ByAlex Gwen Thomson


Whatever your previous cruising experience, there is a sure-fire way to enjoy a personal, relaxing voyage that will assure you as much, or as little, interaction as you want. On this trip, you will decide exactly what is best for you and truly come to understand the meaning of "doing it my way."

Plan that next voyage aboard a freighter. Save some money and set your sights on your most personal trip yet. Traveling on a freighter is distinctly different than the hustle and bustle of cruise ship excursions. Your voyage on a freighter will allow you to make your own plans, see the vibrancy of port activity, and enjoy a quieter over water experience with all the comforts of home. Deck space is at a premium but lounge chairs are provided and you will never want for sea watching.

Your fellow passengers will be casual. Shorts, relaxing garb and casual conversation are part of the ambiance. Usually there will be a small group of about 12 passengers. You will see as much or as little of your traveling companions as you choose. For some it may be a working vacation, while others may want to avoid the tourism associated with cruiser travel while still others may just want a quiet time on the water anticipating and mapping their next port of call.

There is a certain spontaneity with travel on a freight ship. Sometimes the trips take longer or shorter than expected and occasionally there may be a slight change in the itinerary. Passengers on a freight ship tend to like this flexibility.

The cabins are located on the upper decks and feature amenities associated with officer's accommodations. Typically, these cabins are larger than on a cruise ship and often include two or more rooms. Cabins usually include a small refrigerator, TV/DVD, stereo, on-board ship telephone and air-conditioning. Fresh linen and housecleaning are provided once per week. Closet space is good and baths include tiled showers; everything you need, really.

Meals are set at 7:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m and 5:30 p.m. There may be a morning and afternoon coffee hour. The biggest meal is the noon meal. After all, this is a working ship and while meals can hardly be called lavish, they are hearty and healthy.

Your freighter will have an officer's lounge, a bar and a unique camaraderie. Some bars permit self-service and patrons run a tab, which is settled weekly. Crew members, officers and the Captain are busy but polite and respectful. English is the primary language of all sea hands. While the crew may not dote on your every wish, they will happily answer questions and are used to travelers on board.

Bring your deck shoes because sometimes the deck is wet. There's plenty of closet space, so bring one or two dressier outfits. These will be for port visits. On board, the attire is relaxed. Plan on viewing the ship's activity when docked. The loading and unloading process is quite exciting. Remember, you can also make arrangements to ship personal items or even a vehicle. Generally, passengers are permitted two large suitcases as well as their carry-ons. Freighters do not transport pets.

There are no tour guides on a freighter. The Captain and certain crew members will have insight about ports-of-call but you may want to do research before or during your voyage. Identify all those places you have dreamt about. Expect to find some surprises along the way. Usually, freighters dock for more than one day, but you must know the schedule for each port.

For the most part, your sight seeing will resemble your deck experience. It is yours to arrange, plan and enjoy. While you will make new friends aboard, they may already have their own plans for shore time. Plan ahead and get the most out of each stop.

As the passenger list is limited and as travel on freighters is popular, it is best to make reservations well ahead of time. Make sure to have a passport that will not expire until at least six months after your trip and check with the company to see what medical records and vaccinations, if any, you will need. You will receive your ticket a few weeks ahead of departure. Passengers should arrive at the embarkation port a few days ahead of time. At that time, it is suggested that you check in with the port agent who will be able to advise you about the freighter's arrival and departure dates.

Many passengers bring a map and chart their course before hanging it on the wall of the cabin. These days, digital cameras are very popular voyage items and a freighter will bring life to every shot. When exiting for a day of sight seeing, remember to get your shore pass and carry your passport.

Most importantly, bring a sense of adventure and a determination to relax and enjoy. Wherever your freighter takes you, you will be well equipped for the journey of your life.

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