Let's Talk Repositioning Cruises

If you, like me, love to cruise and feel a cruise ship is a destination in and of itself, this time of year is the perfect time to take advantage of some great repositioning options. Many cruise lines move their ships to various parts of the world depending on the season. Rather than sail their ships without passengers to a new home port (say from the Caribbean to Alaska), these one-way sailings are oftentimes offered at a considerably lower rate.

Repositioning cruises not only offer cost savings and unique ports of call, they also allow for more 'sea days' which results in an incredibly relaxing vacation (compared to the port-intensive itineraries). Because the cruise has more days at sea they will usually feature themes that incorporate different subjects and on-board activities including wine tastings, enhanced entertainment and guest speakers. The downside to a repositioning cruise is although the cost is generally lower, the additional days on the ship can result in a higher bar and casino bill than you would typically experience. The other added cost is sometimes higher airfare, as you usually have to purchase two one-way tickets. 

Two of my favorite repositioning cruises offered this spring are the 11-night Transatlantic sailing from Miami to Barcelona aboard the Norwegian Epic, and the 12-night Hawaiian sailing from Honolulu to Vancouver aboard the Carnival Spirit.  

Let's talk Epic!  NCL was the first cruise line to introduce the concept of Freestyle Cruising, a vacation where you are free to do whatever, whenever. What better way to experience this concept than on an 11-night Transatlantic crossing?! The Epic is NCL's largest and most innovative ship to date with over 20 bars and lounges (including the only true ice bar at sea), more than 20 different dining options, an aqua park, a bowling alley, and some of the best entertainment at sea - Blue Man Group, Legends in Concert, Second City Comedy, Cirque Dreams and Dinner and more. Who needs Vegas, right?!  

SVEDKA Ice Bar

Spa Suite

Spice H20 Daytime

Cirque

You want Spirit?  Carnival Cruise Lines promises 'Fun for All - All for Fun!' The past several years Carnival has worked very hard to lose the 'party ship' image and I believe they have accomplished just that. Whatever you consider to be fun is what you can do aboard a Carnival Fun ship. Carnival Spirit was the first of the Spirit class ships and the first to introduce the two-level promenade. Who wouldn't be 'wowed' by an Atrium that spans eleven decks! And the fact that 80% of the staterooms have ocean views and private balconies make her the perfect ship to experience Hawaii on a 12-night repositioning cruise. While sailing, be dazzled by the most brilliant colors ever created, play in one of the largest casinos at sea, celebrate a special occasion with dinner in the Nouveau Supper Club and enjoy a different Las Vegas style show every night of your cruise!  You'll need a vacation following this vacation considering there is so much to experience on the Carnival Spirit.

Carnival Spirit

Atrium

Premium Balcony Stateroom

Louis X1V Casino

I think you get the idea... When it comes to repositioning cruises there are many to choose from, so make sure the cruise you choose fits your needs. If you'd like to view pricing for the NCL and Carnival repositioning cruises, take a peek at our latest 'Snooze You Lose' here. With our help you can select the perfect repositioning cruise option for you! Bon Voyage!