High-priced ocean cruises booked through companies with names like Carnival, Disney, and Princess aren’t the only game in town. For the Jetsetter looking for something a bit off the beaten track, check out the leisure travel options available on cargo ships. Yes, we did just say cargo ships. Believe it or not there are some very good reasons to consider this mode of travel, which we’ll call cargo cruising.

Let’s define what we’re talking about. Cargo ships are something you’ve probably seen if you’ve ever been in a major port city. They’re the ocean-going equivalent of the eighteen wheelers you see running around on the nation’s highways, stacked high with cargo containers packed full of everything from automobiles to mail. You might not have stopped to think about it it in terms of leisure travel, but these ships go everywhere, they’re fitted with perfectly serviceable cabins, and are learning that they can make a little extra cash on the side from travelers.

For as little as $60 to $70 per day, you can book a cargo cruise lasting anywhere from a few hours to a several weeks, hitting many of the same exotic ports of call that traditional cruise lines charge an arm and leg for. To be sure, you’ll have to forgo some of the amenities like a swimming pool, seven restaurants, a bar on every deck, and endless stage performances but is that really too much of a sacrifice?

Besides price, why would the average leisure traveler want to choose a cargo cruise? For one, you usually have more time in port to explore new places. Also, the areas where these working ships stop are noticeably low on gaudy tourism, which means a better chance of finding unspoiled attractions.

Put the term “freighter cruises” into your favorite search engine and see what pops up. For an example, you could check out FreighterWorld.com, which offers cruises to various spots around the world. There are many other companies offering the same service so spend some time researching if you’re interested. Information about cargo cruises is a bit

harder to find than for your regular old Carnival cruise, but we consider that a good thing.

The Jetsetter Show

Flickr / mikebaird

Tags: cargo cruise, freighter cruise, leisure travel