Cruise the world on a cargo ship!

Shiver me timbers, pirates, cargo ship travel is a thing! Before the pandemic passengers could access most cargo ship travel routes and by doing so they could see the world in a very different way.

Today, cargo ship travel is still recovering and new routes for 2023/2024 are being added slowly but carefully. We've had a look at what's available from the UK and checked the pros and cons.

Who should go?

• People with time -- cargo ship sailing takes longer and falls under the category slow travel

• People who're concerned about their carbon footprint -- these ships sail no matter what, so you'll leave near-enough no footprint by riding that vessel

• People who love the seas -- you'll see marine wildlife in a very different way

• People who love nautical life -- you'll get to know the crew and get to peep behind the scenes of a cago ship, it's fascinating!

Who shouldn't go?

• People who don't like to be disconnected. You might not have wifi for most of the journey!

• People who aren't relaxed about their travel plans. Cargo ship travel can have delays, ships sometimes stay longer in ports or might even leave a day early.

• Something to be aware of: some ships have age restrictions and most haven't got great facilities in case you want to take children.

You want to go? Here's what you need to know:

• Book early! Those ships only have a very limited number of guest cabins and a lot of in-demand routes sell out quickly!

• Check what you need -- visas, insurance, vaccinations, travel money (depending on your plans in ports/at the end of the journey)

Click the link to check what's available with Cargo Ship Voyages at the moment. The agency has been around since the 1990s and they've been fully engaged in fleet management throughout the pandemic. They are members of the Travel Trust Association, which means in case you book through them, your money is protected.

What's included in the price?

You'll have your own guest cabin as well as access to most of the ship. It'll be a basic cabin. Most ships have a swimming pool and a gym.

The fare also includes (please check and confirm with provider):

• Port fees

• All meals

• Use of facilities

Real-life stories

We've checked the internet for stories of people who have done this amazing journey.

Here are some truly inspiring stories and pics you should check on this topic: