Do you love cruise vacations but find them way too expensive? Are you looking for the exceptional and unique in sea travel? Then you may want to consider a freighter cruise.

To really enjoy a freighter cruise, you must be flexible and acknowledge that cargo movements govern all schedules and itineraries. Period.

When traveling alone, the charge will be between $65 to $125 USD per day. Always request a single cabin because a double will cost significantly more. When only doubles are available, the extra may be sufficient to make you think about a different voyage altogether, or wait for a later voyage when a single cabin is available.

Two people booking a double cabin will usually pay less per person than one person booking a single cabin, although on some lines these fares are the same, and in a few cases, can be even less than the double fare per person.

Usually a freighter carries no more than twelve passengers, but in many cases only five or six. Any more than twelve passengers requires the ship to employ a doctor. All passengers must provide a medical certificate signed by both their physician and themselves, confirming that they are able to travel on a freighter where there is no doctor on board.

All suites and staterooms are spacious, well furnished and equipped to a good standard, some with a TV/VCR and refrigerator. They come with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Located on the upper decks and on the outside of the vessel, all cabins have windows; however, the view can sometimes be blocked by containers stowed on deck. Bed linen and towels are changed once or twice a week.

Swimming pools, saunas and fitness rooms, are normally provided as well as passenger lounges with TV/VCR and stereo sets and small video and book libraries. Deck space can be limited but there's always room for sunbathing, and deck chairs are usually available.

The fare includes accommodation and three meals per day. Passengers dine with the ship's officers and, on many vessels, enjoy complimentary wine at lunch and dinner. The pantry is usually always open to anyone fancying a light snack. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available on all vessels, at duty free prices.

Your fellow passengers will be people who love adventure and who do not enjoy regimentation. Organized activities are not for them! They are frequently people who can take lengthy periods of time off, such as teachers, people who run their own businesses and retired folk.