Trans Atlantic Crossing

I have always wanted to do a Trans Atlantic crossing.
I know the two times of the year are usually in April and October when the
ships are either going to Europe or coming back for repositioning. I
realize we will have to fly one way and take a cruise the other way.

I was thinking that it would be the best thing to fly over and then take the
ship back. That way we would be able to bring back gifts without worrying
about the weight. and lost baggage. That would be in October.

I have been looking at the different cruise lines and the ports in Europe
where they go and where one needs to fly too to catch the ships and NCL
seems to have the best schedule of ports for us. They would be leaving
from Barcelona and arriving in Fort Lauderdale.

My questions are these;
Would October be a good time to do the Trans Atlantic crossing, weather
wise, or would April be safer?

Has anyone done the crossing and if so, would you comment about it?

Are there any specials one can find for the crossings like you find for the
Eastern and Western Caribbean?

Other than Carnival, would there be any cruise lines cheaper than NCL?
Carnival doesn't have enough stops to make it worth while, for me.

Any other information will certainly be appreciated.

Thanks for any and all replies.

Sandy