How to Find an Affordable Transatlantic Cruise

Travel agents may know of upcoming discounts before the general public.

Trans-Atlantic ships were once the only way to travel between Europe and North America. Modern cruises, however, have become a leisurely way to travel between the continents. Many cruises last between one week and three weeks, making for idyllic travel for those who have the time. Travelers can choose between the world's finest luxury liners and options designed for smaller budgets. Finding an affordable trans-Atlantic cruise requires willingness to search and consider multiple options.

Things You'll Need

• Web access
• A frequent flier rewards plan

Instructions

1. Consider what makes a cruise a good value to you. Some trans-Atlantic cruise lines, such as Cunard, may offer deals on cheaper cabin classes. Decide whether you are willing to deal with the restrictions placed upon those cabin classes. Focusing your search on a specific class of cabin often results in a better deal for your needs.

2. Decide whether you are willing to take a one-way cruise. Bob Jenkins, of Smarter Travel, advises that "repositioning cruises," in which ships are moved from one cruising area to another, may be cheaper. However, the website warns that these cruises are often longer than the typical trans-Atlantic cruise.

3. Choose several preferred times of year for your cruise. Remaining flexible is important because there are a limited number of trans-Atlantic cruises each year. Navigate to the Cruise Transatlantic website for an idea of how many cruise ships make the trip across the Atlantic each month.

4. Explore different options for booking your cruise. Visit the websites of cruise operators and examine their package options. Talk to travel agents specializing in trans-Atlantic cruises. Search discount websites to get a sense of their discounts and booking restrictions.

5. Check to see if the cruise line is offering any last minute deals when booking the cruise. If booking online, examine the cruise line's website carefully for any offers on the main page or areas dedicated to special offers. If reserving by phone, ask the reservations agent or your travel agent about any discounts for which you may qualify.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider booking with a group. If you are a member of a club, fraternal organization or special interest group you may find that the group has arranged a discounted fare on a trans-Atlantic cruise. Read provided materials on the group trip before booking to avoid potential stress and disappointment if the itinerary and booking requirements do not match your own.

• Pay attention to exchange rates. It may be cheaper to pay in dollars or in another currency based on market fluctuations.

• Always check up on your cruise line and travel agent to make sure they're legit and have a good safety record.

• Be sure to bring plenty of dramamine!

References

• "Los Angeles Times"; Saving Money When Traveling Overseas; Jane Engle; July 2011
• "Los Angeles Times"; Cunard's Old-School Travel Continues Tradition on Queen Elizabeth; Karl Zimmermann; January 2011
• Smarter Travel; Save Money with Repositioning Cruises; Bob Jenkins; April 2010
• Cruise Transatlantic: Trans-Atlantic Cruises