Last updated: 22 October 2026
You can still start a freighter voyage from the UK. Container ships sail every week from British ports to North America, Australia, Asia and Africa, and some of them carry a handful of paying passengers. Many UK travellers also join a ship at a nearby continental port such as Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg or Le Havre, just a short train or ferry ride away.
| Port | Location | Typical destinations |
|---|---|---|
| London Gateway | Essex, Thames estuary | Australia, Asia, Mediterranean |
| Southampton | Hampshire | Asia, North America |
| Felixstowe | Suffolk | Asia, Europe |
| Tilbury | Essex, Thames | West Africa, Europe |
| Liverpool | Merseyside | North America |
Which port you use depends on the shipping line’s route that month. Passenger berths are offered ship by ship, so a quote always starts with your destination and travel window.
Many of the most frequent passenger-carrying services start at Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg or Le Havre. From London you can reach them by Eurostar, ferry or a short flight-free rail journey, which widens your choice of ships and dates.
Fares are charged per person per day, typically US$90–150 including cabin and meals. A transatlantic crossing usually costs about US$900–2,100, and a voyage to Australia about US$3,200–6,300. Add insurance with deviation cover, a medical certificate and a night near the port before sailing.
Yes. Container ships carrying a few passengers sail from UK ports such as London Gateway, Southampton and Liverpool, and from nearby continental ports.
Mainly London Gateway, Southampton, Felixstowe, Tilbury and Liverpool, depending on the route.
About 9–14 days, depending on the ports of call.
Typically US$90–150 per person per day, including cabin and meals.
Yes. Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg and Le Havre are easy to reach from the UK by rail or ferry and offer more sailings.
Tell us your destination and travel window and we will find ships sailing from the UK or nearby ports.
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