Discover one of cruising’s best-kept secrets—long, quiet voyages that offer space to recharge and surprising value.
Twice a year, cruise lines relocate their ships to follow the seasons—moving from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean in spring, or from Europe to the U.S. in the fall. These are known as repositioning cruises: one-way voyages that often last 12 to 22 days and feature more time at sea.
They’re not your typical cruise. These journeys are designed for people who care just as much about the experience of travel as they do about the destination.
You may enjoy six to nine consecutive days at sea. No early excursions. No crowded ports. Just the luxury of time and calm.
Repositioning cruises often include stops in off-the-path ports like the Azores, Canary Islands, or New Zealand—places many travelers never reach on standard routes.
You’ll find fewer families and a more seasoned group of travelers—many seeking restoration, not recreation.
No need to pack and unpack. No daily logistics. Just space to read, reflect, and reconnect with yourself or your partner.
These voyages are ideal for travelers who want more than rest—they want mental space, creative clarity, and a break from constant decision-making.
This could be the perfect fit if you’re:
Ten days at sea, with no dinner to cook or errands to run, can be the most productive time of your year.
Of course, these cruises are also wonderful for:
These aren’t party ships. Instead, expect:
Cruise lines offering excellent repositioning voyages include Windstar, Celebrity, Viking, Holland America, and Princess—each with their own flavor of luxury and service.
Repositioning cruises aren’t widely advertised, but they often represent exceptional value. The most desirable staterooms—especially balconies and suites—book early.
They do require one-way airfare, but with the right planning, this can be simple and cost-effective—especially compared to peak-season pricing for a shorter, busier trip.
Repositioning cruises offer something many travelers didn’t know they were missing:
time. To reflect, to create, to rest, or simply to be still.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a different kind of journey—one where the ship is the destination—this may be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
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Karen Aikman is the founder of Live LARGE Travel, where she personally designs custom travel experiences tailored to her clients’ unique preferences. A seasoned traveler with a deep passion for exploration, she shares insider tips, expert insights, and destination inspiration both here on the Live LARGE Travel blog and across various platforms.
Whether you’re dreaming of a bucket-list adventure or a seamless luxury getaway, click here to reach out to Karen to start crafting your next unforgettable journey.
Sharing in more detail our favorite destinations, experiences, itineraries, cruise lines, tips, trends, and all things travel.
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