Last updated: 4 November 2026

Most freighter travel myths are wrong: it is not cheap, you cannot work your passage, and strict age and medical rules apply. But it is also safer, more comfortable and better connected than many people think. Here are 12 common myths, checked against 2026 facts.

Money and rules myths

Myth 1: “Freighter travel is a cheap way to cross oceans”

It isn’t. A typical 2026 fare is around €90–€150 per person per day, including cabin and three meals. Add deviation insurance, port fees, visas and transfers, and a two-week crossing often costs as much as a mid-range cruise. See our cargo ship travel cost guide.

Myth 2: “You can work your passage”

Almost never on a modern merchant ship. Crew must hold STCW certificates and be signed on through manning agencies, so insurers and flag states will not accept casual workers. If you want to earn at sea, read about real cargo ship jobs.

Myth 3: “There are no rules — anyone can go”

Freighter lines are strict. Many have an upper age limit, often between 75 and 85, and most ask over-65s for a doctor-signed fitness form. There is usually no doctor on board. Details are in our age limits and medical certificates guide.

Safety and comfort myths

Myth 4: “It’s dangerous — pirates are everywhere”

The ICC International Maritime Bureau recorded 137 piracy and armed robbery incidents in 2025, up from 116 in 2024. Some 80 were in the Singapore Straits, mostly thefts from ships under way. Hijackings were rare (four in 2025), and lines route around high-risk zones. More in our cargo ship piracy guide.

Myth 5: “You share a bunk with the crew”

No. Merchant ships may carry no more than 12 passengers without being classed as passenger ships under SOLAS. Passengers get dedicated passenger or owner’s cabins, usually with a private shower and toilet, a window and a desk.

Myth 6: “There’s no food choice”

Meals are set and served at fixed times in the officers’ mess. There is no à la carte menu, but cooks can often handle vegetarian or allergy needs if you tell the line in advance. Snacks and drinks are usually available from the ship’s slop chest.

Myth 7: “You’ll be bored”

Many passengers say the opposite. There are bridge visits (when the captain allows), deck walks, a gym or pool on some ships, books, and long, quiet days for writing or reading. Bring your own entertainment and you’ll be fine.

Watch: life on a giant container ship

Connectivity and ports myths

Myth 8: “There’s no internet at all”

That is changing fast. Major carriers including Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have rolled out Starlink satellite internet across their fleets since 2023. Passenger access, speed and price are still at the captain’s or line’s discretion, so ask before you book. See our Wi-Fi on cargo ships guide.

Myth 9: “You can go ashore at every port”

Not guaranteed. Container ships often stay just 8–48 hours, and you need the captain’s permission, the right visa and time to clear port security. Read our shore leave guide.

Myth 10: “Sailing dates are fixed”

Cargo comes first. Departures and arrivals can move by days, sometimes weeks, because of weather, port congestion or cargo changes. Keep onward travel flexible and avoid non-refundable flights.

Who goes, and is it green?

Myth 11: “It’s only for men or retirees”

Retirees are common because trips are long, but remote workers, writers, couples and solo women all travel by freighter. Some lines accept children above a minimum age, often around six. See solo travel on a cargo ship.

Myth 12: “It’s always greener than flying”

Mostly true, with nuance. The ship sails for its cargo, so your marginal impact is small, but there is no official per-passenger factor. A London–New York return flight is about 1.3 t CO2e with radiative forcing. Our carbon footprint comparison explains the methods.

Watch: inside the shipping industry

Freighter vs cruise vs flying: reality check

Tips

1. Budget the full trip cost, including insurance and port fees, not just the daily rate.
2. Check age limits and get your medical form signed early.
3. Ask the line about internet access and pricing on your specific ship.
4. Book flexible onward travel; freighter dates move.
5. Pack books, offline media and seasickness remedies.
6. Get visas for every port where you hope to go ashore.

Foire aux questions

Sources: ICC International Maritime Bureau 2025 Piracy and Armed Robbery Report; SOLAS passenger-ship definition; Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd Starlink announcements; CargoHolidays route and pricing guides. Prices indicative. Checked November 2026.