For years I dreamed of crossing the Atlantic by freighter. Life got in the way, and now that I’m widowed, I finally want to do it. From what I can tell, freighter travel basically died after COVID, so I’ve been looking at repositioning cruises as the next closest thing.
I’ve never been on a cruise and honestly don’t care about the entertainment or flashy stuff. I just want to be at sea. Quiet, time to think, watch the ocean go by. I found an MSC Grandiosa repositioning cruise this spring showing around $800 for an ocean view (inside would be fine too, it’s just a place to sleep).
Trying to understand the real costs beyond that fare. I know I have to pay to get to the departure port and get home after, but what about onboard?
Are meals actually included? I always assumed buffet-style food was part of the cruise, but I’m not sure anymore. If food isn’t included, what does daily eating realistically cost if you’re not trying to indulge? I eat lightly and don’t drink much.
Do repositioning cruises still run all the normal cruise “bells and whistles,” or are they quieter by nature?
What other costs tend to surprise first-timers? Gratuities, fees, anything else I should plan for?
And lastly, are there any other ways to cross the Atlantic by ship these days besides cruises, or is that basically it now?
Appreciate any insight, especially from people who’ve done repositioning cruises or were also drawn to the idea of freighter travel.
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