The Caspian Sea Ferry

I was pleasantly surprised by the cabin we were allocated as all the blogs I read suggested that the conditions are very bad.  The cabin was small with four bunks and clean-ish.  Clean sheets and an almost clean mattress.  It had a port hole - just as well or it would have been stiflingly hot.  Hand basin with cold water only.  What more could we want?

 

The ferry was old but performed the function for which it was built without hiccup.  Just how old the crew wouldn't say or didn't understand the question.  It was poorly maintained and I would be surprised if it remained in service for more than another five years.  The crew were happy enough to talk to us and several wanted to practice their English language skills with us.  They were good men and we had a few laughs.

 

When I saw the state of the life boat I thought I would look for an alternative in the event of an emergency.

 

 

 

We took a lot of food on board with us because we were told that no meals are supplied.  Meals and drinks are supplied, at reasonable cost, in a bar room or is that a bar cabin, mess room, whatever.

 

 

The bikes were loaded amongst the railway carriages.  The sailor in charge of the freight wanted a fee for securing and tying the bikes down - yes that is how it works it central Asia apparently.  The bikes never did get tied down.