High Seas Vacations for Cheap: Cargo Cruises

NEW YORK (AP) — So you're looking for a unique vacation — something where you'll get to see a lot of sites for not a lot of cash.

How about a slow boat to China? (Or Brazil or Europe or Australia...)

A number of cargo ship companies make their freighters available for a limited number of guests — traveling to a number of exotic destinations, sometimes for less money than a conventional cruise. And don't worry, you won't have to swab the decks.

Many ships that take on passengers are more equipped than one would think. You'll have you're own room and generally some other perks including TV and movies, reading and exercise rooms. And often with less than 10 passengers, you'll likely get very personal attention — including sharing meals with the ship's crew and personal tours of the "guts" of a working freighter.

Heck, some even have a pool.

There's also the enjoyment of peace and quiet on the high seas — lounging on the deck all day with no real planned activities other than meals. Though, you'll have to share that deck with massive cargo containers that sometimes make for a less-than-majestic view.

Sure, it's not for everyone. There's no Elvis impersonator, bingo games or formal dinner here. These aren't five-star accommodations with turndown service. But there are interesting experiences to be had, and a look at life that you might otherwise never get to see.

But cargo ships don't take direct routes to postcard-perfect sunny destinations. Cruises range from two weeks to five months, depending on the locations and number of ports.

And when you get to these far off destinations, don't expect to land in a sea of souvenir shops on a combed white-sand beach. These freighters are hauling cargo, and they often dock in industrial ports far off from major tourist destinations.

But most ships will let passengers disembark for sightseeing depending on the length of call.