Sailing as a passenger across the seas can be an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose a cruise ship, cargo vessel, or passenger liner, each journey offers unique experiences, costs, and travel opportunities.
What Is a Trip on a Ship Called?
A trip on a ship is a captivating experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. However, the terminology used to describe such journeys can vary depending on the type of ship, the purpose of the trip, and the destinations involved. Below, we’ll dive into the different terms used to describe a trip on a ship, their meanings, and what makes each one special. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first sea adventure, this guide will help you understand the nuances of life at sea.
1. Cruise – The Ultimate Leisure Experience
A cruise is perhaps the most well-known type of ship journey, often associated with luxury, entertainment, and relaxation. Cruise liners are designed to provide passengers with a vacation experience, complete with amenities like fine dining, live entertainment, swimming pools, and onboard activities. Cruises typically follow a set itinerary, visiting multiple destinations, such as tropical islands, historic ports, or scenic coastal towns.
Why Choose a Cruise?
- Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a hassle-free vacation.
- Offers a mix of relaxation and adventure with shore excursions at each port.
- Perfect for those who want to explore multiple destinations without the need to pack and unpack repeatedly.
2. Voyage – A Classic Term for Long Sea Journeys
The term voyage is a timeless and general term used to describe long journeys by sea. It often evokes a sense of adventure and exploration, reminiscent of historic sea expeditions. Voyages can be undertaken on various types of ships, including cargo ships, passenger vessels, or even private yachts. Unlike cruises, voyages are not always focused on leisure; they can also involve transportation, trade, or scientific exploration.
Why Choose a Voyage?
- Appeals to travelers seeking a more traditional or adventurous sea experience.
- Often associated with longer journeys, such as transatlantic crossings or round-the-world trips.
- Offers a deeper connection to the sea and maritime history.
3. Passage – Traveling from Port to Port
A passage refers to the act of traveling by ship from one port to another. This term is commonly used in the context of cargo ships or passenger vessels that operate on fixed routes. Passages can vary in length, from short hops between nearby ports to extended journeys across oceans. For travelers, booking a passage on a cargo ship (also known as freighter travel) can be an unconventional and rewarding way to experience life at sea.
Why Choose a Passage?
- Offers a more intimate and authentic sea travel experience.
- Ideal for those who prefer quieter, less crowded ships.
- Provides a unique perspective on global trade and maritime logistics.
4. Freighter Travel – An Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Freighter travel is a niche form of sea travel where passengers book passage on cargo ships. These ships are primarily designed to transport goods, but some also offer limited accommodations for travelers. Freighter travel is perfect for those who crave solitude, adventure, and a break from the typical tourist experience. While amenities are basic compared to cruise liners, the experience of sailing on a working cargo ship is unparalleled.
Why Choose Freighter Travel?
- Appeals to adventurous travelers seeking a unique and unconventional journey.
- Offers a slower, more reflective pace of travel.
- Provides an opportunity to witness the inner workings of global trade.
5. Expedition – Exploring Remote and Uncharted Waters
An expedition by ship is a specialized journey focused on exploration and discovery. Expedition cruises often travel to remote or less-accessible destinations, such as the Arctic, Antarctic, or small islands. These trips are typically led by experts, such as naturalists or historians, and emphasize education and adventure. Ships used for expeditions are usually smaller and more rugged, designed to navigate challenging waters.
Why Choose an Expedition?
- Perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
- Offers opportunities to witness wildlife, glaciers, and untouched landscapes.
- Combines travel with learning and discovery.
Can You Travel as a Passenger on a RO-RO Ship?
Yes, you can travel as a passenger on a RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) ship, but it is a specialized and less common mode of transport. RO-RO ships are primarily designed to carry vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment, but certain vessels allow a limited number of passengers, particularly those traveling with their vehicles. Unlike cruise ships or passenger ferries, RO-RO ships offer minimal amenities and a more utilitarian travel experience.
Who Can Travel on a RO-RO Ship?
RO-RO passenger travel is usually restricted to:
✔ Drivers transporting vehicles (e.g., truckers, logistics personnel).
✔ Adventurous travelers accompanying their personal cars, motorcycles, or campervans.
✔ Individuals seeking an alternative to long-haul ferry routes on specific routes (e.g., Mediterranean, North Sea, or transatlantic crossings).
What to Expect on a RO-RO Ship?
- Limited Cabins: RO-RO vessels that accept passengers typically have basic cabins with a bed, desk, and private bathroom. There are no luxury suites or entertainment areas.
- Minimal Onboard Facilities: There are no swimming pools, casinos, or entertainment shows—just a dining area, sometimes a small lounge, and access to deck views.
- Longer Travel Time: RO-RO ships travel slower than cruise ships or ferries, with speeds of 15-20 knots (28-37 km/h). Journeys may take days or weeks, depending on the route.
- Meals with the Crew: Passengers usually share meals in the mess hall, where food is simple but nutritious.
Booking and Travel Requirements
Unlike commercial ferries, booking a RO-RO trip requires advance planning, as availability is limited and routes vary based on cargo schedules. To travel on a RO-RO ship, you may need:
✔ A medical certificate confirming fitness for maritime travel.
✔ Travel insurance covering sea voyages.
✔ A valid passport and necessary visas for international routes.
✔ Compliance with maritime safety regulations, including participation in safety drills.
This type of travel is ideal for those who appreciate solitude, maritime adventure, and a slow, immersive journey. If you enjoy a unique, off-the-grid experience, a RO-RO ship might be the perfect way to explore the seas while transporting your vehicle to remote destinations.
Can You Travel as a Passenger on a Ferry?
Yes, ferry ships are one of the most common and convenient ways to travel as a passenger, offering services across rivers, lakes, seas, and even long-distance international routes. Unlike RO-RO ships, which focus on cargo transport, ferry ships are specifically designed for passenger travel, often with multiple seating classes, cabins, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Types of Ferry Ships
Ferries come in various forms, including:
✔ Passenger-Only Ferries – High-speed catamarans and hydrofoils that carry only people, ideal for short routes.
✔ RO-PAX Ferries – A combination of passenger and vehicle transport (cars, trucks, and motorcycles), commonly used on Mediterranean, Baltic, and North Sea routes.
✔ Cruise Ferries – Larger ferries that resemble mini-cruise ships, featuring restaurants, bars, shopping areas, and entertainment.
✔ Island and River Ferries – Small vessels used for short-distance transport between islands or across rivers and lakes.
What to Expect on a Ferry Ship?
- Comfortable Seating & Cabins: Ferry ships offer standard and premium seating, and many long-distance ferries provide private cabins with beds and bathrooms.
- Dining & Shopping: Most ferries have cafeterias, restaurants, and duty-free shops, making the journey enjoyable.
- Entertainment & Relaxation: Some large ferries include cinemas, lounges, live entertainment, and play areas for children.
- Vehicle Transport: Ferries allow you to bring your car, motorcycle, or campervan, making it easy to explore your destination upon arrival.
Booking and Travel Considerations
Unlike RO-RO ships, ferry travel is straightforward and widely available. You can book tickets:
✔ Online via ferry operators’ websites.
✔ At ports or travel agencies.
✔ Through mobile apps for major ferry companies.
For international ferry routes, you may need:
✔ A valid passport (for border crossings).
✔ Vehicle registration and insurance documents (if transporting a car).
Is Ferry Travel Right for You?
Ferry ships provide a balance between comfort and affordability, making them a great option for:
✔ Tourists traveling between islands and coastal regions.
✔ Families looking for a budget-friendly alternative to flying.
✔ Travelers wanting to bring their own vehicle for road trips.
✔ People seeking a short, scenic sea voyage with onboard comforts.
Whether you’re commuting between European countries, exploring Greek islands, or crossing the English Channel, ferries remain a reliable, accessible, and scenic travel choice.
What is a Cruise Ship?
A cruise ship is a large passenger vessel designed for leisure travel, offering luxurious accommodations, entertainment, dining, and recreational activities while sailing on pre-planned itineraries. Unlike ferries or cargo ships, which primarily focus on transportation, cruise ships are floating resorts that provide a vacation experience on the water.
Cruise ships travel to various destinations, often stopping at multiple ports along a route. Passengers stay onboard for the duration of the trip, enjoying amenities such as pools, casinos, theaters, fine dining, and guided shore excursions.
Types of Cruise Ships
There are different types of cruise ships catering to various travel preferences:
- ✔ Ocean Liners & Mega Cruise Ships – Large, modern ships (e.g., Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC) carrying thousands of passengers, featuring extensive entertainment options, multiple dining venues, and luxury services.
- ✔ Expedition & Adventure Cruises – Smaller ships designed for remote and exotic locations (e.g., Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galápagos), often including expert-led excursions.
- ✔ Luxury Cruises – High-end ships with exclusive cabins, fine dining, and personalized service, designed for a premium travel experience.
- ✔ River Cruises – Smaller vessels sailing through rivers and inland waterways (e.g., the Danube, Nile, or Amazon) with a focus on cultural and scenic experiences.
- ✔ Themed & Specialty Cruises – Ships catering to specific interests, such as music festivals, culinary experiences, wellness retreats, or family-oriented cruises (e.g., Disney Cruise Line).
Features and Amenities of a Cruise Ship
- Accommodation Options: Ranging from budget-friendly interior cabins to luxury suites with private balconies and concierge service.
- Dining & Cuisine: Multiple buffets, à la carte restaurants, specialty dining, and bars, serving international cuisines.
- Entertainment & Nightlife: Theaters, Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, casinos, and nightclubs.
- Recreational Activities: Pools, water parks, spas, gyms, rock climbing walls, and sports courts.
- Excursions & Shore Tours: Organized visits to beaches, historic sites, adventure parks, and cultural landmarks at various ports.
- Children & Family Activities: Kids’ clubs, character meet-and-greets, gaming zones, and family-friendly events.
What Is a Passenger on a Ship Called?
Passengers on ships are generally classified into different categories:
✔ Cruise Passenger – Guests aboard a cruise liner for leisure travel.
✔ Transit Passenger – Someone using a ship to travel between two ports, often on a ferry or cargo ship.
✔ Freighter Passenger – A person traveling on a cargo ship as a non-crew member.
✔ Crew Family Passenger – Family members of the ship’s crew who are permitted to travel on board.
The classification depends on the type of ship and the nature of the journey.
How Much Does It Cost to Be a Passenger on a Cargo Ship?
The cost of traveling on a cargo ship varies based on distance, route, and accommodations.
✔ Short Trips (1-2 Weeks): $1,500 – $2,500
✔ Transatlantic Journeys (2-4 Weeks): $3,000 – $5,000
✔ Round-the-World Trips (Up to 100 Days): $10,000+
Cargo ships charge per day of travel, often ranging between $100 to $150 per day, which includes meals and a private cabin.
Important Considerations:
✔ Passengers must book months in advance due to limited space.
✔ Some ships require medical fitness certificates.
✔ There are no entertainment options, so bring books, music, or hobbies to pass the time.
While it may be more expensive than a flight, traveling on a cargo ship offers an authentic maritime experience unlike any other.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a passenger on a ship can be an exciting, immersive, and adventurous way to experience the ocean. Whether you choose a luxurious cruise, an affordable ferry, or a unique cargo ship journey, each offers a distinct experience at sea. If you’re looking for solitude, adventure, and an alternative to air travel, consider booking a trip on a cargo or passenger vessel. It’s a chance to see the world from the deck of a working ship, enjoying the vastness of the open ocean in a way few ever do.