Freight travel is a cheaper alternative to commercial airlines and cruise ships, but it’s not easy to book. Passengers can join the crew or use specialist agents, but there are limitations on destinations and luxuries. The maximum number of passengers is 12, and costs vary depending on travel days.
Freight is an alternative to more traditional methods of travel. Essentially, you’re paying for a cargo ship to carry you instead of traveling on commercial airlines and cruise ships. The reason many people choose this method usually boils down to the cost. It is usually cheaper to use freight than most commercial methods.
It’s not just about phoning your local travel agent and booking passage on a freighter. Most ship travel opportunities are by introduction or invitation only. There really is no need for a cargo ship to carry extra passengers along with its business cargo. There are, however, a few specialist agents who deal with cargo travel and there are a few internet sites which have details of them.
The alternative would be to join the freighter’s crew. Again there are some enterprising agents and travel internet sites that cater to this. Remember that ship travel will limit you to countries that import and export goods. There are some out-of-the-way countries where freighters won’t go. Freight travel does not include the usual luxuries of a cruise ship. Swimming pools and restaurants are usually not included, although there should be a canteen. A passenger should be responsible for their own activities, unlike a cruise ship. Ship’s crew are usually happy with the extra company aboard on long voyages. There will usually be a television area and most will have a good number of videotapes.
The maximum number of people that can be carried on a freighter is twelve. The reason for this number is that the regulation states that a doctor on board is required for more than 12 people on board. There are some cargo ships designed to carry passengers and they usually carry a doctor on board.
The type of passenger found using cargo travel varies. Any form of travel that seems unusual will appeal to a variety of people. Due to the long-haul aspect of some merchant voyages, it attracts many artists and writers. They seem to enjoy solitude and use this form of travel to work without interruptions. With some of the huge cargo ships it can feel like you have the whole ship to yourself.
The cost of the cargo ship trip usually depends on the number of travel days. It can be paid per day or there may be a fixed price for the whole trip. It is recommended to book 3 to 12 months in advance. You will obviously need the appropriate passport, visas and vaccinations for the particular country you are traveling to.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
