Retiree discovers the cheapest way to cruise the world
Seeing the world from the deck of a cruise ship might be at the top of many New Zealander’s bucket list, but for some, the high cost of a luxury cruise puts this dream out of reach. If you’re looking to see the world by cruise and save money, retiree John McGuffick might have the answer: cargo ships.
McGuffick, 72, has been travelling the world on a budget for almost two decades, thanks to freighter. He says this unconventional holiday option has led to some incredible experiences you wouldn’t be able to have on a luxury cruise.
“I’ve had some magnificent meals that you wouldn’t even get on passenger ships,” says McGuffick in an interview with Traveller. “One Filipino chef made crepes the size of dinner plates and stacked a foot high.”
The Cooma local took his maiden voyage on a cargo ship in 1998 and has never looked back. His globe-trotting adventures have taken him to Southampton, Gothenburg, Philadelphia and Singapore, to name a few.
As for his favourite freighter holiday? A trip to San Francisco stands out as highlight. “It was a magnificent sight,” he says, reminiscing on passing under the Golden Gate Bridge. “Clear sky and illuminated. It was fantastic.”
If you’re considering a cargo ship holiday, here are McGuffick’s top tips, courtesy of Traveller.
Stock up on reading material
There’s no upper deck pool, fancy bar or casino on this ride. Make sure you bring enough activities to keep you entertained.
Bring a bike
Most container ships dock at remote ports, so bringing your own bike is a great, easy way to get to the centre of town for site seeing.
Embrace no internet
If the thought of no emails, Facebook notifications or messages excites you, this trip is the perfect opportunity to get off the grid. If you want internet, McGuffick tells Traveller the best option is to bring your own portable satellite data link.
Pack running shoes
Most vessels will give you access to working parts of the ship if you’ve got proper shoes with track. This is a working cargo ship so be sure to take note of the safety warnings.
Related links:
Kiwi airline named “Best Airline of the Year”!
Top 10 countries to visit in 2016
6 must-visit destinations in American South