Anyone wishing to travel to Thailand via sea will find that they have very few options. Cruise ships tend to not have Thailand as a destination but it may be possible to book onto a cargo ship to get to your destination. There are sea freight companies that travel to Thailand but as they usually charge per day for the trip your starting destination can make a huge difference to the price of your fare.

The journey by sea on a cargo ship does not have a guaranteed journey time. You will be advised on an approximate date for arrival at your destination, however there may be hold ups in the ports along the route which could greatly influence this expected travel time. In these instances the prices quoted for the trip will increase and so this should be taken into account when budgeting for the travel costs.

However, the price you pay includes meals, accommodation and any applicable taxes at the port. The accommodation is usually first class, with en-suite rooms which are regularly cleaned and the linens will be regularly changed. As there are never any more than 12 fare paying passengers travelling this way it can also be very relaxing. Anyone who is looking for a chance to unwind prior to making the move to Thailand should consider this option of travelling. Artists who enjoy the peace and solitude to work will find this mode of travel really beneficial.

Contact several freight companies before booking as each will have different routes to the final destination. Many trips will also have to be booked well in advance, in some cases, at least 12 months prior to departure. Some freight companies may also only allow passengers for part of the journey. Planning in advance is therefore essential.

It is also worth noting there is very rarely a doctor on board (unless one just happens to be travelling with you) therefore there is an age limit set on passengers. This is usually around 75 years of age; however this can vary depending on the freight company. Some freight companies will also ask their passengers to supply a medical certificate that states they are fit and healthy to travel.

The facilities on board again will vary depending on the freight company. Some ships boast indoor swimming pools (although very basic) and fitness centres with standard gym equipment. These facilities will not be for the sole use of the passengers but will be shared also with the crew. There will also be a laundry for passengers to use. Bed linens and towels are normally taken care of by the stewards on board who will also clean your room, however if you find you want to do personal laundry then the facilities are there to be used. The passengers lounge will contain a television with a DVD player, a CD player and a selection of books. For those who love to read beware that if boarding a foreign ship the reading material may be in their native language and not suited to you at all. Some passenger lounges also have a small bar with a limited selection of drinks. Drinks on board tend to be duty free and so a little cheaper than can be bought on land.

Life on board is very peaceful. There will be no evening entertainment such as on a cruise ship so you will have to find your own entertainment. Many passengers use this time to read or relax in their own way. Meals are not allowed to be taken in to the rooms so everyone will eat in the officer’s restaurant. Set meals times are the norm so making sure you are fully aware of them will ensure you do not miss a meal. Meals tend to be simple foods, there is often a choice of a few different meals although there will not be the same variety as you would expect on a cruise ship or in a restaurant. There is also always plenty of food served. These are often 3 course dinners which include soups or fruits for starters and desserts such as cheesecake for after the meal and occasionally the crew will host a barbeque on deck, depending on the weather, for all passengers and crew to enjoy.

Useful Resources

Maris
www.freightercruises.com
Tel: + 001 203 222 1500