If you’ve ever longed for a front row berth on a working ship, U.K.-based WildWings has exactly the cruise experience for you. With just six cabins accommodating 12 passengers, the THV Patricia gets to work delivering crew who service and maintain navigational buoys, light vessels and offshore lighthouses located along the coasts of England, Wales and the Channel Islands. Other responsibilities of the Patricia’s crew include responding to wrecks and maritime emergencies. Unlike most cruises, the Open Bridge Policy allows passengers to ask questions and observe officers and crew while they’re at work on the ship’s bridge.

Air-conditioned cabins are equipped with comfy seating areas, television/DVD units, mini bars, hair dryers, en-suite bathrooms and tea- and coffee-making amenities. Departures are typically on Wednesday from various coastal locations (depending on the ship’s location). The ship’s chef is able to accommodate vegetarian requests, and there are plenty of opportunities to observe seabirds and maritime wildlife. Prices for seven nights (excluding alcohol) begin at £3,080 (about $4,547) for an executive cabin based on double occupancy, and from £1990 (about $2,937) for those wishing to travel alone. Staterooms begin at £3,510 (about $5,182) for double occupancy and £2280 (about $3,366) for single occupancy.