I was on a cruise once through the most terrible stormy weather. Nearly everyone got sick, even the crew. I never get seasick, so I was fine, but it was like walking through a ghost ship with all the passengers and most of the crew laid up. When I did come across a crew member they'd always ask me wide eyed "are you ok?" While I did have to feel for all the sick people, I had so much fun. Imagine a whole ship to yourself!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Oh wow!! That’s some serious storms to lay-up so many crew and passengers! So glad you were okay though!

@Chris.T616

6 ай бұрын

Lucky you!

@grandrapidsboy

2 ай бұрын

Lmao 😂 I slept like a baby during a bad storm to the Bahamas

I LOVE transatlantic crossing. I've done two...Viking and Virgin..and will do another on Regent this September. As a solo traveler, I have found better prices on transatlantic cruises. I love sea dayss and the extended itineraries, i.e. 14-16 days. And shockingly I have yet to have any problems with weather. In fact on my Viking transatlantic cruise this past December, the weather was actually balmy and warm. I managed to come home with a great tan. On the Virgin cruise, we did encounter a water spout aka ocean tornado, but all was fine as the ship had great ballast. I do agree with the passengers you meet on such crossings. They tend to be more cruise savvy. And as J&J mentioned, I found the food, entertainment, and activities superb.

We did a Transatlantic on the Celebrity Reflection in 2019. Loved it. We met wonderful people who are now good friends. With all those sea days, you really have time to slow down and partake in lots of activities you never would have time for on a port intensive cruise. Planning on doing another!!

Doing a TA from Copenhagen to Boston this summer. I chose it for the ports (Norway, Iceland, Greenland & Canada). Chilly weather cruising is a very different experience. I spend much more time inside and participate in more activities. Hanging on deck means a coat and uggs and spiked coffee is my go to cocktail. No need to hose down with sunscreen 5 times a day! I can wear a beanie to hide morning hair. My favorite thing about the cold water cruise is the way the brisk salty air refreshes you; opening your sinuses and lungs like a wiff of peppermint.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences with us! 🤗🥳

@enjoyslearningandtravel7957

2 жыл бұрын

I completely agree, nice to cruise in colder weather sometimes since I get tired of lathering on the sunscreen all the time in a semi tropical climate.

@TehCbass

Жыл бұрын

Reading this comment was so satisfying for some reason, thanks for sharing! Hope to do a TA/ Cold water cruise one day 🤞🏼

We did a 28 day Hawaii and South Pacific from L.A. in October 2018. The weather was beautiful and the sea most days very calm. I don't know if that's typical but for sure our favorite cruise so far.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!! We hope to do a Transpacific in the near future!

@FraserAtSea

2 жыл бұрын

Very jealous of this cruise - it’s on my bucket list!

That was a terrific video. I love your enthusiasm. I also like that you give a very balanced review of a transatlantic. I did one transatlantic on Royal Caribbean from Miami to Malaga Spain and before the cruise was worried about the days at sea but they brought on additional staff who did very interesting lectures about places we would be stopping, about history, and one was actually a stunt person from Hollywood and she was hilarious. Like yourselves, I met terrific well traveled people. To me the most interesting thing was meeting people who would combined round-trip airfares with two transatlantic cruises. They would for example, cruise in the spring to Europe spend a few weeks in Europe and then fly back to the United States as the first leg of their airplane ticket then in the fall they would use the return trip back to Europe and then Cruise in the fall from Europe back to the United States. I thought that was so clever and some thing I had never thought of and help them avoid buying two one-way airplane tickets

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! That’s what we are doing too!! 🤗

@suedougmactavish3213

2 жыл бұрын

When we traveled to Scotland and England we flew over and spent 10 days in Geeat Britain and then took the Queem Mary 2 from Southampton to New York. Our agent was able to get a fly cruise deal on British Airways and saved a bundle of money over a normal one way airfare.

We did a similar cruise on Royal, the plus is that transatlantic crossings are usually at a great price. Ours was in 2019, in April, lucked out with great weather only one bad stormy day. The way to get used to loosing the hour as time changes is to stay up one hour later, this helps the body adjust as long as you get up at your normal time. This worked for us.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Great advice!! Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences 🤗

We did a TA from Rome to FFL on the Edge in 2019. What I loved, it was like 2 different cruises. The first part was your traditional cruise with port stops and the second half was totally different experience. This was late October early November. The weather was good and we were headed to warmer temperatures. We also spend a week in Italy before. So we had to deal with the Daylight Savings Time change twice and we loved the 25 hour days coming back.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Such a nice retreat to have 25 hour days😎

@micheletomei3670

2 жыл бұрын

We were on the same cruise!!! The weather was perfect!!!

I just found your cruising channel and I love love love you guys!❣ I appreciate your honesty, your humor, and your enthusiasm. Thank you for all of the great info you share. I dream of our next cruise, it can't happen soon enough. Keep up the great work. You'll hit 30K in no time!!!

This was a great review, thank you! I'm probably very different than most. I love to cruise to be on the water. I spend more time in my cabin than most, reading, doing stuff I've brought with me. AND I love rough seas (not dangerous, but love the rockin' and rolling). With all that said, I really want to go on a transatlantic cruise. Getting the time off work is just difficult, so I continue to dream! Gonna have to go back and watch your other vlogs on this trip! Enjoy the rest of your trip!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts!! We loved our Transatlantic and hope you sail one soon! 🥳

I've never been on a transatlantic cruise but is on my bucket list. I enjoy sea days and my husband and I aren't night life people. The thought of just relaxing and enjoying some reading sounds like heaven to me.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

It would be perfect for you!! 🥳🤗

@DaveM-FFB

2 жыл бұрын

We're the same way. But we're also foodies. Any day where someone else cooks, cleans, and makes the bed, is heaven. Some live lounge music, is a bonus. A 7 day cruise is too short for us.

Would love to do trans-Atlantic, trans-pacific. Just need to get that much time off work. I like the idea of lots of sea days to allow lengthy exploration and enjoyment of the ship and time to relax. 7 day port intensive cruises don’t give me enough down time to take in the ship’s beauty.

We LOVED The Edge! Captain Tasos is phenomenal and he made us laugh every day! 💚 Just watched this episode and can’t wait to watch the sailing on Beyond with Captain Kate and Bug!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

He’s hilarious! One of our faves too!

I have never been on a transatlantic cruise, but have always wanted to go to Greece. That being said, when you talked about the ocean, I just began to recall the waters on my very first cruise when I was 19 years old. Now first you must understand that was 60 years ago and a friend of mine and I decided to take a cruise for our vacation. Do you have a good imagination? This ship was so small and left from NY and sailed to Nassau. We were docked right in the Nassau's downtown along the street. We had to get a tender to go over to the other side of the island to the beach and from there they took us on a golf cart to the actual beach and that is all it was "A BEACH," where the Atlantis now sits. You talk about rocky weather, this little thing called a ship we were on was rocking the entire cruise. I would love to share more with you, but do not want to keep going in your comment section. I just returned from a 12-night Southern Caribbean cruise on RC's Enchantment and when people asked me if it was my first, I told them about my first cruise and everyone thought they should give me a spot in the centrum to speak about it. I had people rolling on the floor laughing. Wish I could cruise sometime with the two of you.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

What a story!! Thanks for sharing! Join one of our group cruises! We’d love to cruise together 🤗

As I've flown to Europe in the past, I think ---- if you're planning to spend time in Europe after the cruise ---- the 23 hour days are actually not a bad trade-off, because no jet lag.

This was really interesting and useful information. A transatlantic (or Pacific) is on my MUST list and I had not considered many of these things. You've definitely helped narrow down lines. Having the Infinite Veranda is perfect! Get to enjoy the sea even when the weather isn't ideal.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! So glad we could help! 🤗

@julieosypenko7053

2 жыл бұрын

I was told if if rains I the infinite window automatically closes,is this true .We have booked a normal verandah but is very small

Thank you for the video guys. I have done many trans-Atlantic cruises and can tell you that you have yet to experience the worst thing about them (going West to East). Thee worst thing is that you have been relaxing for all of your sea days, then it will be port, port, port, port, get off thee ship feeling exhausted. Doing a trans-Atlantic from East to West, you get the ports first, then you can relax with all of the 25 hour days. You arrive home feeling refreshed. Good luck and hope when you have done the opposite crossing you will have a compare and contrast video.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! We did feel that rush at the end but we did feel the sea day break before the last two ports helped us a lot! 😄

Have done two Trans-Atlantics and the third is upcoming in a few months. Looking at a fourth for next year. We are thinking it needs to be an annual event. One thing in particular that I enjoy are having some sea days. I see too many cruise itineraries which have one or no sea days at all. Those do not interest me at all. It's good to see interesting ports, but time to read, relax and talk with other cruisers is just the best. The people we have met onboard have been wonderful and so interesting. There were lecturers onboard so there was always something to learn about. Played a lot of trivia, which was fun and a good way to meet people. Food and entertainment were good and enjoyable. Had a few days of rocky waves, but wasn't bad and only lasted a day or two. One time I could see four water spouts, with one that was pretty close, and got some great pictures. I was excited, since I had never seen one before. Can't wait to go again.

We are two days away from doing our first TA on the Queen Mary 2. That is a different experience than a repositioning cruise on a cruise ship. An ocean liner is designed to cross the Atlantic smoothly and Cunard knows how to make Sea Days special days. That is just what they do.

@littleglimmer2325

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely right. We did Southampton to New York on 8 May and it was like glass. Unique ship.

@dondgc2298

2 жыл бұрын

The QM 2 is designed for ocean crossings but it can definitely rock when the seas get big enough. The TA is a great experience. I hope you enjoyed it.

@Keep-on-ok

Жыл бұрын

Queen Mary 2 is on my bucket list.

@slowmads

Жыл бұрын

We have booked a 3rd QM2 cruise. In 12 foot seas, not a dish moved in the MDR. It’s a crossing, not a cruise. It is understated elegance at its best. We are fans.

@snn6134

Жыл бұрын

Can’t compare QM2. She’s an Ocean Liner which makes it apples to oranges.

My mom and I (my husband likes cruises but not two weeks at a time, lol!!) have been on two TA cruises and are going on another one this November. We love them! I tell people that it is the ultimate in relaxation. You know how after a 7-day cruise you are kinda tired? You get plenty of rest and relaxation on a TA cruise. Glad you enjoyed it.

@pamelanurse2024

Жыл бұрын

How was your November cruise? Thinking of doing Barcelona to Florida on Princess November 12.

I’ve done four trans Atlantics in my life all of them before the Covid. Only one of them was the ocean as still as a pond. One of them was a huge storm that we had to avoid but we had a great captain and the most stable of ships, a true ocean liner called the queen Mary 2. Huge waves and the promenade was closed because of safety reasons and I’m prone to sea sickness but I just chomped on ginger and was fine. I chomped on the fresh ginger at the sushi bar, Also on the Ginger at the dinner so no problem was in fact a little entertaining for me to see people walking like they were drunk across the floor when in fact the deck was a little wavy because of the ocean. When the ship has up-and-down motion it doesn’t bother me but we also had side to side motion as well so that bothered me but I didn’t become motion sick hardly at all because of the ginger so well half the people didn’t show up to breakfast or lunch I showed up but I ate bland foods. And was fine. I would do it all again !!!!! Maybe even encouraged one person who was very frightened and was turning a little bit green under the gills. I would always go on one again, a trans Atlantic, I would never get tired of seeing the great scenery of ocean and clouds and not having to decide what to do in a port each day. Even if the wireless wasn’t working I sort of welcome it as a time to do without a like electronic devices for a while. Also met many great people to avoid I’m still in touch. Also saw dolphins a little bit of off England. As for only 23 hours day, I would say it’s certainly better than flying on a plane and then having to get used to Jetlag of six or seven hours difference depending if you’re flying to England or to Europe. Yeah coming back with 25 our day is great.!!!!!!!

@enjoyslearningandtravel7957

2 жыл бұрын

Meant to write I met many great people that I’m still in touch. I didn’t mean to write, to avoid so I guess I’ve kept in touch with at least two of them.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences with us!! We do agree it’s better to lose one hour a night than 6 at once

@DestroyerofThings

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the tip regarding ginger. I’m hoping to take a TA Cruise next year, God willing, and I will try that. Can you bring your own ginger aboard?

@sharonpinkney9081

4 ай бұрын

What time of the year did you sail when the ocean was as still as a pond?

I did, and twice, in the very beginning of the season. First time was on the Seabourn Quest, Ft Lauderdale to Barcelona, on March 31st. Well of course, mostly in the first half of the crossing, we did get choppy seas, and waves were high, but actually it was rather good. And just now on March 18th we did sail from Barbados to Fuerteventura Canary Islands, and then Las Palmas, Funchal and a glorious moon entrance into the Tagus river and Lisbon. Well, the only nights when the sea was calm were on arrival to Fuerteventura and from there to Las Palms. Most of the time we experienced high seas, with swells around 4,5 - 5 meters, on the Silversea Dilver Spirit. And, although I never tried the pool, there being a lot of motion within the pool, deck was almost always rather full, and some people did actually arrive in Europe with a beautiful tan. Don’t really know where they found so much Sun, but in fact they did! It was a wonderful crossing, if you take your sea motion proper meds! And some years back, we cruised the Crystal Sumphony to Norway, Faroe Islands and Iceland. Well, so high in the North Atlantic I could experience how bad it actually can get, as we hit 10m high waves, on a very rough passage. And next morning, it was so calm as a lake. Love taking these wonderful cruises, and, most interesting of all was the only time I got seasick, was on the Med, on a smaller vess, the now Windstar Legend, when it was still with Seabourn, on a full sea day from Mallorca to Elba island, boy, I wasn’t expecting it, and it was very unpleasant!!! But the ship was only 10000 ton, and it rocked and rolled all that she could!

Our first TA cruise is next month from Lisbon to Tampa. We chose TA to enjoy our first time in Portugal (we're going a few days early) and then relax on the cruise. Also, we're writers & need the internet a bit for work on the way back. We are looking forward to the 6 ports we'll visit on the trip. Thanks so much for your report; it helps to know what to expect!

Thanks for being so positive but keeping it real. I have been plotting a trans-atlantic cruise for awhile. We were on the Edge in Dec 2019 and really liked it. We were on a cruise March 2022 and the people, fellow cruisers and staff were so friendly and just happy to be out of their house. Just Subscribed.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Angela for subscribing! We love being positive but always honest on our experiences so you and our clients can be certain to have the best cruise they possibly can have! 🥳

Thanks for sharing your TA experience. I've been on two TA cruises traveling both directions and absolutely love them!!! The first was on the Carnival Vista in late October when it was new and coming across from Barcelona to its home port in the US. The early morning arrival in NYC was fantastic as we passed the Statue of Liberty. There were a few days of rough weather that caused the cove balconies to be locked for three days. The furniture was stacked inside the cabin, so it was a little cramped. Otherwise, it was fantastic. The second was aboard the Crown Princess from Ft Lauderdale to Southampton in April. It was another great cruise with good weather. I think the best part of a TA cruise is the increased number of sea days. Usually on a cruise, the highlight is the ports and most of the day in port is spent off the ship. So, some of the onboard experiences are missed. On a TA there is more time to really enjoy the entire ship. I've cruised 47 times from 3 to 21 days and prefer longer cruises. TAs are 12+ days with so many consecutive sea days, so they are my favorite. 👍 My advice in cabin selection on a TA is to skip the additional cost of a balcony cabin due to the cooler weather crossing the Atlantic. It's not practical or even possible to use a balcony most days. I have two more TA cruises booked. Can't wait.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!! 🤗🥳

@caseytcat888

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for starting the conversation and allowing me to share my great memories. It's been fun. 🗽☺🛳

My first ever cruise was ten nights on the Disney Wonder from Vancouver, BC to Hawai’i. The first five full days were sea days, and I fell in love with cruising in the middle of the Pacific before we reached our first port. We had three 25-hour days on the way, and they were fantastic! You can stay up late, sleep in, and still get up in time for breakfast. Thinking of a UK to USA transatlantic next year. Hope I can make it work.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!! We hope that TA cruise is next for you! 🤗

We are faithful Princess cruises & repositioning or transatlantic our favorite cruises.. We love 28 days.. Breaks in between ports, time for relaxation,meeting new friends!! Can’t wait for next cruise🎉🎉🎉 And you guys are the best!! I can watch you when i can’t cruise!!!!

I was on Odyssey's transat that left several days later than Wonder. We originally had a course fairly far south to avoid the effects of the storm, but because of a passenger injury we diverted even further south to PR to let them off. This meant that we skipped a port stop in Funchal to make up time. So pretty good sea conditions the entire transit.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That’s what we heard from some of our friends onboard your cruise! So glad you had a nice and warmer crossing!

We enjoyed this so much! Loved loved LOVED our very first cruise! It was a Celebrity transatlantic 18 night, month of May. Fabulous! We had a junior balcony suite and our own butler. We were one of the youngest couples onboard at the time (a couple from Germany was younger.) We loved the fact that so many Europeans were onboard. We were also thrilled that many retired educators were guests as well. Mercy, but we had our own tour guides, and took full advantage of their offers to follow them around at ports of call. We’ve cruised other Celebrity, and a number of other cruise lines, but nothing has compared to that 1st cruise. Ahhh...🥰

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences with us!! 🤗

My bestie and I just got home yesterday from our first TA from FTL to Rome. I just got done watching your video but started it off thinking, "How in the world did I miss these guys?" until you mentioned that you were on the Celebrity Edge. We were on Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas. It sounds like we possibly had the same or similar itineraries. But what an experience!! We had a great time. As you mentioned, I was initially worried about how I was going to fill the days as well, but I should have never worried. There was so much to do that we sometimes found ourselves having to miss out on one thing to do another. Luckily, many things were offered on multiple days. We played a lot of trivia, did a couple silent discos, watched some poolside movies, I even took a 3-day "How To Be a DJ" class held by the ship's own DJ. Unfortunately, our ship had to make a small detour to San Juan to disembark a passenger who had an accident after sail away that resulted in multiple fractures. Because of that, the captain had to take Portugal off the itinerary. So that gave us 10 straight sea days, instead of 8, before reaching our first port in Màlaga, Spain. The rest of the cruise was really good and we made some great new friends and spent many late nights either dancing in the club until 2 and 3 in the morning or talking and having drinks in the casino until 2 and 3 in the morning, or even just camping out at a table in a closed restaurant to play cards until late into the night. It may be a couple years before we do another TA, I think the 10 sea days adversely affected my bestie more than me. But we both agreed that it was a great time and a much-needed getaway. Keep up the great videos!

I’ve done four and love them. I really like the ship so enjoy the sea days, plus there is something about actually going somewhere. On my list is the 14 day Windstar from Lisbon to San Marteen. How cool to do a TA on a sailing ship!

@estevammadarasjunior6832

2 жыл бұрын

Well, watch for sea motion!

Good to see you are enjoying your transatlantic voyage and your blog of the sea days section of the trip. I have been on a 21 day round trip with P and O Arcadia from Southampton to the Caribbean. The passengers were mainly from the UK so the activities and entertainment were geared to the British.The sea days were relaxing - enjoying the facilities and events at a leisurely pace, and the sea conditions were calm which helped (Oct 2017), I was prepared if they weren't. It is worth mentioning my Caribbean section was port intensive with day excursions starting early every day in each ..Antigua, St Kitts, Martinique, St Lucia and Barbados. Soooooo glad for the relaxing uninterrupted journey back to a cooler Europe which was used to recover from the utter madness of the ports and the heat and humidity. We did stop in the Azores on the way over from So'ton to the Caribbean which was absolutely stunning and La Coruna in Spain on the way back. Enjoy your trip. Looking forward to seeing your blogs. I have done the Queen Mary 2 NYC to So'ton which was a COMPLETELY different type of voyage so won't say anything about that and also a repositioning trip with MSC from Venice to Durban South Africa which was amazingly and incredibly good. I am a solo traveller and am always able to enjoy my trips even long ones on my own. I'll chat with anyone and participate in anything that is going and that is the key.. Renato

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Renato for sharing your experiences with us!! We are intrigued on how this would be starting from another country so your experiences help us prepare! 🤗

@pamelanurse2024

Жыл бұрын

Any thoughts on doing Barcelona to Florida in November on Princess?

@renatobernardin2183

Жыл бұрын

@pamelanurse273 The weather and sea conditions should be ideal. End of tropical storms season. Be prepared to do a lot of relaxation. I love Princess. I have just come off a two week trip to Norway and Iceland with Sky Peincess. Beautiful ship and great food, entertainment and activities. Enjoy. I am booked on a transatlantic from New York to Southampton on Nowegian Getaway in April 2024. First time with Norwegian. I love sea days.

My first cruise was on a transatlantic on Jewel of the Sea and it was a blast! My daughter and I loved the rough sea days laughing as we bounced from wall to wall going down the halls.

Love your Cruise videos! You guys are always so upbeat and happy. That is so refreshing to see. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your kind thoughts!! 🤗🥳 How can cruising bring you down 😉

@joyce52

2 жыл бұрын

@@JJCruise You got that right.

Great review as always and very encouraging to hear hour much you are enjoying his transatlantic even with the Bad and Ugly👍 enjoy guys and can’t wait to see more on your ports 👏🥳👍

Hi guys, love your channel. I have done 2 transatlantics. The first on eon Celebrity Silhouette - Bayonne to Rome. That crossing was tough. But the second one, Rome - St Juan (PR) was just amazing. The second was in November, The weather gets warmer and warmer as you approach Puerto Rico.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That’s great feedback! Thanks for watching and letting us know your experiences!! 🤗🥳

I just got off of a transatlantic on anthem of the seas. We LOVED it. The ocean was like glass even the first day it was drizzly out. The rest of the 10 days were picture oerfect 65 ish days. We are 40 and 42 and were some of the younger people onboard but agree, everyone was awesome. Would absolutely do that again.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!! 🤗

@carmenjohnson6449

2 жыл бұрын

I was on the same cruise and couldn’t believe how great our sea days were. We loved it and will do it again!

I’m from the UK and have so far done two transatlantic cruises from Barbados to the UK. We absolutely loved them, so relaxing. The weather was very good in March. In fact the Atlantic was like a millpond, but bad from the Azores. I am sailing from the UK to Barbados next January on the new P & O ship Arvia. That should be interesting weather in January, but I love the rocking and rolling.

We have done over 10 April transatlantic cruises and most of them the ocean was like a pond, flat, just flat and the weather beautiful

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That’s good to hear! 🥳

Yes yes, yes! Love transatlantic cruising. On one we skirted 2 hurricanes. The hubby and I sat on our balcony wrapped in blankets for several nights watching the storm and the crashing of the waves. Between the seas and the swells, our cruise ship was rockin'-n-rollin'. Actually the first day, there weren't too many out and about. As avid sea-goers, we were surprised in the mornings that there were only a handful of cruisers in the dining room for breakfast. The wait staff seemed surprised that those few of us were actually there. The only difference between your April cruise and ours was that ours was in August and much warmer. Do it again? You bet we did...transatlantic all the way. Or try a 14 or 17-day from L.A. to Hawaii - a really great time around Christmas.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Sounds like awesome experiences to us! Thanks for watching and sharing!! 🤗🥳

I took a three week Southern trans-Atlantic cruise just months before COVID hit the world. I loved it! But we were exceptionally lucky with the weather and ease of crossing. And our many stops incredible-- Spain, Africa, South America. Sailing across mid-Atlantic in a month-- not sure we will have the perfect weather and less stops and time- but looking forward.

This is such an informative video. Loved how you both gave good input from all viewpoints. Did a Panama Canal of 15 days on a Royal ship. They had a choir that was so fun my husband and I joined. We did music from the Jersey Boys! We even performed in the theater one evening prior to a show. Fun memory. Shorter days isn't something I would have thought about, and early closing of venues. Things closing early is understandable to make sure the crew has enough down time. Thank you both for such authentic thoughts when you do your videos.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

We are so glad you enjoyed our video! Jersey Boys is a great musical! 😁

Hope you booked the Disney Magic WBTA this September! The EBTA departed from Miami this past Sunday. This Autumn will be its final transatlantic crossing. The Disney TA crossings are mostly adults, about 95%, and also a fantastic journey! You'll appreciate the 23-hour days when you disembark in Europe without jet lag! I've sailed on many TA crossings and it's absolutely my favourite and almost always an excellent value on a per night basis.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

We haven’t booked a Disney TA cruise but we aren’t against it down the road 😉

I have done 6 transatlantic cruises and I just got off one last week from Tampa to Barcelona. We had a varied group of passengers from toddlers to elderly. We are doing a b2b cruise in October to bring the ship back to Tampa.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Very nice! Number 7 coming in a few months! 🥳

First time cruiser - thank you for this information. Thank you for not assuming we all know this stuff! All I knew was the rocking because, you know, ocean! Also you guys are adorable!!

We did a transatlantic FLL-Rome a few years ago leaving on May 1st or 2nd. Nothing but calm seas and unusually hot weather - fantastic trip on Holland America. The weather changes all the time so one never knows. Glad you enjoyed your trip. Also, I don't recall the casino closing early and the piano bar was open late every night.

SOLID advice! I've had one TA from New Jersey to Le Havre France on the Celebrity Constellation. I'm a huge fan of the Connie...i like her size, and as you said, the diversity that Celebrity attracts is fantastic. Since it was March for that crossing, the seas were pretty rough for most of the voyage, but people who book these cruises pretty much have salt water in their veins, so it was a great experience! The wave action rocked me to sleep every night!

I can't wait to see all the vlogs from this cruise! I'll probably get to sick on a transatlantic but I will live through you guys!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Aww thanks!! 🤗

We were on the Apex transatlantic a week later. Sunny and calm seas everyday. People were at the pool everyday, and seas never got higher than 4’. Some days were flat calm and we had no rain.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

So hit or miss! Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!! 🤗🥳

Did a TA from Southampton to NY a few years ago. Outstanding on the QMII. Felt the history of trans Atlantic travel. Was end of October early November. Absolutely flat the whole way. Not a ripple.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

We look forward to trying Cunard in the next year or so! Transatlantics are wonderful! And we hear so much smoother while on a cruise liner.

We were planning to do it this year, but are waiting for next year because of COVID, so definitely will do it on Celebrity! Love your videos!

We did TA from Rome to Fl. You gain hours (rather than lose time). I was not happy with 8 sea days in a row. My hubby loved it. We loved having the extra time on board. We’re doing a. TA ON PRINCESS IN OCT23 from South Hampton UK to Fl. Only 6 sea days in a row. Cant wait.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Have the best of cruises! That sounds like a wonderful cruise coming soon for you! 🥳

QUESTION: have you guys ever considered doing a luxury cruise? Based on what you most like and dislike, I think you would love a luxury cruise line experience. Another great video btw. IMO you guys have the best ship review content on KZread. Luxury cruises don’t have to be super expensive if your schedule is flexible. One of our cheapest cruises ever (out of 30) was on Azamara.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for asking this! We are constantly watching for opportunities to go on a luxury cruise and plan to do so ASAP when it makes sense. We would love to try Cunard, Azamara, Oceania, Viking and SilverSea! That said, we have some incredible cruise firsts already planned! We are stoked to share them with you as we are filled to the brim with excitement for what’s to come 🥳

@enjoyslearningandtravel7957

2 жыл бұрын

@@JJCruise I recommend Queen Mary two for the transatlantic. It does have the majority of people older however then there’s a much younger age bracket like 20s and 30s since they’re trying to imagine that they’re back in the 1920s or so and they dress the part in the evening and go in the dances with classical music. also the Golden line pub is great fantastic brilliant! Also was trivial might

@enjoyslearningandtravel7957

2 жыл бұрын

Trivial night I meant to write

I haven't been on a transatlantic or transpacific yet but would love to go on one. I love sea days and I want to expand my international travel to more than just around the gulf of mexico. :) Seems like a win-win to me.

I totally agree I LOVE a TA. We did a Venice to NYC in the fall on an NCL Jewel class ship. We got into the end of a Nor’easter and spent 36 hours with waves that were 35+ feet. Lots of people seasick and most venues were closed. But it was still a fantastic time!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!! So glad you love TAs!

Hi guys!, loved your trans-Atlantic cruise account. You definitely covered all the pros & cons thoroughly. My favorite cruise ever, was taken on the Queen Elizabeth II(QE2) in Sept.1994 from NYC to Southampton, UK. That’s a glorious time if year. I hope to do another “ across the pond” cruise one day. Happy cruising!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts/experiences!! 🤗

I'm going on my first 23 day transpacific cruise in September (taking the Splendor back to Australia). Judging by the Facebook groups we actually have quite a bit of kids on board. I was shocked 😂 I was also shocked at how many people are going. I guess I thought 23 days would equal less people but most are actually Australians flying to Seattle and taking the ship home. I think they have been locked down so long they decide to start back traveling with a banger of a trip!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Very interesting! Enjoy your cruise on Splendor! 🚢🥳

@elabuterin7150

2 жыл бұрын

Booked on the same. Sounds like we’re going to have a great time!

@andreagriffiths3512

2 жыл бұрын

As an Aussie I really feel the vibe! I’m not at all surprised that there’d be a lot of Aussies going.

Did a cruise from San Diego to Hawaii and back a few years ago. Rain and rough weather for 4 of the 5 days going there and about the same coming back. It was warm around Hawaii but still a bit rough . Enjoyed your video thanks.

Our first cruise is a Viking TA late March from FLL to Barcelona. It is a bucket list of mine (ancestors came across the Atlantic) and definitely NOT one of my husband's. Your video made me skeptical and now worried. But, informed is better than surprised... Thanks guys!

I have been on several Transatlatic cruises, the best is when you go into the Caribbean first . I did a crossing out of Port Canvarel Fl. with stops in Puerto Rico, St Thomas, St. Martin, Funchal, Barcelona. The first 10 days of the cruise was faboulous, the weather was amazing, however by ther time we hit the Gibralter it was cool and some what damp. Another trans Atlantic I did was on The windsurf out of Barbados to Lisbon, again amazing almost all the way across, but you are are correct, if its your first cruise, be aware its not like cruising the Caribbean. But I love it.

We have never been on a Trans Atlantic cruise. However, we have booked the Anthem of the Seas Trans Atlantic for October 2023! We can't wait! I am so looking forward to the amazing ports in Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands, and Bermuda, plus 8 sea days! Thanks for sharing your experience!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That sounds lovely!! And it will be here before we know it! 🥳

@sharonpinkney9081

4 ай бұрын

How did your TA go last year? Would you do another one in the future?

@KStephon

4 ай бұрын

It went well. But a tropical storm made us change from Bermuda to Halifax. Fortunately, it was a lovely day in Halifax. I would sail on a transatlantic again, but would probably choose a ship repositioning to Florida for warmer weather.

@sharonpinkney9081

4 ай бұрын

@@KStephon thanks for sharing and I’m glad you had a great experience albeit the change of port for purely safety reasons.

Thanks for a great video. My partner and I did Lisbon to Miami and loved the vibe of the crowd.

Just booked an 18-day Transatlantic in 2023. This has ALWAYS been on my bucket list. Nice thing is that this cruise ends up near my hometown so I only have to fly one-way to embark! I love your channel, (new subscriber here), and you both have such naturally upbeat personalities. Thank you for sharing all of your cruise knowledge with us 😃👍⚘❤

@sharonpinkney9081

4 ай бұрын

How did your 18 day Transatlantic cruise go in 2023? would you do another TA in the future?

@LiFe-nl5wo

4 ай бұрын

​@@sharonpinkney9081being cancelled as they opted to just sail with crew only

yes, on celebrity & loved it. yes the weather was wet and cold but the sea days were busy and fun. we learned a bit of 3 languages which was great. Yes, do a Pacific cruise. it is warmer, especially if you cruise to Hawaii and our cruise was smooth as glass. Princess does great cruises from LA to Hawaii.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Juanita for watching and sharing your recommendations!! We hope to do Transpacific in the future! 🥳

Thank you for this video. Really enjoyed it, fun and informative.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching!! 🤗

You two are so sweet! Thank you for sharing! We are thinking of going on October 31st

Awesome recap of the good, the bad and the ugly. I have always wondered about a Transatlantic and I think Edge-Series sounds like the way to go. Keep up the amazing content!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! We are so glad you enjoyed our video! 🥳

Ssssh! Let this be our secret: if you embark in the Mediterranean and cross west to the U.S., you typically have lengthy port stops at the start (Italy, Spain, Portugal, maybe Gibraltar or Morocco) & are ready for those sea days after the Med, and you gain extra hours of sleep going westward. 😉

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Your secrets safe with me 😉

@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp

11 ай бұрын

For those who are struggling with Jet Lag - there is no better way to overcome that problem Your body has time to adjust slowly - you hardly notice that you adapted to the 6 hours time change by the time you arrive.

Did one on NCL. Had some rough days for sure, but also had some sunny warmer ones. I was working at the time, so was very happy for the down time, reading, playing board games, attending some of the little classes. And we also ate in the dinining room more for breakfast and lunch as we were able to linger and enjoy.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Those true vacation days are some of the best days! 😎

Did my 1st transatlantic from Fort Lauderdale to Dublin on a Celebrity in April-May 2019 for my 50th bday. We were in the port where my Irish family name originated, on the day of my 50th bday, which is why I chose this cruise. We had a blast & the seas were very calm. I'm doing another transatlantic, in April 2023, with Holland America, to Rome. 2 transatlantic's i booked previously were cancelled due to covid so I am anxious to do the next one. I've done almost 40 cruises & the longer cruises are my favorite. Celebrity has amazing food, entertainment & the hot tub was popular & fun to be in during the chilly weather crossing. I plan to do more transatlantic's in the future to different European destinations.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences with us!! 🤗🥳

@pamelanurse2024

Жыл бұрын

How was your TA in April on HAL? I booked it for April 2024.

@santimio4098

21 күн бұрын

@@pamelanurse2024how was your transatlantic in April? Had fun? Food? Weather? Destination? Would love to hear.

@pamelanurse2024

21 күн бұрын

@@santimio4098 It was great both ways on Caribbean Princess going east and Queen Mary coming west to NYC. Azores was my favorite port. I would love to return. Food was equally good on both ships. Both seemed to be short staffed in the dining room with slow service. I enjoyed Bible study every morning on both ships which was a huge blessing. My balcony room on QM had a tea kettle and couch and was bigger than Princess. QM had a free laundromat. Princess charged $6 per load. Princess supplied distilled water free for my cpap. Cunard did not which was difficult to find in England and heavy to carry on the ship. Princess is much better at loading and unloading. It was totally chaotic on QM. I loved the daily water color classes on QM. Seas were rough for 3 days from Azores to Ireland. Atlantic Ocean was smooth coming back to New York. QM engines broke for 6 hours in the middle of the night so we got into Brooklyn port 4 hours late. I almost missed my flight home from Newark All in all I would do another repositioning cruise in a heartbeat! I went solo and met lots of other solos on both cruises.

Having done at least 6 TA cruises, with another one booked, I would suggest that your experience depends greatly on your choice of cruise line and whether or not schools are in session at the time of the cruise. Another point is how many TA cruises the cruise line or the particular ship has done. Some cruise lines bring on extra entertainment, sometimes including big name entertainers, additional menus, etc. ., others treat a 14 night cruise as 2 7 night cruises with a full repeat of the first 7 nights. Some bring on extra crew. In general, there are fewer school age kids, although we did experience cruises with a large number of toddlers and pre-schoolers (this didn't bother us as they are either in kid programming or with their parents...not out and about causing trouble.) One negative experience was on the second TA that a line had done. 2 days before arrival, the ship ran out of toilet paper. No, I'm not kidding. Stateroom hosts confiscated any "extra" rolls from guest cabin bathrooms to spread the wealth, and ultimately placed stacks of paper towels in bathrooms. Crew members were stationed in public bathrooms handing out paper towels as guests entered. Yeah, from this I learned to stash an extra roll of TP in a drawer with my clothing early in the cruise--if a shortage ever happens again, I've got some "extra" in my stash for use in my cabin! Another incident was when the ship ran out of Diet Coke. The connectors in Europe were not the same as those on the ship, so they couldn't hook up the fountain dispensers. Sad as that is my adult daughter's beverage of choice. At our first port, crew was sent out to purchase all the cans they could get! Again, this was an experience issue on the part of the cruise line, and I doubt would happen again. We have always had amazing weather, both spring and fall. Yes, you'll want a sweater or jacket on deck at night, but the days were sunny and warm. Maybe we were just lucky. My logic is that if I spend the time and money to get to a cruise terminal, I wan t decently long cruise. The TAs meet this requirement for me. I've also done Back to Back cruises of 7-12 nights on each leg--these are different than TA, with their own advantages and disadvantages. My summary would be to NOT lump all TAs into the same basket. You have to consider both the cruise line and the individual ship and how they handle their crossings!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences with us!

LOVE THIS VIDEO THANKS FOR SHARING LOVE YOU GUYS🥰🥰

Excellent video, thanks for sharing your thoughts. We’ll be taking our first TA cruise in October on Holland America, from Rotterdam to Fort Lauderdale, stopping in England, France and New York. First time ever to Europe for me. It will be our first time on HAL, and I’m thinking the vibe will be much more subdued, with an average passenger age of Deceased, filled with the type of folks who argue about coupon expiration dates at Walgreen’s. I didn’t even think about the time changes. Though I like staying up late, I’ll manage with a balcony breeze (even if cold!), music and an adult beverage or two or three. Overall, very excited. This cruise will be 15 days. My longest so far is 10. Safe travels, guys. Enjoy the next half of your journey.

@kalozakos

2 жыл бұрын

I will be on the cruise with you. If you have not already booked a hotel, might I suggest the SS Rotterdam, a retired cruise ship converted into a "boat"el. See you on board.

We recently finished the TA on the Wonder of the Seas. I think near the time y’all were sailing (April 20 to May 4). Surprisingly, we did not have rough seas, at least in my opinion. I agree that the food venues closed early (most around 9), but bands did play in bars until late. Our WiFi was spectacular, the best I have ever had on a ship. Would definitely do again. In fact, we are scheduled for the NCL Prima from Southampton to NYC in September! Thank for another great post.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your recent experience!! We had friends onboard as well and they said similar things to you! ☺️

You guys are so so cheerful. Love your videos. Thank you.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Aww, thanks for watching!! Cruising makes us happy and we want to share it with the world 🥳

Have been on 3 TA's--I with 30 foot waves--the other 2 with flat seas. (We now avoid the north Atlantic cruises to or from NYC). Love them and have another one scheduled for November. Very nice video!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!! 🤗

@pamelanurse2024

Жыл бұрын

How was your November crossing? Looking at Barcelona to Florida November 12, 2023 on Princess.

My Husband and I went on the Celebrity Apex back in February. The ship was a floating Art Show! So beautiful! Had wonderful time.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

The art truly is breathtaking!

You had me at no kids. hahaha Great video, very informative.

So we have been on 14 TA's with more to come. We like the southern route. More or less the Canary Islands to Florida. (The Columbus Route) The route we tend to avoid in the fall is out of South Hampton or Amsterdamm to New York (The Titanic Route). Spring crossings are a bit of a crap shoot.

Four of us are traveling from Miami to Lisbon for 2.5 weeks in Portugal before flying to Barcelona where we will embark for the October, 14 night crossing on the Virgin Valiant Lady back to Miami. It includes stops at Ibiza, Malaga and Funchal/Madeira with the rest sea days. Our balcony cabin fare was $2800! Here's hoping for relatively calm seas!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a great deal!! 🥳 Have an awesome cruise! ☺️

It was amazing video and both of you! All questions i have for my future transatlantic cruise trip 2024 were answered. We love cruise too. Thank you very for information.

@JJCruise

Жыл бұрын

So happy to help! 🤗

We are doing our second transatlantic and we love them and our 10 year old can’t wait of course we only sail Disney. We sail In 38 days out of London and can’t wait

We went from Tampa to Azores, Ireland (2) and Amsterdam a few years ago. Loved it!! Seemed to make friends more. Had a lot of relax time which we enjoyed. Got into a nice daily routine. Downside: flight home was considerably more pricey!! We actually booked round trip to save money and then canceled the other part. Also was not fond of the additional rocki g as we neared our destination! I enjoyed the every other day time change. Didn't feel any jet lag once home, etc. It was nice when the show actors would do an additional afternoon show the next day.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!

Thank you for the video. I’ll be doing my first TA from Baltimore to Barcelona and I am so excited

@JJCruise

5 ай бұрын

What a wonderful cruise! Definitely extend your stay in Barcelona! We love that city!

Enjoy your channel and this particular episode. We take our first TransAtlantic with Celebrity in October. We did a Celebrity TransPacific a couple of years ago, from Sydney to Honolulu, and it was our best cruise ever.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Robert! We are sure you’ll have an amazing time on your TA! Those longer sailings are the best.

We sailed on the Celebrity Edge the week prior to its transatlantic sailing, on a five day cruise. I will admit the ship is lovely. However, the talent was a bit subpar, the food was repetitive every night. The staff was amazing. But we felt that they held back on the best quality of talent and cuisine for the transatlantic crossing you guys are on. Enjoy your cruise. Transatlantic crossings can be rough, the sea takes no prisoners, and no amount of stabilizers can circumvent the power of the ocean.

We have done two, but sail back to US.. We have been very lucky as we sail through warmer temps in the water, so we had no big waves or storms.. I so appreciate your observations and experiences, that you share with us.. Now u need to sail to Australia or back.. We did both ways, the weather was amazing !

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

We hope to sail to Australia soon! 🇦🇺

OMG I literally JUST booked a TA sailing (on the Odyssey though) for next year in April just two hours ago! That's nuts u put out this video as I am pressuring a friend to go along lol. My parents are on the Anthem TA sailing to London as we speak and I was SO mad I didn't go along lol. Guess the jealousy got to be too much for me to deal with lol. Thanks for the super relevant content guys! 😂

@tracygriffiths6292

2 жыл бұрын

Odyssey of the Seas will be a great ship for a TA since there is so much to do onboard.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

That’s so exciting!! You will have a blast on Odyssey!! 🤗🥳

We have taken the. Queen Mary 2 from South Hampton to New York and enjoyed the experience. We actually went thru the remnants of a hurricane which was quite exciting but the ship was an ocean liner and made to go thru weather like that. Would like to do it again. Enjoyed your posting, this was the first I watched but will explore some more of your. Good job.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!! We look forward to getting on Cunard in the near future! 😁

We have been on transatlantic cruise east to west. We love this type of cruising.

I had a good friend on this trip. Can’t wait to hear about it. Was booked on Royal, Miami to Rome, this month, but cancelled. Re-booked for next year, hopefully. Thanks for a great video!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!! We hope your friend had a blast onboard like we did! 🥳

@ChristianLehrer

2 жыл бұрын

@@JJCruise Thanks for hitting me back. Hope you guys enjoy the Mediterranean on Celebrity!

I tried to sign up for DCL’s Transpacific cruise for Feb 2024 but that baby sold out before we could even book it. I’m kind of glad because we booked an Alaskan sailing instead. I think you guys just did a transpacific and I will need to go find those vlogs and watch for when we are able to book. Hubby does have issue with sea sickness so I think he would have had a rough time on this particular cruise!

First time viewer! Great vlog! We did our first TA back in 2019. I absolutely loved it and my husband said - 'It was ok'. We both love cruising I just didn't realize he really only likes warm weather cruising lol! We are doing another one this year and although I booked another one for next year, I am not sure that one is going to happen. I may have pushed it too far lol! Anyway, great info, thanks!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Welcome to the #JJCrew 🥳 We have heard this story of couples not being in the same boat when it comes to TA’s. We may have a solution! Try a TransPacific cruise! Most stay in warm climates the whole way 🏝

I would do it in a heart beat. We are new to cruising (only 3 under our belt) but we love it!! We love sea days so I think we would love to go on one. Continuing having fun!!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your thoughts! 🤗🥳

Sailed with Royal from Barcelona. (Malagua, Lisbon? Tenerife) Only had one storm the whole time, and the crew kept telling us how lucky we were!

Made 2 Transatlantik Cruises, from Brasil and the other one from Barbados to Europe. There was no stress at all, you can do whatever you want. Relax and join the Atlantic Ocean. We had a very calm Cruise. You also get to know the Crew much better because they, and we as well, have much more time together. We are from Germany and would do it again!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Yes!! They are just so wonderful! Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!! 🤗

I love TAs. I have done many on HAL and they have a retractable cover over the big pool so it is always in service. I generally go east to west so I have the longer days but in your direction it totally depends on the captain how the time difference is handled. I was on one where every day we lost a half hour at 2 in the afternoon. This way the hardworking crew still got to sleep at night. Most crossings have been sunny and calm but when there have been storms the captains have skirted them even if it meant changing the itinerary a bit.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your experiences!! That’s so interesting on the 30 minute clock move every night! ☺️

@missyengelhard7927

2 жыл бұрын

@@JJCruise it was actually in the middle of the day that they moved the clock. Not so disorienting once you got used to it. I loved all the things you liked about your TA. Pretty much my list. As a solo I love that on a TA with all those sea days you can actually meet and get to know a bunch of people. I find the passengers one of my favorite things.

Wow, this was so cool and informative. I would worry about the amount of days at sea and whether it would become monotonous after a while. Very interesting, will keep watching!

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and commenting your thoughts!! 🤗

@nickscade4254

2 жыл бұрын

Have done two now one west east one east west - FLL to Lisbon via Bermuda andAzores in April the other Barcelona to Barbados via Med, north Africa and canaries. On the first cruise we were advised by a seasoned transatlantic cruiser to “stay south”if y

Great review. I think trans Atlantic cruises are for people who love relaxing downtime. A great Chance to meet fellow cruisers. People who love quiet time to read. Solo crafts. Great naps. You were so honest in assessment and disclosure. A dream experience for introverts and folks who can handle this 😜. Not a Caribbean cruise experience for sure. Could be the greatest cruise for lots of people who turn their nose up at a busy Caribbean/Mediterranean cruise.

@JJCruise

2 жыл бұрын

Very true! There is a good eclectic mix of all kinds onboard our ship but for the most part, relaxation is the key! 😁

Thanks guys. Good subjects now I have a better understanding as to what is a TA