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Photos: Life on board a container ship

December 31, 2013 1:33PM ET

A writer journeys half-way around the world aboard the Christophe Colomb, one of the world'€™s largest cargo ships

Topics:
Economy
Travel
Hong Kong
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Christophe Colomb container ship
The view from the bridge aboard the CMA CGM Christophe Colomb, one of the world’s largest container ships. Capable of carrying hundreds of containers, the ship’s length is equal to almost four football fields. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
For almost a month in December, writer Maya Jasanoff, above, journeyed aboard the vessel from Hong Kong to Southampton. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The Christophe Colomb is one of a few container ships outfitted to accommodate passengers. Above is the cabin where Jasanoff stayed. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
A view from the stairwell showing the orientation chart posted on C deck and a rendering of Van Gogh’s “Wheat Field with Cypresses.” Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The view from the wing of the bridge. The containers are stacked seven high, while another six to eight layers are stored below decks. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
One of the locks used to secure the containers. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The scene on the bridge as the ship enters Singapore. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
Among the few recreational opportunities on board is this simple basketball hoop. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
On one day in the Indian Ocean, the crew roasted a pig on board. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The journey offered countless views like this one. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
Somewhere in the Indian Ocean. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The view from the bridge as the ship passes through the Suez Canal. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
During the passage through the Suez Canal, salesmen were allowed on board to offer these souvenirs and other useful items for sale to the crew. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
This Christmas tree was set up in the officer’s mess as the holiday season approached. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
A view of the bridge, the highest point on the ship. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America
Christophe Colomb container ship
The docks in Southampton, the ship’s final port of call. Maya Jasanoff for Al Jazeera America