Last updated: 23 October 2026

The Europe–China route is the backbone of world trade, served by the biggest container ships ever built. Some of these giants carry a few passengers, so you can sail from Europe to Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen or Hong Kong. Here’s what a cargo ship voyage to China involves in 2026.

Europe–Asia services usually start in Northern Europe and call at several ports.

Suez or the Cape of Good Hope?

• Via the Suez Canal: the traditional, shorter route through the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean
• Via the Cape of Good Hope: many ships have rerouted around southern Africa since 2024 because of Red Sea security. It adds about 10–14 days.

Your agent will confirm the current routing. Read Suez Canal cargo ship transit.

How long does it take?

How much does it cost?

At about €90–€150 per person per day, a one-way voyage typically costs €3,000–€6,500 per person. See how much cargo ship travel costs.

Visas for China

China’s visa rules change regularly. In recent years China has introduced visa-free entry and transit schemes for some nationalities, but arriving by cargo ship can be treated differently from arriving by air, and you may need a full visa. Check with the Chinese embassy and your booking agent well before sailing.

What you’ll see

• The world’s biggest container terminals at Shanghai, Ningbo and Shenzhen
• The Strait of Malacca and the Singapore Strait, among the busiest waterways on earth. See cargo ship to Singapore.
• Hong Kong’s harbour by night
• The Indian Ocean and, on some routes, the Cape of Good Hope

Read about these ports in largest ports in the world and the ships in biggest ships in the world.

Tips

1. Book 9–12 months ahead.
2. Avoid the monsoon if you can: June to September can be rough in the Indian Ocean. See best time for cargo ship travel.
3. Sort your visa early.
4. Plan your return: by ship, Trans-Siberian train or a flight.

Other Asia voyages: cargo ship travel to Japan and Europe to Asia voyages.

Frequently asked questions