An open-jaw sailing is a cruise that begins in one port and concludes in a different port of call. These are rather uncommon types of cruises, since most cruises are closed-loop sailings. The best reason to go on an open-jaw sailing is the ship can travel further during one voyage and visit more ports.

An open-jaw cruise (also known as a "one-way" or "point-to-point" cruise) is an itinerary that begins in one port and ends in a completely different port, rather than returning to the starting point (a "round-trip" or "closed-loop" cruise). In 2026, open-jaw cruises are particularly popular for Alaska (e.g., Vancouver to Whittier) and Europe (e.g., Barcelona to Rome). The primary advantage of an open-jaw cruise is that it allows travelers to see more varied destinations without the redundancy of sailing back across the same water. However, there are significant logistical considerations. First, you must book "multi-city" airfare, which is often more expensive than a standard round-trip ticket. Second, for U.S. citizens, an open-jaw cruise requires a full passport, as the "closed-loop" exception that allows travel with just a birth certificate and ID does not apply to one-way international voyages. This type of cruising is ideal for those planning to "tack on" a land-based tour at either the beginning or end of their sea voyage.