Additional Coverage:
- A woman moved her dog from New York to London on a cruise because it was cheaper and less stressful than flying (businessinsider.com)
Golden Retriever Sails the Atlantic: How One Woman Moved Her Dog (and Herself) to London by Luxury Cruise
Moving internationally can be a daunting task, especially when a beloved pet is involved. For Joyce Chan, a 24-year-old graphic designer, the idea of relocating her 7-year-old golden retriever, Charlie, from New York to London presented a unique challenge.
While flying is the most common option, Chan was hesitant to place Charlie in the cargo hold, citing concerns over stress and potential negative experiences. Her solution?
A week-long luxury cruise across the Atlantic that proved to be not only safer for Charlie but also more economical and surprisingly relaxing for Chan.
In May 2025, Chan and Charlie embarked on a new adventure, leaving their New York life behind to join Chan’s boyfriend in London. The typical route for a large dog like Charlie would involve a crate in a commercial plane’s cargo area—a prospect Chan found unsettling.
“You hear stories here and there about bad experiences with dogs flying in cargo,” Chan told Business Insider. “If there was another option where we didn’t have to do that, we were definitely more excited to do that instead.”
That alternative came in the form of the Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s renowned luxury liner that offers seven-day voyages from New York to Southampton, United Kingdom. Beyond its opulent accommodations for human passengers, the ship boasts a dedicated kennel facility capable of housing up to 24 pets per journey. Dogs sleep in comfortable kennels but enjoy daily exercise, playtime with dedicated kennel masters, and ample visiting hours with their owners.
For Chan, this was a game-changer. Not only would Charlie avoid the stress of air cargo, but the cruise also offered a significant perk for an international move: no luggage limits. This allowed Chan to transport all her belongings without incurring hefty shipping fees.
A Cost-Effective Voyage
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Chan’s journey was the cost. While a luxury cruise might sound expensive, it actually proved to be cheaper than flying.
Chan’s ticket for the May 2025 sailing was $1,399, and Charlie, being a large dog, required two kennel spots at a cost of $2,000. Including taxes and fees, the total for Chan and Charlie was $3,477.35.
When compared to an estimated $3,600 for flying them both, not including additional costs for shipping luggage, the cruise presented a clear financial advantage. With her boyfriend also joining them, the total trip cost $4,954.70, which felt like a worthwhile investment for a move that doubled as a relaxing vacation.
Booking and Preparation: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Securing a spot for Charlie wasn’t easy. With only 24 kennel spaces, and even fewer if large dogs requiring multiple kennels are on board, bookings fill up quickly—often one to two years in advance. Chan booked their journey in October 2023, after months on waitlists and persistent calls to the cruise line.
Prior to departure, Charlie underwent necessary veterinary checks, receiving an updated rabies vaccine and a health certificate two weeks before the cruise. The day before sailing, he received an additional tapeworm treatment, crucial for UK entry requirements.
Smooth Sailing from Start to Finish
On embarkation day, Chan and her partner, traveling with Charlie, received priority boarding—a welcome relief from long lines. Paperwork for both humans and canine was efficiently checked, and Charlie’s approved health certificate ensured a seamless customs process, avoiding further checks upon arrival in the UK.
Charlie settled into his double kennel, complete with blankets, water bowls, and his own portable bed and toys brought from home. The ship’s kennel masters, Oliver Cruz and John, became fast friends with Charlie, ensuring he was well cared for.
Dogs even sported Queen Mary 2-branded robes for chilly deck strolls. For bathroom breaks, a dedicated outdoor deck featured a fire hydrant and lamppost, providing a familiar environment.
Owners could visit their pets throughout the day, spending time in an indoor lounge or on the outdoor deck. While Charlie initially expressed some separation anxiety, he quickly adjusted to the routine, enjoying playtime with other dogs and bonding with the kennel masters.
Chan also noted a unique benefit for Charlie’s adjustment to the new time zone. The cruise gradually advanced the clock by one hour each day, making the transition to UK time incredibly smooth, both for Chan and Charlie’s feeding and bathroom schedules.
A Vacation During a Move
Beyond the logistical advantages, Chan and her boyfriend embraced the cruise as a true vacation. They enjoyed daily activities like table tennis, dance classes, and trying out various restaurants. Deliberately avoiding internet access, they cherished a week-long digital detox during what would otherwise have been a stressful period.
Upon docking in Southampton, Chan, her partner, and Charlie made their way to London. Charlie’s excitement was palpable.
“We took him to find the closest patch of grass, and he just started rolling around in it. He was so happy,” Chan recounted.
Reflecting on the experience, Chan wholeheartedly recommends the cruise for other pet owners considering international relocation, provided they have the luxury of time to book in advance and know their pet’s personality well. “For this, I feel like you’re really there with your pet every step of the way, and it’s also an enjoyable experience,” she concluded, highlighting the peace of mind and unique journey offered by the transatlantic voyage.