Transatlantic Cruises From Seattle: From the Pacific Northwest to Europe’s Shores
Looking for Transatlantic Cruises from Seattle? While Seattle doesn’t offer direct transatlantic departures, it’s a fantastic starting point for travelers heading to nearby cruise hubs like Los Angeles or San Francisco. From there, major cruise lines offer spectacular repositioning voyages through the Panama Canal that continue on to Europe, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation in one epic journey.
Where Transatlantic Cruises Depart for Seattle Travelers
Seattle cruise passengers can easily connect to West Coast departure ports via a short flight. Most transatlantic voyages begin in Los Angeles or San Francisco and head toward the Caribbean before crossing the Atlantic to ports such as Barcelona, Lisbon, or Southampton. These routes often include scenic stops through the Panama Canal and along South America’s coastline.
For travelers who love long ocean crossings, these repositioning cruises offer extended itineraries packed with luxurious amenities and unique destinations.
Why Choose a Transatlantic Cruise from Seattle?
A transatlantic cruise offers the perfect mix of adventure and serenity. Instead of flying, passengers enjoy the comfort of world-class ships with fine dining, entertainment, and days at sea under open skies. It’s a favorite choice for retirees, couples, and slow travelers looking to savor the voyage as much as the destination.
Popular search phrases include “Seattle to Europe cruises,” “Panama Canal repositioning cruises,” and “West Coast transatlantic cruise routes.”
Top Cruise Lines Offering Transatlantic Sailings
- Princess Cruises: Offers repositioning voyages from Los Angeles and San Francisco to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
- Holland America Line: Features elegant long-distance cruises with stops across both sides of the Atlantic.
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Provides extended sailings through the Panama Canal to European ports.
- Royal Caribbean International: Operates adventurous crossings from U.S. ports to Europe and beyond.
Each cruise line blends comfort and culture, offering activities like wine tastings, enrichment lectures, and live performances onboard.
Travel Tips for Seattle Cruisers
- Nearest ports: Los Angeles and San Francisco — both accessible by short flights from Seattle.
- Book in advance: Transatlantic repositioning cruises operate seasonally and fill up quickly.
- Plan return travel: Most voyages end in Europe, so arrange a flight back before departure.
- Pack for multiple climates: Expect warm tropical days and cooler Atlantic breezes along the way.
Quick Facts
Duration: 14–20 days. Average cost: $1,200–$3,000 per person. Best time to sail: Spring and fall (April–May, October–November) during repositioning seasons.
