There is simply nothing quite like the excitement of an iconic transatlantic crossing to New York on board Queen Mary 2, the largest classic Cunard liner.

The prospect of an indulgent six-day voyage across the Atlantic to the Big Apple on board one of the world’s biggest ships, the 150,000-ton, 2,620-passenger modern QM2, is becoming more popular than ever.

What To Expect From A Transatlantic Cruise

The amazing adventure follows in the footsteps of many illustrious liners, not least the QE2, which retires from the Cunard fleet in autumn 2008 after more than 800 Atlantic crossings.

Highlight of every west-bound voyage is that first breathtaking view of the world’s most famous skyline as dawn breaks over Manhattan and you are welcomed by the Statue of Liberty.

Alternatively, fly direct to New York for a few days of shopping and sightseeing before leisurely cruising home, with no worries about excess baggage.

Simply exploring all the bars, restaurants, theatres, lounges, and health facilities on such a vast vessel as the QM2 could take up a full day of your transatlantic crossing alone.

From sessions in the impressive Canyon Ranch spa and the gym to selecting a good book from the largest library a sea – with 6,000 titles – or enjoying a spectacular film show at QM2’s Planetarium, all are part of the sumptuous QM2 o on board experience.

And let’s not forget the cabins – almost three quarters of them have balconies, all equipped with interactive TVs with film and music channels. You can even book shore excursions or restaurant reservations, order from the ship's shops and send e-mails.

Repositioning Cruises

Of course, there are other options for crossing ‘the Pond’ available with a range of cruise lines as they move their ships between sailing in Europe in summer and the Caribbean in winter.

These so-called repositioning cruises in the spring and autumn are often great value and allow you ample time on board to relax and rejuvenate before reaching your final sun-kissed destination.

The final port of call for these long range cruises can vary from breathtaking Brazil to the calm of the Caribbean or one of many US east coast ports, with stops en route in places such as Madeira or the Canary Islands.

Other selected itineraries run for as long as a month sailing from and returning to Southampton with calls along the eastern seaboard of the US in such great cities as Charleston, New York and Boston.

A similar-duration cruise draws in Florida with the US Deep South as your ship calls at Key West before heading to the jazz capital of New Orleans. You then sail to multi-faceted Mexico and visit three Caribbean islands before sailing back to the UK.