Travel to the UK from America by boat?

Question

My family really wants to travel to the UK (Ireland, Scotland, and England, specifically), but we aren't financially well-off and we're looking for transportation alternatives, like freighters, because plane flights cost so much.

Are there any services that can get you from America (we live in New York) to the UK by boat, but not like a cruise, just a way to get there?

Answer 1

i was going to say Queen Mary 2 but maybe not..

Answer 2

In the old days you could "Work your passage" Maybe you still can. Chinese cooks used to be in demand on freight vessels. (Not necessary to be Chinese nationally but Chinese food is popular with ships crews).

Literally you work (Usually an average of 12 hours per day) for your passage, you do not get paid. Passage to UK takes about 6 days.

I doubt you could do it from New York but Baltimore has possibilities.

Problem is it is likely to be adults only. I can't imagine children being permitted on freighters.

I can only suggest you ask around..

Ian M

Answer 3

I would like to reccommend a really good site. It is for people who don't wish to fly their chosen destinations. It will give you lots of information and prices.

http://www.seat61.com/UnitedStates.htm

Answer 4

Ellen MacArthur sailed single handedly around the world... just a thought.

Or, how strong a swimmer are you?

I would think it'd be no cheaper to go by boat- they're often very expensive.

And not to be a pedant (who am I kidding? I am a pedant) Ireland is not part of the UK... just a note

Answer 5

Having family on both sides of the pond we have travelled to and from for many years.

We have never found travel via sea was cost effective.

Right now I wouldn't (and we aren't) planning a trip from US to UK, as the dollar is dreadful to the pound.

But things to look out for...if you have friends, or friends of friends who work for an airline, ask about buddy passes...great value for money and if you can plan your trip off peak (IE no summer) you have great chances of getting on without incident.

But other than that keep all options open and look everywhere for last minute deals...and watch that exchange rate.

Good luck.