Yes, we looked at that. There can be some good deals, but if you want to return via ship, it can be dicey.
Cunard currently has service back and forth, you just have to spend a little longer in England/Europe to wait for the return crossing.
It’s expensive to be sure, but after saving for this trip for ten years, and given the current aircraft crapola going on, we will spend the $ and have a pleasant trip (hopefully).
I’ve come to the reluctant conclusion that it isn’t viable for my travel either. Unfortunately, Cunard doesn’t service the places I want to visit. My travel is a bit of ways off so I have time to check for other alternatives. I’m not sure there are any.