Last updated: 22 October 2026

Yes, you can still travel from the UK to the USA by boat. In 2026 there are three realistic ways to cross the Atlantic without flying: the Cunard ocean liner Queen Mary 2, a passenger cabin on a working cargo ship, or a seasonal repositioning cruise. The fastest takes about a week; the most adventurous takes 9 to 14 days and puts you on the bridge of a container ship in mid-ocean.

This guide compares all three, explains what each really costs, and walks you through visas, ports and booking. It works in both directions, so if you are searching for a boat from New York to London, read on too.

The three ways to cross the Atlantic by sea

Prices are indicative and change with season, cabin and availability. Ask us for a live quote.

Option 1: The Queen Mary 2 crossing

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the only ship that runs a regular scheduled transatlantic service. A crossing between Southampton and New York takes seven nights, with full board included. It is the most comfortable and predictable way to go: fixed departure dates, restaurants, entertainment and a strict timetable.

The trade-off is that it is a cruise experience. You share the ship with over 2,000 guests, and the price climbs quickly once you move above an inside cabin.

Option 2: Crossing on a cargo ship

A freighter crossing is the choice for travellers who want something genuinely different. Container and cargo ships carry a small number of paying passengers, usually 12 or fewer, in cabins near the officers’ quarters. You eat with the officers, can often visit the bridge, and spend your days reading, watching the ocean and spotting whales.

How long it takes. Expect around 9 to 14 days depending on the route and port calls. For example, one transatlantic container service has scheduled Liverpool to Halifax in 9 nights and Liverpool to New York in 11 nights.

What it costs. Freighter fares are charged per day, typically about US$90–150 per person, including your cabin and three meals a day. A one-way crossing usually lands between €1,000 and €2,000 per person, plus a booking fee and travel insurance.

Typical ports.

• UK and Europe: Liverpool, Southampton, London Gateway, Tilbury, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg and Le Havre
• North America: New York/Newark, Baltimore, Savannah, Charleston, Halifax and Montreal

What it is not. Cargo ships run to a commercial schedule, not a holiday one. Departure dates can move by a few days, and the ship may stay longer in port or skip a call. Keep your plans at each end flexible and never book a non-refundable flight or hotel on the day you are due to arrive.

Option 3: Repositioning cruises

Each spring and autumn, cruise lines move ships between European and American seasons. These one-way “repositioning” voyages are often good value per night and usually stop at islands such as the Azores, Madeira or Bermuda on the way. They are longer than a direct crossing and only run a few times a year, so they suit travellers who are flexible on dates.

Which option should you choose?

• You need a fixed arrival date → Queen Mary 2
• You want the most unusual, authentic sea journey → cargo ship
• You want sunshine and island stops → repositioning cruise
• You are relocating with lots of luggage or a vehicle → cargo ship, and ask us about shipping your car on the same route
• You are travelling with young children → Queen Mary 2 or a cruise, since many freighters have minimum age rules

Visas and paperwork for arriving in the USA by sea

This is the step most travellers miss.

• ESTA only works on approved carriers. The US Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) covers sea arrivals only on a carrier that has signed an agreement with the US Department of Homeland Security. If your ship’s operator is not an approved carrier, you need a full B-1/B-2 visitor visa. We confirm the status of your sailing before you book.
• Arriving in Canada. Canada’s eTA is required for air travel. Travellers arriving in Halifax or Montreal by sea generally do not need one, but you still need a valid passport and must meet Canada’s entry rules.
• Medical certificate. Most freighter lines ask for a doctor’s certificate confirming you are fit to travel, dated shortly before departure.
• Travel insurance. Choose a policy that covers medical evacuation at sea and “deviation” (the cost if the ship has to change course for you). Standard holiday policies often exclude this.

Age and health rules on cargo ships

Freighters have no doctor on board, so lines set their own limits. Upper age limits commonly sit between 75 and 85. One transatlantic operator, for example, has accepted passengers from age 2 to 85. You must be able to climb steep stairs and ladders and board via a gangway. Tell us about any medical condition when you enquire so we can match you to a suitable ship.

Going the other way: boat from New York to London

Everything above works eastbound too. The Queen Mary 2 sails New York to Southampton in seven nights, and cargo ships leave New York/Newark and Baltimore for UK and northern European ports. From Southampton, Liverpool or London Gateway, you are only a short train ride from central London.

How to book your transatlantic crossing

1. Pick your window. Choose a two- to three-week departure window rather than a single date.
2. Book early. Freighter cabins are limited, so book 6 to 12 months ahead, especially for spring and summer.
3. Request a quote. Tell us your ports, dates, cabin type and the number of travellers.
4. Complete the paperwork. Arrange your medical certificate, insurance and visa before you sail.
5. Pack for life at sea. Take layers, motion-sickness remedies, an offline library and a universal adaptor.

Frequently asked questions