cruises are known for offering longer, more leisurely voyages. Since these itineraries often involve crossing large bodies of water, like the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, you’ll experience more days at sea than you would on a typical cruise.
These sailings may have fewer port calls, but they make up for it with enhanced onboard activities and more time to enjoy the ship’s amenities.
On our 16 day cruise, we have only 3 ports of call.
Many people love the relaxed pace of transitional cruises, which allows for deeper immersion in ship life. Think of it as an opportunity to fully enjoy all the ship has to offer—whether that’s indulging in the spa, trying out different restaurants, or soaking up the sun by the pool.
For cruisers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, these sailings can be the perfect choice.
Perks of Booking a Transitional Cruise
One of the biggest perks of a transitional cruise is the price. Since these itineraries often involve one-way routes with fewer ports of call, they can be more affordable than regular sailings. This makes them an excellent option for those looking to experience a longer cruise without breaking the bank.
Another bonus is the variety of destinations you can visit. Transitional cruises often feature more unique and off-the-beaten-path ports of call. For instance, you might start your journey in Europe and end up in the Caribbean, visiting places that aren’t on standard itineraries.
Things to Keep in Mind
While transitional cruises offer plenty of advantages, there are a few things to consider before booking. First, these cruises usually end in a different location than where they started, so you’ll need to arrange for one-way airfare. It’s important to factor that into your budget and planning.
Additionally, with more days at sea, these cruises may not appeal to those who prefer an action-packed itinerary. If you’re someone who loves exploring new ports every day, a transitional cruise might not be the best fit. However, for those who enjoy relaxing at sea and making the ship their destination, these sailings can be a dream.
Is a Transitional Cruise Right for You?
A transitional cruise is ideal for seasoned cruisers looking for a longer, laid-back sailing, or those eager to experience a variety of destinations in one trip. If you love sea days and the idea of leisurely crossing an ocean while enjoying all the amenities of a cruise ship, this could be your perfect vacation. Plus, with the added bonus of potentially lower fares, it’s an affordable way to cruise in comfort and style.
