Cruise Operators Less Geared to Kids

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	Strand Voyages
Charing Cross Shopping Concourse, Strand, London WC2N 4HZ			MAP
tel: (020) 7836 6363

The major specialists in passenger trips by cargo ship offering all ‘reputable' services.

This is not at first sight a child-friendly option and indeed, most lines have a lower age limit for children (three on German lines, 16 on P&O), and you have to be flexible about dates as departures depend on commercial issues, not passenger requirements.

On the container ships (which 95% of these are) time in port is generally no more than eight to 12 hours. This is good if you arrive in the morning, less so if you arrive at 10pm.

There is no doctor on board, though a member of the crew should have first aid training, and no more than 12 passengers as above this number a doctor is required by law. Strand does not encourage children as, apart from the issue of potential boredom, there are more potential hazards on board a cargo than a passenger ship and less deck space.

However, the chance to visit the bridge (check that the captain will welcome this, some British captains allow only one visit per trip), watch the manoeuvring, docking, loading and unloading, and visit the engine rooms, can all fascinate some children.

Entertainment on board is generally limited to a lounge with TV and video, small library and bar though there may also be a small swimming pool and/or fitness room.

Accommodation includes a private shower and lavatory, each cabin has a window and on many boats there are large owner's cabins with bedroom and separate sitting room. The space often compares favourable with standard cruise ships.

These vessels travel worldwide, often for much longer than passenger cruises but it is possible to book for shorter options such as Felixstowe to Limmasol on Cyprus for 14 days including stops at Antwerp, Hamburg, Ashdod and Haifa in Israel.

The cost would be from £790 per person.