**Can You Still Travel to Europe by Ship?**
In the age of jet travel, it may seem like cruise ships are the only way to experience the grandeur of transatlantic travel. However, there are still a few ways to travel to Europe by ship, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.
## Passenger Ships
### Cunard Line
Cunard Line is one of the most well-known passenger ship lines, operating since 1840. It offers transatlantic crossings from New York City to Southampton, England, on the iconic Queen Mary 2. The crossing takes around 6 days and 2 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the amenities on board.
### P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises is another popular passenger ship line, offering transatlantic crossings from Southampton to New York City. The crossing takes around 6 days and 18 hours, and passengers can choose from a variety of cabin types and activities on board.
## Freighter Travel
Freighters are cargo ships that also carry a limited number of passengers. Freighter travel is a less common but more authentic way to experience transatlantic travel. Crossings can take up to 2 weeks, but passengers have the opportunity to witness the inner workings of a cargo ship and interact with the crew.
### Grimaldi Lines
Grimaldi Lines is one of the largest freighter companies in the world, offering transatlantic crossings from Baltimore, Maryland to Antwerp, Belgium. The crossing takes around 11 days, and passengers can choose from a variety of cabin types.
### Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Wallenius Wilhelmsen is another major freighter company, offering transatlantic crossings from Baltimore to Antwerp. The crossing takes around 10 days, and passengers can choose from a variety of cabin types and amenities.
## Advantages of Ship Travel
There are several advantages to traveling to Europe by ship:
* **Relaxation:** Ship travel provides a relaxing and luxurious way to travel. Passengers can enjoy spacious cabins, fine dining, and a variety of amenities on board.
* **Scenic Views:** Ships offer stunning views of the open ocean and distant shores. Passengers can enjoy the sunrise and sunset over the Atlantic, as well as witness whales, dolphins, and other wildlife.
* **Unique Experience:** Traveling by ship is a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a slower pace of travel that allows passengers to connect with the ocean and appreciate the journey.
## Considerations
There are also some considerations to keep in mind when traveling to Europe by ship:
* **Cost:** Ship travel can be more expensive than air travel, especially during peak season.
* **Time:** Crossings can take several days, which may not be suitable for everyone’s travel plans.
* **Sea Sickness:** Some passengers may experience sea sickness, especially during rough seas.
## Conclusion
Despite the rise of air travel, ship travel to Europe remains a viable and unique option. Whether you choose a luxurious passenger ship or a more authentic freighter experience, traveling by ship offers a relaxing, scenic, and unforgettable way to cross the Atlantic.