Freighter travel
Photo: Emre Dogan, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Freighter travel is a less crowded and much slower alternative for crossing a sea or ocean, not using airplanes or commercial cruise ships or ferries. In some regions such as the Caspian Sea, they may be your only option for getting around.
UnderstandA well-kept secret in these days of airport anxiety and worry about aircraft emissions is that it is still possible to book a regularly scheduled sea passage to most parts of the world.
Eat and sleepTypically, you will have a small cabin and access to crew facilities, such as lounge, mess hall and common areas. Dinner is usually served to you with the ship's crew.
See and doThere are no major activities, restaurants (besides the mess hall), or other diversions aboard. At sea there will likely be no TV but shortwave radio may be available, and there may be a video and book library.
Stay safe and healthyBecause of international regulations, unless the ship has a doctor aboard, the ship can only carry up to 12 passengers (infants not counted).
Travel agenciesA few travel agencies specialise in freighter travel. It is believed that Grimaldi will take passengers up to 85 years of age whereas most companies will not take those over 79.
Shipping companiesSome shipping companies offer freighter travel directly.
Books
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Freighter travel" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Emre Dogan, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons