A new era for an old-world journey
Once upon a time, crossing the Atlantic by ship was simply how people got from here to there. Today, with planes whisking travelers across oceans in hours, you’d think the transatlantic journey would be tossed in the ancient history bin, right alongside vintage postcards and smoky old bars from films where everyone wears bowler hats (it’s a big bin, okay).
But the unexpected is happening: transatlantic travel is back. And not in an old-school, retro-nostalgia way, but in a relaxed luxury, savor-every-moment, the-journey-is-the-destination way. Modern travelers are rediscovering the charm of spending unhurried days at sea, swapping airport stress for ocean sunsets, and treating time as the ultimate indulgence.
Forget stepping backward, this is a major step forward, straight into the future of luxurious, intentional travel.
Why slow luxury is resonating with today’s travelers
There’s a global shift toward the slow travel movement, where the goal isn’t to check off cities on a mindless to-do list, but to relax, reconnect, decompress, and simply be. A transatlantic cruise fits flawlessly into that mindset. At Virgin Voyages, we like to think of ourselves as a part of this global shift towards more mindful travel, and we’ve worked with internationally-renowned design firms to create ships that feel like dreamy places to spend your time.
Time becomes the luxury
On a modern transatlantic voyage, each day is a chance to pause, without alarms, overstimulation, or inboxes that demand your attention. There’s something decadent about waking up, watching the horizon stretch endlessly, and deciding which indulgence to enjoy first. And on Virgin Voyages, the list of indulgences is…not short.
Space to breathe, think, wander
Travelers today crave a break from the pace of everyday life. With multiple sea days, a transatlantic cruise offers room to settle in, try new experiences, and appreciate the rare luxury of not rushing. Our lady ships have onboard karaoke rooms (included in your voyage fare — just head to The Groupie and sign yourself up for an hour of belting ballads), a boutique casino, a classic arcade, and countless spaces to explore.
A reset you can feel
Relaxation hits different when it unfolds slowly, naturally, and without interruption. It’s a full-body exhale — one that travelers seeking a luxury cruise experience increasingly prefer over high-speed getaways. (Speaking of a full-body exhale: the hand-woven hammocks on the balcony of every Sea Terrace cabin have been known to evoke that same feeling.)
How Virgin Voyages makes the ocean crossing feel modern, not vintage
There’s nothing dusty or old-fashioned about a Virgin Voyages transatlantic itinerary. Our lady ships were designed for adults seeking elevated experiences, gorgeous spaces, and the freedom to do everything (or nothing at all).
Dining that rivals big-city favorites
Over 20 eateries (all included, of course) mean long sea days taste as good as they feel. Whether you’re indulging in elevated steakhouse fare at The Wake or enjoying a leisurely lunch in the sun from The Pizza Place, our award-winning restaurants give you slow luxury in edible form. On longer voyages, we also regularly add new items to the menu at The Galley and create daily specialty dishes for our other restaurants, so you never have to eat the same thing twice (unless you want to — and you may).
Wellness woven into the rhythm of the days
Transatlantic sailings are tailor-made for deep relaxation, from sunrise yoga to the soothing calm of Redemption Spa (where we offer a weekly Thermal Pass, for those on longer voyages who want to take full advantage of it). Acupuncture, facials, massages, mani-pedis, sessions with a personal trainer, and more offerings are available to make wellness feel not only accessible but achievable.
Entertainment that embraces discovery
You’ll enjoy immersive shows, live music, unique workshops, and unexpected moments sprinkled throughout each day. On transatlantic sailings, we even offer tours of the bridge (where the ship is steered and navigated by our expert Crew).
A ship designed to be savored
From hammocks on Sea Terraces to chic lounges and outdoor hideaways, every corner of the ship invites you to stretch out and stay awhile. It’s intentionally crafted for long, blissful sea days, the kind that define an ocean-crossing vacation.
Why transatlantic cruises are truly the future of luxury travel
The future of luxury may seem like it’d be about speed, abundance, and accumulation, but it’s really about presence. As a traveler, you want meaning, depth, connection, and comfort. A slower, more mindful journey checks every box.
It’s travel without compromise
Don’t choose between rest and adventure — get both. Long stretches of the Atlantic paired with iconic destinations on either side create the perfect blend of exploration and restoration. Our Transatlantic to Spain and Morocco voyage in April 2026 leaves from Miami and takes you to the world-renowned Canary Islands, plus Casablanca, Morocco, and a stop in Alicante before delivering you in Barcelona. We also have a transatlantic voyage from New York, making iconic stops in the Azores and more rare gems of the Atlantic before your destination (also to the sunny streets of Barcelona).
It’s intuitive
Travelers increasingly value transportation alternatives that allow them to make fewer, more meaningful trips. A transatlantic cruise turns the crossing itself into the highlight, not a logistical hurdle. You stay in one room the whole time, there’s no need to haul your luggage from city to city, and you still get all the advantages of a multi-city itinerary.
It’s romantic, even if you’re not trying to be
There’s something inherently cinematic about crossing an ocean; sailing is the first way we started being able to explore and map out the world around us. Sunrises feel earned. Sunsets feel personal. Even a simple walk on deck can feel transformative.
Why now is the moment to rethink transatlantic travel
As more travelers seek slow luxury, curated adults-only experiences, and meaningful journeys, the transatlantic route is stepping into the spotlight. Virgin Voyages Sailors already understand its magic, but the rest of the world is catching on.
Transatlantic isn’t old-school. It’s a reset, a return to intentionality, and a new expression of luxury that gives you time instead of taking it away.
Ready to cross the Atlantic?
Explore our Virgin Voyages transatlantic itineraries, and discover why slow luxury is the future of ocean travel. Your next unforgettable crossing awaits, and the horizon has never looked more inviting.
