Arriving At The Ship
When you first arrive at the port, it will be an incredible experience to see this massive ship directly in front of you. When you reach the gangway, not the gangplank as it is often incorrectly called, you will have to tell the security officer that you are signing on. This officer will direct you […]
Accommodation
Ship cabins are cozy so you many want to pack on the light side. You will likely share a cabin with two (or possibly more) people. In your cabin you find bunk beds, a dresser or desk, a small closet and a bathroom. A curtain around your bunk bed will allow for some privacy and […]
Crew Amenities
The cruise line tries to make their crew members as comfortable as possible. There will be a mini-store where crew members can rent movies and purchase snacks. Most crew areas will have a computer room, table tennis, a pool table and a crew gym. Depending on your position, you may be able to work out […]
Shore Leave
You will be able to go ashore in most ports if your work schedule permits. But keep in mind that the ship has the right to delay or cancel crew shore leave at any time. This can happen for various reasons. You may be required to attend a boat drill, the ship may dock late or […]
Seasickness
Not every day is smooth sailing. During the rougher days you may feel a little nauseated, dizzy and perhaps have hot or cold flashes. Seasickness is caused by a disturbance of the balance mechanism in the inner ear. Are you concerned you might get seasick? Here are some tricks to prevent and treat seasickness: ► Eat lightly. […]
Ship Rules
Ships rules are in place for safety. When you join the ship, you will be subject to military-style regulations. This can include cabin inspections and searches for drugs or other illicit substances by customs and immigration officials. Disobedience of the rules and regulations is very serious and will result in a verbal or written warning. […]
Shipboard Relationships
It is likely that you will make lots of friends onboard the ship. You may even meet that special someone. Please know that many crew members that are married or otherwise taken may welcome a romantic friendship. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “never trust a sailor”. Many relationship-committed crew members become lonely and seek companionship. […]
Immunizations
Before COVID, you generally did not need any immunizations to work onboard a ship. Times have changed. If any vaccinations are required, the cruise line will tell you which one(s). When onboard, it is common practice to be called into the infirmary for a flu shot. This is not mandatory, but recommended. The Norwalk virus, […]
Medical Coverage
Medical care will be provided from the time you sign on the cruise ship until the time you sign off. A physician and nurse are available for all crew members. Should you require services such as an x-ray or blood work, the ship’s physician will recommend that you go ashore to a hospital or medical […]
Meals
Beginning with the finer dining is the officer’s mess. The ship’s Captain and department heads usually have reserved seats at the Captain’s table. Other officers may sit at any table of their choosing. In the officer’s mess you will typically find a well-dressed buffet or have the opportunity to order from a menu. A trainee waiter […]