Ever tho ught about taking a slow boat to China or some other exotic destination? How about a freighter cruise? They are an economical alternative way to travel the high seas without all the frills of a conventional cruise. Freighter cruises are great for people who are free of time restraints. They offer a laid back way to travel with stops at ports off the beaten path.
There are three basic types of ships that offer cabins to passengers; Container Ships that carry large stacked containers, cargo ships that transport large goods and supply and mail ships that travel isolated coast lines. Ships fly what is called “flags of convenience” which means that they don’t belong to one specific country but change countries of origin based on where they are going, what type of cargo they are carrying and who has commissioned them. English is the considered the main language of the seas but other languages may be spoken amongst the crew.
Ocean going vessels must pass rigid safety inspections and adhere to maritime rules. The larger the ship, the more stable it is and the less chance of passengers getting sea sick. The larger ships are also faster and therefore safer from pirate attacks.
Itinerates on a freighter tend to be between 30 and 75 days long and are usually ocean crossings or around the world cruises. Ports of call will vary depending on the length of the trip and the route taken. Travel generally costs between US $80 and $140/day which is considerably cheaper than a conventional cruise ship. Most cargo ships can carry between four and twelve passengers making the journey more intimate and relaxed.
The cabins are usually outside cabins on upper decks and have the same features as the officer’s cabins including a private bathroom facility. On board the dress code is casual. Most ships will have a fitness room, sauna, a small salt water pool, lounge with a TV and VCR and a small library. Passengers are expected to entertain themselves.
Passengers dine with the officers and enjoy three meals per day. All meals are included and there is a self serve cash bar. The bar tab is paid weekly, in cash – either in Euro’s or US dollars. The ships do not accept credit cards, travelers cheques or personal cheques; cash only. It is advised to bring bills in smaller denominations as there are no exchange services on board. Tipping is optional but it is customary to tip the cabin and dining stewards, approximately $3 - $5 Euro’s per day, per person.
Ships usually spend between 12 and 24 hours in port. Some stops may be up to 2 or 3 days, but these are rare. Passengers are expected to arrange their own transportation in port and the ships often dock away from the main part of the town or city they stop in. Passengers must also arrange for their own travel visas and this should be done in advance of departure. And always make sure you return to the ship on time as they will depart without you.
Freighter cruises are a different way to travel the world or make an ocean crossing. They are more economical than a conventional cruise but are a no frills method of travel. More suitable for the independent traveler, a freighter cruise can be a relaxing and interesting trip that will take you to ports of call off the tourist trail. This type of travel is a unique adventure that appeals to the explorer inside all of us.
For more information on freighter cruising, visit the following websites for details.
http://www.freighterworld.com/
http://www.freightercruises.com.au/
http://www.freighter-travel.com/
http://www.freightertrips.com/
