Atlantic crossing duration: How long does an Atlantic crossing really take?

Crossing the Atlantic is a great adventure for many sailors and travelers. But before setting off, the most important questions arise: How long does it take to cross the Atlantic by sailboat? How long does it take to cross the Atlantic by ship?
The duration of an Atlantic crossing depends on several factors: route, boat type, weather conditions, and time of year. This article provides comprehensive information on the duration of Atlantic crossings by sailboat and ship, along with practical tips for realistically planning your trip.

How long does it take to cross the Atlantic?

Basically, there are two variants:

• Crossing the Atlantic by sailboat
• Crossing the Atlantic by ship

Depending on the route, weather conditions, and boat type, the duration varies considerably. So, if you're wondering, "How long does an Atlantic crossing take?", you'll find the most important information here.

Atlantic crossing by sailboat: Tips and experiences

The classic route for crossing the Atlantic leads from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean – the so-called trade wind route. This route covers approximately 2,700–3,000 nautical miles.
Average Atlantic crossing time by sailboat:
18 to 25 days nonstop
Average speed: 5–7 knots
With very fast boats or in optimal weather conditions, 14–17 days are possible. Comfort-oriented crews sometimes need over 25 days.

Atlantic crossing by ship: Faster than by sailboat

Anyone asking the question "How long does it take to cross the Atlantic by ship?" can expect significantly shorter times:
Average duration: 6 to 9 days
Speed: 18–22 knots
Typical options: cruise ship, cargo ship, liner passage
The duration of an Atlantic crossing by ship is therefore usually significantly shorter than under sail – but the experience is less “adventurous”.

Factors that influence the duration of an Atlantic crossing

The duration of a sailing crossing of the Atlantic depends on several factors:

• Boat type (cruising yacht vs. performance yacht)
• Crew experience
• Trade winds & weather windows
• Currents (e.g. Gulf Stream)
• Number and length of stopovers

Good planning and weather forecasts can significantly reduce travel time.

Best time to travel for an Atlantic crossing

Most sailors set sail between November and January, when the trade winds are stable. This period is the best time to plan the duration of an Atlantic crossing.
Outside of this season, the crossing can take considerably longer – especially for sailing yachts.

Conclusion: This is how long the Atlantic crossing really takes.

• By sailboat: approx. 3 weeks
• By ship: approx. 1 week

Crossing the Atlantic is less of a race and more of an adventure. Sailing focuses on experiencing nature, adventure, and teamwork, while the sea voyage offers speed and comfort.
So, anyone wanting to know how long an Atlantic crossing takes can expect it to take between 1 and 3 weeks, depending on the route.