Last updated: 23 October 2026

You can’t book a cargo ship voyage the way you book a flight. Ships carry only a few passengers, schedules follow the cargo, and shipping lines need medical and insurance paperwork before they confirm you. It is still straightforward if you know the steps. This guide walks you through booking a cargo ship voyage in 2026.

Start with where you want to go and roughly when. Popular routes include:

• Europe to North America: 9–14 days. See boat from the UK to the USA.
• Europe to South America: 4–5 weeks. See cargo ship to South America.
• Europe to Asia: 4–6 weeks. See cargo ship to Singapore.
• Europe to Australia and New Zealand: 5–7 weeks. See ship from England to Australia.

Be flexible. Cargo ships can depart days earlier or later than planned, so give yourself a window rather than a fixed date.

Step 2: Book early

Most ships take between 2 and 12 passengers, so cabins fill quickly.

Step 3: Send an enquiry

Send your preferred route, dates, cabin type and the number of travellers to a booking agent like CargoHolidays. You’ll receive options with prices. See how much cargo ship travel costs.

Step 4: Medical certificate and age checks

Most shipping lines require:

• A medical fitness certificate signed by your doctor, usually completed within a set time before sailing
• Age limits: often around 75–85 for the upper limit, depending on the line, and a minimum age for children

Read freighter travel age limits and medical certificates.

Step 5: Insurance

You will usually need medical and deviation insurance, which covers the cost if the ship has to change course to land you for medical reasons. Read our cargo ship travel insurance guide.

Step 6: Pay your deposit and get confirmation

Once the shipping line accepts your booking, you pay a deposit, with the balance usually due some weeks before sailing. Read the cancellation terms carefully.

Step 7: Visas and documents

• Passport valid for at least six months after your trip
• Visas for your destination and sometimes for the ports along the way. The USA requires a visa or ESTA that is valid for arrival by sea.
• Copies of your insurance and medical certificate

Step 8: Before you sail

• Keep in touch with your agent. You’ll get updates on the exact boarding date and time.
• Pack light. Cabins have storage but no porters. See what to pack for a freighter voyage.
• Plan connectivity. See wifi on cargo ships.
• Arrive at the port as instructed. You will usually be escorted through the terminal to the ship.

Common booking mistakes

1. Booking non-refundable flights or hotels before the sailing date is final
2. Forgetting about deviation insurance
3. Leaving the medical certificate too late
4. Not checking visa rules for every port

Read our full cargo ship travel guide and which shipping lines take passengers.

Frequently asked questions