cargo ship travel australia to usa

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Travelling on a cargo ship is a unique experience.  Whether you love the sea, are conscious of your carbon footprint, don't like flying or simply prefer to sail in a relaxed atmosphere , away from the crowds, then travelling by cargo ship is the right choice for you.

We've been doing this for over 30 years and are passionate about providing a personalised service tailored to your needs. Alas, carriage of passengers on cargo ships is discretionary and since the pandemic available vessels are in sharp decline; we cannot speculate which routes or owners might accept passengers in future.

A NUMBER OF CRUISE SHIP  'VOYAGE OPTIONS'  HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE WEBSITE TO OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE TO FLYING AND IN THE ABSENCE OF CARGO SHIP OPTIONS. THERE ARE TRANSATLANTIC, SOUTH AMERICA, SOUTH AFRICA VOYAGES, MORE WILL BE ADDED IN THE COMING WEEKS - PLEASE ASK IF YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC CRUISE 'VOYAGE OPTION' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO FIND WE HAVE ACCESS TO MOST LINES.

WE ARE NOT OFFERING SHORT DURATION HOLIDAY CRUISES, ONLY POINT TO POINT LINE VOYAGES WITH A PURPOSE AND IN MOST CASES ONLY ABLE TO SELL TO UK RESIDENTS AT PRESENT OWING TO RESTRICTIVE CRUISE LINE PRICING PRACTICES.

www.voyageoptions.com  (under construction), Facebook.com/voyageoptions, Twitter @voyageoptions).

Do please take some time to check our website for available routes, also our ‘Ask the Captain’ section for frequently asked questions BEFORE contacting us!

+++ NEWS +++

LAST UPDATED April  2024  

WITH A FEW EXCEPTIONS, DEEP SEA INTERNATIONAL CARGO SHIP VOYAGES ARE NO LONGER POSSIBLE AS MAJOR SHIPOWNERS AND/OR THEIR CHARTERERS HAVE INDEFINITELY WITHDRAWN FROM THIS ACTIVITY.

- No transatlantic voyages

- No Australia/New Zealand/Europe voyages

- No Europe/South America voyages

- No transpacific voyages

- No round the world voyages

- No voyages in around Asia or Oceania

- No bookable availability Europe to/from South Africa until mid 2025 (waitlist/standby only 2024 @ 6 weeks notice) 

Some short haul European, Mediterranean, Baltic are bookable however 2024 availability is limited on some routes.

French Polynesia (mv Aranui V), mv Bella Desgagnes (St Lawrence River, Canada) are available & mv St Helena global voyages supporting the Extreme E organisation are likely to be available again in 2025.

Our website is updated regularly with bookable options; please do not contact us regarding cargo voyages that are not listed!

There may be cruise ship alternatives, please ask if you have a specific voyage in mind.

Try us and travel the world your way!

Follow @CargoShipVoyage

Imagine for a moment that you are on the deck of a ship, sipping a glass of wine. You turn your head towards the water just in time to spot a pod of dolphins swimming by or flying fish, providing company in the ocean. After lingering in the sunshine for a while, it's time to head inside for a 3-course evening meal and a splash in the pool before retiring to bed.

Now, what kind of vessel are you on?

No, you are not on a standard commercial cruise ship. You are not on a packed luxury liner hopping between Caribbean islands. You are aboard a modern freighter. Hundreds of cargo ships, carrying everything from fire engines to apples, are crossing the world's oceans, and many are happy to take you along for the ride. Adventurous travelers, including the Transitions Abroad family, have been doing so for years, as have many long before us.

What Does Travel on a Cargo Ship Feel Like?

A far more intimate and relaxed experience than you might imagine! The experience on board contrasts sharply with the rough and industrial outward appearance a container ship tends to project. You will be one of a handful of passengers among a crew likely to number up to a dozen or a few more. There will be no evening cabaret shows as on a standard cruise, though you may have access to TV, video, and board games in a common area on the ship where passengers may meet the crew. You may even play cards with the crew under the night skies. You might be invited to karaoke with the sailors, and you will almost always dine alongside the captain, who is far more likely to turn up in shorts and a t-shirt than in full uniform. Some cargo ships also offer equipped exercise rooms or pools.

Here was our first taste of the wonders of sea travel. Our introduction to freighter travel was a relatively short 5-day sailing between Australia and New Zealand. We joined the French ship CMA CGM Utrillo in the busy port of Melbourne, where our luggage — including two bicycles and bags — was quickly hauled on board and into a spacious cabin by a host of cheery Filipino deckhands.

What are the Costs of Cargo Ship Travel?

Depending upon your destination (Transatlantic, Transpacific, South Seas, Worldwide, and other special combinations), your daily freighter travel costs will be about $100-$130 per day per person per day with a luggage allowance of approximately 30kg-100kg (66-220lbs) depending on the line you are taking. Generally, US dollars are the primary currency used onboard to buy soft drinks, snacks, beer, and toiletries. You can then use your credit cards at each location you disembark.

What kind of Hospitality Can You Expect on Board?

Our next surprise was how quickly we felt part of the family. Just moments after arriving, our fellow passenger (a French woman "going around the world in 80 days”) hinted that the captain was sure to throw us a welcome barbecue. “He does that for every one new,” she said with a wink. Sure enough, the next evening was spent on the back deck of the ship, feasting on grilled fish and chatting with the seamen as the sun went down.

One of our concerns before sailing was that we'd find the days long. It was just the opposite. There were three square meals a day (hearty plates of meat and vegetables for workers) and our time between eating was filled with strolls around the deck and trips up to the bridge to check our position and ask questions.

Had there ever been stowaways? Yes, once a harmless passenger was allowed to board. What about pirates? Not here, but there were off the coast of Africa. And just how much fuel did a cargo ship need? In the current era of relatively low oil prices, $60,000 U.S. a day will generally cover the trip.

Why is it a Relaxing Way to Travel?

With our curiosity temporarily curbed, we would return to our cabin for reading our books or Kindle, journal writing, and a bit of table tennis if we felt especially energetic. Far away from the hustle and bustle of life on firm land, we were truly relaxed. The experience was in complete contrast to our usual hurried airplane trips.

For Hamish Jamieson, the owner of Freighter Travel NZ and one of only a handful of travel agents in the world licensed to book tickets on cargo ships, the simplicity of being at sea is the main attraction.

“When you're sitting up the front of the bow of the ship, on your own, and all you see is the sea going past and you hear the wind and waves, you're in heaven. For me, an afternoon...sitting right on the bow, watching the world go by with my binoculars, that's my heaven,” he said.

What Kind of Flexibility is Needed for Freighter Travel?

Of course, nothing in life is all smooth sailing. While we didn't encounter any problems during our trip, we did struggle with the uncertain nature of freighter travel before we boarded. Our initial departure date jumped forward first by three days and then seemed to bounce around by 12-24 hours every time we called to check the latest news. Ours was not an uncommon experience and you must prepare yourself for flexibility.

Even ports of call are not guaranteed because on a cargo ship, freight comes first, not the passengers. If the demand is not there for a certain stop, the ship will go where the business is.

“Our trip from the USA to Europe changed three times after initial booking,” said Rebecca Hogue and Scott Drennan, then on a journey around the world without using airplanes . Their initial trip from South Carolina to Belgium was from Florida to Italy. “Had we not been flexible with our departure times and locations, things would not have worked out.”

As Mr. Jamieson is fond of telling his passengers, when you go to sea, there are two things you must pack: a sense of humor and a sense of patience.

What are the Practical Issues?

Your trip may also involve some red tape, particularly concerning U.S. stops. American citizens are not permitted, for example, to travel within their country by cargo ship, although they can make international journeys. Meanwhile, travelers to the United States must have a visa, even if they would not need one to arrive by air. Only Canadians are exempt from this rule.

Be sure to budget time and money to get vaccinations like Yellow Fever if you are going through the Suez and Panama canals. A medical certificate declaring you in generally good health is another typical requirement.

Where in the World Do You Want to Go?

The hardest part of booking your cargo ship voyage is deciding where to go. Will it be to South America and around Cape Horn? How about a 55-day round trip from California to Australia and New Zealand via Tahiti and Mexico? Mr. Jamieson offers a few more ideas and favorite voyages based on years of experience.

“For me the ultimate voyage is from Auckland, in New Zealand, to Singapore. It takes 40-45 days to sail what you can fly in just under 12 hours but it visits nearly every island in the Pacific on the way and it stops for 2-3 days. The second choice for me would be from Singapore through to Houston in Texas. It goes up through Thailand, Vietnam, half a dozen ports in China, into Japan, then straight across the Pacific and through the Panama Canal.”

With enough time and money at your disposal--round-the-world trips can take 80 to 100 days or more--there are few places a cargo ship can't reach. Voyage destinations on cargo ships can change, so the many options available will often surprise you. You need to be adventurous enough to do your research, find a specialized cargo ship travel agent (see resources below), and then get on board.

The Golden Rules of Cargo Ship Travel

• Be prepared to make your own fun. There are seldom programmed activities aside from the odd safety drill.
• Go before you're too old. An upper age limit of 77-80 years is not uncommon, as no doctor on board and there are often plenty of stairs.
• Check that your travel insurance covers freighter travel.
• Be flexible. Schedules can and do change frequently. You may need 2-3 ships to reach your destination.
• Book in advance. Cabins are limited and the most popular routes can be sold out by ships months ahead.
• Forget about working in exchange for your passage. Current union rules mean this is no longer permitted.
• Take a good supply of seasickness pills. While not very common, rough weather can occur, sending tables, chairs, and your stomach flying across the room.
• Wifi and other modern electronics are now often available on cargo ships for travelers . If connectivity is important to you, ask whether those options are accessible and free in advance.

Friedel Rother gave up her job as a journalist for Reuters to ride a bicycle around the world with her husband. They have published two books in addition to cycling.

GoNOMAD Travel

Inspiration and links to plan your trip.

Freighter Travel Costs and Questions

Travel by Cargo Ship: What You Should Know about Freighter Travel

By R.F. Ahern, “The Freighterman”

LISTEN TO OUR FREIGHTER TRAVEL PODCAST EPISODE

Remember the old stories of adventurers who would hop a cargo ship to get to an exotic port of call, traveling like a sailor or Merchant Marine? Well, the good news is that it’s still possible. Travel by cargo ship continues to interest our most curious and intrepid readers.

Freighter Travel is Popular

You can travel from one port to another or around the world by freighter. It’s relatively inexpensive (compared to other cruise ships) and easy to do as more and more freighter companies come on board to offer passenger service.

Freighter Travel

Most freighters only have room for a limited number of passengers, and, while you won’t be bunking with the crew anymore, traveling by freighter is still enough of an alternative mode of transportation to keep regular cruise tourists standing in the buffet line.

Your accommodations will be quite adequate–sometimes even a reconfigured Captain’s berth! – and all your meals while at sea will be provided. But unlike a regular cruise ship, you won’t find an onboard disco or gambling casino.

On the other hand, you may have more than one-night playing cards with the crew or sitting quietly on the deck watching the stars. Some freight ships have swimming pools!

Check out these FAQs on freighter travel , provided by R.F. Ahern, “The Freighterman,” who has traveled around the world and then some by freighter ship. Then hop a freighter and sail the seven seas like a real voyager!

WHERE CAN I GO BY FREIGHTER?

You can travel from just about any major port in the world to any other port. Some freighters also go to places you’ve never even heard of. Most lines have regular routes and transatlantic crossings. Frequently you can catch a “tramp” that has no fixed ports of call. Americans cannot travel between one U.S. port and another. From South America to Asia, the ships cross all of the world’s oceans.

CAN ANYONE TRAVEL ON A FREIGHTER?

No. Usually, the upper age limit is 79, the lower is about 5 years. These upper and lower limits may vary from one shipping company to another. If you are over 65, you will generally be required to get a medical certificate from your physician certifying you are fit to travel. Pregnant women are usually not permitted.

If you have difficulty negotiating stairs, this will also preclude you from travel on a freighter. Since all of the passenger-carrying containerships are sailing under a foreign flag they are not subject to American laws requiring accommodation of disabled individuals

HOW LONG IS A FREIGHTER VOYAGE?

The average length of a freighter voyage is 40 to 50 days, though there are some shorter trips available last a couple of weeks. A roundtrip from the U.S. West Coast to Australia/New Zealand and return takes about 46 days. An around the world voyage lasts generally 80 to 100 days or more. Hong Kong China to Los Angeles USA, has an estimated average time between 18 to 20 days of transit port to port.

A westbound voyage from Los Angles, CA. to Hamburg , Germany is about 41 days.

CAN I TAKE A SEGMENTED CARGO SHIP TRIP?

Many people do not like to take a roundabout freighter travel voyage, having neither the time nor the money. Segmented trips are possible with a stopover in port for as long as you want. You can resume your voyage or fly home by plane. These kinds of voyages are popular with people who only have a couple of weeks to travel, and only want to spend some it at sea.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL ON A FREIGHTER?

Travel by freighter, the average cost of a voyage is just about $100.00 US per day, for a single person traveling in a single cabin. It is always more expensive for a single to book a double cabin and always cheaper per person for double occupancy of a double cabin.

There is an additional charge of about $262.00 for deviation insurance and a $12.50 customs charge per person departing or entering the country. Keep in mind that more than one owner/charter may have vessels on a given route. The fare charged by different owners on the same route can vary considerably. Shop around.

Historically, German owners have had a two-tier pricing system, with euro prices lower than the prices quoted in US dollars. If you want to convert euros to dollars, you can use a currency converter. I have been advised that American agents are striving for a single pricing system so that the cost of a voyage is exactly the same for a given ship, regardless of where the traveler calls home, or currency of payment.

HOW DO I BOOK A FREIGHTER VOYAGE?

Most travel agents do not book freighter voyages. You will have to book through an agent that specializes in freighter cruises or directly through the ship’s agent/manager. Remember that there may be voyages available that the travel agent is not advertising on the Internet or elsewhere. If you want to go on a particular voyage, ask the agent what they have available. Remember also that not all agents offer the same voyages.

WHEN SHOULD I MAKE MY TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS?

Unlike an airline, you cannot call your travel agent on a Friday evening and expect to leave on Monday (except for hopping a Tramp Voyage–covered later). Allow several months to plan your trip. I usually start early in January to arrange for a mid-April departure. However, some routes are very popular and you may have to arrange for your voyage many months ahead of your desired departure date. While some freighters depart on exact date and time, others have a window for departure. Be flexible.

New offerings are becoming available every month, so it is possible you can schedule a trip on short notice, but it is better to plan far in advance. Remain flexible with your travel plans. I recently booked a voyage only to be notified the ship I was to board in Los Angeles had grounded and would be unavailable for more than a month after my planned departure date.

Luckily, I was able to hop another ship leaving a few days earlier than I had planned.

WHAT IS A FREIGHTER TRAVEL OPTION?

An option is a period of time within which the pre-payment of a portion of the cost of a voyage must be made. Once your travel agent tenders your voyage, your agent will ask for payment of $500.00, to be paid within a couple of weeks, if you live in the US, to secure your cabin. Full payment is due usually 60 days before the ship’s departure.

If you live in Europe it is customary to be required to make a deposit equivalent to 25% of the cost of the voyage. One agent told me that it is customary in some European countries for the agent to expect payment in full once you have contracted for a voyage, even if you are required to cancel the trip.

WHAT IS A TRAMP VOYAGE

Tramps are cargo ships that have no fixed schedule or ports of call; they go where the cargo is and drop it off where it’s supposed to go. Often, tramp voyages have passenger rooms and travelers can book them. The advantage is that you can get a cheaper voyage to a remote destination at the last minute.

The downside is that you might not be able to get away from that port until another tramp comes along. Tramp voyages are often listed in booking agency’s “Last Minute Specials.”

WHAT SIZE OF SHIP IS BEST?

Having traveled on small container ships (those carrying 1,000 or fewer containers, under 15,000 d.w.t. and about 485 feet) and large ones (4,500 containers or more, over 63,000 d.w.t. and 950 feet in length) I much prefer the former. Traveling on large ships is like being on a cruise ship. By this, I mean it is very stable. The majority of the time you are unaware of the fact that you are at sea!

So, if you like the feel of the sea, think small. Another potential disadvantage of a larger ship is the possibility that it may berth at a newer pier and thus, it may be inconvenient or far away to get from the ship to the port city (for example, the Port of Kaohsiung, Taiwan ).

Large ships obviously have larger engines. Accordingly, the engine air intakes, usually on the “A” deck, generate a lot of noise outside of the vessel. These large engines produce a lot of carbon discharge, making decks D and E, where passenger cabins are usually located, quite dirty.

Video: What’s It Like Inside a Cabin on a Freighter Ship?

CAN I WORK ON A FREIGHTER FOR ALL OR PART OF MY PASSAGE?

The answer is simple. NO! Sit back and enjoy the ride.

SO WHAT CAN I DO ON A FREIGHTER?

Remember, that a freighter is a working ship and passengers are secondary. Thus, there is no such thing as a cruise director or any planned activities other than watching a VCR or doing your laundry. But there’s plenty of time to read, get some sun, hang out on the bridge. What is life on board a freighter trip like? What is the daily routine?

Meals are something I looked forward to as they provided an opportunity for some interesting conversation with the ship’s officers. Some ships have pools, often below the main deck. One smaller container ship that I was on was only able to fill the pool half full to prevent the water from sloshing out in rough weather. Bring plenty of books or your Kindle filled with reading.

You can buy all the beer and hard liquor you want to mellow out, tax-free. But, don’t expect to find your favorite Scotch or Rye whiskey on board. Selections are limited, but there is enough booze on board to keep any hardcore alcoholic happy.

WILL I GET SEASICK?

Could be. Unlike cruise ships, there are no stabilizers on a cargo ship voyage. Accordingly, there can be a significant amount of pitch and roll, depending on the size of the ship, the amount of cargo, and the weather. Most of the time, waves do not exceed 15 feet (about 3 meters), usually less.

There are two things to remember about being seasick: You feel like you are going to die and then you realize that you won’t! As a general rule, the bigger the ship and the more cargo aboard, the smoother the “ride”. I recently sailed on the Cho Yang Atlas, a 965-foot, and 4,500 T.E.U. container ship and was not even aware of the fact that I was at sea.

CAN I BRING ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES?

All ships have a 220-volt power supply. The U.S. standard is 110 volts. Accordingly, you should check to see if your computer, razor, radio, etc., have a 110-220V-option switch. If not, you will need a converter. If you are from the U.S., you will need a plug converter (square to round prongs, but you can usually find one on the ship). A small, portable, AM/FM/SW radio is nice to have along, so you can stay in touch with what’s going on in the world.

WHAT CAN I BUY ON-BOARD?

Cigarettes, beer, soft drinks, toothpaste, and the like. All transactions are in U.S. dollars, no checks, or credit cards; often the price of these items is quoted in the currency of the country of registry or vessel ownership, but there may be exceptions. There is no tax on items purchased on the high sea, however, the ship’s “slop chest” is locked while the ship is in port.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK TO WEAR?

It depends on where you are going and the time of year. Attire is very informal. Jeans, T-shirts, and shorts will work. Leave your coats and ties at home as well as any fancy dresses, unless you want to wear them ashore. Rubber-soled shoes (not boat shoes) are a must. Leather-soled shoes should be left at home. Since shoes are removed in all carpeted areas of the ship they should be easy to take on and off. This is important as often the deck is wet or has residue from the engine’s exhaust.

IS A FREIGHTER NOISY?

Not really, unless you like to hang out in the engine room. There is a much higher noise level than on a cruise ship, but, like vibration, it is minimal.

One exception is the noise generated by the engine intake fans located on the main deck or first deck. Engine exhaust noise is felt and heard on large ships, though not to the extent that it is annoying.

WHAT LANGUAGES ARE SPOKEN ABOARD SHIP?

English, but not necessarily American English. On my last cruise, the Belgian Captain spoke excellent English, but the Ukrainian officers had limited ability with English. Most of the Filipino crew had a decent command of the language.

WHAT ABOUT SHIPBOARD ETIQUETTE?

All members of the ship’s crew are addressed as “Mister” unless they tell you to call them by their first name. Do not go on the bridge without asking for permission. Usually, passengers have access to the bridge at all times.

The only exception may be during the period the harbor pilot is aboard. As you will be in an entirely new environment, it will take a few days to get a feeling for the ship and its crew.

It is a good idea to learn the name of all officers and crew (there are only 17-20) as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you learn a few words or phrases in the native language or languages of the crew members.

CAN I BRING MY PET?

No. However, you can ship your four or five favorite polo ponies from here to there in a container! Of course, the owner is required to have them accompanied by a trainer/keeper, and they will be subject to quarantine regulations.

WHAT ABOUT VISAS?

Check with your travel agent to be sure of the visa requirements of the various countries. Non-US citizens must have a visa to enter the United States by cargo ship. Australia requires a visa for all foreign nationals arriving by ship. Ditto for China , but not Hong Kong. The fact that you never leave the vessel is of no consequence. Most countries do not even bother to stamp your passport, though they do check it.

It has been my experience that the Captain will ask for your passport after you board and you may be invited to his cabin for a “chat” with immigration officials after docking, though in this is not the case in most large ports, such as Hong Kong.

Again, it depends on where you are going. No immunizations are required for travel between Europe, the U.S., Canada , and Australia. However, for the transit of either Panama or Suez Canal, you will need an inoculation for yellow fever and cholera. In the U.S., these will cost $50 to $60 each. To find physicians or clinics in your area, call your local Public Health Department. Your travel agent can advise you as to the inoculations you will require.

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Plan what you are going to need on your voyage; bring a short wave radio, DVDs, reading material, a camera, or whatever. A laptop computer makes for a handy companion. The ship might have one available for your use, but don’t count on it.
• Once your ship leaves port, that’s it; there is no going back. Ships have many stairs and they are steep, so hold on at all times. A few have elevators. After a couple of days (weeks) you will get used to them (smile)
• When booking a cabin, get one as high as possible in the superstructure, assuming you have available options. If you do not, containers will block your forward view. Almost always cabins are outside with a view forward, port, or starboard; some have two views.
• Of course, the downside to higher cabins is that you will have to go down several flights of stairs to get to the officer’s mess, which is usually located on the poop deck (one deck above the main deck on ships not stowing containers aft of the superstructure) or the main deck. Usually, passenger cabins are on the fourth or fifth deck.
• Visit this great updated 2020 Freighter Travel site
• Tipping is optional. Other than the mess steward, there is no one to tip other than the cook, and then only if the food is exceptional. The steward may make up your bed and empty your wastebasket daily; then again, it might be only on a weekly basis, so tip accordingly, if at all.
• If you need information about shipping cargo, such as your car (in a container), household goods, etc., here is the place to start to get information. Cargo can be transported on the same vessel you travel on, however, you are probably better off shipping with the line usually used by the freighter forwarding company.

Freighter Travel in South America

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60 thoughts on “ Freighter Travel Costs and Questions ”

I was looking at a short trip from Brisbane Australia to New Zealand in the North Island/Auckland.,Tauranga in September..are there many options to do this and do I have time to do this?

“These faqs are helpful if you ask me. They answer all the questions that one might have, so I am delighted that I read all about these faqs and whatnot. “

Great info.,worth the read.

Do you know if there is any chance of me traveling w my Harley Davidson on a ship from eastern US to Panama or Costa Rica ?

You post is not originally this taken directly from Cargotravel.com

Travel by cargo ship with dog with cargoholidays. No. However, you can ship your four or five favorite polo ponies from here to there in a container! Of course, the owner is required to have them accompanied by a trainer/keeper, and they will be subject to quarantine regulations

How may I travel between US NY-NJ Ports and Iran Ports? any experience, recommendations, or guidance?

Very doubtful you can do this on a freighter. Too many restrictions plus Covid.

thanks for this article. Very helpful. Would love information about How to get to the US (east coast) from Sweden. (Im in Stockholm). Any freighters still leaving from Gothenburg to the US that accept passengers? or we have to find another out- port going across the Atlantic? thx Ewa

I am wanting to go Capetown SA from the US. I live in the Baltimore Washington area with that be possible

do they have ship longbeach to manila

can one take a dog/pet with you on a container ship? i am trying to find an alternative to putting my dog on a 24 hour flight.

No, you can’t bring any pets on a cargo ship. NO.

I think you need to be a little more clear. Maybe something like “the one I went on does not allow it” or “Its a standard that every single cargo ship I know of does not allow it”.

When I read your answer it makes me believe that your just saying no to the cargo ship you have been on and other companies may allow it. But then again I know less than you about this industry… in fact I know nothing.

Finding a cargo ship is the last effort I have before either giving up my 2 dogs or chartering a private jet just to move them to south America from the US. No airline will take them and you can not drive it.

“No, you can’t bring any pets on a cargo ship. NO.”

How could it possibly be any clearer that pets aren’t allowed on cargo ships?

The guy posting this article is an expert on cargo ships… and I think it’s pretty clear where he says: NO you cannot bring pets onboard the cargo ship. As for shipping your dogs via the airline, I’m not sure why it would be a 24 hour flight – can’t you put the dogs (per standard procedure) in the dog crate area of the plane, and be flying on that same flight, which will NOT take 24 hours?

what is the point travelling like this? This is the most expensive way, not cheap at all.

Hi I am looking for a cargo freighter to travel from South Africa to Australia with motor bike at the end of 2022?

Back in 1971 I took a cargo ship from South Africa to Australia with my BSA Bantam on which I actually ended up going round the world. i was allowed 40 cub.ft in the hold as accompanied ‘baggage’ and my bike was approx that size. It actually went in a room, never in a crate. And that was true of: Bombay to Mombasa; S. Africa to Australia; Australia to nZ; nZ to Singapore and Bangkok to Hong Kong. I was always a passenger. What the conditions are nowadays I know not. But good luck.

A FOURTY CUBIC FEET BSA BANTAM – Really? My ex-Bro-in-Law worked Tankeres as a Second Officer back in the day for SHELMEX in their first SUPER TANKERS and both my sister and sometimes his Mum and Dad travelled with him. I believe ‘the missus’ went free but Mum and Dad had to pay. My son was an Officer i the RAF for eight byears and I used to visit heim regularly [I was myself and ex-EArmourer Sergeant] for the odd weekend. Atbthe time [the late 90’s it cost nhim the princely sum for rather excellent Full Board and Lodgings for me from Friday Evening to Monday Morning ££5.00 aand bar prices wer about 1/5th and probably still are of normal Pub Prices. I monce went nto mthe Officers Mess New Years Eve Party. It had to be experienced to be believed – a WHOLE BLOODY FUNFAIR for starters. Talk about the AIR STAFF letting their hair down on the Bumper Cars!!!!

Are there any cargo ships taking passengers from Southern Africa to Australia?

Is it safe for a woman over age 60 for a voyager? Are most ports are safe to travel to during the day?

I have the same question and don’t see any answers

How reliable is the Satellite Hotspot? Is it safe for a woman over 60 to travel solo? How do you find out the layout of the ship before choosing the cabin?

No need to play the gender card. Everyone is welcome subject to their age limits, and if it wasn’t safe, they wouldn’t go.

Thank you for this article. I was especially interested in the difficulty of moving around the ship. As a former navy man I forgot just how hard it was to go up and down the stairs. At my current age, I do not believe I could do that much anymore. Too bad.

This was an interesting article. I recall a long time ago hearing about such methods of travel and must have just forgotten about it. I was just reminded in an old movie. There were a lot of good comments that answered some questions. I also watched the video of the fellow showing us his room. It looked quite adequate and not at all cramped. I’m 72 years old but I don’t look it and I’m in good physical condition. I did read that some of these companies do have age restrictions, and I can understand why. But going up and down some steep stairs isn’t an issue for me and I do swim every day in my pool. Getting a certificate for this from my doctor wouldn’t pose a problem. I have to say that taking a cruise on a regular cruise ship has had no appeal to me. I’ve watched videos and talked with family who do that and it’s just not something I want. They seem way too crowded and just not for me. I do however enjoy a nice Hindricks and tonic, smooth jazz, and interesting conversation. Those things seem to be plentiful on one of these ships. I would have to bring my own Hindricks (gin), my laptop, some reading material and maybe my Xbox. It all sounds much more interesting to me than the alternative. Going up on the bridge, conversations with the Captain and crew, that all sounds great. I’m glad I found this article.

Who or where can I get detailed info on what freighter ships offer this service from Los Angeles to Manila/Cebu Philippines? I don’t even know where to start. TIA for any info on this subject!

I’m in the same Boat, no pun intended. I want to go to the Philippines from either Portland Oregon, or Seattle Washington but can find no one who ships there. I cannot believe no vessels travel from Major US Ports such as Portland and Seattle. Any help you can give us would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, Mike

HOW OLD is this article?? Its telling people to bring videotapes to watch and talked about the cost of film. How many people use a film camera anymore, 1 out of a hundred? Who has videotapes lying around?!?!

Yes, that story was published in 2000, but we have edited the copy so it’s been updated for 2021. Thank you, dear reader.

You are so polite to some of these commenters.

Many tnx for the response. Can you please update what online services like wifi and email are available???

Vickie and Paul say: what are you doing looking at cargo ship cruises? If that’s you… Please write. Paul

Hi I am looking for a cargo freighter to travel from Vancouver to China the shortest route cause I can’t take flight due to my conditions. Thanks

Hello Zoey, Did you make it from Vancouver to China by ship? I’m trying to do the same trip. Would like to know more.

Thank you so much!

I am hoping to travel from the Seattle area to Costa Rica on a cargo ship… can anybody tell me if the ports in Costa Rica are open now (August 2020) and how can I travel in one of these ships? Thank you for your help!

I had no idea that from Europe to the US, shipments can take about 41 days. Since we just started offering an online shipping option, I wonder if we should look into a contract with a port agent to help us get our products shipped without too much delay between getting an order placed. I would imagine it would be easiest to get a warehouse in the countries we will ship to and then fulfill orders from those warehouses.

Do cargo ships have internet access? Thanks

yes they almost always do. But it might be slow and it will cost money in most cases.

Hey R.F. Ahern and fellow boaters! Thank you for the article I really enjoyed reading it and I did not know that you can travel on a cargo ship! That’s really amazing. Me and my husband have a world travel vlog called Dawn Hunters where we post our sailing adventures and also tips for travelers (well, currently we are fixing our 1985 steel motorsailer, so there is much more boatyard adventures for now). I’ve just started special series for aspiring digital nomads and posted a video called Digital Nomad Series – How to Travel for Free and Get Paid – Hopscotch the Globe on a Boat about crewseekers so you might want to see the video if you are looking into boat travels – they have super cool and unexpected opportunities for cheap or even free travels on boats. They do NOT have cargo ships over there, but maybe not everyone here wants to go on one? Anyways I thought that might be useful for some people!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTpW5uIJE7E

Also would love to collaborate on the blog/vlog to make an interview or a podcast for some interesting “boaters” stories if you are interested – shoot us an email.

Thank you for sharing! Dawn Hunters

Wow, I never knew this! I wish I were not so prone to seasickness, this sounds incredible. I would definitely go for the experience, the opportunity to visit other countries and take in the sights and sounds, plus the operations of a cargo ship are seriously impressive.

I am trying to get to Southeast Asia from Saudi Arabia. I am trying to leave in May. Because of COVID the airlines are grounded. Is there anyway I can book on a cargo ship?

great site thanks for all the info. I am looking to go from Barcelona to USA May of 2021, thanks in advance for any help

I have read that one can’t go to Hawai’i, Alaska, or any of the US insular terretories (Guam, Northern Marianas, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, USVI), by freighter because US-flagged freighters don’t take passengers, and foreign-flagged freighters (try saying that three times fast!) are not allowed to take passengers (or cargo, for that matter) between US ports.

However, would it be possible to take a freighter to these places from a Mexican or Canadian port?

Not that I’m a professional traveler, but why pay over $4k to travel in less luxury, and for over a month? You could go an an actual cruise for that money, or if you’re purely looking to travel, fly for a whole lot less. Is it just for the experience?

JR, I think the appeal of freighter travel is that you don’t have to deal with the huge crowds on a regular cruise ship, if you just want time to write, think, look at the ocean and chill totally, that’s the attraction. Yes it’s costly because the cruises are longer!

Some of us hate to fly.

Outside of the mental/health appeal of slow travel, it is much more environmentally friendly (as freighters carry cargo regardless of passenger, so your journey is essentially carbon neutral). Additionally, it is more expensive than a flight, but you’re also paying for several days of lodging and food.

I think some people are “simple” and don’t want luxury or to be pampered. I learned a lot about myself and personality over the years. I hold multiple college degrees—including a post-graduate degree in business. However, I learned and realized that I am happiest and most satisfied working on blue collar skilled trade industries. I learned that I don’t like suits and ties. I don’t like snooty people. I don’t like all the pomp and circumstance of luxury. I enjoy being around everyday working people. I think it will always be that way no matter how much money I have. I feel out of place in luxury places, but I feel right at home around everyday people. I love quiet and having lots of reflection time. I wear working man’s jeans and work boots everywhere I go. I think that living with humility and humbleness makes me feel comfortable.

Are there often any medicines not allowed on freighters?

lookin to travel from Miami to Portsmouth any ideas of cost and travel time

What about wifi?

Forget about wifi!

If one must, one can always bring a satellite phone or a satellite modem. With a satellite phone you pay per minute. With a satellite modem you pay for data. Both can be expensive so I highly suggest you not use, say, a satellite modem to watch YouTube videos or Netflix, but you can do email or chat or even place a phone call via GooglePhone or free VoIP Calls top actual phone numbers via TextNow.com and you can link your laptop to it!! So, you don’t have to be fully off-line. Or you could, if you must, here’s a “low-cost” option: https://satellitephonestore.com/catalog/sale/details/iridium-go-252 No, I don’t work for them. lol -but it’s the type of thing I’ve seen. Good for emails and chat or iMessaging. Just don’t do big Powder Puff attachments. lol Enjoy!

Did the Satellite modem or phone work out as you expected? Is it reliable? Which part of the world did you travel to? Does the cargo ship has wifi for their staff or captain?

I’m planning on a move to Japan and would like to know what freight ship companies handle transit between the U.S. (Port of Seattle Washington) and Japan. Unlike people doing really early planning for a trip later in the year, I’m aiming to make my move in a very short period of time (1-2 weeks). My last concern is if there are any direct shipping routes between the U.S. and Japan. I’d prefer as direct as possible for the quickest trip. I’m certainly not worried about finances.

How can i travel from Toronto to india by frieght

Put your car on the ship. Then you get on. There you go.

I traveled from Japan to southern California in summer 1985. From the above article now in the age of Internet, it looks like you have to (1) find what cargo companies travel your routes, (2) contact each one to get availability/price/procedure, (3) take the trip!

How can I travel one way from the US on a cargo ship, and take my own car on the same ship? I’d like to travel from the north-east US coast (possibly New York,…) to a northern port in France, Belgium, Netherlands, or Germany.

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United States

United States to Australia By Air freight, Cargo ship or Road

See the best way to ship your freight from United States to Australia by various transport modes including Air, Sea and Road. Compare transit times, emissions, route options and much more.

Air Freight

Departs Every 1-2 days

23 days 12h

Departs Every 1-2 weeks

Road / Truck

No options available

More useful links

United states to australia by air freight.

The quickest way to get from United States to Australia by plane will take about 14h 11m and departs from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and arrives into Brisbane International Airport (BNE). There are flights departing every 1-2 days on this route. United Airlines is one of the carriers that operates regular services on this route with flights departing 2-4 times a week.

Quickest air route

San francisco international airport to brisbane international airport.

Departs from

Every 1-2 days

Estimated emissions

386kg - 756kg CO₂ (per 100kg)

Most frequent

Chicago o'hare international airport to sydney kingsford smith international airport.

Every few hours

603kg - 1.53t CO₂ (per 100kg)

More air routes from United States to Australia

Explore more shipment routes including schedules and transit times.

United States to Australia by Container ship

The quickest way to get from United States to Australia by ship will take about 23 days 12h and departs from Los Angeles (USLAX) and arrives into Sydney (AUSYD). There are vessels departing every 1-2 weeks on this route. ANL is one of the carriers that operates regular services on this route with vessels departing every 2-4 weeks.

Quickest ocean route

Los angeles to sydney.

Port of loading

Every 1-2 weeks

1.37t CO₂ (per TEU)

Tacoma to Melbourne

2-4 times a week

1.47t - 2.02t CO₂ (per TEU)

More ocean routes from United States to Australia

More about shipping cargo and freight from United States to Australia by Air, Ocean and Road

The shortest shipping time by sea between United States and Australia is 23 days 12h. Ships depart from Los Angeles (USLAX) and arrive at Sydney (AUSYD) with scheduled departures Every 1-2 weeks.

There are scheduled container ships that depart every 1-2 weeks from Los Angeles (USLAX) and arrive into Sydney (AUSYD) around 23 days 12h later. These services are operated by ANL, CMA CGM, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd.

The quickest flight from United States to Australia takes around 14h 11m. Flights depart from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and arrive at Brisbane International Airport (BNE).

Scheduled flights between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Brisbane International Airport (BNE) depart every 1-2 days. These flights are serviced by United Airlines, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand and Air Canada and the typical transit time is around 14h 11m.

Yes there are dedicated cargo planes that fly regular scheduled services between United States and Australia. Cargo flights depart from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) with departures 2-4 times a day and a average flight time of around 1 day 15h. Qantas, China Eastern Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Asiana Airlines, Korean Air and Qatar Airways operates Boeing 747-400 Freighter, Airbus A330 Freighter, Boeing 747-8F Freighter, Boeing 747 Freighter, Boeing 747-8F Freighter, Boeing 747 Freighter, Boeing 777-200F Freighter and Boeing 777-200F Freighter on this route.

The distance between United States and Australia by cargo ship is 7,149 Nautical Miles (13,241 Kilometres / 8,227 Miles). This distance is measured by sea between Los Angeles (USLAX) and Sydney (AUSYD).

The distance between United States and Australia by air is around 11,378 Kilometres (7,070 Miles). This distance is measured following typical flight paths between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Brisbane International Airport (BNE).

1.37t CO₂ (per TEU) is the estimated emissions output (CO2e) when transporting a typical shipping container (1 TEU) from United States to Australia. This is calculated using the overall historical emissions of the average container ship on this trade lane and dividing it by the total projected capacity.

386kg - 756kg CO₂ (per 100kg) is the estimated emissions output (CO2e) when sending cargo by air from United States to Australia. This is calculated by determining the total fuel burn output of various aircraft that typically fly this route and dividing it by the total available cargo capacity in KGs.

Shipping from United States

• Los Angeles to Chengdu
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Shipping to Australia

• Chicago to Melbourne
• Porto to Brisbane
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Shipping Products from Australia to the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

Shipping products from Australia to the USA is a difficult task. Many considerations need to be made before shipping. The first consideration is whether you want to ship your goods by air or sea. If you choose air, you will have to deal with customs and arrange to deliver your goods on arrival in the US. If you choose to ship to the USA by sea, then you will have to find a company that has access to both Australian and American ports, as well as one that can offer competitive shipping rates for your items.

If you are looking for quotes on shipping products from Australia to the USA, then it would be best if you could provide specifics about the type of items being shipped so we can provide an accurate quote.

Ready to ship? Get instant freight quotes with this helpful tool:

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This article will tell you how to ship internationally and discuss some of the problems you might encounter.

Understanding Shipping Costs from Australia to the USA: What Do You Need to Consider?

Shipping costs may differ significantly depending on several factors, including the volume, weight, and dimensions of the package(s) being shipped, the goods of the package(s), and the mode of transportation. It's also vital to consider the shipment's insurance and the time of year.

SeaRates can help calculate the shipping costs for shipping from Australia to the USA, but as a general rule:

• Air freight is typically more expensive than sea freight (although it can be cheaper to send small packages via plane). Australian companies that ship large products such as trampolines to the USA, like Vuly Play , prefer sea freight as it allows for bulk freight discounts.
•  Shipping expensive goods with a high insurance premium will increase shipping costs.
• If you can’t fill a shipping container with your goods, LCL shipping (less than container load) is a cheaper shipping method than FCL shipping (full container load).

Considering all of these variables can be overwhelming. SeaRates’ Logistics Explorer can help you figure out the best freight rates; to see your options, all you need to know is your ports of origin and destination, when you plan to ship your cargo and what type of shipment you’re sending.

In general, the cheapest option for shipping from Australia to the United States is to contact a trusted Australian freight forwarding company to quote FCL shipping across the ocean outside the peak season.

Individual solutions for shipping from Australia to the USA

With your cargo planning in mind, SeaRates can provide you with a new digital freight solution that provides planning certainty for your shipments. By filling out this simple online form, you will provide us with all the necessary information and receive your individual quote from our expert team in a short time.

This will significantly decrease your turnaround time and improve the quotation process.

Get your quote now  

How long does it take to move cargo from Australia to the USA?

Door-to-door cargo shipping from Australia to the USA could take up to 58 days, depending on your chosen port of origin and destination, the products shipped, and the method of transportation.

Air freight shipping is the fastest transportation method, with cargo taking between 1 and 5 days to reach its destination port in the USA.

Ocean freight shipping takes longer. It can take up to 41 days for goods to reach their US destination port from Australia.

In addition, FCL shipping is faster than LCL shipping because of the logistics involved in loading and unloading the goods at either end of the journey.

Using SeaRates Distances & Time , you can determine how long it will take to ship your cargo from Australia to the USA using a variety of shipping options.

Calculate your shipping time  

Sea, Air freight time from Australia to the USA

When is the best time to ship from Australia to the USA?

Both air and sea freight rates, especially for FCL shipping, are affected by seasonal factors.

The main peak season to consider when shipping from Australia to the USA is mid-August to mid-October, ahead of the holiday shopping season. During peak times, prices increase because demand is high and container space is low. Therefore, shipping freight away from the peak season is cheaper.

The time of month you choose to transport goods can also affect the price.

Booking a shipment in the last two weeks of the month can be cheaper because carriers are trying to fill spots on vessels. The beginning of the month can be a more expensive time, as carriers can levy General Rate Increases on cargo spots.

Generally, the cheapest shipping costs come from booking early.

What are the rates for shipping from Australia to the USA?

As shipping rates vary significantly, the SeaRates Logistics Explorer can help you find a quote that suits your needs.

After adding in the basic details, such as the destination and date of shipment, the marketplace will allow you to compare various freight journeys, allowing you to view the details of how your shipment will be processed and the transit duration. The marketplace also provides a cost breakdown for each leg of the journey to help you control your budget and spending.

You can request a more tailored quote. This more detailed process asks specific questions about your shipment, such as its commodity type, HS Code, and weight. SeaRates will then contact you directly with some options.

Check rates now  

Key considerations for container packing: What to keep in mind?

Taking a practical approach to your container packaging requirements when shipping cargo is vital. You will need to consider your shipment’s weight, dimensions, and packaging material.

While there is a lot to think about, SeaRates’ Load Calculator can help you understand what your shipment will look like and the space it will need.

The Load Calculator will ask you a series of questions about your shipment, including what equipment you will need to ship, your cargo dimensions, and what shipping method you will use.

The calculator will finally produce an image of what your cargo will look like in your chosen container and the total volume and weight it will achieve.

Essential shipping documents for Australia to USA shipments: What's required?

Correctly packaged and labeled cargo is essential for a smooth journey from Australia through the customs clearance process in the USA. Having the necessary documents, such as an importation permit for certain goods, a commercial invoice, and a packing list.

The shipping documents you need when shipping to the USA include:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of lading
• Certificate of origin
• Letter of Credit or other payment terms

You may also need a special shipping permit if you’re shipping certain goods, like hazardous materials .

Cargo insurance: Is it worth the investment?

We encourage our customers to always insure their cargo. Cargo insurance is often your only protection if your shipment is damaged or lost.

You can find cargo insurance through the freight forwarding community or a third-party insurance agent. SeaRates can also help you find the right insurance policy for you.

Insurance costs are typically in the region of 0.3% to 0.5% of your Commercial Invoice value.

What are the major shipping ports in Australia?

Your factory, supplier, or freight forwarder will likely be happy to offer advice on which port is right for you. Certain ports may prove better for you based on their location, customs processes, and goods handling volumes, or perhaps your factory has a special agreement with a particular port. 

Major ocean cargo ports in Australia include: 

Major air cargo ports in australia include: , what are the major shipping ports in the usa, major ocean cargo ports in the usa include:.

• New York and New Jersey
• Port Newark
• Hampton Roads
• New Orleans
• Corpus Christi
• Greater Baton Rouge
• Los Angeles

Major air cargo ports in the USA include:

• Chicago O’Hare
• New York, JFK
• Philadelphia

Is it time to find an easy route from Australia to the USA?

Shipping to a new destination can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be.

The SeaRates platform ensures you secure the most convenient route at the best price. We aim to help you navigate the complexities of the market so that you can concentrate on growing your business.

Lilia Khovrak is a professional content manager from Odessa, Ukraine. Loves life by the sea. Dreams to see Paris and eat a croissant on the thresholds of Notre Dame de Paris. Hates to read meaningless articles.

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Matador Original Series

How to: Travel by Cargo Ship

Article updated on Sunday, September 10th, 2017.

I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED a collection of brown leather trunks with brightly colored stickers from all the world’s corners. They remind me of travelers in the early 1900s who spent days on the ocean in order to reach their destinations. Back then, arriving at the destination was as much a part of the trip as the destination itself.

• Taking a cargo ship to Southeast Asia? Here’s all the gear for backpacking Southeast Asia.
• Taking a cargo ship to Latin America? Here’s all the gear for trekking in Latin America.

So when I needed to get from Guadeloupe in the Caribbean to France I asked myself, “is it still possible to travel by boat?” There are, after all, still cargo ships that carry everything from automobiles to antiques over the ocean, so why couldn’t I just hop on one myself and enjoy an ocean voyage? A few months later I was on a CMA-CGM cargo ship headed from Pointe-à-Pitre to Dunkerque.

Note that if you are having your car shipped overseas and wonder if it were possible to travel with your vehicle and save a little money while having a fun experience, it is well worth asking the cargo line whether they offer passenger rooms on their ships.

Traveling on a cargo ship is very much possible, and while it isn’t considered a luxury cruise, it is still a great way to travel — even at a cost of roughly $100 USD daily, it is worth the time to find a spot on a ship.

My nine days on the Atlantic included gourmet French food, duty-free Porto, and hours spent mesmerized by the blinking lights of the GPS. Yes, you can still travel to many locations in the world by boat. It was by far one of the best trips I’ve ever taken.

Here are some pointers for researching and planning your own adventure on the high seas:

1. What exactly is traveling by cargo ship?

Most of the major global shipping lines including CMA-CGM offer paying passengers an opportunity to hop on one of their lines. As a paying passenger, you are accommodated in guest cabins and have access to most areas of the ship.

Cargo ships have a limited number of rooms for passengers, so be prepared to start planning your ventures, and book the trip at least 6 months in advance to ensure you have a spot on the ship. Your fare will usually include port fees as well as meals and your room.

Captains and crew spend a lot of time on the water, and they are usually happy to have a fresh face walking around their workplace, meaning that they may even invite you to eat with them, give you tours of the ship and maybe even have you over for an Officer’s happy hour.

2. Where can I go?

You can travel almost anywhere by cargo ship.

The global shipping industry is huge, and many ports like New York, Shanghai, Los Angeles, and Sydney welcome several ships daily.

Shipping companies have certain lines covering specific routes, and many of them will allow you to buy a ticket for one of these lines and disembark and board as you please if there is a ship leaving on your chosen day. Just remember to book your passage in advance because you can’t just show up at a port to jump on a ship on a whim.

A word of advice to the cargo ship traveler, be flexible. Schedules can, and very often do change and when that happens, you will need to hop on and off more than one ship during the trip.

This is often how round the world routes work: book your freighter ticket and then plan in a few weeks in every major port. With freighters, the possibilities for your adventure are almost endless. Just think: anywhere global commodities are shipped are places that you can disembark and spend time soaking up the local culture before re-boarding.

3. What will it cost?

A common misconception is that if you are willing to spend an extended amount of time on open water you can score an inexpensive mode of transportation to your next travel destination.

Traveling as a passenger on a cargo ship is, in fact, more expensive than your average airfare. But before you scoff at the price — plan on an average price of $80-140/day — consider this: your ticket pays for room, meals, and experiences that cannot be had anywhere else.

The days where a person could work for their passage are long gone. The cargo lines will not allow you to work your way across the Atlantic just so you can have a free trip overseas. You will, however, get to meet crew members and will most likely find yourself spending a great deal of time getting to know many of them when they take a break or have some time off to relax a little.

4. Life on a ship

As a passenger, you are surrounded by the everyday life of the vessel and her crew. Schedules revolve around meal times, which can be extravagant events depending on the chef.

If you are a gourmet traveler, consider traveling with one of the French companies which are known for their high-quality cuisine and table wine.

Besides meals, the rest of the day is spent as you please. Make your way up to the bridge and chat with the captain about sea navigation or schedule a tour with the head mechanic to see the vessel’s impressive technical insides. Officers on cargo ships are often willing to show you how things work to keep the ship afloat and to keep things safe.

You will quickly find that the freighter environment is a rough but enjoyable one; think lots of steel and salt water. Before the evening meal, meet for a pre-dinner drink with your co-passengers in the guest lounge area and discuss the events of the day.

You may think that a week on open water can give you a case of cabin fever, but a slower pace of life can be much welcomed and enjoyable.

There is something to note about health and fitness levels when traveling on a cargo ship. Because these ships usually do not have a doctor on board, you should be healthy and fit enough to take on such a voyage. This is a safety precaution as the ship wouldn’t want anyone being injured or in need of medical attention and be at sea without a doctor to help.

5. Planning

So you’ve decided that freighter travel is for you, what now? Do your internet research, there are several websites maintained by individuals seduced by traveling on the high seas with great tips and long lists of different routes around the world.

Go to the websites of the freighter companies and send them an email asking about passenger fares. Another option is travel agencies that specialize in freighter travel like A la Carte Freighter Travel based in Montreal.

Some helpful websites to get you started:

• https://www.freightercruises.com/
• http://www.hamburgsued-frachtschiffreisen.de/en/freightertravel/index.jsp

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Ocean and Air Shipping from the US to Australia

Fcl, lcl and air shipping comprehensive guide and instant online quote.

The United States is Australia’s biggest economic partner. Trade deals between the two countries are formalized in the Australia and United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) which was signed in 2005. Since then, importing from the US to Australia has grown by 91%.

If your business has established trade links between the nations, or if you’re looking to export from the US to Australia for the first time, this page will be of interest. Its varied content includes information about ocean and air shipping from the US to Australia, as well as guidance on customs clearance and shipping transit times. You will also find profiles of key airports and seaports in both countries.

• Know Your Options for Shipping Freight From the US to Australia

Air and ocean shipping are the only ways to ship freight from the US to Australia. Each mode of transportation has benefits and drawbacks that we’ll outline below.

Ocean Freight From the US to Australia

Less than Container Load (LCL): Goods from multiple shippers share the same container with LCL shipping. It’s typically the most cost-effective way to ship smaller, non-urgent consignments from the US to Australia.

Full Container Load (FCL): FCL shipping allows shippers to rent and fill an entire container and pay for it to be shipped aboard a cargo vessel from the US to Australia. With exclusive use of a container, businesses can decide to wholly or partially fill it. FCL is usually less expensive than LCL for shipping larger consignments.

Air Freight from the US to Australia

The fastest way to import from the US to Australia is with an air freight carrier. Consignments can be transported in as little as two days, although five to eight days is more realistic. It is, however, the most expensive way to ship freight.

• How Much Does it Cost to Ship Cargo From the US to Australia?

Plenty of factors come into play when calculating the cost of shipping freight from the US to Australia. These include:

• The type of freight being shipped
• The cargo’s size, weight and volume
• The mode of shipping that’s been selected: LCL or FCL ocean shipping, or air freight?
• The distance the consignment needs to be transported
• The preferred method of delivery: door-to-door, port-to-door, port-to-port, or door-to-port?

The cost of ocean and air cargo is heavily influenced by the weight of the consignment.

Normally, there won’t be much difference between the cost of ocean or air shipping for freight that weighs under 100 kg. However, freight forwarders will not quote for cargo weighing under 35 kg. You should engage international couriers to get a quote for loads in this weight bracket.

For goods that weigh 100 kg and over, ocean shipping will almost certainly offer the most cost-effective option. Air freight is expensive for heavy cargo.

• How Long Does it Take to Ship Cargo From the US to Australia?

The US and Australia are both vast nations. Shippers have plenty of airports and seaports to choose from as their port of origin and destination.

Shipment times will depend on the mode of transport you select. Air freight is easily the fastest. Aircraft travel at an average speed of 900 kilometers per hour, compared to a cargo vessel’s much slower 35 km/h. Air cargo typically takes two to eight days to reach Australia from the United States. A time span of 33 to 65 days is more realistic for shipping a container from the US to Australia by sea.

Distance also has a bearing on the time required for shipments from the US to reach Australia. Being such big nations, the distances between the port of arrival and port of origin varies greatly. For example, it’s 12,066 km from Los Angeles to Sydney, while New York to Perth is 18,690 km.

How Long Does It Take to Ship Cargo by Sea From the US to Australia?

Below is a selection of ocean transportation times that give you an idea of how long it takes to move a shipping container from the US to Australia:

• Baltimore to Brisbane – 44 days FCL
• Chicago to Brisbane – 44 days LCL
• Chicago to Fremantle – 52 days LCL
• Chicago Sydney – 41 days LCL
• Charleston to Adelaide – 47 days FCL
• Houston to Brisbane – 44 days FCL
• Houston to Fremantle – 38 days FCL, 54 days LCL
• Houston to Melbourne – 40 days LCL
• Los Angeles to Adelaide – 34 days LCL
• Los Angeles to Brisbane – 39 days FCL, 39 days LCL
• Los Angeles to Melbourne – 44 days FCL, 31 days LCL
• Los Angeles to Sydney – 44 days LCL
• Long Beach to Brisbane – 38 days FCL
• Long Beach to Sydney – 36 days FCL
• Miami to Adelaide – 57 days FCL, 47 days LCL
• Miami to Fremantle – 65 days FCL
• Miami to Melbourne – 41 days LCL
• Miami to Sydney – 38 days LCL
• New York to Fremantle – 59 days LCL
• New York to Melbourne – 45 days LCL
• New York to Sydney – 45 days FCL, 44 days LCL
• Oakland to Fremantle – 35 days FCL
• Seattle to Brisbane – 38 days LCL
• San Francisco to Brisbane – 39 days LCL
• San Francisco to Fremantle – 52 days LCL
• San Francisco to Melbourne – 33 days LCL

How Long Does It Take to Ship Cargo by Air From the US to Australia?

Please see the below examples of transit times for air freight from the US to Australia:

• Atlanta to Sydney or Brisbane – 5 days
• Boston or Philadelphia to Brisbane – 6 days
• Charlotte to Melbourne – 4 days
• Charlotte or Miami to Perth – 5 days
• Denver to Adelaide – 6 days
• Dallas to Perth – 3 days
• Dallas or Chicago to Sydney – 7 days
• Detroit to Adelaide or Sydney – 5 days
• Houston to Melbourne or Perth – 7 days
• New York or Los Angeles to Adelaide – 5 days
• New York to Sydney – 6 days
• Los Angeles to Melbourne – 4 days
• Los Angeles to Sydney – 5 days
• Chicago or Seattle to Brisbane – 5 days
• San Francisco to Melbourne – 5 days
• Customs Clearance in the US and Australia

Customs clearance is mandatory for every commercial freight export from the US to Australia. The process is complex. Many companies choose to engage a freight forwarder to manage it. Doing so negates the chance of unnecessary delays affecting your shipment and will ensure your consignment is compliant with shipping rules and regulations in the United States and Australia.

Your freight forwarder will still require you to play a role in the customs clearance process. For example you’ll be responsible for providing the compulsory documentation (or, in some cases, the details enabling your forwarder to provide them). Customs officials in the US and Australia will almost certainly want to see:

A Commercial Invoice

A Packing List

A Certificate of Origin

A Letter of Credit or other payment terms (depends on the contract between the parties involved)

An Airway Bill for air cargo or a Bill of Lading for ocean freight (you can leave this to Shipa Freight)

Samples of these are available on the documents list page we’ve compiled, so you can take a closer look if you wish. You may need to submit additional paperwork with your consignment. A permit, certificate, or license may be required. It’s all dependent on the type of goods you are shipping.

• Should You Choose Ocean Freight or Air Freight?

Ocean Freight

No matter where you’re shipping from in the United States, sending sea freight to a port in Australia is a long haul. Most consignments safely ship in a standard container that’s usually either 20ft or 40ft long. The smaller type can fit 10-11 standard pallets, the larger up to 21 pallets.

The nature of your goods may require them to be shipped in a special kind of container, perhaps one with an open-top, or refrigeration or ventilation capabilities. Your forwarder will advise you of your options. They can also help you decide between the two ocean shipping modes available to you—FCL or LCL.

To help you get ahead of the game, we’ve outlined some of the advantages and disadvantages of both modes of shipping. This will help you make an informed decision about which is best for you.

Considerations for LCL Freight Shipping

LCL shipping could be best for you if:

• Your consignment will occupy no more than six standard pallets
• Your delivery is not urgent
• Your freight can be safely shipped in a shared container
• The supplier or recipient does not have the facilities to load and seal a container
• You understand that the extra logistics associated with LCL shipping (consolidation and deconsolidation) could add extra time to your shipment when compared to FCL shipping

Your business might be advised to avoid LCL shipping if:

• Your cargo has to be in Australia by a certain date
• Your freight is delicate and may be damaged by the extra handling required with LCL shipping
• Your goods have a short shelf-life and will not survive the long ocean shipping transit time
• Your consignment is large, heavy, or otherwise unsuitable for shipping in a shared container

Learn more about Less than Container Load on our dedicated page on LCL shipping .

Considerations for FCL Freight Shipping

If LCL shipping doesn’t meet your needs, importing from the US to Australia using an FCL service could be what you’re looking for, especially if:

• Your cargo needs to arrive in Australia by a specified date
• You’re not happy with the idea of your goods sharing a container with other products
• The supplier and the recipient both have the facilities to load and seal a container in the US
• Your recipient can unload the container at their place of business
• Your shipment is large enough to fill at least half the capacity of a 20ft container

Learn more about Full Container Load on our dedicated page on FCL shipping .

Air Freight

Businesses tend to choose air shipping if:

• They need their goods shipped from the US to Australia as quickly as possible
• Their freight is perishable and won’t survive weeks in transit at sea
• The consignee in Australia needs the goods urgently
• The cargo occupies three pallets at most and is safe to ship aboard an aircraft
• The goods are high-value, needing the stringent levels of security offered by airlines and airport operators

Learn more about Air Freight on our dedicated page by clicking here .

• Ocean Cargo Port Guide

Cargo Ports of Origin in the US

Port Facts:

• Dubbed by many as the container gateway to the Americas
• Florida’s biggest port, and the ninth-largest in the United States
• Situated on Dodge Island on the Miami River
• More than 7.4 million tonnes of sea freight are processed annually
• Only 1,850 kilometers from the Panama Canal

Owned By: Miami Dade County.

Annual Container Volume: >1.1 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: USMIA.

• America’s most productive port due to 37 crane movements every hour
• 13 of the world’s top-15 container carriers offer services to and from the port
• A new container terminal is planned for North Charleston

Owned By: South Carolina Ports Authority.

Annual Container Volume: >2.4 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: USCHS.

• The US’s second-busiest container port (the neighboring Port of Los Angeles is the busiest)
• A huge port occupying 40 kilometers of waterfront
• Just three kilometers from downtown Long Beach
• The distance from Long Beach to Sydney is 12,055 km across the Pacific Ocean

Owned By: City of Long Beach.

Annual Container Volume: >8.1 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: USLGB.

• The full name of the port is Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore
• 2019 saw a record cargo throughput of 43.6 million tonnes
• The US’s number-one port for vehicle imports and exports

Owned By: Maryland Port Administration.

Annual Container Volume: > 1 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: USBAL.

• The biggest container freight facility in the Gulf of Mexico
• Processes over 70% of sea freight transported via the Gulf
• Its two container terminals are called Barbours Cut and Bayport
• Conveniently located for suppliers and manufacturers based in Galveston, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, or Dallas

Owned By: Port of Houston Authority.

Annual Container Volume: >2.9 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: USHOU.

Other Ports in the US

Shipa Freight can also arrange shipping to Australia from the following ports in the United States:

• San Francisco
• Port Everglades

Los Angeles

• New Orleans

Cargo Ports of Arrival in Australia

• Medium-sized natural river port
• Situated 14 kilometers northwest of central Adelaide
• The port’s cargo facility occupies a 23-hectare site
• Infrastructure includes a 510-meter quay and 3,000 square meters of storage space

Owned By: Flinders Ports Pty Ltd. Annual Container Volume: >322,000 TEUs. UN/LOCODE: AUADL.

• Located on Fisherman Island in the Brisbane River
• Australia’s fastest-growing seaport
• Third-busiest port in Australia
• Infrastructure includes nine deep-water container berths
• Convenient port of arrival for goods headed to locations in Queensland

Owned By: Port of Brisbane Corporation.

Annual Container Volume: >1.4 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: AUBNE.

Fremantle (Perth)

• Located on the Swan River in the Perth Metropolitan Region
• Western Australia’s biggest and busiest port
• About 1,000 container vessels call at the port every year

Owned By: Fremantle Port Authority.

Annual Container Volume: >780,000 TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: AUFRE.

• Located on the Yarra River
• The fourth-busiest container port in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Australia’s largest container freight facility
• Capacity to handle the world’s largest container vessels

Owned By: The Lonsdale Consortium.

Annual Container Volume: >3 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: AUMEL.

• Also known as Port Botany
• Over one-third of Australia’s annual container traffic is processed here
• Occupies a 40-hectare site
• Convenient port of arrival for goods required in New South Wales

Owned By: Sydney Ports Corporation.

Annual Container Volume: >2.6 million TEUs.

UN/LOCODE: AUSTD.

• Flying Your Freight: Airport Guide

Airports of Origin in the US

Chicago o’hare.

Airport Facts:

• Located to the northwest of Downtown Chicago
• The two main cargo-handling areas are in the south and northeast of the airfield
• Facilities include 190,000 square meters of airside cargo storage space
• Parking space for 40 wide-body freighters
• Over 18 million tonnes of air freight were processed here in 2018

Australia Airports Served: Sydney.

Chicago to Australia Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: ORD.

Dallas-Fort Worth

• Second-biggest airport in the United States—the biggest is Denver
• Operates services to 260 destinations
• Ninth-largest international gateway in the US
• Convenient airport if your supply chain moves goods from Dallas, Fort Worth, Euless, Grapevine, or Irving

Dallas to Australia Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: DFW.

• Located in the Westchester neighborhood, 30 km southwest of downtown Los Angeles
• Ranks as the world’s tenth-busiest air cargo hub
• The only US airport to rank in the top five for both cargo and passenger traffic
• Most cargo is imported or exported aboard passenger aircraft
• Over two million tonnes of freight were handled here in 2019

Australia Airports Served: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne.

Los Angeles to Australia Cargo-Only Operators: FedEx Express, Qantas Freight.

IATA Code: LAX.

• Also known as MIA or Wilcox Field
• Located 13 kilometers northwest of downtown Miami
• No direct flights to Australia
• Distance from Miami to Sydney is 15,017 kilometers
• Convenient airport for any supplier or manufacturer based in Miami Springs, Hialeah, or Doral

Australia Airports Served: None.

Miami to Australia Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: MIA.

New York JFK

• Located in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens
• The airport has four runways, including the third-longest commercial runway in North America
• Cargo facilities are located to the north and west of the main terminals
• Nearly 100 cargo carriers operate services out of JFK Airport
• Qantas is testing direct flights between New York and Sydney

New York to Australia Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: JFK.

Other Airports in the US

Shipa Freight can also manage the shipment of goods to Australia by direct or indirect services from these other airports in the United States:

• Philadelphia

Airports of Arrival in Australia

• Fifth-busiest air cargo facility in Australia
• Just six kilometers west of Adelaide city center
• Can handle wide-body aircraft
• Serves nine international destinations
• The majority of air freight arrives aboard passenger services
• No direct flights from the United States

Connected Airports in the US: None.

US to Adelaide Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA CODE: ADL.

• Australia’s third-largest air-cargo gateway
• Handles 13% of the nation’s air-freighted exports and imports
• About 190,000 tonnes of freight are handled here every year
• Serves 29 international airports
• Ideal airport of arrival for goods destined for South East Queensland

Connected Airports in the US: Los Angeles, San Francisco.

US to Brisbane Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: BNE.

• Located 23 km outside of central Melbourne
• Officially called Tullamarine Airport
• Nearly one-third of Australia’s air freight is handled here
• Ranks as Australia’s second-busiest airport—Sydney is the busiest
• The airport has two intersecting runways, with more planned

US to Melbourne Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA Code: MEL.

• Australia’s fourth-busiest airport
• Situated ten kilometers east of central Perth
• Two runways accommodate wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380
• Convenient airport of arrival for freight destined for Perth, Belmont, Kalamunda, Swan, and other locations in Western Australia

US to Perth Cargo-Only Operators: None.

IATA CODE: PER.

• Full name is Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
• Situated eight kilometers south of central Sydney
• Around 45% of Australia’s air cargo is handled here
• Over 80% of air freight is transported aboard passenger services
• Infrastructure includes seven cargo terminals and three runways

Connected Airports in the US: Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, Chicago.

US to Sydney Cargo-Only Operators: DHL Aviation, FedEx Express, Qantas Freight.

IATA Code: SYD.

• Ocean and Air Shipping From the US to Australia: Why Shipa Freight?

Shipa Freight is making it easier for all types of businesses to import from the US to Australia. We’re taking away the hassles of international shipping and customs clearance, and giving shippers access to an innovative online platform that simplifies supply chains.

Choosing Shipa Freight when importing from the US to Australia gives your business the following benefits:

• Easy registration
• Quick quotes
• Online booking and payment
• No customs clearance hassles—we’ll handle it
• 24/7 access to a friendly customer support team
• Assurance that your consignment complies with all shipping regulations

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Air Freight Shipping Documents

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Freighter Travel (NZ)

Get in touch today to discuss your travel plans

Visit places you have only dreamed about, where traditional cruise ships may not call…

Make your journey your destination.

For most people who enjoy Freighter travelling, the time spent at sea is the reason that they sail   MORE…

Spend time on the bridge, on deck or in the engine room

For everybody, what they do at sea is a personal experience   MORE…

Travel green - travel with zero carbon footprint

Yes, it’s true, voyaging by Freighter is considered Carbon Neutral   MORE…

Can't fly or won't fly? Travel by cargo ship!

Freighter Travel an ideal choice. Its slow, and relaxing   MORE…

Example Voyages

We don’t offer package voyages – there are so many options available to you that we like to create a personalised itinerary to suit your needs..

For Example, here is a voyage that My wife and I really like – Duration – 27 days for € 2700.00

Sail from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Singapore, Qingdao (China), Pusan (Korea) then back to China again – calling at Shanghai, Ningbo, Nansha, Yantian, Chiwan and then to Malaysian ports of Tanjung Pelepas or Kuala Lumpur – doesn’t it sound marvelous?

MORE…

Travel Options

One of the great advantages of traveling by cargo ship is the amazing flexibility available to you, the passenger..

We can arrange your connecting flights, rental car, accommodation and/or tours between cruises.

You can join the ship for as long as you wish. You may even choose to disembark from one ship, spend a week ashore at a place of your choice, and then join another ship for the rest of your voyage.

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Cargo Ships, Catamarans, & More: 10 Unique Alternatives To Regular Cruising

T here are plenty of amazing ways to explore the water bodies of the world. While the majority of travelers go with the more popular cruising options, it is exciting to try something new occasionally. These cool alternatives to cruising are super exciting, and even the most adventurous of travelers will fall in love with one of them. Without further ado, here are some epic cruising alternatives to try on one's next adventure.

Submarine Dives

Navy personnel are not the only people that get to enjoy submarine cruises. Travelers can too, and the experience is memorable. Submarine dives offer amazing opportunities to explore parts of the water that ships and divers cannot go to, which can sometimes be up to a thousand feet below sea level.

This adventure is sure to make one feel like a Navy SEAL embarking on a dangerous mission.

Submarine trips in the US aren't super common. However, they do exist. Travelers will have the ultimate experience if they book the best submarine tours in the US .

Whitewater Rafting

Although it does not come with the luxurious amenities of regular cruises, whitewater rafting adventures generate thrills that cruises do not offer. Rafters get a ton of exercise as their muscles battle rapids, and they get splashed with water - rather than just lazying about on a luxury cruise.

There are many destinations around the world where one can spend an entire vacation whitewater rafting. One such place is Costa Rica, where there are plenty of epic whitewater rafting destinations with different classes of rapids. Other places with the best whitewater rafting in the world include the Colorado River in the United States, the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, and the Mitta River in Australia.

Whitewater rafting may seem similar to kayaking (albeit much more strenuous and exhilarating), but the latter is much different. Kayaking, unlike whitewater rafting, is generally a calmer and more relaxing way to explore the earth’s waterbodies. Although some brave souls use kayaks over vast water bodies, it is generally safer to kayak in smaller waterbodies where there are fewer waves.

Kayaking is a great alternative to cruise ships because it gets people so close to the water and its surroundings. Plus, kayakers can go to places that ships cannot go to. Canoes are very similar to kayaks, so this also applies to them.

Related: Kayaking For Beginners: What To Know & What To Pack

Catamaran Trips

Catamaran boats are double-hull boats, so they are perfect for those who want more space while on their cruise. On catamarans, there is more living space, which makes cruising on these vessels great for families with kids.

Besides the extra space, Catamaran boats are more balanced on the water; hence cruising on these vessels feels more relaxing, even in unstable waters. Due to the reduced rock and roll effects that the sea waves have on catamarans, those onboard will be less likely to suffer from seasickness, too.

Amazon River Cruises

As the name suggests, these are cruises that take passengers through the mighty Amazon River . These cruises are exciting as they offer opportunities to explore the incredible plant and animal life of the largest rainforest in the world.

The Amazon River cruise is arguably the greatest wildlife expedition in the world because there is no place on earth as biodiverse as the forest it goes through. Those onboard these riverboats will feel like some of the greatest explorers in history while on the trips.

River Cruises

While the Amazon River Cruise focuses on one particular river, it is important to note that there are other rivers around the world where one can enjoy exciting cruises.

Although it may seem familiar, river cruises are quite different from the more popular sea cruises because one will be able to see a lot of greenery, wildlife, and cities on the way instead of just being in a massive ship in the middle of a vast sea.

Sailboat Cruises

As more people turn to environmentally friendly modes of traveling , sailboats have become increasingly popular -and they are also exciting. One does not have to be Greta or an avid environmentalist to enjoy sailing. It’s a peaceful and unique experience to cruise on these vessels, especially those with luxury amenities.

Sailboat cruising brings one closer to the water and makes one feel like humans of old who used these vessels to explore the world.

Cargo Ship Travel

Traveling by cargo ship is one of the most unique adventures in the world . It is an opportunity to truly enjoy the serenity of the sea. While they may not come with loads of amenities like cruise ships, the lack thereof is kind of what makes cargo ships so peaceful. This means that even though there may be no Wi-Fi or nightclubs, one will not have to deal with crowded swimming pools and noisy bars.

It is instead a slow and peaceful ride to the next port with plenty of opportunities to get involved in the everyday running of the ship.

Related: 5 Reasons To Consider Cargo Ship Travel (5 Why Not)

Jet Boat Rides

Jetboats are small and fast, and this makes them thrilling ways to explore the waters of the earth. While their small size enables them to reach places regular ships can’t go, their powerful engines make them move with incredible speed.

The excitement that those few minutes riding on these vehicles can bring is arguably more than what hours of regular ship cruises can offer.

Houseboat Rental

Houseboats are on water what RVs are on land. They are homes that are not permanently positioned in a single location but can move to wherever the owner wants. Instead of housing hundreds and even thousands of people at once, as cruise ships do, these houseboats make the experience more personal by only accommodating a few people.

Whether people are spending the vacation with family, friends, or business partners, a houseboat is the perfect way to do it away from land and cruise ships.

America faces a challenge to deliver on AUKUS submarine deal, US Navy head concedes

A US Navy executive has conceded they have "a long ways to go" to increase shipbuilding to the necessary level to deliver on an agreement to provide nuclear-powered submarines to Australia.

Navy representatives have been questioned by members of Congress who are concerned about the Biden administration's budget proposal to halve next year's procurement of the submarines.

The proposal, to build one Virginia-class submarine instead of two, comes despite a significant shortfall in America's own fleet, and a need to increase production to provide submarines to Australia under the AUKUS deal.

Members of the congressional Seapower and Projection Forces subcommittee on Wednesday local time voiced concerns that the budget decision could worsen existing skill shortages and supply chain problems, which have been hampering shipbuilding since the pandemic.

"The decision to include only one Virginia-class submarine in the budget request is not aligned with the two-plus-one cadence that was predicated under the AUKUS agreement," Republican Congressman Trent Kelly, who chairs the subcommittee, told the hearing.

"Sending a strong demand signal is essential for maintaining industrial capabilities and international confidence in our naval production.

"Reducing our order from two boats to one in this year's budget does not inspire confidence, nor does it forecast ability, to our industry partners or allies."

The US Navy is only building about 1.3 submarines a year, and is not expected to consistently hit its target of two boats a year until 2029.

The navy's assistant secretary for research, development and acquisition, Nickolas Guertin, said a recent review had led to significant improvements in shipbuilding capacity, but "we’re not there yet".

"We need to get back to [building] two boats per year for submarines, and then even get past that, up to two-and-a-third boats, so we can honour our commitments with our AUKUS partners," he told the subcommittee.

"We are making very good strides in that direction.

"The improvements we're making in the ship industrial base, including workforce training and investments in capacity, have been bearing fruit, but we have a long ways to go."

Before the hearing, Democratic Congressman Joe Courtney circulated a memo to his colleagues that highlighted "growing momentum" in the submarine industrial base. He said it was experiencing a dynamic recovery and remarkable growth, but procurement stability was needed to keep things on the up.

"It is important to remember that cutting procurement going back to the 1990s is precisely the reason why the submarine industrial base has eroded over the last 30 years," Mr Courtney told Wednesday's hearing.

In February, the president of a labour union that represents some shipyard workers wrote a letter to US President Joe Biden urging him to prioritise funding for two Virginia-class submarines a year for 2025 and beyond. 

Brian Bryant, from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, said it was necessary for the long-term health of the domestic shipbuilding industrial base.

"This industry cannot thrive as a feast-or-famine endeavour," he wrote.

"A clear market signal of consistent two-per-year funding is absolutely vital to maintain and grow the necessary highly-skilled workforce and promote the industry partnerships needed to ensure success in efficient submarine production."

Under the AUKUS pact, Australia plans to buy at least three Virginia-class submarines from the US from the early 2030s, and provide more than $4.5 billion to boost America's submarine industrial base.

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The Israeli military said artillery and fighter jet strikes had hit around 40 targets in southern Lebanon on Wednesday as the intense fighting of recent days continued to escalate, with Hezbollah firing dozens of rockets at an Israeli border village.

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Trump 2.0: How US allies are preparing for a second term

Germany is waging a charm offensive inside the Republican Party. Japan is lining up its own Trump whisperer. Mexican government officials are talking to Camp Trump. And Australia is busy making laws to help Trump-proof its U.S. defense ties.

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Cargo passenger ships UK to Australia

Cargo passenger ships UK to Australia. Except this isn’t exactly tourism as we know it. Going on a freight cruise is probably the most little-known See More , secret and off-beat form of travel there is today to Cargo passenger ships UK to Australia. On any cargo ship voyage, there will rarely be more than ten other paying travellers on board (the maximum they can afford to accommodate); on average there might be about four or five you, but very often for passenger ships UK to Australia, you can be the only one for Cargo passenger ships UK. There are around 30,000 large oceangoing ships in the world but only about 1% of those carry both cargo and passengers for passenger ships UK to Australia See More . That 1% will either be a freighter or a mail/ supply ship, the latter usually doing routes to isolated coastal communities and distant islands in Cargo passenger ships as Cargo passenger.

Timing and planning however, is something that shouldn’t be of the upmost concern if you’re considering a freight cruise . This unusual style of voyage serves travellers that aren’t on a tight schedule for Cargo passenger ships UK. If you want to get really off-the-grid and travel to the far ends of the earth, which I’m guessing you do since you’re still reading, sailing itineraries can range from two weeks to 100 days in duration about Cargo passenger ships UK to Australia, depending where you board. Ships can also face delays, occasionally arrive in port at night or decide to bypass a port at the last minute See More . But alright, you want to know what the digs are like; what is life like traveling on a cargo ship ? As you might expect, accommodation comes without the frills as Cargo passenger, but passenger cabins on a cargo ship are large and more spacious than cabins on your average cruise ship. Beds and furnishings are functional and pleasant enough, but far from fancy in Cargo passenger ships . Located on the upper decks, you get private bathrooms, air conditioning, possibly a small refrigerator, TV, window views that may or may not be obstructed by the odd shipping container . Some freight ships have swimming pools, but there are no casinos aboard and no glitzy evening shows on offer. In fact, there’s not supposed to be any organised activities at all, except for mealtimes. This is a working ship and you’re along for the ride. Officers and crew are typically friendly and welcome a new face but they’re hired to run the ship, not entertain passengers. On the gastronomic front, no two cargo ships are the same and menus can vary from Gallic grub to spicy Filipino dishes, depending on the chef’s nationality See More . Mealtimes are shared with the captain and crew in the communal dining room, but on occasion, the crew might roast fish, or even a pig out on deck for passenger ships UK to Australia. After dinner, there’s no one pressuring you to participate in the evening’s organised activities. It’s up to you to mix your own scotch and soda, take it out on your cabin deck and watch the sun go down. The trade-off for the lack of amenities on a freight cruise is a high degree of privacy.

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