Working on a Cruise: How to Stay Productive on a Transatlantic Voyage

Most people think of cruises as vacations, but for some, they can also be a floating office. My husband and I recently took a transatlantic cruise aboard Allure of the Seas, not for a traditional getaway, but to work remotely while crossing the Atlantic.

Why We Chose to Work on a Cruise

We found an incredible deal on a one-way transatlantic cruise as Allure of the Seas was heading to dry dock for a major remodel. The price was lower than a flight to Spain, and as loyal Royal Caribbean cruisers, we saw an opportunity to earn more loyalty points while enjoying a unique work setup.

Since we both work full-time, we didn’t want to use excessive PTO. Instead, we structured our trip so that we worked during the weekdays while at sea and took time off once we arrived at ports on days 10 and 11.

Concerns About Internet and Productivity

Before boarding, we had concerns about internet reliability and whether we could handle full workdays, including Teams calls. While research showed mixed reviews about transatlantic cruise internet, we decided to take the risk.

To our relief, the Wi-Fi was excellent. I spent most of my workdays on Teams calls and experienced no more issues than I do at home. Over six workdays, I lost internet only three or four times, which is comparable to a normal workweek.

Setting Up a Cruise Work Environment

Since both of us needed quiet spaces for calls, we booked connecting staterooms. This allowed us to work separately without disrupting each other. My room had a window with an ocean view, making my workspace one of the most scenic offices I’ve ever had.

Adjusting to Time Zone Changes

One unexpected challenge was the gradual time zone shifts throughout the cruise. Each captain decides how to adjust the clocks, and we couldn’t get this information ahead of time. As we sailed further, our workday started later and ended later. By the end of the trip, we worked from 2 PM to 10:30 PM.

This shift worked in our favor. We spent mornings relaxing by the pool before starting work and adjusted our dining schedule to fit the later hours.

Additional Tips for Working on a Cruise

If you’re considering working remotely on a cruise, here are some key factors to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Ship and Itinerary

Not all cruises offer reliable internet. Newer ships tend to have better connectivity, and transatlantic crossings often provide stronger satellite coverage than cruises in remote regions.

2. Invest in the Best Internet Package

Cruise lines offer different Wi-Fi tiers. If you need uninterrupted access, purchase the highest-speed package to ensure smooth video calls and file uploads.

3. Plan for Time Zone Adjustments

On long voyages, time zones shift gradually. If your work requires coordination with colleagues in a fixed time zone, adjust your schedule accordingly.

4. Book a Quiet Workspace

If you’re traveling with a partner, consider connecting rooms or a balcony cabin for a peaceful work environment. Public spaces like libraries or lounges can also serve as alternative work areas.

5. Keep Your Work Setup Simple

Bring essential tech gear, including:

• Noise-canceling headphones for calls
• Portable charger for long workdays
• Laptop stand for ergonomic comfort

6. Use Downtime Wisely

Since transatlantic cruises feature multiple sea days, take advantage of breaks to relax, explore the ship, or enjoy onboard activities.

7. Have a Backup Plan for Connectivity Issues

While cruise internet is improving, occasional outages happen. Download important files in advance and use offline work tools when necessary.

Final Thoughts

Working on a cruise is a unique experience that blends productivity with adventure. With the right planning, reliable internet, and a flexible schedule, it’s possible to stay connected while enjoying the journey.

One of the biggest perks was arriving in Barcelona after the transatlantic crossing without feeling jet lagged. Since we worked while at sea, we didn’t use any PTO for travel days, allowing us to take six full vacation days in Spain. Instead of adjusting to a sudden time zone shift like we would have with a flight, our bodies adapted gradually throughout the cruise, making the transition seamless.