What to expect at sea? How will I live aboard a cargo ship? What should I know?
You will find a brief summary of the most important information under Characteristics of freighter voyages.
INDEX
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z |
Additional costs
There are minor additional costs on board. Drinks are available at reasonable prices. When going ashore, there will be costs for transfers through the port and/or taxi/bus fares for the journey into town.
Advice
We are happy to advise you and answer your questions. Give us a call or send us an email (to the contact form).
Good advice is better than misconceptions or a bad experience. We have made many cargo ship journeys ourselves. Benefit from our travel experience.
Arrival
The departure times of the ships depend on the cargo and the situation in the ports, so there may be changes at short notice. Please discuss the type and time of your arrival at the ship with us and ensure that you can be reached while travelling.
Read more…
Container terminals in particular are often located further away from city centres. We can provide you with special port descriptions for the most important ports of entry in Europe, including the respective addresses and various parking options. Although parking your car near the gatehouse is not guarded, we have not heard of any unpleasant surprises so far.
In general, it makes sense to travel by plane or train. Buy tickets shortly before your ship’s departure, or make sure that they can be rebooked and cancelled.
Bicycle
Bicycles can be transported free of charge on most ships.
Read more…
Please specify when booking. The passenger is responsible for the transport from the port to the ship and vice versa. In some ports there are additional costs for transport within the ports. Please pay directly on site.
Bridge
Usually it is always possible to stay on the bridge. On some ships there are certain times for visiting the bridge. There are sometimes restrictions for certain maneuvers or some weather situations (such as fog).
Cabin
You do not need to bring bed linen and towels, both are provided.
On the cargo ships, passengers are accommodated in outside cabins with their own shower/WC. On some ships there is also a separate living room available (see voyage description).
Captain
The captain is the person in charge on board and the official representative of the shipping company. Their instructions must be followed without question.
Cargo
On cargo ships, the cargo always takes priority. As a rule, neither the shipping companies nor we know what goods are being transported in the containers.
Cars/caravans/motorbikes
Would you like to take a car, motorhome or motorbike with you? In principle, this is possible, but transport must be arranged through a shipping company and is carried out on container ships in containers. You can find suitable shipping companies on the Internet. On the Ro-Ro (roll-on roll-off) ships offered, the vehicles are driven onto the ship. There are also specialised shipping companies for this.
Chief
The first engineer on board. Not to be confused with Chief Mate, the first officer.
Children
To be honest, a cargo ship is not the right place for small children, as its facilities are not designed for young guests. For this reason, a minimum age is often required, which can vary from one shipping company to another. No shipping company accepts children under the age of 3. The minimum age is often 6, but it is not uncommon for it to be 16 or even 18.
Clothing
You can leave your suit and evening gown at home. Dress appropriately for the destination. Casual and comfortable clothing is fine. Even the captain does not necessarily wear a uniform at sea. Be prepared for all weather conditions. Windproof jacket, sturdy shoes/slippers (see also equipment or packing list).
Currency
Smaller incidental expenses are paid on board in euros or US dollars; cheques, credit cards or PayPal are not accepted.
Customs
Valuables such as cameras, mobile phones or laptops, as well as tobacco products and spirits, must be declared on a customs list before arrival at the port. A ship’s officer will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have.
Deviation insurance
This is the insurance that covers the costs incurred by the shipping company if the ship is forced to change course, e.g. to call at the nearest port in the event of illness or accident of the insured person.
Read more…
The amount depends on the size of the ship, the route and the age of the insured person. We will take out deviation insurance for you.
Doctor
There’s no doctor on board the cargo ships. Therefore, it is important to start a freighter voyage only in good health.
Documents (also see Equipment)
Depending on the voyage, you will need different documents such as passport, visa, return ticket, etc., see also the notes under Characteristics of freighter voyages.
Read more…
The documents required for your journey according to our information can be found in the respective travel description. Passengers are responsible for obtaining and ensuring the completeness of the documents. Please enquire at the relevant embassies or consulates and always mention the type of entry: by cargo ship. We will be happy to advise you.
Please note that our information applies to EU citizens and Swiss nationals. Citizens of other countries must contact their embassies or consulates for information on the applicable regulations.
Electricity
220 V and sockets to German standards are common on cargo ships.
Embarkation
The schedule of cargo ships is primarily based on the requirements of commercial shipping and is subject to fluctuations. We will remain in close contact with you, especially shortly before embarkation. To this end, it is necessary that you inform us in good time when and how we can reach you.
Embarkation/disembarkation fees
These are fees incurred for the formalities and activities of the agencies, primarily in southern and non-European ports and at special boarding points such as the Kiel Canal. The costs of these can vary.
Read more…
The agents are responsible in particular for ensuring compliance with entry and exit regulations at the respective ports. Upon embarkation, the agencies will also provide you with information on times, berths, etc.
In addition to the fees we pay to the agencies/authorities on your behalf, some ports may charge additional costs, e.g. for transport from the port entrance to the ship and vice versa. Please pay these costs directly on site. If these are billed by the agencies/authorities, the costs are often more than double.
Even if, for example, you are driven to the doctor by an agency employee, please pay immediately (see above).
Energy efficiency
The subject of energy consumption and environmental protection is rightly playing an increasingly important role. The use of heavy fuel oil for cargo ships is fortunately coming to an end.
Read more…
Shipping companies are therefore using three different methods to reduce sulphur emissions to almost zero: installing cleaning systems (known as scrubbers), switching to marine diesel or natural gas LNG. See also Environmentally conscious travel.
Entertainment
There is no special entertainment programme for passengers on board. Here, you can enjoy your holiday at your leisure. Here, you will find peace and quiet and perhaps finally have time to read that book you’ve been meaning to read for so long.
Bring your laptop with you if you like. You’re sure to take lots of photos, which you can edit and archive right on board.
Or perhaps you’d rather watch the hustle and bustle on board and in the ports. With a little empathy, you’re sure to soon make contact with the crew and strike up a conversation or two.
Equipment
In any case, you should take the following with you on your cargo ship voyage: All travel documents from us (in particular your ticket/contract of carriage), passport, visas and return tickets if applicable, vaccination certificate if applicable, travel health insurance documents, medication, non-slip shoes, slippers for your cabin, small amounts of local currency for buses or taxis. Also: sunglasses, spare glasses, binoculars, sun cream, drinks for the first day on board, English dictionary.
Gangway
Make sure that the gangway is firmly in place. Take only a small amount of hand luggage with you and ask the gangway guard for help with luggage transport on board. In general, however, you must be able to bring your luggage safely on board yourself. The gangway can be 20 m and longer and moves a little – so be careful.
Itinerary
The routes taken by cargo ships depend on their cargo. Route changes, including the omission of certain ports, are possible. The focus of a cargo ship voyage is the experience of modern seafaring.
Leisure time
Visits to the bridge, chats with the crew, time and peace for yourself, reading books, listening to music, sunbathing and, if available, use of the sauna, gym and swimming pool. Watch the loading/unloading work from a safe place. Interesting shore excursions are also common leisure activities during a cargo ship voyage.
Luggage
As a rule, 125 kg of luggage per person is permitted. The basic rule is that all your luggage must be able to be carried up the steep gangway onto the ship and stowed safely in your cabin, whereby crew members will be happy to assist you.
Read more…
Larger items such as moving boxes, furniture, etc. must be shipped via a freight forwarder. Instead of large suitcases, we recommend using luggage bags, duffel bags or similar items, which are easier to store in the cabin.
Meals
Three warm meals are included in the tour price. Passengers eat together with the officers in the officers’ mess. There are special arrangements for some inland voyages.
The following times are common on most ships:
- 07.30 h – 08.30 h Breakfast
- 10.00 h Teatime/Coffeetime
- 11.30 h – 12.30 h Lunch
- 15.00 h Teatime /Coffeetime
- 17.30 h – 18.30 h Dinner
Tip: Ask the steward or one of the officers for your place in the mess. Each of the officers has his regular seat and it is embarrassing if you choose the captain’s seat.
Passport
A passport is required for cargo ship travel; an identity card is usually not sufficient, even within Europe. For many countries, the passport must be valid for 6 months after the end of the trip, and for some countries even 12 months. Some countries require a visa.
Pets
Dog, Cat & Co. must stay at home. Pets are not allowed on cargo ships.
Phone, email, Internet
Today, ships are equipped with satellite telephones and e-mail. Reception is possible near the coast, but cannot be guaranteed.
Read more…
As a general rule, communication devices are reserved for work on board and may only be used by passengers for brief, important messages, usually by prior arrangement. Any charges incurred are paid directly on board. On larger ships travelling overseas and similar, internet access is increasingly available to passengers and crew for sending and receiving emails. Please enquire on board about usage and costs. Please be prepared to have very limited availability on board and do not set up your office on the bridge.
Schedule change (Page: Characteristics of freighter voyages)
Safety (on board)
The captain or officer will show you the safety equipment and instruct you in the safety regulations. Follow all instructions given by the ship’s crew. Caution: Avoid the working areas when the ship is docking, departing, loading or unloading. Never walk under suspended loads!
Watch from one of the upper decks!
Please also observe the safety regulations in the port.
Seas conditions
When unpacking on board, please bear in mind the sea conditions and store your personal belongings in your cabin and bathroom in such a way that they are well packed and secured. Do not use the external stairs in heavy seas. Non-slip and comfortable shoes are the right footwear on board.
Seasickness
For most people, seasickness passes quickly, if it occurs at all. We know “Vomex A” to be an effective remedy for seasickness. To be on the safe side, ask your doctor and check for possible interactions with other medications. Acupuncture wristbands can also help with nausea in some individuals. We do not recommend seasickness patches.
Shipping companies
We work with a large number of mostly German shipping companies that allow passengers to travel on their cargo ships. We act as travel agents; the shipping companies are the passengers’ contractual partners. Different conditions of carriage apply depending on the shipping company.
Shopping
There is a small selection of everyday items on board, including soft drinks and sparkling water, which the crew themselves require. These items can be purchased from the captain or steward in exchange for cash. Alcohol is generally prohibited on most ships. We will indicate this in the respective travel description. The store usually has fixed opening hours; please enquire on board.
Smoking
Smoking is permitted on most ships. Please be considerate of the customs on board! Each ship has its own rules.
Read more…
Although there would be enough water around the ship to extinguish the fire, smoking in the cabin is strictly prohibited. Smoking is also prohibited on deck and in the harbour area. Under no circumstances should you throw burning cigarettes overboard! They cause severe environmental pollution and could be blown back on board by the wind.
Steward
On larger ships a steward is often available to clean the cabin. Otherwise you are responsible for this yourself.
Swimming pool
Most larger ships have a small swimming pool (outdoor or indoor). It is filled with seawater, which ensures a pleasant water temperature and appropriate water quality. Near the coast, for example, ships generally do not fill their pools.
Taking pictures
You can take photos to your heart’s content on the ship. Provided you don’t get in the way of the crew at work.
We would be delighted if you could send us some of your best pictures on your return.
However, you should note that in some ports it is forbidden to take photographs (e.g. in Polish ports) and you may be fined heavily, if you disregard this rule. Please ask the ship’s command.
Tips
It is at your discretion to give the chef or steward a tip. It is not expected. We always give 1-2 euros per day per person, rounded up slightly.
Read more…
After consulting with the captain, you can – where permitted – hand out a crate of beer at a barbecue, for example, or invite your “tour guide” to a restaurant ashore when the opportunity arises. The crew will also be delighted if you leave an exciting (multilingual) DVD on board. Current newspapers/magazines are also welcome. Delicious, high-quality chocolate or sweets from the famous gummy bear company are often appreciated.
Travel Insurance
You will need international health insurance with repatriation (air ambulance) and liability insurance (standard liability insurance is sufficient).
In addition, travel cancellation insurance with trip interruption insurance is highly recommended.
As a supplement, luggage insurance is also an interesting option to complete your coverage.
The insurance policies can be taken out individually as required or as an affordable package.
Take out a policy quickly and easily here: ERV.
Travel reports
Reports of our customers on the voyages we offer can be found here…
Vaccinations
Information on requirements can be found in the itinerary for each trip. Vaccination requirements often differ from the usual regulations for tourists. Some countries require a yellow fever vaccination. Other vaccinations may be recommended. Please refer to the travel recommendations issued by the Foreign Office and consult your family doctor.
Vegetarians / Vegans
You will participate in the normal on-board catering. The cook cannot take special requests into consideration. The hard-working crew generally prefers more “rustic” food.
Read more…
Vegan meals or special dishes for people with food intolerances are not available on board. Vegetarians can “omit” meat and fish and eat the side dishes.
Occasionally, one or two “cookies” will try to accommodate requests within the very limited possibilities. Please do not expect this to happen.
Visa
If a visa is required, this will be stated in the itinerary.
These visas are also required if you do not wish to go ashore.
Our information refers to British citizens.
Visa requirements are subject to change at any time.
Washing
Washing machines and dryers are available on every ship and can be used by passengers. Ask the captain or steward for washing powder and washing times.
Working on board
“Working to the other side” is not possible on the ships brokered by us.
Yellow fever
This vaccination is mandatory for many countries, such as Brazil, Panama, China, the Suez Canal, etc., when entering by cargo ship. Please clarify before booking whether you will receive the vaccination.
Read more…
Older passengers and passengers with pre-existing conditions may be refused vaccination. Medical necessity and local authority practices may vary. In many cases, exemptions will not be accepted by the local authorities. Vaccination is mandatory, especially for travel to South America, and passengers who are not vaccinated will not be transported.