When planning a cruise, not many people think about vacationing on a container ship. However, you would be surprised to learn that some people prefer this type of ship over luxury liners. Imagine being the only person on deck, watching the waves, taking in the smell of the sea, feeling the wind in your face, and seeing schools of dolphins swim alongside your boat. Cargo ships offer solitude, and a lot’s of it. In fact, chances are, you will be one of only a dozen passengers on board.
As you can imagine, space is plentiful on a cargo ship, you will have your own cabin, and there will be no limit or extra charge for the amount of luggage you decide to bring with you. Cargo ships offer no planned activities or set schedules, choosing how you are going to spend your day is completely up to you. Some freighters may offer pools, recreational rooms, and exercise rooms, but don’t count on it, as these amenities vary from ship to ship. Reading books, sunbathing on deck, playing games with the crew, catching up on work, and enjoying the spectacular views, are some of the things passengers delight in.
Rest and relaxation is what makes cargo ships very popular, retirees and people with high demand lifestyles take comfort in the fact that they can do whatever they want, whenever they want to do it. While on board, you will enjoy access to most areas of the ship, including the wheelhouse. You will definitely feel like part of a close knit family while on board. Dinners and barbeques with the captain and his crew are common. In some cases, the crew will speak different languages, giving you the opportunity to learn a new one. Although cargo ships do not offer gourmet food, you are almost guaranteed a hearty helping of comfort food or fresh seafood, prepared by an experienced cook.
Feel free to come to dinner in your shorts and tee shirts, on a cargo ship there are no dress requirements. While container ships are cheaper than Browser games cruise ships, costing on average, $100 per day, there are drawbacks. Cargo ships stay at sea for an average of 2 weeks, and there is no guarantee of when you will reach port. You might have to board 2 or 3 different ships in order to reach your destination. Make sure you have a flexible schedule and a lot of patience before booking your trip. People over 70 are discouraged from boarding due to the fact that there will be no doctor on board. Make sure to book in advance to guarantee a once in a lifetime experience.