What Time of Year Do Cruise Ships Reposition?

By Michael Ferguson

Repositioning of cruise ships is a term that refers to the relocation of a ship from one region or itinerary to another. This is usually done when the season changes, and the demand for cruises in one region reduces while another picks up.

Many cruise lines have specific times of the year when they reposition their ships. In this article, we will explore what time of year cruise ships reposition.

When Do Cruise Ships Reposition?

The timing of repositioning varies depending on the region and itinerary. However, there are several general patterns that most cruise lines follow.

Fall Repositioning

In North America, fall is the prime time for repositioning. The summer months are the busiest for cruising in Alaska and Canada, but once September arrives, these destinations start to wind down. At the same time, the Caribbean and Mexico begin to pick up in popularity as winter approaches, so many ships are relocated from Alaska to these warmer regions.

Spring Repositioning

Springtime is also significant with regards to cruise ship repositioning as it marks a shift from winter to spring or summer cruising destinations. Many ships that sail around South America during the winter months relocate to Europe or Alaska in April and May. Similarly, some vessels move from Asia and Australia to Alaska during this period.

Year-Round Repositioning

While fall and spring are typical times for repositioning cruises, some ships relocate throughout the year based on demand. For example, some companies may move their vessels from Europe to Asia during winter or vice versa.

What Happens During Repositioning Cruises?

Repositioning cruises are often longer than traditional itineraries because they involve sailing across oceans or visiting more ports than usual. They can last anywhere between 10 days to two weeks and are an excellent way to explore multiple destinations in one trip. For instance, a repositioning cruise from Alaska to the Caribbean may stop in ports along the Pacific coast, Central America, and South America.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cruise ship repositioning happens at different times of the year depending on the region. Fall and spring are the most popular periods for relocating ships, but some vessels move throughout the year based on demand. Repositioning cruises are a fun way to see multiple destinations in one trip and last longer than traditional itineraries.