Most freighters that carry passengers have cabins for only a few passengers, usually no more than 12, although few carry more, and some carry only 4 or 5. Young children are usually not accepted, and most lines do not take persons over age 79, although some accept passengers older than that. A doctor is required only on freighters with more than 12 passengers. Passenger staterooms are almost always comfortable and spacious, usually consisting of twin beds and a private bath, and occasionally a suite or an owner's cabin with a separate sitting room is available. Dining is informal.
Passengers usually eat the same meals as the officers.
After dinner it's either books, bridge, or backgammon, or talking to other passengers or perhaps a movie. In port, shore plans are made independently by yourself or with fellow passengers. Port stops may be for a couple of hours or for several days. Some lines allow passengers to join for one segment of the trip instead of the whole voyage. Some allow one-way passage.