A repositioning cruise is a unique type of voyage that occurs when a cruise line moves its ships between different regions, typically during seasonal transitions. These cruises offer passengers the opportunity to travel to less conventional destinations while enjoying the luxury and relaxation of a long voyage.
In order to make sure cruisers have the best possible weather conditions for both their pleasure and their safety, cruise ships institute time limits for cruises to certain regions. For instance, most cruises to Alaska take place from May until September when the weather is warm. When the last Alaska cruise comes to completion, cruise lines don’t just keep their ships empty till May, they sail to a new region of the world.
Repositioning cruises often occur in the spring or fall when cruise ships need to relocate from one region, such as the Caribbean, to another, like Alaska or Europe. They provide exceptional value for those looking for a longer cruise experience at a reduced price compared to typical itineraries.
Because repositioning cruises are longer and generally take a more leisurely pace, they allow passengers to fully relax and immerse themselves in the ship's amenities and entertainment. These cruises can span from 10 days to several weeks, offering plenty of time to explore the ship's offerings such as onboard shows, fine dining, spas, and excursions.
Repositioning cruises are often less crowded, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more peaceful and intimate cruising experience, with more personal attention from the crew and the opportunity to form closer connections with fellow passengers.
Despite the extended travel time, repositioning cruises provide an excellent chance to visit a variety of ports along the way, often offering destinations that may not be featured on typical cruise routes. Travelers can enjoy the thrill of discovering new cities, cultures, and natural landscapes while enjoying the comfort of a cruise ship.
Whether seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventure filled with diverse stops, repositioning cruises combine the best of both worlds: a comfortable, extended voyage with the excitement of visiting multiple, sometimes unexpected, destinations.
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Things to Do on a Repositioning Cruise
Featured below are highlights from possible repositioning cruises:
- A stop in Bangkok is sure to leave you with plenty of options for adventure. Spend the day visiting several stunning and intricately designed temples, or go to one of the many tailors in the city who will custom tailor an outfit at an affordable price.
- Enjoy a fruit market, beautiful colonial era architecture and a museum with traditional African masks in Dakar, Senegal. Make sure to have your camera ready as your tour this fascinating city on Africa’s west coast.
- Spend an afternoon walking along Las Ramblas in Barcelona where you can try some of Spain’s most tasty treats, like tapas, paella and pintxos. While strolling along this scenic tree-lined pedestrian mall, you'll pass some of Barcelona's most historic buildings and get a better understanding for the city's culture.
- Visit a Pineapple Greenhouse. Pineapples are a major crop in the Azores, an island chain off the coast of Portugal.
- Snorkel through a shipwreck off the coast of the petite island of Bermuda on your way to the Caribbean or a cruise port in Florida. The sunken ships beneath the surface of the turquoise waters are home to several bright species of fish.
- Get your hips moving as you learn to hula during a sunset luau when you visit Honolulu on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.