Repositioning Cruises for Budget Slow Travel: 7 Things You Need to Know

What Are Repositioning Cruises

Repositioning cruises occur when cruise lines move their ships from one region to another, often at the end of a season. For example, a ship might relocate from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean in spring. These cruises are typically longer (7-15 days) and significantly cheaper than traditional cruises.

Table of Contents

1. What Are Repositioning Cruises?
2. The Cost of Repositioning Cruises: A Budget Travel Hack?
3. The Tipping Debate: To Tip or Not to Tip?
4. Pros of Repositioning Cruises for Retirees
5. Cons of Repositioning Cruises for Retirees
6. Personal Stories: Jeff and My Cruise Experiences
7. How to Decide if a Repositioning Cruise is Right for You
8. Call to Action: Join the Conversation

As Steve Babcock shared in the Facebook group, his transatlantic cruise from Florida to Barcelona cost just $520 for two people, including stops in the Canary Islands. For retirees looking to stretch their travel budget, repositioning cruises can be an attractive option.

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The Cost of Repositioning Cruises: A Budget Travel Hack?

One of the biggest draws of repositioning cruises is their affordability. As Paul Walshe pointed out, cruising offers a unique value proposition: “You can fly from A to B in a cramped seat, or you can cruise to your destination in a private cabin, being fed and entertained, for the same price.”

However, it’s important to consider additional costs:

• Tips/Gratuities: Many cruise lines add compulsory daily gratuities, which can range from $10-$18 per person per day.
• Wi-Fi: Internet access is often expensive, as Amanda Sherren noted.
• Excursions: Shore activities can add up quickly.

For budget-conscious travelers, repositioning cruises can still be a great deal, especially if you’re willing to skip extras like Wi-Fi and paid excursions.

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The Tipping Debate: To Tip or Not to Tip?

Tipping is a hot topic in the cruising world. Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your bill, but as Jackie Cooper and Marie Dieringer shared, some passengers choose to remove these charges and tip individually.

Vicki Irwin offered a compelling perspective: “If you take a cruise, you pay the tips. The staff work incredibly hard, often for very low wages.” She highlighted that many crew members rely on tips to support their families back home.

On the other hand, Patrick Roome argued that “tips are not compulsory—if it’s compulsory, it’s a charge, not a tip.” Ultimately, the decision is personal, but it’s important to consider the impact on the hardworking crew.

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Pros of Repositioning Cruises for Retirees

1. Affordability: Repositioning cruises are often significantly cheaper than traditional cruises or flights.
2. Comfort: As Linda Gorrell shared, cruising offers comfort and convenience, especially for older travelers or those with medical issues.
3. Unique Itineraries: These cruises often include stops in lesser-known ports, providing a chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
4. All-Inclusive: Meals, entertainment, and accommodations are included, making budgeting easier.

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Cons of Repositioning Cruises for Retirees

1. Environmental Impact: As Teresa Lipson pointed out, cruises are highly damaging to the environment.
2. Exploitation of Crew: Many crew members, often from developing countries, work long hours for low pay.
3. Limited Time in Ports: Charlene Powell criticized the short stops, saying, “Getting off the ship for 4 hours is not exploring a country.”
4. Hidden Costs: Compulsory tips, optional Wi-Fi, and optional excursions can add up quickly.

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Personal Stories: Jeff and My Cruise Experiences

Jeff and I have taken a few repositioning cruises over the years, and they’ve been a mixed bag. One of our favorite experiences was a 26 day transatlantic cruise from Athens to Rio. We loved the leisurely pace, the onboard activities, and the chance to visit several ports in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and Brazil.

However, we also encountered some challenges, like the Wi-Fi not working efficiently during the Atlantic crossing. Overall, we found that repositioning cruises are a great option for retirees who value comfort and affordability over fast-paced exploration.

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How to Decide if a Repositioning Cruise is Right for You

Here are some questions to consider:

• Do you enjoy slower travel? Repositioning cruises are ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace.
• Can you handle long stretches at sea? These cruises often include several consecutive days at sea.
• Are you comfortable with the ethical and environmental concerns? If these issues are important to you, a repositioning cruise might not be the best choice.

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Call to Action: Join the Conversation

Have you taken a repositioning cruise? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! For more budget slow travel advice, join our Facebook group and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content.

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