7 Best Cruises For Those Who Like Days at Sea

Photo courtesy of Cunard

Time in transit on a cruise can be filled with exciting activities or spent relaxing and watching the world float by. Certain cruises are ideal for days on the water, such as a cruise to nowhere to sample a new ship, seasonal repositioning cruises with long stretches at sea and plenty of amenities, or more traditional voyages on cargo or sailing ships. These seven cruises are ideal for those who enjoy the “fun days at sea.”

Nowhere Cruise

Royal Caribbean’s Three-Night Nowhere Cruise on Anthem

The much-anticipated Anthem of the Seas debuted in Nov. 2014, and those yearning to experience the vessel without shelling out for a lengthy cruise can try a three-night escape to nowhere (with a technical stop in Halifax which doesn’t include a disembarkation). In March 2016, Anthem cruises out to sea for playtime on the water on a round-trip voyage from New Jersey. Passengers can take in the scenery of the New York skyline in the North Star viewing capsule, face their fears in the skydiving simulator, and try a trapeze school.

Repositioning Cruises

Celebrity Silhouette to Europe

In April 2016, Celebrity Silhouette, a member of Celebrity Cruise Line’s newest class of ships, will reposition from Fort Lauderdale to Southampton, England. On the transatlantic journey, the ship spends eight days crossing “the pond” before it stops in Portugal, Spain and France. There are plenty of trendy things onboard, such as an art studio, culinary lessons and the Lawn Club Grill, a unique dining venue similar to an upscale backyard barbecue.

Norwegian’s New Escape to Miami

When NCL’s newest ship debuts, it will reposition from Southampton to its winter home in Miami on Oct. 29 with nine glorious days spent at sea. Escape will feature an array of specialty dining restaurants and unique bars and lounges, including Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville; the District, a gathering place for craft beer and cocktails; and For the Record, a throwback supper club featuring 1980s-themed performances.

A Regularly Scheduled Transatlantic Crossing

Cunard's Queen Mary II

The classic romance of a transatlantic crossing is captured on Cunard’s Queen Mary II, an elegant ocean liner that offers regularly scheduled voyages. The cruise departs from New York City or Southampton and spends six relaxing days at sea. To add an elegant touch, Cunard maintains British traditions like afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters. The restaurants are famous for outstanding cuisine, accommodations are top notch and unique amenities can be found onboard like the Canyon Ranch Spa or the planetarium.

An Unusual Itinerary

Disney Cruise Line’s Panama Canal Cruise

In August, the Disney Wonder changes its usual schedule for a two-week cruise from San Diego to Port Canaveral, Fla. via the Panama Canal. Passengers can enjoy nine sea days aboard the family-friendly ship. The famous “Disney Magic” is sprinkled into evening shows that include “Toy Story” and “Disney Dreams,” featuring, of course, performances from favorite Disney characters. There are seven different kids clubs and learning centers, and parents can relax in the spa or cocktail lounges.

Non-Traditional Cruising Options

Cargo Adventure with Maritime Cruises

For passengers who prefer to forgo the bells and whistles of mainstream cruise lines in order to to curl up with a good book and forget that the Internet and cell phones exist, a cargo cruise might be a good option. Although amenities are light, many ships offer a recreation room with board games and movies, a gym, and free roam of almost all areas of the ship. Several companies like Maritime Cruises offer lengthy voyages from major U.S. cities. The Victory Bridge loop leaves from Charleston, S.C., and sails for 17 days to Mexico and Northern Europe.

Caribbean Cruise on a Tall Sailing Ship

Cruisers who love the sea can appreciate sailing on an old-fashioned voyage with the wind in their hair. Star Clipper’s tall sailing ships also have the advantage of elegant, modern accommodations. The company is offering a nine-night Caribbean crossing on Star Flyer in March 2016 from Montego Bay, Jamaica. The cruise includes four days spent at sea en route to Saint Maarten.