The best-kept secret in travel lets you travel in luxury while saving thousands of dollars.
Embarking on a transpacific cruise is a dream for many travel enthusiasts, offering an extraordinary way to cross the Pacific Ocean in style and comfort. Imagine sailing in a luxurious suite on a modern Royal Caribbean ship, paying just a fraction of the usual cost—around $264 a night for two people—while enjoying meals, entertainment, and even your transportation home all included. This is the magic of transpacific repositioning cruises, one of the best-kept secrets in travel that savvy travelers are using to save thousands without sacrificing luxury or experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover how you can discover these hidden gems, secure incredible deals from 2025 through 2027, and enjoy a bucket-list-worthy journey across the Pacific. Whether you’re a retiree, a slow traveler, or simply someone looking for a unique adventure, this strategy could redefine how you travel internationally.
What Are Transpacific Repositioning Cruises?
Transpacific repositioning cruises are one-way voyages that typically sail from the United States or Canada to Asia, although sometimes they include stops in Hawaii or extend to Australia and New Zealand. These cruises are called “repositioning” because ships are moving from one region to another in preparation for a new cruise season. As a result, these journeys offer extended travel times, often lasting anywhere from 13 to 22 days or more.
Since these cruises are one-way, travelers usually fly back to their starting point after disembarking. The trips are scheduled twice a year: in the spring, ships typically sail from Asia back to the U.S., and in the fall, the direction is reversed, sailing from the U.S. to Asia.
Why Choose a Transpacific Cruise?
There are four standout advantages to choosing a transpacific repositioning cruise:
- Ultimate Relaxation: These cruises feature many sea days—sometimes up to 12 in a row. If you enjoy unwinding, recharging, and savoring the onboard amenities, this is perfect. Sea days provide ample opportunities to rest, enjoy spa treatments, explore onboard activities, or even work remotely if needed.
- Unique Itineraries: Repositioning cruises often include stops in Alaska, Hawaii, or parts of the South Pacific, offering a blend of experiences that traditional cruises don’t provide.
- Incredible Value: These cruises are among the best values in the cruise world. You get the same level of service as a regular cruise, including open restaurants, entertainment, and activities, but at a fraction of the typical price.
- Flexible Travel Options: With multiple ports of call and the chance to extend your trip in Asia or Alaska, you can customize your adventure extensively.
However, it’s important to be comfortable with the extended sea days and the slower pace of travel. If you prefer quick port stops and lots of onshore activities, this might not be your ideal cruise style.
Tips for Booking and Enjoying Transpacific Cruises
Book Early for the Best Deals
Timing is critical when booking these cruises. Early booking offers the best access to prime cabins and the lowest prices. If prices drop before final payment, you can often adjust your booking to take advantage of discounts.
Spring departures are usually Asia to the U.S., perfect for pairing with cherry blossom season in Japan or exploring Southeast Asia before the cruise. Fall departures typically sail from the U.S. to Asia.
Mastering Sea Days
Sea days are a defining feature of transpacific cruises. Those who enjoy a slower pace, reading, spa time, or socializing onboard will thrive. A typical sea day might look like this:
- Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast
- Work or relax at the spa
- Lunch followed by afternoon activities or a drink with friends
- Dinner and evening entertainment
Despite the seemingly long stretches of time, sea days always seem to fly by, filled with plenty to do and enjoy.
Saving Money Onboard
Even with a great cruise deal, onboard expenses can add up quickly. Here are some ways to save:
- Shore Excursions: With fewer ports, shore excursions are minimal. Many destinations are easy to explore independently, saving money on guided tours.
- Beverage Packages: If you have cruise line loyalty status, you may qualify for included drinks. Look for sales and book early to secure discounts.
- Wi-Fi Packages: Discounts are often available when booked early. Many cruise lines offer bundled packages that include gratuities, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi.
Popular package options include Princess Cruises’ Princess Plus and Premier packages, and Celebrity Cruises’ inclusive deals—both worth investigating for added savings.
Top Transpacific Cruise Deals for 2025–2027
Now, let’s dive into some of the best transpacific repositioning cruise deals currently available. These options range from contemporary to luxury cruise lines, offering something for every budget and taste.
Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas (Fall 2025)
This 15-night cruise departs from Los Angeles on September 23 and arrives in Tokyo on October 8, with only two stops including an overnight in Sapporo, a unique destination rarely included in itineraries.
Prices start at just $183 per day for two people in a balcony cabin, with solo traveler deals around $180 per day. This price includes your accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transportation—making it an incredible value for a transpacific journey.
The only additional expenses might be Wi-Fi, specialty dining, gratuities, and optional excursions.
Discovery Princess (Fall 2025)
Departing from Seattle, this cruise combines an Alaskan itinerary with a transpacific crossing to Tokyo. It stops at iconic Alaskan ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, and Anchorage before sailing to Japan.
Prices start at $200 per day for a balcony cabin, with mini suites available for $233 per day. The weather in mid-October is ideal, avoiding Japan’s hot summer months, and Tokyo serves as a gateway to explore the rest of Asia.
Princess Cruises’ Princess Plus package is highly recommended for this cruise, including gratuities, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining at a great value.
Holland America’s Seattle to Tokyo Cruise (Fall 2025)
This cruise offers a blend of Alaskan and Japanese ports, sailing from Seattle to Tokyo with stops in Alaska and Japan along the way.
Balcony cabins start at $263 per day, with suites under $400 per day, and solo travelers can find deals starting at $227 per day. Holland America also offers an inclusive package similar to Princess Cruises, worth exploring to maximize savings.
Luxury Option: Viking Orion (Fall 2025)
For those seeking a premium experience, the Viking Orion offers a 22-night journey from Vancouver to Tokyo. It includes a full Alaskan cruise before crossing the Pacific. The ship carries fewer than 1,000 passengers, providing an intimate atmosphere.
Prices start at $670 per day for a balcony cabin, which is a significant discount compared to Viking’s typical pricing near $1,000 per day. Solo traveler rates are also available at a lower price point.
Royal Caribbean’s Eastbound Ovation of the Seas (Spring 2026)
Heading from Tokyo to Vancouver, this 15-day cruise stops at Japanese ports including Hakodate, Sapporo, and Aomori (famous for Fuji apples).
Balcony cabins are priced at $208 per day, with junior suites at $580 per day. This cruise is also an excellent opportunity for Royal Caribbean loyalty members to earn double points and fast-track status upgrades.
Inside and ocean-view cabins are available for under $100 per person per day, making this a budget-friendly option for eastbound travelers.
Coral Princess (Spring 2026)
A 22-night cruise from Tokyo to Vancouver, featuring Japanese ports and an Alaskan adventure including glaciers. Balcony cabins start under $500 per day, and interior cabins are just over $300.
This cruise combines three experiences in one: transpacific crossing, Japanese exploration, and Alaskan cruising.
Holland America Westerdam (Spring 2026)
Departing Tokyo in April 2026, this itinerary includes stops in Porto Koshiro, Kodiak, Sitka, Ketchikan, and ends in Vancouver.
Balcony cabins are $325 per day, suites under $500, and solo traveler rates under $300 per day. Holland America’s inclusive packages are also available here, adding value.
Silversea Luxury Cruise (Spring 2026)
If luxury is your priority, Silversea offers a 5-star experience with fewer than 1,000 passengers. This Tokyo-to-Alaska-to-Vancouver cruise lasts 22 nights and costs about $887 per day, which is a steal compared to typical Silversea prices between $1,200 and $1,500 per night.
The cruise is virtually all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks, gratuities, and more. Silversea is part of the Royal Caribbean Celebrity family, allowing status matches for loyal customers.
Princess Cruises Royal Princess (Fall 2026)
A 14-night cruise from Seattle to Tokyo with multiple Alaskan ports like Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and Whittier (Anchorage).
Balcony cabins start at $272 per day, with mini suites at $327 per day.
Hawaiian Transpacific Cruise (Fall 2026)
One of the more unique repositioning cruises includes stops at the Hawaiian Islands—Maui, Hilo, Kona, Honolulu, and Kauai—before ending in Tokyo in December.
Prices are $304 per day for a balcony cabin, $464 for mini suites, and interior cabins start at $210 per day. Solo travelers can find deals under $300 per day.
Despite the chillier weather in Tokyo during December, the Hawaiian portion makes this itinerary especially attractive.
Viking Orion (Fall 2026)
Repeating the popular 22-night Vancouver to Tokyo route, this cruise includes multiple ports and is priced under $700 per day for balcony cabins and under $600 for solo travelers.
Spring 2027 Cruises
- Tokyo to Vancouver (April 2027): A scenic cruise hitting several Alaskan ports with balcony cabins around $425 per day.
- Oceania Riviera (Spring 2027): A luxury cruise line favorite, offering a 5-star experience with prices under $800 per day for balcony cabins. This cruise combines Japanese and Alaskan itineraries.
- Azamara Quest (Spring 2027): A boutique cruise with fewer than 700 passengers, sailing 17 nights from Tokyo to Vancouver. Balcony cabins are about $629 per day, and inside/ocean-view cabins are under $500 per day. Gratuities are included.
Unique Transpacific Repositioning Cruises
Some repositioning cruises depart from or end in less conventional ports, adding variety to your options.
- Anthem of the Seas (Fall 2026): Sailing from Vancouver to Honolulu with stops in Kauai. Prices are under $400 per day, making it a great deal for solo travelers and those wanting a Hawaiian vacation.
- Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady (Spring 2026): A new ship sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver with stops including Catalina Island, San Francisco, Astoria, and Victoria. Prices are under $500 per day and include gratuities, specialty restaurants, and basic Wi-Fi. Virgin Voyages is especially friendly to solo travelers.
- Brilliant Lady Reverse Route: Vancouver to Los Angeles with stops in Santa Barbara and San Diego, priced around $438 per day.
- Royal Princess Hawaii to Vancouver (Spring 2027): A repositioning cruise starting in Hawaii and ending in Vancouver with balcony cabins under $250 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly is a transpacific repositioning cruise?
It’s a one-way cruise that moves a ship from the U.S. or Canada to Asia or vice versa, often including stops in Alaska, Hawaii, or the South Pacific. These cruises usually occur twice a year and last between 13 to 22 days or longer.
Why are transpacific repositioning cruises such a good value?
Because the cruise lines need to move ships between regions, they offer significantly discounted fares. You get full cruise amenities, meals, entertainment, and accommodations at a fraction of the usual cruise price.
Are these cruises suitable for first-time cruisers?
They can be, but you should be comfortable with extended sea days and a slower pace of travel. These cruises are ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxing onboard and exploring a few ports rather than frequent stops.
How do I save money onboard during these cruises?
Book beverage and Wi-Fi packages early to take advantage of discounts, consider self-guided shore excursions, and explore inclusive packages offered by cruise lines like Princess and Holland America.
Can solo travelers find good deals on transpacific cruises?
Yes! Many cruise lines offer competitive solo traveler rates, and some ships, like Virgin Voyages, are especially solo-friendly with inclusive pricing.
How do I choose the best cruise and cabin for me?
Consider your preferred itinerary, budget, and comfort with sea days. Booking early gives you the best cabin choices. Think about whether you want a balcony, suite, or interior cabin based on your preferences and desired luxury level.
Final Thoughts
Transpacific repositioning cruises are an exceptional way to fulfill a bucket list adventure while enjoying luxury, unique itineraries, and incredible value. Whether you want to sail from Los Angeles to Tokyo, explore Alaska’s glaciers, or unwind in the Hawaiian Islands en route, these cruises offer unforgettable experiences at prices that few would expect.
With careful planning, early booking, and the right mindset for sea days, you can save thousands and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey. If you’re ready to explore these hidden gems, consider reaching out for personalized cruise quotes and expert assistance to secure the best deals and onboard perks.
So, are you ready to cross the Pacific in style? The ocean is calling!
Book with Us!
Digital Roamads has partnered with Cruise Planners®, one of the largest cruise travel agencies in the industry, so that we can offer you the best deals, extra amenities and private promotions to make your travel dreams a reality.
- Expert Guidance: We’ve taken more than fifty cruises on all the major lines.
- Exclusive Offers: We can provide access to special onboard credits and discounts.
- Personalized Service: We tailor your booking experience to your needs and preferences.
Request a free quotation today on your next cruise vacation!
Need some ideas first? Visit our Cruise Planners website for inspiration and to browse shore excursions.
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