However, the typical freighter traveler enjoys the informal atmosphere of freighter travel where the passengers are the type that like to relax, read, respect each others privacy, watch the majesty of the sea, and enjoy the unusual travel destinations of the cargo ship with only 12 other paying passengers. You usually dine with the captain and officers daily on a freighter and these men are treated very well. There are meals served three times a day, breakfast and lunch are often buffet-style. The food is not gourmet but freighter food is of good quality and served in great abundance. Fresh baked goods are typical, and the menus are everything from the national dishes of the lines ownership to American dishes.
Many freighters have a pantry that is available to passengers for between-meal snacks.
The freighter is very much like a hotel, all freighters have stewards who will keep your room and bath made up and linens changed. Room accommodations on a freighter are often equal to the higher priced staterooms on deluxe passenger cruise ships. Remember, these were originally built for ship officers. Most have spacious outside cabins with big windows, not portholes, private bathrooms, even a sitting area. Freighter travelers are usually independent types who prefer not to travel as part of a large group.