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Life on a Cruise Ship: Pros and Cons of Living at Sea

Living on a cruise ship may sound like a fantasy for some, but for a growing number of individuals, it is a reality. With the convenience and luxury that comes with life at sea, many people are choosing to make cruise ships their permanent residence. From the amenities to the community atmosphere, there are various reasons why living on a cruise ship is becoming an appealing option for some. In this article, we will explore what life is like for those who call a cruise ship home, and the unique lifestyle that comes with it.

Table of Contents

Life on board a cruise ship: a comprehensive guide, accommodations and amenities available on cruise ships, tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle while living on a cruise ship, making the most of your time on a cruise ship: activities and entertainment, the financial aspects of living on a cruise ship, in conclusion.

Living on a cruise ship is a unique experience that offers both challenges and rewards. From the moment you step on board, you become part of a floating community with its own set of rules and customs. To help you navigate this new environment, here is a comprehensive guide to life on board a cruise ship.

**Accommodation:** Most crew members live in shared cabins, which are typically small but comfortable. As a crew member, you can expect to have a bunk bed, a desk, and a small wardrobe in your cabin. While the space may be limited, the benefit of living on a cruise ship is that you have access to all the ship’s amenities and facilities.

**Daily Routine:** Life on board a cruise ship follows a strict schedule. As a crew member, you’ll have designated work hours and responsibilities, but you’ll also have free time to relax and enjoy the ship’s offerings. Whether it’s catching a movie in the crew lounge, working out at the gym, or exploring the different dining options, there’s always something to do on board. familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and the various activities available to you during your downtime.

When living on a cruise ship, you can expect a wide range of accommodations and amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. From luxurious staterooms to exciting entertainment options, cruise ships offer everything you need for a relaxing and memorable experience.

Some of the include:

• Staterooms: Choose from interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite options, all designed for maximum comfort and style.
• Dining: Enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to gourmet restaurants, featuring diverse cuisines and specialties.
• Entertainment: Take advantage of onboard activities such as Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and more.
• Recreation: Stay active with fitness centers, pools, sports courts, and other recreational facilities.
• Spa and Wellness: Indulge in spa treatments, beauty services, and wellness classes to relax and rejuvenate.

Living on a cruise ship can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on board. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and active during your time at sea:

• Stay active: Take advantage of the ship’s fitness facilities, such as the gym, jogging track, or fitness classes. Enjoy activities like dance classes, swimming, or even rock climbing to keep your body moving.
• Eat well: Make smart dining choices by opting for healthier options at meal times. Look for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid overindulging in unhealthy snacks and desserts.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially in the warm and sunny weather. Limit your intake of sugary drinks and alcohol.

By staying active, eating well, and staying hydrated, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle while living on a cruise ship. Remember to also get enough rest and relaxation, and take care of your mental well-being by participating in onboard activities and enjoying the beautiful sights and sounds of the ocean.

When you’re on a cruise ship, there are countless activities and forms of entertainment to keep you busy and engaged throughout the journey. From relaxing spa experiences to thrilling onboard attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some popular activities and entertainment options to consider while living on a cruise ship.

• Poolside lounging and swimming
• Fitness classes and gym facilities
• Water sports and outdoor recreation
• Cooking demonstrations and culinary classes
• Entertainment
• Broadway-style shows and live performances
• Casino gaming and themed parties
• Movie screenings and film festivals
• Art auctions and onboard shopping

Whether you prefer to relax by the pool, stay active with fitness classes, or indulge in live entertainment, a cruise ship offers a wide range of activities and entertainment to make the most of your time on board.

Living on a cruise ship can be a unique and exciting experience, but it’s important to consider the financial aspects before making the decision to move aboard. While many of the amenities and activities on a cruise ship are included in the cost of living, there are still additional expenses to keep in mind.

One of the biggest financial considerations for living on a cruise ship is the monthly fee for accommodations. This fee can vary depending on the size and location of the cabin, as well as the length of the cruise. In addition to this fee, residents may also be responsible for covering the cost of meals, internet access, and any optional onboard services or activities.

It’s also important to factor in the potential for additional expenses such as medical care, travel insurance, and any potential port fees or excursions. While living on a cruise ship can offer an all-inclusive lifestyle, it’s important for residents to carefully budget and plan for potential expenses to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at sea.

Q: What is it like to live on a cruise ship? A: Living on a cruise ship can be a unique experience, with access to luxurious amenities and the opportunity to travel to different destinations without having to pack and unpack.

Q: Is it expensive to live on a cruise ship? A: The cost of living on a cruise ship can vary depending on the cruise line and the accommodations chosen. Some cruise ship residences can be comparable to luxury condominium living, while others may offer more affordable options.

Q: What are some of the amenities available to residents on a cruise ship? A: Residents on a cruise ship can typically enjoy access to dining options, fitness centers, swimming pools, entertainment venues, and other recreational activities. Some cruise ships also offer spa services, medical facilities, and educational programs.

Q: What are the potential drawbacks of living on a cruise ship? A: Living on a cruise ship may require adjusting to a smaller living space and being away from friends and family for extended periods. Residents may also experience limited access to certain amenities while at sea and the challenge of finding employment opportunities.

Q: How do people afford to live on a cruise ship? A: Some people fund their cruise ship lifestyle through retirement savings, investments, or other sources of passive income. Others may choose to work remotely or have careers that allow them to travel frequently.

Q: Are there any legal or logistical considerations for living on a cruise ship? A: Residents on a cruise ship must typically adhere to the rules and regulations set by the cruise line, including immigration and visa requirements for visiting different countries. Additionally, it’s important to consider the potential impact on taxes, healthcare, and other necessary services while living on a cruise ship.

In conclusion, living on a cruise ship can be an intriguing option for those who desire a constant change of scenery and access to a wide range of amenities. While it may not be suitable for everyone due to the potential for high costs and limited personal space, the lifestyle can offer unique experiences and opportunities for those seeking adventure and a sense of community at sea. Whether you are considering a long-term commitment or simply exploring the possibility, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Ultimately, living on a cruise ship can provide a refreshing and unconventional way of life for those who are willing to embrace the challenges and rewards that come with it.

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Life Onboard a Cruise Ship: 18 Crew Cabins Must-Haves

18 cruise ship crew cabins’ must-haves

Being a cruise ship crew member is both a challenging and rewarding experience. Living several months onboard a cruise ship, in a small cabin usually without any view (no window), and sharing your personal space with a person you don’t know doesn’t sound that fun, does it? Well, life onboard a ship means you have to adapt to these new conditions and find your way to organize your living space.

I’ve been working as a Shore Excursion staff onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships for a few years now, and in this article, I want to share with you 18 crew cabin must-haves that will make your life onboard a cruise ship easier and more organized. Regardless of what kind of crew cabin you have (single-shared or double-shared), or what cruise line you work for, my blog post will help you prepare for your cruise ship contract and make your onboard life more enjoyable!

So, here’s the list.

1. Bed Sheet Set

The bed sheet set is something I regret not bringing when I first joined the ship. The cruise line normally provides the pillows and a bed sheet set to every crew member upon coming on board, but these usually aren’t new. They have been used by who knows how many crew members, and re-washed every time. During the first few months on board, I was using cruise ship bed sheets, but later I decided to order a brand new bed sheet set and use it till the end of my contract.

So, I suggest you either bring your own bed sheet set from home that you can get rid of once your contract is finished (trust me, you won’t have space in your luggage to drag it back home), or buy a new one that is not that expensive and that you can give to someone or toss after your contract is over.

The one below is made of a comfortable material, suitable for bunk beds, and it is so cheap that you don’t have to keep it afterward. Every crew member’s ship life is all about saving money and space!

2. Memory Foam Pillow

Work onboard a cruise ship is hard – you don’t have a day off, and your schedule is quite busy (although this depends on your job position). Therefore, having a good and healthy sleep is essential for your well-being, and it is important to have a good rest before your next day starts. A memory  foam pillow is an extremely useful thing that I highly suggest having if you are not happy with the pillow your cruise line has provided you with. I must say, Royal Caribbean provides its cruise employees with really cozy pillows (I’ve never had any back or neck issues), but in case you aren’t comfortable with your pillow (or you simply want to have a brand new one) – order a new one and you will not regret it!

3. Mesh Pop-Up Laundry Basket

This is one of the most useful items when you live in a limited space and always have a bunch of dirty laundry to wash (which is the case when you work on a cruise ship). Instead of keeping your dirty laundry in a plastic bag (like I did on my first contract), a mesh pop-up laundry basket can make your life easier. It is collapsible, portable, and doesn’t take up a lot of space (although it looks like it does). I highly recommend you have this item –  it will make your crew cabin look so clean and organized!

4. Air Freshener

Cruise ships are normally several years, or even decades old. Now, imagine how many crew members lived in a cabin you live in? Hundreds of them. Every cruise ship worker is responsible for keeping their cabin clean and tidy, but unfortunately, many cruise ship employees don’t care about that. As a result, crew cabins sometimes have unpleasant smells that can’t disappear even if you clean them on daily basis. What saved my life in regard to that matter is a scent diffuser (or air freshener ) that I usually order online, because I can’t find the one I like when I go out in port. It is totally worth investing, as the scent lasts up to 3 months. You can choose your favorite scent – mine is lavender and was worth every cent I paid for it!

5. Pou-Pourri Toilet Spray

Pou-Pourri Toilet Spray is a very useful item to have when you have a small bathroom, especially when you share it with another person. Cruise ship bathrooms can have very poor ventilation and you will want to have a good toilet spray, trust me! Pou-Pourri Before-You-go Toilet Spray has proven to be really handy, as it eliminates the smells straight away. It is difficult to find it in ports, and the best option is to order it online or bring it from home. Always have it in your bathroom, and your problems are solved!

6. Antibacterial Wipes

Cleanliness is of crucial importance onboard a cruise ship, and I always have stocks of hand sanitizer wipes .  You can either have hand sanitizer wipes in a canister or just regular packs. I like to buy in canisters because they last longer (a few canisters can last the whole contract), but I also always have several packs of hand sanitizer wipes as well.

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, Bleach Free Cleaning Wipes, Fresh Scent, Moisture Seal Lid, 75 Wipes, Pack of 3 (New Packaging)

7. Travel Toiletry Bag

A travel toiletry bag is one of the cruise cabin must-haves if you want to keep your bathroom organized and smartly use the space. If you are sharing your cabin, you’ll have an extremely limited bathroom storage space, and I highly recommend you get this travel toiletry bag as it will significantly save your space. Your cosmetics, makeup, shower gel, shampoos, man’s razor blade , hairbrush – everything can fit! In addition, you can hang it on your door so it doesn’t take up additional space.

8 . Travel Power Strip (Ship Approved)

As you may know, cruise ship cabins have a limited number of electric outlets, usually two per crew cabin, and only one per cruise passenger cabin. Therefore, if you want to charge more things simultaneously, and your roommate wants to do the same – you’re stuck. That’s why having a travel power strip can save you the troubles and you can charge your phone, laptop, speakers any time!

9. JBL Portable Bluetooth Speaker

If you are into music (who isn’t?), and even if you aren’t that much – you’ll need some music in your cabin from time to time! JBL portable Bluetooth speaker is one of the most practical cruise gadgets that you can use both in your crew cabin or outside in port (chilling at the beach, cocktails, friends, and music – what can be better than that?). I have both this one in the picture below, and a smaller, pocket-size JBL speaker , and both are great, except that the bigger one is louder. You can choose whichever you prefer, based on your needs and preferences.

Recommended:

10. External Hard Drive

Let me tell you something – I suck at technology and I had no clue what a hard drive was until I came to the ship. And guess what – this little, seemingly insignificant gadget made my life onboard a cruise ship much easier and more fulfilling! A hard drive   can store a huge amount of files, including a bunch of TV shows and movies, which come in handy when you just want to chill in your cabin and avoid the crowd in a crew mess, staff mess, and other crew and guest areas. Cruises are always busy and you are always surrounded by thousands of people, but sometimes, you just need time for yourself, your thoughts, and a good movie. I always go through such a period at least a few times during my ship contract, and in those times, good movies and music are lifesavers.

11. JBL Wireless Headphones

When you share your cruise ship crew cabin with another person, you need to respect his/her needs and wishes. If your roommate is tired, or just wants to have some peace and rest, you have to respect that and remain silent. That’s why JBL wireless headphones come in handy, and they are also amazing if you want to use them in a gym or during a run. They are small and comfortable, they don’t fall off your ears and they are loud enough.

Have I said that I am not into technology? lol. Well, I had a laptop on my first contract, and I used it a lot when our cruise ship was in a dry dock and I had actual free time to spend in my cabin. The only thing that annoyed me was that my laptop was too heavy, and on my way back home I could barely carry it. On my second contract, however, I decided to leave my laptop at home, and it’s one of the worst decisions I could have made! I really missed my laptop for many reasons – I couldn’t watch movies, transfer my pictures, write emails. And, now if you ask me, I’ll tell you to ALWAYS bring a laptop with you. However, make sure you have a laptop that is light and slim, so it doesn’t take up much space and storage!

Or, if you are looking into something really classy, light and professional, Mac Book Air Retina is the way to go! I am about to buy one and I am so excited!!

2020 Apple MacBook Air with Apple M1 Chip (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) – Silver

13. Sony Playstation

If you are into gaming and this type of activity – don’t come on board without Sony Playstation (or come, but order Sony as soon as possible!). I’ve seen so many of my fellow crew members using it, and even I used it for some time. It’s a great way to put your stress away and have fun with your roommate and friends during your time off!

Recommended: PlayStation VR – Marvel’s Iron Man Bundle

14. Over The Door Hanging Shoe Organizer

An over-the-door hanging shoe organizer is one of the best things I’ve seen people using on cruise ships! It saves you a lot of effort in properly organizing your shoes, and saves so much space! You simply hang it on your door, place your shoes in it, and you can even share it with your roommate as it has a lot of pockets!

15. Refillable Water Bottle

Tap water onboard a cruise ship is pottable, but to be honest, I never drink it. I prefer to buy a water case and then pour water into my refillable water bottle that I carry with me around the ship and outside in ports. I found this one with some motivational notes to lift your spirit when you feel down and depressed. Super cool stuff!

16. Indoor Slippers

If you are used to wearing slippers at home – don’t forget to bring them on a cruise ship, too! Although crew members live squeezed in small cabins, it is our home for several months and slippers are good to have, as floors can be cold sometimes. I never bring them from home, as I always try to save as much as luggage space on my way to the ship – Instead, I prefer to buy them either online or outside in a port.

17. Insulated Water Bottle

For safety reasons, it is strictly prohibited to keep any electric appliances in cruise ship rooms and cabins. A kettle is not allowed, so if you want to have a cup of tea or coffee, you have to go to the crew mess or staff mess. The best way to keep your drinks hot is to buy an insulated water bottle that you can carry around and have your tea/coffee whenever you want. You can also bring it outside in port, and have your drink at the beach or elsewhere!

Recommended: Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw Lid – Flip Top Lid – Wide Mouth Cap (26 oz) Insulated Water Bottles, Keeps Hot and Cold – Great for Hiking & Biking (Dreamy Pink-Green)

18. Clutch Wristlet Purse

For women, a clutch wristlet purse is definitely one of the most useful cruise ship must-have items. When I am on duty, I always carry it with me – Inside, I store my phone, schedule, a sea pass card, a pen, and that’s it! Otherwise, I would have to wear these things in my pocket! The purse doesn’t have to be fancy and beautiful – it needs to be practical, discrete, and simple, and it’s good to have a wrist strap so you can put it around your wrist (in the picture below).

I hope my list of 18 crew cabins must-haves helped you plan how to organize your living space onboard a cruise ship. Whether you are joining as a new hire , or as a returning crew member, consider getting these items as they might be extremely helpful and useful to have!

This article may contain Amazon affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.

You May Also Like:

• New Hire? This is How the First Day on a Cruise Ship Looks Like
• Working On A Cruise Ship: How To Apply For Cruise Ship Jobs?
• 11 Things You Would Never Expect To Be Part Of Your Cruise Ship Job
• Life Of Shore Excursions Staff Onboard A Cruise Ship: Job Description And Daily Duties
• Life of a Photographer on a Cruise Ship – Crew Member’s Story

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What Working on Cruise Ships is Really Like: Pros & Cons

Ever wondered what cruise ship crew life is really like or if working on ships is worth it? Keep reading to find out all the good and bad that comes with living at sea!

Working on cruise ships often sounds like a dream, and it definitely can be.

But there were also many times in my three-year career at sea where it honestly felt like a living nightmare.

If you’re considering a life at sea or you’re just curious about cruise ship crew life, here’s some information about the pros and cons from my experience as a pirate seafarer for your entertainment and/or research purposes.

My Experience Working on Cruise Ships

There are always advantages and disadvantages to every job and working on cruise ships is no different. 

Cruise ship crew life can be intense: long hours, no days off for months, lots of rules, demanding guests, small living quarters and little to no privacy.

But working on ships also allows you to travel to places some only dream of while making some amazing connections with fellow seafarers from all over the world.

Despite all the ups and downs of ship life, I wouldn’t change a thing.

You can party all night over international waters, fall asleep to the sound of the ocean, and wake up in a completely different country.

View this post on Instagram Please, please, please don’t ever let me take this for granted: the fact that I can work in the morning, run around Saint Petersburg for a few hours, go back to work until midnight and see this amazing sunset, and then get back off the ship to see people all over the world celebrating the World Cup together in the streets before I return to the floating tin can I call home at 4am. All summer long, every single week #serenadeadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Jul 6, 2018 at 4:43am PDT

You’ll often hear crew members joking that they’re never coming back; that this is their last contract.

But the truth is that more often than not, we somehow always come crawling back for just one more contract because once you get a taste for life at sea, living anywhere else isn’t the same.

I’ve had the chance to live on foreign land abroad in Japan and even on the ice in Antarctica .

Related: 7 Continents & 7 Seas: How I Got Paid to Travel the World

They were amazing experiences that were less physically demanding than ship life with better pay and fewer work hours. 

But if given the chance to return to just one of my past lives in my journey across all seven continents and seven seas , I would go back to working on cruise ships without batting an eye. 

My heart will always be at sea.

View this post on Instagram Another farewell to this floating home, although I’m sure I’ll be back soon enough ?⚓❤️ #marineradventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Sep 30, 2019 at 12:42pm PDT

The Pros of Working on Cruise Ships

1. you get paid to travel.

This is probably the biggest and most well-known perk of working on ships, and for good reason.

It is the ultimate work and travel job opportunity that has allowed me to travel to 35 countries, frolic on more Caribbean beaches than I can count, spend a month in the Mediterranean, sail through the Arctic Circle, dock in Russia all summer during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, cruise with Jazz legend Dave Koz, visit Greenland , and see endless prismatic sunsets at sea.

All while getting paid.

View this post on Instagram Day 17: Geiranger, Norway | Find the mop of hair by the cliff that just set foot on her 50th country today! ??? #serenadeadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Jun 5, 2018 at 4:26am PDT

2. Little to no cost of living

On ships, you live where you work.

Unlike life on land, there is no rent to be paid or monthly utility bills that need to be taken care of.

All basic living expenses are covered at sea for crew members: accommodation, water, electricity, and food. 

3. Free medical care

This may not seem that special for most people, but if you’re American like me, this is such a huge benefit to ship life.

When I had an infection during one contract, I was able to get an exam done and receive the necessary antibiotics all between my work shifts, and all at no cost.

Back on land, I avoid seeing my healthcare provider unless I absolutely have to because I know how much it’ll cost me.

4. Flights to and from the ship are provided

While this varies by company and possibly by job, ships generally pay for crew flights.

5. Easily rack up airline flight miles

Because most of the flights my company books for me tend to be with either United or American Airlines, I’ve been able to get mileage credit for all of my flights just going to and from work and have used them to fully fund my vacation flights to Mexico on multiple occasions. 

6. Short work commute

Well, this is obviously after you’ve made it onto the ship.

But once onboard, your daily commute to work is just a few minutes.

I’ve had many late nights out with early morning start times where I rolled out of bed ten minutes before I had to be at work and made it to my shift on time.

7. 6-8 week vacation in between contracts

Times are changing, but typically, you can’t just take an extended multi-week long vacation from work.

One of the perks of working in Japan was that I had week-long vacations three times a year.

On ships, crew members must have a minimum of six weeks of time off between contracts, because, well you don’t have any days off for your entire contract.

While this period is unpaid, it does provide ample time to travel freely for more than just a week.

This is an aside, but for Americans to go anywhere out of the country, I personally find that one week is just not enough time to comfortably enjoy any destination abroad due to the amount of travel time that it takes to simply get out of the States and return.

With ships, I don’t need to request or arrange for extra time off.

8. Save money

If you’re smart, you can save the majority of your paycheck because there are no costs of living or large bills that need to be paid every month.

9. Crew discounts

In many ports, crew members can get discounts on nearly every service possible: taxis/shuttles, restaurants, bars, beach resorts, etc.

Lots of businesses understand that while guests are simply one-time visitors, crew members come back each time the ship returns to the area and can bring in a lot of regular business.

View this post on Instagram Day 44: Cozumel, Mexico | When things don’t go as planned, find a private beach club that doesn’t charge a cover for crew members and eat all the seafood for lunch ???? #navigatoradventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Dec 6, 2017 at 1:38pm PST

10. Escape reality

Working on cruise ships is like living in a floating metal bubble.

Because of the long work hours and limited internet access, I usually don’t have time to keep up with what’s happening back home or anywhere else in the world unless it’s major news that affects us, like a hurricane in the Bahamas or cruise ships no longer being allowed into Cuba. 

11. International connections

While the majority of cruise guests might be primarily from one or two countries, the crew area is like a small, diverse city with people from dozens of countries.

You work and live with people from all around the world, and it’s such a unique experience to learn about their lives and country through interaction.

After three years at sea, most of my closest friends are from ships and not living in the U.S.

While I can’t just drive a few hours to see them, I have an added incentive to vacation or travel to wherever they live.

12. Charter cruises

Sometimes companies or organizations buy out the entire ship for their employees or events at sea.

The guests’ demographics and atmosphere of the ship varies dramatically compared to typical cruisers.

Charters are always exciting for crew, especially if they’re music festivals.

While your rank dictates how much of the events you can partake in (if at all and more on that later), I’d say 70% of the charter cruises I’ve worked on have been very pleasant with better-than-usual guests.

Also dependent on your job position, sometimes charters are better for you, but also sometimes they’re worse.

As a youth counselor, charters that are adults-only tend to be wilder (that’s another story that will have to wait), but it also means that I get a rare break from the typical childcare duties.

View this post on Instagram Day 3: Stockholm, Sweden | Starting off this contract with a seven day Dave Koz charter with no kids ??? #serenadeadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on May 22, 2018 at 5:55am PDT

13. You get to be part of meaningful humanitarian work

While being able to provide a guest with an amazing and memorable vacation is of course satisfying, the proudest I’ve ever been to be a crew member working for Royal Caribbean was when we were giving back to communities in need and looking out for our neighbors.

Royal Caribbean and other major cruise lines have a history of providing aid and humanitarian relief in times of disasters, from evacuating hurricane-stricken islands like Puerto Rico and the Bahamas to supporting those affected by wild and bush fires in California and Australia .

During Hurricane Dorian, the ship that I was on ( Mariner of the Seas ) was called to provide assistance to the Bahamas.

The crew was briefed on the situation and we were informed that we’d be supplying food as well as evacuating as many Bahamians as we could.

Heartwarming: Crew members aboard @royalcaribbean ’s Mariner of the Seas are at sea preparing 20,000 meals to deliver to the people of Freeport in the Bahamas Saturday morning. Staff worked all day and prepared the meals overnight on their own time instead of sleeping. @wjxt4 pic.twitter.com/p8hmsGtWRW — Vic Micolucci WJXT (@WJXTvic) September 7, 2019

Even though most of the packaging of meals took place late at night after everyone had finished work, there was not one crew member complaining about the extra hours of work being put in.

While evacuees were on board, the kids’ program staff was asked to entertain the Bahamian children who were evacuating with their families.

Us staff had divided activities and games to host between us, and I got to help out with face painting the kids.

It turns out though, the children wanted to paint as well, so I ended up letting the kids use me as a human canvas and I was left with some pretty sick body art for the rest of the day.

Especially in a job that can get mundane and frustrating from demanding and sometimes ungrateful guests, these small opportunities where we get to actually do something meaningful makes me happy to work at sea.

14. CV/Resume boost

Working on cruise ships requires a lot of skills that make crew members some of the most eligible employment candidates : international experience and the ability to work with a diverse team; skills in customer service and crisis management; and capable of learning quickly. 

Most of all, I think what makes crew members stand out is their mental strength.

It’s not easy to work long hours for months at a time, isolated from land and friends and family.

But if you can do that, there’s not much else you’re not psychologically capable of. 

I know that for me, this was the biggest selling point that made me a quick hire to work and live in Antarctica .

Related: How I Got Paid to Live in Antarctica: FAQ About Working on the Ice

Related: What to Pack When Working on a Cruise Ship

The Cons of Working on Cruise Ships

1. there are no days off.

On ships, weekends and holidays don’t exist.

You work every day of your entire contract and just have hours off between shifts each day.

On land, you can go hard on a Friday night and have a couple of days to recover.

On ships, you still have to get up and go to work the next day.

2. You work long hours

The most I ever clocked in in a day was about 13 hours, but of course this will vary according to job position and possibly whether or not it’s a busy cruise.

The majority of crew members work anywhere from 9-11+ hours every day, the average amount being on the higher end of the spectrum.

Shifts are also split, so you might start work in the morning and not finish for the day until late at night. 

3. Contracts are 4-9 months long

You will get tired and you will feel overworked.

You’ll be away from home for a long while and in that time you will also miss out on a lot of life.

View this post on Instagram All’s well that ends well. 151 days, 8 countries, 1000s of little screaming rascals, and some really great new friends. Thanks for the memories, Anthem ❤⚓️ #anthemadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Jul 20, 2017 at 10:41am PDT

4. You’re on call 24/7

Every crew member is responsible for responding to designated emergencies: medical, fire, security threat, man overboard, etc.

No matter where you are or what time it is, when the announcement is made, you have roughly seven minutes to get to your emergency station.

In the shower? Better get dressed.

On the other side of the ship? Run.

In my three years onboard, I’ve been woken four times in the early morning hours between 2-5 a.m. to my emergency call, which I then had to run up 10 decks and the entire length of the ship to reach my response station.

And once the emergency was over, I still had to go to work at the regularly scheduled time just a few hours later.

5. Small living quarters

If you think guest cabins are small, wait until you see what crew cabins look like.

Unless you’re a higher ranked staff or officer, your room will be generally small.

Most crew typically live with one other roommate in a cabin that is just large enough for the absolute basics: a bunked bed, a small table with a couple dresser drawers and shelves, two small wardrobe closets, and a restroom where you can shit, shower, and shave all at the same time. 

As a 5’2″ fun-sized human who doesn’t mind confined spaces, the small cabins don’t really bother me.

I can fit comfortably on my bed with room to spare.

If you’re any taller or larger than me though, crew cabins can be claustrophobic-inducing and extremely uncomfortable.

6. No privacy

There’s nowhere to hide.

Sure, you have your room, but like I mentioned, you’ll probably have a roommate.

This can be extremely difficult for introverts such as myself especially if your job is a front of the house position.

Luckily, many crew cabins have bunked beds with curtains for each bed so you have your own personal coffin of solitude.

7. It’s like college all over again

With the confined quarters and small community of stressed out humans, you can only imagine how sloppy things get.

All those cruise ship crew hookup stories?

They’re all true and sometimes too horrifically real.

You’ve either walked in on your roommate on they’ve walked in on you.

Sometimes you wake up and your roommate is hooking up in the bunk above you.

          View this post on Instagram                   Day 5: Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice, France | Despite the drama I’ve had with cabins and rooming issues since I’ve gotten here, today was a good one. Now to douse my room with Oxivir (AKA super ship bleach) and hopefully get some sleep #freedomadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Oct 2, 2017 at 1:30pm PDT

8. The food is not the same for crew and guests

Crew members have their own cafeteria (“mess”) separated from guests and even sometimes split between ranks.

Because the majority of crew members tend to be from Asian countries (the Philippines, Indonesia, and India), a lot of the food in the crew mess is catered to their cuisine.

If you’re lucky, some ships will try to include both Asian and Western food options, but it’s not always the case.

View this post on Instagram Day 18: Barcelona, Spain | When you ask the gelato lady if you can just buy a banana because this ship don’t wanna feed this girl her potassium ??‍♀️ #freedomadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Oct 15, 2017 at 3:28am PDT

9. It’s a bit military-esque

Everything is highly regulated and there are a lot of rules: what you’re allowed to do, where you’re allowed to be, and even what you’re allowed to wear.

There’s a dress code for everything: day, night, formal, smart casual, all black. 

Cabins are inspected regularly and beds must be made.

If we fail, our supervisors are notified.

Disciplinary action is super formal: verbal warnings, written warnings, hearings with the master (captain), and dismissal.

Your privileges depend on how many stripes you have (your rank).

There are typically three tiers in the ship social hierarchy: officer, staff (front of the house), and crew (back of the house).

As I mentioned above, some ships have separate messes, one for officers and staff and another for crew.

Depending on how many stripes you have, you may be allowed to be seen around the ship in the public areas such as the shops or eating at one of the restaurants.

10. Crew drills

Every cruise, crew members need to take part in mandatory emergency drills where you have to respond to a simulated incident and answer questions about crisis response protocol.

Sometimes this can last hours, especially if the crew fail to respond properly.

11. Trainings and certifications

If you’re a new hire, expect to spend the entirety of your first few weeks in training courses: basic ship safety, emergency response, evacuation protocol, lifeboat/life raft operations (aka flipping a raft in a pool with a life jacket on while guests watch you), crowd management, security certification, and more. 

You’ll need to attend all of these classes in addition to working your actual ship job.

When I was a new hire, I don’t think I had time to get off the ship until the second week.

12. Crew aren’t treated the same as guests

Ever notice that crew members have to go through extra security checks when arriving back onboard, like taking their shoes off and getting a pat-down but guests don’t?

This is because crew are often targeted by locals to smuggle drugs and security is checking to see if we’ve got any contraband on us.

But it’s not just ship security that treats us differently.

Sometimes, unfortunately, local port authorities give us a hard time.

Story time .

This happened when I was in Bermuda and multiple female crew members were stopped at the port security checkpoint by staff who requested a pat-down and weird strip search.

When I was stopped, they separated me from my partner and tried to usher me into a secluded room so that I would be out of public view.

I, set on making a scene in front of everyone, including guests, asked them what they needed to check, and they said they needed me to remove my dress.

They tugged my arm and tried to pull me into the office but I insisted on taking my dress off right there since I was wearing a bikini and I didn’t want to be moved to a secondary location .

They kept trying to convince me to cooperate until I, like the often spiteful child that I am, finally just pulled my dress up to my head like a toddler and asked if that would suffice.

Then they yelled at me for not following directions.

Once back onboard, I’d heard several other crew ladies had refused the antics and weren’t allowed shore leave there for the next few cruises.

While this definitely isn’t the norm, instances like this do happen unfortunately.

13. You’re always “on stage”

Prepare to smile a lot and always be “on” around guests.

Even if you’re off duty and walking through public areas of the ship, you are still a working employee if guests stop you to ask you a question or need help.

14. Customer service on ships can be demanding and is often brutal

I honestly don’t know what it is that makes some cruise guests the worst types of customers I’ve ever encountered, but it’s definitely helped me build up my patience and Resting “Are You Done” Face.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been yelled at for the most trivial things.

I think some guests think that if they make enough of a fuss, they will be rewarded with some discount or compensation.

Ok, I don’t think this is the case, I know it is as I’ve heard more than a few guests laugh about this. 

But us crew members build up a tolerance for poor adult behavior and find ways to cope with it, like corralling a parent into a corner akin to a farm animal after they’ve physically pushed you and barged their way into the secured kids’ facility, all while you talk to them like a child until they calm down.

Side note, if you’re a guest anywhere, please be a decent human to people providing you with services.

It’s not that difficult.

15. The seas can be rough

While guests might deal with seasickness by laying down in their cabins, crew members still need to be at their work areas operating the same as usual no matter what the weather or sea conditions are.

16. The air on ships is extremely dry

As guests, you can spend most of your day outside getting fresh air.

Most crew members work inside the ship though, and in addition to living in a floating metal can of recycled air for months on end, the dry air and dust will definitely affect your health. 

After a couple of years on ships, my eyes were completely wrecked to the point that I could no longer wear contacts without my eyes turning bloodshot and I had to have laser correction to remove the chapped top layer of my cornea as well as to restore my vision.

You’ve been warned.

View this post on Instagram Day 134: Curaçao ?? | 10 days left, get me off this ship ? Side note: any recommendations on places to get LASIK done in the Bay Area would be much appreciated. Ship air has dunzo’d these eyes #navigatoradventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Mar 6, 2018 at 1:44pm PST

17. Ship life affects your hormones and health

Blame it on the recycled air, the desalinated water, the fluctuating food quality, high stress, or close living quarters, but your health may take a hit while working on ships.

Some crew members gain weight, some break out with acne, and I, unfortunately, get my period every other week.

I’ve talked about this before in my post about my experience working with Peace Boat and circumnavigating the globe on a world voyage, but basically, be prepared for your body to change.

Related: How I Cruised Around the World for Free with Peace Boat

18. Internet is limited and expensive

I’ve had so many guests ask me if crew members get free Wi-Fi and the truth is that our internet packages actually tend to be more expensive than the guests’.

On Royal Caribbean, an hour of internet for the crew is USD 4 and expires within 24 hours.

While there are other package options for more time or over an extended period, the price per hour is generally about the same.

19. You rarely have control over your assignments

For many crew positions, you won’t be able to request a specific ship or itinerary for several years.

And even then, your preference request might not be granted. 

You usually stay with the same ship for the entirety of your contract but there are cases where you might be abruptly transferred to another ship and there’s nothing you can do about it.

They might not even give you 24 hours’ notice.

View this post on Instagram Day 91: Kristiansand, Norway | After a couple dramatic cruises and a near transfer with less than 24 hours’ notice, I’m grateful more than ever to call this floating tin can my home. Good days or bad, I’m not leaving ✊ #serenadeadventures #latergram A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Aug 18, 2018 at 4:44am PDT

20. Long-term relationships are difficult to sustain

Most relationships between crew members are short and limited to the length of the contract.

While it’s not impossible to get a following ship assignment together, it is very difficult and often unlikely.

This of course varies by company, but in my experience, couples need to submit official paperwork that proves they are in a formal, legally binding relationship of some sort and even then there is no guarantee that crew couples can be placed on the same ship.

It used to be easier to produce simple paperwork such as an apartment lease or utility bill with both names on the document to prove your relationship, but rules have since become stricter on many ships.

21. You’re away from family and friends for long periods of time

You end up watching life going on without you through social media: birthdays, weddings, kids growing, pet adoptions, game nights, brunch dates, etc.

Is Working on a Cruise Ship Worth It?

If you’re willing to put in the work and sacrifice the comforts of life at land, working on a cruise ship offers a lifestyle with travel opportunities you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

Of all the jobs I’ve had that paid me to travel or let me see the world for free, my time working on cruise ships is the one chapter in my journey around the world that I look back on the fondest.

There is so much pride in cruise ship crew life, both the work and lifestyle.

While it’s definitely not the easiest travel job, it is the most rewarding.

View this post on Instagram Recovering from the best 147 days I ever worked at sea #serenadeadventures A post shared by Michelle Endo (@wandereatwrite) on Oct 16, 2018 at 1:03pm PDT

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Michelle is a freelance writer who has traveled to all seven continents and 60+ countries through various forms of employment. Over the last ten years, she’s worked as an ESL teacher in Japan, a youth counselor aboard cruise ships, and a hospitality manager in Antarctica.

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24 comments

I enjoyed reading this informative yet engaging post. Your mental strength is admirable and I love your honesty here. Thank you for sharing an insight into working on cruise ships.

Thanks for reading! Working on ships definitely takes some mental strength but you get used to– and addicted to– the lifestyle after a while.

Thank you for such a great and informatively written article on your experiences, and life working on a cruise ship, very helpful in my consideration. I appreciate your candor and humor as well.

Glad I could help!

A must read. Very well-written. Shared your article to my students who are cruise ship worker aspirants. 👏🏼☺️ 🛳

Wow, I’m flattered! I hope it’s helpful for them :)

Thank you for sharing your amazing journey! Your authenticity is both inspiring & appreciated.

Beautifully written. You answered many questions I had and even some I didn’t know I had :) I enjoyed your writing. I’ve applied to a few cruise ships. Wish me luck. Think we could possibly keep in touch through email?

Glad I could help and sending positive thoughts your way! Feel free to email me if you have further questions and I’ll do my best to help :)

I really enjoyed the read. I have been looking at what a day into he life would be. I wish I would have done this when I was in my 20s. This would have been perfect and to see the world.

i dont know how i got here but thank you its so informative. I have always wanted to work for cruises and I will safely say am still going to apply for it. hopefully will come back with some nice memories if I get it

Hi Michelle, it was very nice and informative to read your post! You could write novels on life on bord! Thank you for the time it took you to write it. Solange from London UK

This is extremely well written, informative, and enjoyable!

Love this because it answered questions I had and was written in a warm, relatable way. Great job and thank you.

Beautifully written, pros and cons are nicely explained, the way it is written with pictures made me to give a thoght about good and difficult times, this article can be an introduction for those who are thinking about pursuing cruise ship life. cruise ship life is really a hard nut to crack. You are a strong person, wish you happiness and more power to you. I enjoyed reading this article.

Thank you! Cruise ship life definitely has its challenges but I also found it to be a rewarding experience.

Wow. I really appreciate and admire you♥️ Im planning to apply for a cruise after experience of 5 star hotel. The disadvantage is too hard whether will i be able to fit. However, im gonna try since it’s my dream to work at cruise🙂 Thankyou so much you gave me alot knowledge about cruise♥️

I stumbled across your stories when I Googled crew life aboard a cruise ship. I will be joining the Pride of America ship with Norwegian Cruise Lines as soon as my MMC credentials have been completed. You are so detailed and the added photos have made this so enjoyable to read and your knowledge has helped me tremendously. Especially with what I need to pack, prohibited items etc. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences with all of us! I am very much looking forward to my life living and working on a cruise ship as a Bartender.

Hey!!!! This was a really great article and really helped with the questions I always had about cruise ship job. Thank you so much!

OMG I am so happy I found you. I will start my first contract in April. And this definitely helped me a lot. I wonder if you have a list of what to bring on board or some tips on what to pack. Thank you

Happy to help! Here’s an article I have for what to pack when working on a cruise ship .

Thanks for this interesting, well-written, behind-the-scenes look at working on a cruise ship!

Thoroughly enjoyed your stories and your views, great enlightenment on what to expect and what are the highlights and restrictions that you cover.

Keep writing

Privacy Overview

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Life Onboard

Every day of your life as a team member aboard a Carnival cruise ship will offer new adventures as you enter a world of self-discovery, excitement, and fun.

Accommodations

• Accommodations Accommodations Recreation Gym Lounge Dining Mail Laundry

Most cabins are double occupancy with bunk beds. However, some positions receive single-occupancy cabins. Clean bed linens and towels are provided. The cabins are air-conditioned and equipped with TV, desk, chairs, electrical sockets, closet space, and drawers.

Carnival provides its team members with opportunities for recreation and fun. Our onboard activities include everything from crew parties, movies, spa or karaoke nights, in-port excursions, crew bingo, and talent shows to sporting events such as ping pong, yoga, dodge ball, basketball, mini-golf, and foosball. Crew activities encourage social bonding and team spirit as well as an opportunity to relax and unwind with fellow employees. In addition to organized activities, team members have access to dedicated crew facilities such as Learning Resource Center, crew gym, a crew-only outdoor space, and more.

Regular exercise is a terrific way to keep fit and reduce stress. It’s vital that we do all we can to remain healthy so we can fulfill our duties with enthusiasm. Each ship has a 24-hour gym available to all crew members free of charge. Carnival Entertainment team members may use the guest gym facilities, including the sauna. We also have a number of crew wellness programs to promote healthy living, including exercise and yoga classes for team members.

After the day is done, you can relax, enjoy a beverage, and socialize with fellow team members in our crew lounge. In the crew lounge, team members may buy soft drinks, snacks, cigarettes, and alcoholic beverages at discounted prices. The crew lounge is a popular venue for watching sporting events; playing games such as pool, foosball, and ping pong; or simply relaxing with fellow team members. The crew lounge is also a venue for karaoke, game nights, and other crew events. For the safety of our guests and crew, team members must adhere to Carnival’s policy regarding responsible alcohol consumption on board at all times.

Crew dining areas are assigned on each ship and serve an international variety of cuisine. To accommodate our team members’ varied shifts, meal times on board are scheduled four times a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a midnight buffet. With so many palates to please, the Staff Chef rotates the menus constantly and takes into account the variety of nationalities on board. Our meal selections include several courses and dessert. Along with multiple hot meal options, there is a sandwich station, salad bar, and healthy snack options like fruit and yogurt. All crew-area meals are served buffet style and provided to shipboard team members free of charge. Entertainment team members have the privilege of using the guest dining rooms and specialty restaurants during specified hours.

Mail is delivered every time a ship is in its port of embarkation. Most ports have facilities from which you can mail letters and/or parcels. Crew members may receive packages directly from Amazon or other online sites.

All ships have laundry facilities available for washing, drying, and ironing clothes. Crew laundry machines and detergent are free of charge. Uniforms are laundered for you for free. For safety reasons, ironing is prohibited in crew cabins.

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Life on Board

• 23 April 2010

Working on a cruise ship is an experience that you never forget. However, before you apply, you must realise that most jobs on cruise liners are very difficult and demanding. There are certain pros and cons which should be considered.

• If you work on a cruise ship, you travel to many attractive destinations and see interesting places. Although you spend most of the time aboard, there are some chances to go ashore and see the sites.
• You meet people from all over the world and may forge some enduring friendships.
• You can earn quite a lot of money. Since you do not have many opportunities to spend the money aboard, you can easily save most of it.
• You get free accommodation and food. Moreover, you don’t have to pay the utility bills.
• It is very difficult to get a job on a cruise liner.
• You will work long hours – 12 or 14 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Accommodation for the cruise staff is very modest . On newer ships two people or, on older ships, even more share a small cabin and a bathroom. The crew cabins of the major cruise lines have televisions supplied. Most cabins are situated on one of the lower decks and they do not have windows. You have to give up some of your habits and get used to those of your roommates'.
• You will be at sea in all types of weather. If you suffer from severe sea-sickness, perhaps you should find a job ashore. Light forms of sea-sickness, however, are common amongst experienced seamen.

When you sign the contract with a cruise line company, you will usually pass a course on work safety, first aid and hygiene. You get free medical care in case you get ill on a cruise ship. Your employer - the cruise line - will pay for your health insurance for the period of the contract. This duty is based on the international conventions regarding employment at sea.

Cruise line staff can use the various leisure facilities on most ships, such as the gym, fitness centre, swimming pool, bar and meeting room. These facilities are only for the staff. Most employees do not socialise with the passengers during their free time. They are not allowed to use the facilities for the passengers.

Most cruise liners embark in the USA. You will be probably required to pay the travel expenses from your home to the port yourself. Most cruise line companies want their employees to buy a single way ticket and pay the travel deposit that will be returned to you when the contract is over. However, if you decide to leave before the contract terminates or if you get fired, you will forfeit your deposit. It will be used for purchasing the ticket back to your home country. You will be guarded to the airport to make sure you leave the USA and do not stay there illegally. The deposit is usually from $300 to $500. Some of the largest cruise lines recalled the deposit payments so that the new employees have less expenses (e.g. Carnival Cruise Lines Inc.).

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• Life On Board

Life on board

We have taken great care to design our on board experience so that you can discover more about the nature and culture of the destinations we visit, and we're passionate about bringing the hidden gems of our destinations to life, as well as highlighting those areas we think would appeal to you the most.

Each cruise will have specialist guest speakers on board, who will be able to inspire you with their talks and presentations about the nature and cultures you may encounter. Your time on board our smaller ships will be accompanied by our warm and friendly on board teams who will do their best to ensure you have a cruise to remember, and you'll be sharing your journey with like-minded guests who are enthusiastic about learning more about local traditions and cultures.

To help you make the most of every single day on board, we plan a programme of activities for you to enjoy. Whether you want to learn something new in The Olsen Art Studio, meet new friends when playing our deck games, or relax beside our pool or in the spa – how much you want to do is up to you.

Our warm and friendly crew are here to help

All of our crew are happy to welcome you aboard

Our friendly and helpful on board teams will assist you with all you need

Our people offer a genuinely warm and personal service

Our approachable Captains are integral to life on board

Our smiling teams can't wait to welcome you on board

Experience attentive service from all of our crew

Crew Stories

A cruise ship is only as good as the people who work on it and, at Fred. Olsen, we’re particularly proud of ours. We’ve chosen our on board teams for their personalities and superb skills in providing a warmer and more personal service. And they’ve chosen us because our smaller ships create a home-from-home atmosphere, where both our crew and guests are part of our family.

Signature Experiences

Designed to enhance your cruise experience, we offer a selection of Signature Experiences, to ensure that you get the most out of the culture and nature of the destinations you are visiting. Y ou may have the opportunity to discover how we take routes that sail along lochs and fjords, through smaller waterways and past tiny islets and archipelagos; learn more from our knowledgeable guest speakers; taste regional dishes prepared by our chefs, experience seeing the wonders of the universe; or learn about what it takes to run a cruise ship from your Captain and his senior crew.

Scenic Cruise past the world's most fascinating islands

Join our knowledgeable wildlife experts

Sample delicious treats of the region

Experience stunning sunrises and sunsets at sea

Learn more about how a cruise ship works

Learn a new hobby

Join a wellness class at our Fitness Studio

Meet new friends and join our on board choir sessions

Relax at the Atlantis Spa with a treatment

Enjoy a show from our Theatre Companies

Enjoy an evening with our talented musicians

Enjoy playing board games and puzzles

Treats & Pastimes

As well as our fantastic Signature Experiences, we have a host of other activities for you to enjoy whilst you are on board with us. Perhaps you would like to learn a new hobby, such as learning to dance, singing in a choir or perfecting playing a musical instrument; relax at our Atlantis Spa with a treatment, work up a sweat in our Fitness Studios; or be entertained by our Theatre Companies and guest performers. Just check your Daily Times once you're on board for full details of the events and activities that are available each day.

Speciality Dining

Dining at our Speciality restaurants on each of our ships is a really special experience. Our talented chefs are passionate about producing superb dishes, made fresh to order, where each delicious mouthful is an explosion of flavour.  Vasco offers an authentic taste of Goa, where each menu has been created by our Goan chefs, and for a taste of Asian Fusion, Colours & Tastes  offers an eclectic combination of flavours in an intimate dining setting.

Sample delicious Asian Fusion dishes all created by hand

Dine in the intimate setting of Colours & Tastes

Enjoy discovering dishes in our Goan restaurant, Vasco

Enjoy attentive service in Vasco

Take Traditional Afternoon Tea in the Observatory

Shake up a storm with our experienced Bar Team

Sample rare teas in the Oriental Tea Room

Learn about wines of the world with our expert Sommelier

Tasting experiences

On sea days, we will be hosting a series of exciting tastings and experiences. Learn to shake up a storm at one of our Martini Experiences, join our Sommelier for a series of special wine tasting sessions or enjoy rare tea tastings of the world at our Oriental Tea Rooms with our Tea Sommeliers. Details for many of our experiences and tasting sessions can be found on your My Cruises account. We recommend booking before you sail to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.

Engineering Department Onboard Cruise Ships – A Detailed Guide

What comes to mind when we hear the word “ Cruise Ship ”?

Big, behemoth and beautiful seagoing vessels which resemble floating hotels, giant casinos, or floating theme parks?

Well, as glamorous as they may seem from the outside, a lot of discipline, punctuality & hard work goes into providing a unique experience of luxury, quality, comfort, fun, relaxation, safety & security for guests vacationing on them.

Many crew members work long shifts, putting in hours of hard work along with dedication, efficiency and attention to detail to ensure that guest needs are attended to as quickly as possible and that they only have the best experiences and the happiest memories of their limited time onboard.

An average-sized cruise ship typically has a passenger capacity of around 2000-2500 and a crew complement of 600-1000, which is predominantly divided amongst the following departments, viz., Deck, Engineering, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Sanitation, Guest Services, Laundry, Spa, Medical, Entertainment, Photography, Merchandise, IT, HR, Shore Excursions , Cruise Staff and Youth/Children’s activities.

Let me give a brief introduction of the roles and responsibilities of the various departments on board.

The Deck department is headed by the captain and has command of the ship. Safety, Security and Environmental departments also come under their purview.

They are also responsible for drills related to safety, security, pollution prevention and also related shipboard training of the crew-members.

In some companies, the carpentry and upholstery department also come under the Deck department.

The food and Beverage department , as the name suggests comprises everything that is food-related or culinary in nature. All the restaurants, galleys, chefs, stewards, bakery and bar department come under it.

The housekeeping department takes care of the upkeep of the guest & officer cabins and public spaces onboard whereas the sanitation department ensures that all the shipboard areas are sanitized and germ/infection-free.

The laundry department handles the clothes and linen of the entire ship and the Spa department offers personal care, grooming and wellness services for the passengers. In many cruise lines, these can also be availed by senior officers.

Food and Beverage, Housekeeping, Sanitation, Laundry and Spa all have their assigned managers who report to the Hotel Director, who is the overall in charge of all Hotel operations, of which these departments are part.

Entertainment, Photography, Merchandise, Shore Excursions, Guest Services, Cruise staff and Youth/Children’s activities departments come under the purview of the Cruise Director.

While Entertainment is responsible for casinos, stage shows, theatre screenings, stage & theatre technicians and equipment, the Photography department, as the name suggests, helps the guests to capture their precious moments onboard as photographs and make lasting memories through them with family & friends, while enjoying various activities and events.

The merchandise department is in charge of all the retail shops onboard which sell exotic items and articles such as jewellery, goodies and memorabilia to guests. They also run crew shops onboard which sell articles of everyday use and utility to crew-members, such as toiletry items, medicines and snacks.

Shore Excursions department’s job is to make the shore-side trips of the guests to exotic destinations at various ports of call, as easy, fun, safe, adventure-filled, inexpensive and entertaining as possible.

Cruise staff focuses on fun activities, trivia, games & competitions for the guests and crew alike, whereas Youth and Children’s activities focus specifically on youth and children’s entertainment and even provides day-care services for children, especially toddlers.

The guest services department is the interface between the guests and the ship staff/crew. Their job is similar to the job of the hotel front desk or reception. Any service requests such as cabin service requests as well as complaints such as a leaky cabin faucet etc. are made by the guests through them.

It is their duty to take these requests and/or complaints and pass them on to the concerned departments for action/rectification, provide feedback to the guests and assist them with any further follow-ups if required.

All the above have their specific line managers who report to the Cruise Director. The roles and responsibilities of some departments though can vary slightly from company to company.

In addition to the above departments, Medical, Information Technology and Human Resource are independent departments who have their own heads and report directly to the captain and the company.

The Medical department typically has 3 to 4 doctors and a similar number of nurses who work in shifts. It is headed by a senior doctor. They cater to both passengers and crew requiring medical assistance, at separate timings during the day. They are also the first responders for any medical emergency onboard.

The Information Technology department is responsible for all the computers, servers, programming, LAN, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, related hardware and software on board. Any network-related maintenance and troubleshooting onboard are carried out by them.

The Human Resource department is responsible for the orientation and familiarization training of new employees. They are also responsible for crew training pertaining to company culture and tradition, policies, leadership skills and management. Any conflicts and complaints onboard, inter-departmental as well as intra-departmental, are handled by the HR department, in conjunction with other departments. Final decisions with regards to re-employment and termination of crew members are taken by the HR department, once again after consultation with other concerned departments.

The Engineering Department Of Cruise Ship

After a brief introduction to the roles and responsibilities of various departments onboard cruise ships, let us now focus on the main topic of our discussion in this article, the Engineering department , which covers all the technical & environmental operations of the vessel.

This department is headed by the Chief Engineer. The Staff Chief Engineer, Hotel Services Engineer, HVAC Engineer & the Chief Electrician, who are in charge of different engineering subdivisions, report to the Chief Engineer.

These subdivisions are – Main Plant & Environmental Engineering, Hotel Engineering, HVAC & Electrical/Electronics.

Let us look into each: –

Main Plant & Environmental Engineering

This subdivision is headed by the Staff Chief Engineer who, in turn, is subordinated by the senior watchkeepers (2nd Engineers), the First Engineer and the Environmental Engineer.

There are usually three watchkeeping teams, each headed by a senior watchkeeper and comprising of junior watchkeepers (3rd or 4th Engineers) and a motorman.

On cruise ships, there are thousands of guests on board at any given time and there could be guest complaints requiring the immediate attention of the technical department, at any time of the day or night, such as a vacuum toilet not working, a leaky shower or a broken sprinkler head etc.

The engine control room acts as not only a control centre for engine-room machinery but also as a communications centre where all the complaints/malfunctions or incidents related to technical equipment are communicated by other departments at any time as they occur.

In the above cases, it is the job of the senior watchkeepers who man the engine control room to attend such calls and communicate the concerns/complaints to the concerned in-charges, within the Engineering department.

Any hotel equipment related complaints, leaky cabin faucets or sprinkler heads, malfunctioning vacuum toilets to the Hotel department, any electrical equipment malfunctions to the Chief Electrical engineer and any AC/ ventilation related complaints to the HVAC engineer.

Therefore, unlike many cargo ships, the engine control room cannot at any moment, be left unmanned in UMS mode. The watchkeeping teams ensure that the engine room and the engine control room are manned 24 hours.

Each watchkeeping team also has certain assigned machinery under their responsibility. For example, one watch may be responsible for fuel oil system and purifiers, another may be assigned boiler & compressors, and the third may be in charge of freshwater generators and water treatment.

It is their responsibility to carry out maintenance as per PMS on their assigned equipment every day, in addition to their watchkeeping responsibilities.

This, in turn, is carried out ensuring that at no time the maintenance work affects the efficiency of watchkeeping duties. For any complicated maintenance requiring more time and manpower, they are provided assistance by the main plant team.

The First Engineer heads the main plant team and is the overall in-charge of engine-room machinery. He has a team of mechanics, fitters and wipers under him who help him in carrying out routine maintenance and overhauls of engine-room machinery.

All maintenance activities on the main diesel generators, engine-room pumps, heat exchangers, major repairs on boilers, preparation for boiler surveys, bunkering and any pipeline modifications/repairs within machinery spaces are handled by the main plant team.

The Environmental Engineer is responsible for the wastewater treatment plant and garbage-handling equipment and has designated motormen under him.

The sewage treatment plant and related pumps and equipment, black water units, screen presses, incinerators and food waste processing equipment come under his KRA.

Hotel Engineering

It is the name given to the subdivision of the Engineering department which deals with all the machinery that are not part of engine-room operations.

The Hotel Services Engineer helms it and is supported by assistant hotel service engineers, plumbers, fitters and a water technician.

Their responsibilities include safety equipment such as lifeboats & davits, sprinkler system, hydraulic side-shell doors, watertight doors , vacuum toilets, freshwater distribution lines in the accommodation and hotel machinery such as coffee-makers, ice-cream vending machines etc.

They are also responsible for chlorination and maintenance of all the swimming pools on board and in some companies, also for potable water treatment and chlorination. This is handled exclusively by the water technician who reports to the Hotel services engineer.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning. It is helmed by the Chief AC Engineer, and he, in turn, is assisted by Assistant AC Engineers, AC Technicians, fitters and wipers.

Their areas of responsibilities pertain to the operation and maintenance of the main AC Chillers, which provide air conditioning all over the ship, Air handling Units, Ventilation fans, Refrigeration Machinery, Cold rooms, Chilled & heated water system and related heat exchangers.

Electrical Department

It is helmed by the Chief Electrical Engineer, who is sub-ordinated by the First electrician, Electronics engineer, 2nd electricians and assistant electricians.

It is one department that has a large scope of work as electrical installations and equipment are everywhere on the ship, many of them requiring everyday checks and maintenance, both regular and breakdown.

Almost all passenger vessels have high voltage installations, mostly 6.6 kV or 11 kV. This is because, since current demand is high, a higher voltage is adopted so that conductor size, and consequently electrical losses, can be reduced.

The high voltage switchboards require special training and procedures, with regards to electrical safety, which cruise ship electricians are equipped and certified with.

They are also responsible for electrical propulsion systems, which propel most cruise ships, related transformers and converters.

Therefore, as we saw, from propelling the ship to wonderful destinations, providing power to the entire ship, maintaining passenger comfort and hygiene whilst ensuring that they have uninterrupted enjoyment onboard and complying strictly with safety and pollution prevention regulations, the diverse roles and responsibilities that the Engineering department takes up, makes them critical for cruise ship operations.

You might also like to read:

• Top 10 Most Expensive Cruise Ships in 2021
• A List of Unique and Interesting Marine Careers
• 50 Marine Careers Essential Guide
• What is Naval Architecture: Careers, Courses And Jobs For Naval Architects
• A Career in Logistics: A Detailed Guide

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In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

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Where would you like to travel with PONANT?

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• Gastronomy & Wine
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Life on board our ships is an intrinsic part of the PONANT cruise experience .

Whether you choose a Mediterranean cruise or an expedition journey to the heart of icy Antarctica, you can be sure of exceptional comfort on board our ships . Our bespoke, attentive, excellent service will make you feel like you're travelling on a private yacht.

Leisure and well-being

Enjoy a moment of tranquillity at the spa or around the pool, work-out in the fitness room, enjoy a theatre show with your travel companions. Our ships have a variety of well-designed spaces to offer you space for relaxation or shared enjoyment to enhance your journey.

Fine cuisine

We take care to instil the French 'art of living' even on the other side of the world. We respect the highest standards of cuisine and offer a varied menu, created by our chefs using superior quality ingredients, beautifully presented and flavoursome.

Good times together

During your stay you can enjoy a sophisticated ambiance . Each area has been considered down to the last detail and tastefully decorated. You're invited to enjoy good times with other passengers or to relax in total tranquillity.

Luxury takes many forms

Our aim is to offer you a bespoke cruise , so we work hard every day to offer you first class, intuitive service . Our staff is attentive and experienced, they will ensure you are comfortable and respond to all your requests, whether while in your stateroom, lounges or in our various dining areas.

A typical day on board

From morning to night, on board the ship or on an excursion, discover what a day with PONANT might look like.

Our desire to create exceptional trips is demonstrated in the quality of excursions we offer on each itinerary. Planned, tested and approved by our team of experts , they'll enrich your cruise and make your trip unique.

Health and safety

On land or on board, your safety is one of our main concerns . This means we uphold strict safety measures . Doctors and nurses are present on all our ships.

Whether Hospitality or Expedition staff, take a look at the teams that will accompany you throughout your cruise, dedicated experts who will know how to meet your needs.

Faithful to our commitment to spreading the French way of life around the world, we always pay special attention to the meals that we serve throughout the day. Our talented chefs craft high end menus so you can enjoy the delights of a refined table. They share their passion for premium produce with passengers, enriched with the inspiring flavours from the stopovers that we make. As we wish to develop sustainable and responsible tourism, we source our food directly from the places we stop at, while committing to respecting the local resources .

The advice and expertise of Ducasse Conseil

In January 2016, PONANT announced it had joined forces with Ducasse Conseil , a catering centre of excellence run by Alain Ducasse Entreprise, continuing its route to excellence aboard our ships. From the conception of the culinary offering to the training of the company’s Chefs, this long-term project aims to ensure that PONANT’s culinary standards are as high as possible and to satisfy the exacting requirements of our passengers.

On the menu...

Every day experience new taste sensations. They transform every meal into a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds .

Appetisers Cep and chestnut velouté Starters Lobster, celery "rémoulade", truffle cooking juices Main course Langoustines with pepper, tender fennels, light broth Beef Rossini, Anna potatoes and candied shallots, sauce Périgueux Dessert Voiles Ponant chocolat-praliné

Sample menu for information only, non-contractual.

On board Le Ponant

It's at Le Diamant, a panoramic restaurant serving delicate cuisine featuring the flavours of the sea accented by ingredients from the coastal areas sailed to and visited, that you'll have the pleasure of dining on board Le Ponant .

On board Le Commandant Charcot

Le Commandant Charcot 's onboard restaurant, Le Nuna, is the first-ever shipboard restaurant by celebrated French chef Alain Ducasse. It's here that you'll have the pleasure of enjoying breakfast, lunch, à la carte dinners and a selection of special signature dishes, all accompanied by the kind of service you'd expect to find at a luxury hotel on land.

Special diets

And so that everyone's tastes are catered to, special menus are available on request for guests with specific dietary requirements (low-fat, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc).

There’s nothing like it, and this is even more the case with PONANT, where we sail from country to country. We start in Australia, and the following month we are in Japan: the dishes are different of course and the chef has to carefully select local produce to showcase it to the customers

See our interview with Philippe Tremel in Escales

Every day, our French baker makes your bread and then bakes it on board. Organic baguettes, sandwich breads and special breads are available as a buffet option with your breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

The common areas on board have been designed in great detail to make every moment something special. While the private nature of each of these spaces has been preserved, they have also been laid out to let you enjoy some wonderful times together with other passengers and team members throughout the day.

Lounges and bars

The various different lounges allow passengers to meet up and share quality time together.

The main lounge is the ideal place to relax with a drink and enjoy the various activities that have been organised such as dancing classes or theme evenings.

The cosy piano bar is a panorama lounge with breathtaking views of the horizon.

The outside bar is a great space for relaxing and is handy for accessing the swimming pool* and its solarium.

Le Théâtre

Le Théâtre* constitue un lieu de rassemblement unique à bord. Il s’agit de l’espace le plus vaste, qui regroupe régulièrement l’ensemble des passagers. Spectacles et moments de divertissement s’y déroulent ; conférences de nos experts, guides-naturalistes et invités d’honneur y sont données. Grâce à leurs interventions à la fois pointues et accessibles, ils contribuent à rendre chaque croisière unique et enrichissante.

The Theatre

The Theatre* is the most unique meeting space on board. It's the largest space on the ship and regularly accommodates all the passengers. It plays host to shows and entertainment as well as conferences from our experts, naturalist guides and guests of honours. The Theatre makes every cruise unique and enriching thanks to its constant and very accessible events.

On-board events

There are performers on board all of our ships. Recruited for their talent in Paris and Rome, they star in multiple shows at the Theatre , after dinner. Throughout your voyage, they host the various entertainment events in the Grand Salon, with the support of our on-board musicians.

During Tea Time or before dinner, our musical duos consisting of a singer and an accompanying musician play classical repertoires for you. In the evening, they play in concert at the Theatere or invite you to show off your dance moves. Dance evenings are thus co-led by performance dancers who know just how to keep you in step, under the direction of the Cruise Director.

There's plenty of themed entertainment to enjoy in the evenings. Both a soirée blanche (dress-in-white party) and an officers' evening are held on all long cruises. Other types of parties or evening events may also be on the programme, such as karaoke parties, a Casino parties or games evenings.

Films are regularly shown at the Theatre on giant screens. National Geographic features, documentaries related to our expedition route and feature films contribute to the cultural enrichment that is part of our cruise philosophy.

Les animations à bord

Des artistes de revue sont présents à bord de tous nos navires. Recrutés pour leur talent à Paris et à Rome, ils vous présentent plusieurs shows au Théâtre, après le dîner. Tout au long de votre voyage, ils animent différents temps de divertissement dans le Grand Salon, avec la complicité des musiciens à bord. Pendant le Tea Time ou avant le dîner, nos duos musicaux composés d’un musicien et d’une chanteuse, jouent pour vous un répertoire classique. En soirée, ils vous réservent des concerts au Théâtre ou vous invitent à enchaîner quelques pas de danse. Les soirées dansantes sont d’ailleurs co-animées par les danseurs de la revue qui sauront vous guider en rythme, sous l’égide du Directeur de croisière. Sur les croisières longues, des soirées karaoké et une soirée Casino peuvent être programmées. Enfin, des projections sont régulièrement organisées au Théâtre, sur écrans géants. Reportages signés National Geographic, documentaires en relation avec nos itinéraires expédition et diffusion de films contribuent à l’enrichissement culturel cher à notre philosophie de croisière.

On board all our ships, a shop is open during sailing. It offers a selection of presents and souvenirs: clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and accessories.

La boutique

À bord de tous nos navires, une boutique est ouverte durant les moments de navigation. Ligne de vêtements, bijoux, soins de beauté, cartes postales et différents accessoires : elle propose une sélection d’ articles cadeaux et de souvenirs.

Excursion reception and office

On board the sisterships ( Le Boreal, L'Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial ) and PONANT EXPLORERS, the reception desk and the excursion desk are arranged side by side to facilitate all your requests. Reception : our receptionists can accommodate you 24 hours a day on all our ships (from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Le Ponant) to answer all your needs , such as room service, etc. The excursion office : the excursion team is available at all times to tell you about the onshore programmes, organise group or private excursions and to manage transfers at the start or end of the cruise. On Le Ponant , the receptionist will answer all your questions about excursions.

The Blue Eye

Every ship** in the PONANT EXPLORERS series features the Blue Eye. Located in the hull, below the waterline, this unique multi-sensory lounge that is unique to Ponant cruises plunges you into the heart of underwater life. Sight, hearing, and sensations... With digital screens, hydrophones and Body Listening sofas, you can experience the complete and unprecedented spectacle offered by the seabed. Accessible to all passengers and equipped with a bar, the Blue Eye is an exceptional place to share a drink in a unique atmosphere .

"Solo" passengers

Whether you're enjoying a cruise in peace or to get to know other passengers , our ships are designed to offer you the right framework for your needs. At the restaurant, our head waiter will sit you at a table with other guests and introduce you so you can share your meals in a friendly atmosphere . Our English-speaking crew members always make themselves available, attentive and approachable.

I recently went on a solo cruise in Patagonia. The atmosphere was very friendly [...] All sorts of activities were on offer where you could alternate learning or cultural sessions with rest times if you wanted to. Personally, I never got bored. Doesn't matter whether you're male or female, I would go for it. It's an adventure where you'll make some amazing memories

Passenger single member of the PONANT community Join the community

*As Le Ponant has a different layout due to its smaller size, it cannot accommodate certain equipment. ** Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-D'Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot.

Because our cruises combine exploration with elegance, we offer exceptional services , worthy of the highest standards of luxury, whether it's on board our ships or during your excursions or outings and landings. Enjoy a refined atmosphere throughout the day which complements the exotic nature of the programmes on land .

Get off to a good start every day on board. - Hot drinks and pastries are served from 6:30 to 10:30 for early risers and late risers. - Enjoy your breakfast in the cabin with room service , in the restaurant or outside if weather permits - Enjoy pastries cooked on board, bread made daily by our French baker, home-made cakes and muffins, pancakes, waffles, eggs, cheeses and cold cuts, detox juices, and more.

Departure alert for excursions or trips

Because we want your activities to go smoothly, your cruise director alerts you before departure for any excursions you have booked if you are on a Yachting cruise, or for Zodiac® trips, if you have opted for an Expedition cruise .

On board, enjoy our varied buffet . Among the wide choice of salads, vegetables, meat and fish, desserts and pastries, choose a starter, a main dish and a dessert that have been specially cooked for you based on the theme of the day (Corsica, Mediterranean, Asian, barbecue, Italian, etc.) A restaurant on land is booked for day trips.

Want to stay on board to enjoy a moment of relaxation ? - Attend a talk given by one of our prestigious guests of honour . - Book a massage or treatment at the spa . - Relax by the pool or in the library, keep fit in the gym or enjoy some quiet time by selecting the cruise photos taken by the teams from the PONANT Studio on the l’Application or on the computers.

Zodiac® excursions or trips

Your afternoon continues with the terrestrial trips that you have booked to complement your Yachting cruise . On Expedition cruises, enjoy guided trips by our naturalist-guides and discover new lands.

An afternoon snack

- Around 4 p.m., after having enjoyed a few sweet treats with cold or hot drinks accompanied by music in the Grand salon , it's time to get ready for dinner. Our Hairdresser Advisors will offer you personalised services in the Hairdressing Salon . - Enjoy the peace and quiet of your cabin to watch one of the 60 movies available in multiple languages ​​on your TV, to book a tour through the app or to immerse yourself in a book on your private balcony . - Browse in the shop or stroll through the ship's various social spaces, in the observatory lounge (on the PONANT EXPLORERS and Le Ponant), the panoramic lounge (on the Sisterships) or the Blue Eye on the PONANT EXPLORERS, with a glass of champagne or a delicious cocktail in your hand.

A gourmet dinner

Your late afternoon continues in front of a beautiful sunset to the sound of beautiful melodies played on the piano, with an aperitif. Every day, discover a new cocktail recipe. Dinner follows, cooked by our chefs in keeping with the tradition of grand French fine dining .

An evening of entertainment

Your evening follows on with entertainment in the Grand Salon or the Theatre. Enjoy an evening dancing, a classical concert, a show performed by our professional dancers or a film projection on the big screen.

The PONANT App

After booking your cruise, download the PONANT app from the Apple Store or Google Play. It will support you throughout your voyage . Before your cruise, get practical information about how to pack your bag, the composition of the team on board, pre-book your excursions, etc. During your trip, enjoy daily highlights of your cruise, make an appointment with the spa, order the photos from the cruise and book your excursions.

Excursions & land itineraries

Each itinerary has been thoughtfully created by our teams to offer you a complete excursion experience . You can discover the hidden gems of the regions you visit in line with your interests.

Excursions & land itineraries

Hidden creeks, ancient cities, UNESCO world heritage sites... the world reveals its hidden gems as you journey along the routes taken by travellers. In keeping with our ethos “ Accessing the worlds treasures by sea ”, we offer a wide choice of land excursions during all our cruises (except for expeditions). Chosen by our PONANT experts for their cultural value and historic interest , these excursions can last a few hours or a few days. If you need to stay on land overnight, we take care of your stay from start to finish, until you rejoin your ship. These longer excursions mean you can discover the unmissable sites of the region you are visiting, like Cuzco in Peru for example or the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. You can access these trips by pre-booking two months before your departure date.

Do you want to book an excursion ?

Find out all the information you need

Before or after your cruise

Before the departure or on the arrival of your cruise, various programmes and stays are always available. These can also be organised at your request , made to measure. Paris, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Great Pyramids in Egypt... there are many marvellous sites that may make you want to stay a little longer. Our PONANT teams take care of everything, extending your voyage and relieving you of all the organisation, even once your cruise has ended.

A varied choice of leisure activities

We offer a range of excursions based on a variety of themes . You can choose your land activities according to your preferences and desires, whether they're cultural or sporting. Choose your excursion from a selection of unmissable sites, UNESCO sites, Cultural or Heritage visits, Nature and Adventure, Culinary Discovery and even our Originals .

PONANT'S unmissable

A safari in South Africa, kayaking through the heart of the Norwegian fjords or a boat trip in the Caribbean, visiting Pre-Columbian ruins... Whatever the destination of your yacht cruise, we offer enriching excursions and discoveries that are known for their cultural importance, historic significance and beauty.

North America and Canada

Whale watching on a Zodiac®

Thrills guaranteed with this Zodiac® trip on the Saint-Laurent river . Your captain and nature guide will take you to the mouth of the river, where it meets the ocean. There's no better place to observe these sea giants and other marine mammals.

Central America - Mexico

A walking tour of Colonial Campeche

You'll arrive at the large entry gates into Campeche, the only fortified city in Mexico , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although Campeche is probably one of the most picturesque colonial town centres in Mexico, it remains overlooked by foreign tourists . You'll finish your trip at the El Palacio museum which traces the history of this ancient Mayan trading port.

The Caribbean - Guadeloupe

Discovering the Saint Islands by boat

Settled in a motorboat, you'll set off on a panoramic tour based around the Saint Islands , an archipelago made up of nine islands. Discover Marigot bay , a local fisherman's haunt, the little uninhabited island of Grand Islet, a paradise for turtles and marine birds , La Coche and the Pain de Sucre. Enjoy some free time here to swim and snorkel.

South America - Chile

Arica: city tour and geoglyphs

Present throughout the north of Chile, the geoglyphs represent the most surprising archaeological ruins of prehistoric art. They are giant patterns made using stones placed on the ground; from above they represent animals, human figures or geometric shapes, their significance and use is still a mystery . You'll continue your trip with a walk through the historic centre of Arica , to admire the San Marco Gothic style cathedral, designed by Gustave Eiffel in the 19th century.

Atlantic coastlines - Madère

Chai and Blandy vineyards

You'll join the Quinta de Santa Luiza, a unique, traditional property which maintains the features of a local farm as they once were in Madère. It shelters sumptuous floral gardens and hundred year old trees brought back from around the word, the vineyard produces Madère de Blandy wine . You'll continue to chai Blandy, where a private guided tour will show you barrel making, canteiro ageing, transforming grapes into Madère wine and the satinwood tanks.

Africa and the Indian ocean - South Africa

Safari in the Pumba reserve

You'll travel over part of the 6000 hectare private Pumba reserve on board an open-top 4x4 in search of lions, African elephants, giraffes, zebra, buffalo, leopards and rhinos... in their natural environment. The reserve is also home to more than 300 species of bird . You'll enjoy a buffet dinner in the heart of the reserve before rejoining your safari to head back to the main entrance.

Northern Europe and Scandinavia - Norway

Kayaking in the Nærøyfjord

Kayak dans le Nærøyfjord

You will set off on your kayak adventure through the spectacular Nærøyfjordm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by imposing mountains on all sides. Breathe in the fresh air and drink pure water directly from one of the many waterfalls and rivers that flow into the fjord .

Mediterranean - Greece

Olympia and its museum

ADiscover Olympia, home to the very first edition of the Olympic Games , in the 12th Century BC. You'll go into an ancient sanctuary, 2800 years old. With each step you'll discover a host of treasures , temples, altars, theatres, marble and bronze statues which once made this place famous. This place has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989. You'll also visit the Olympia museum , which unites all the discoveries made on the site under one roof.

The Red Sea - Egypt

Luxor museum and temples

You'll discover the Luxor museum and its collections of pottery, jewellery and objects from the necropolis and the Theban temples . Then, you'll head to the Karnak temple , known for its impressive row of sphinxes. The temple was the most important sanctuary in ancient Egypt. You'll then visit the temple of Luxor. This is where the obelisk that stands on Place de la Concorde in Paris comes from, it was gifted to Louis Phillippe in 1831 by Muhammad Ali Pasha, Ruler of Ottoman Egypt.

Oceania - New Zealand

The incredible thermal springs at Rotorua

You’ll discover the incredible thermal springs of Wai-O-Tapu , nestled in the bushland, sculpted by millions of years of volcanic activity. You'll see the brightly coloured “ Champagne pool ”, enormous volcanic craters, Te Puia and the famous geyser, and spectacular steam jets.

Asia - Indonesia

The wonders of Borobudur

You'll reach the incredible site of Borobudur , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist monument in the world . Built between 778 and 866 using over 55,000 square metres of stones, this monumental project was mysteriously abandoned. A significant eruption of the volcano of Mount Merpai nearby covered almost the whole site and it was only rediscovered in 1814.

Pacific Islands – Bora Bora

Shark and stingray encounter

A trip along the coast of the famous Motu Tapu island and on to the former crater of Motu Toopua. Your boat will drop anchor at a white sandbank in the middle of the area frequented by majestic stingrays . You'll be able to watch and admire them swimming all around you in an elegant aquatic ballet as your guide feeds them by hand. Harmless blacktip reef sharks often visit these waters and can be seen swimming amongst the stingrays.

An attentive service

Whatever your tastes, our attentive and professional staff are at your service to ensure your cruise will be one to be remembered. Even under the most extreme climatic conditions, you can be sure of great comfort and an exceptional service which are the hallmark of our line.

The French way of life

We want to make sure the French way of life voyages across all of the world's oceans. As part of our ongoing search for excellence we associate with partners who share the same policy. In terms of gastronomy take advantage of a sweet snack with Pierre Hermé Paris macaroons , taste a selection of bread, baguettes and Vienese bread and clink glasses of champagne at gala dinners. Dyptique bath products embalm the cabins while Fragonard environment scents diffuse a pleasant fragrance around the ship.

Butler service

Our butler service is reserved for passengers travelling in one of the suites situated on Deck 6 aboard Le Boréal , L'Austral , Le Soléal or Le Lyrial , as well as all the Owner suites, Deluxe Suites, Privilege Suites and the Prestige Suites situated on Deck 6 aboard the PONANT EXPLORERS. Attentive and discreet, your butler will provide a fully personalized service . Throughout your cruise, he will be at your service. You will benefit in this way from a bespoke, carefree voyage .

Laundry service

For optimal comfort, a laundry service* is offered on each of our ships. You will find laundry pricing, bags and slips inside your stateroom. During your entire cruise, your steward or stewardess will be available to take care of washing and ironing** your clothing within 48 hours.

*Dry cleaning is not available. **These are paid-for services and will be directly charged to your stateroom's account.

Room service

Whether you wish to have breakfast in the privacy of your stateroom, savour a snack in the middle of the day or enjoy your dinner in an intimate setting , our Room Service is available for you. Have a gourmet interlude and treat yourself from a varied menu at any time of day or night *.

Pillow Menu

All of our teams are available to help ensure your ultimate comfort onboard. That means paying attention to the smallest details. That’s why, you can select the pillow that best suits you from our " special menu ".

From the moment you board and throughout your cruise, your unlimited drinks are included*, at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, refreshments on your return from an excursion or in the calm of your Stateroom’s balcony: enjoy a large selection of beverages (mineral waters, cold drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea).
 A selection of premium alcoholic drinks is also available "à la carte".

*It doesn't include premium alcoholic drinks indicated in the Bar Menu. It is valid only for individual personal consumption, without limitations.

Free & unlimited Wi-Fi

Whatever their cabin class, all our passengers have access to Wi-Fi free of charge everywhere on board and on all the vessels in our fleet. By means of a satellite link , Wi-Fi is accessible in most of the regions we sail to, even the most isolated.

Postal service

You can send family and friends your news at any time during your cruise. Thanks to our onboard postal service you can dispatch your mail by handing it to reception*. Postal cards are on sale in the boutique and in every cabin there are writing pads and envelopes placed at your disposal.

*The cost of stamps will be debited from the cabin account.

Special polar cruise service

In order to facilitate the preparation for your stay in very cold regions, a polar parka is given to all passengers sailing on a polar cruise. You can also rent boots for Antarctic and Arctic cruises. Inform your travel consultant of your shoe size before your departure date and the boots will be delivered directly on board.

The safety of our guests and crew has always been our greatest priority . On land as at sea, PONANT therefore applies strict rules that are subject to regular international inspections. In order to welcome all our passengers aboard in the best possible conditions, we have set up adapted health protocols . Our ships* are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Medical questionnaire

When confirming your file, a medical questionnaire will be sent to you. Once you've completed and returned it, it will be studied by the on-board doctors. This precaution gives you the assurance of travelling with complete peace of mind in faraway places without emergency medical facilities.

As the ships do not have any facilities to enable women to give birth on board, women who are over six months pregnant shall not be allowed to embark on the ships. In any event, pregnant women travelling on board the ship are advised to consult a doctor prior to embarkation, in order to ensure that their state of health is compatible with the planned cruise.

Medical team

A doctor is present aboard all our ships, throughout the duration of the cruise. A nurse is also available on board (excluding the Ponant). Consultation times are indicated daily in the logbook (24-hour emergency consultations). The sisterships and the PONANT EXPLORERS have a hospital for any minor surgeries.

Sécurité des déplacements assuré par les guides naturalistes et équipe d’excursions

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Access for people with reduced mobility

All our ships* are equipped with lifts (one at the bow, two at the stern) to facilitate access to all spaces. Access ramps can also be used independently to go to the theatre, the outdoor bar or the Blue Eye on the PONANT EXPLORERS. Each vessel* has equipped cabins (three aboard the sisterships and two aboard the PONANT EXPLORERS) to accommodate wheelchair users. These include a ramp for access to the balcony. In order for our teams to accomodate you in the best possible conditions, we ask travellers or reduced mobility or requiring special assistance to indicate this when booking. Posters, signage and booth numbers are translated into Braille .

Each guest has a lifejacket in their stateroom and near the life rafts.

A demonstration of the procedure for abandoning ship, which is compulsory for all, takes place before the departure of each cruise.

The ships are equipped with, among other things, automatic fire detection and extinction systems, fire doors and watertight doors.

For maximum safety in the polar regions, our ships have specific lifesaving equipment that can cope with extreme external conditions while waiting for assistance, in the event of problems.

The fleet is monitored by the Centre de Sécurité des Navires PACA Corse, located in Marseille.

Each ship has ISM (International Safety Management) certification , a very strict international regulation.

Safety equipment is checked and approved on a yearly basis by the French authorities and by Bureau Veritas .

All our ships are graded and are regularly examined in great detail and without prior notice, in ports of call around the world.

This accreditation is one of the most rigorous in the world in terms of safety. It is in first place in the 2018 annual ranking of the Mémorandum de Paris (MOU), a guarantor of maritime safety through the inspection of ships in ports and their ranking. This agreement ensures, among other things, that vessels respect international maritime conventions.

After passing the entrance test, each officer receives thorough training at the French National Maritime College (ENSM) by alternating periods of training with periods of sailing. Recruited for our ships depending on their successful graduation and their experience, these officers are responsible for operating the ship and supervising the crew.

Training courses on an ice navigation simulator are organised at the ENSM in Marseille. This tool, unique in France, trains young officers to run a very specific bridge and to sail in a polar environment .

The entire crew (sailing, hospitality and production) undergo extensive training enabling them to exercise the roles entrusted to them in the event of an emergency. Many exercises and simulations are regularly held to ensure that everyone is fully capable of responding appropriately.

For cruises in the polar regions, the crew undergo additional training regarding survival and behaviour to adopt in polar waters.

A tradition of excellence, professionalism and expertise

With almost 20 years of experience in extreme regions , PONANT is a true Polar Specialist . As the only French cruise company to sail in the heart of the ice, PONANT has the ships and the experience to take you to the most remote regions in complete safety; Captains and crew members are seasoned professionals, specially trained to sail in these extreme regions. Our latest-generation fleet , the youngest fleet in the world, has the most modern technologies and equipment to assure your safety and respect for the regions visited. Our stable and silent “ice”-certified ships meet the most stringent international standards: 3D seabed visualisation using a dual sonar system, satellite weather station, GPS trackers on the Zodiac® inflatables.

*As Le Ponant has a different layout due to its smaller size, it cannot accommodate certain equipment.

Whilst on board our ships, the PONANT crew will be there to make sure you have a safe trip, as well as provide you with premium on-board services and outstanding outings. Throughout your cruise, their job will be to meet your expectations and make your cruise truly unforgettable.

The Captain is the highest-ranking person on board. Their job is to ensure correct navigation , oversee operations, handle administrative and customs requirements , and ensure the comfort and safety of passengers . In order to do this, they supervise the various members of the deck, engine and hotel departments.

First Officer

This is the Captain’s right-hand man , who may stand in for them if necessary. In charge of the deck department , nautical operations and external maintenance, they are also responsible for supervising the ship’s officers in undertaking tasks relating to security, navigation, safety and environmental aspects. It is their job to discipline all crew under the authority of the Captain.

Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer . is the most senior engine officer and is responsible for all of the ship’s technical aspects , including operations, maintenance and repairs. This encompasses power generation, propulsion and all additional facilities, such as electricity, kitchens, refrigeration, outboard motors, etc.

Reception and Cruise Manager

The Reception and Cruise Manager is in charge of the reception team and for promoting the sales of cruises aboard. By booking your next cruise on board, you’ll get a 5% discount.

Hotel Manager

The Hotel Manager is responsible for ensuring the comfort of passengers on board . To do this, they coordinate all the ship’s departments, except the deck, engine and medical departments. The Hotel Manager is therefore responsible for the Cruise Manager, Excursions Manager, Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, Head Chef, Head Housekeeper and Spa Manager, as well as the Management Controller and Chief Financial Officer.

Cruise Director

The Cruise Director is responsible for organising all aspects of life onboard. They are often there to welcome guests to the theatre, and part of their role, in particular, is to manage the entertainment team, which includes the dancers and musicians. As the person responsible for managing all the entertainment, the cruise director organises the activities that take place in the Grand Salon and also takes part in the various different party/evening events. He is the "voice" of the ship and plays an important and prominent role throughout your voyage experience.

There is always a doctor and nurse on board all our cruises. Each day, the surgery times are published in the on-board newspaper and for emergencies, they are also on call 24 hours a day. There is a hospital on board our sister ships and PONANT EXPLORERS, which are equipped to carry out minor surgery. The on-board doctor also goes with passengers on outings and excursions.

The Head Chef coordinates the staff responsible for your breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. From pastries and cakes to buffets with an impressive array of options, they will be in charge of all the culinary delights you will sample on board. All our chefs receive special training from Ducasse Conseil, the expert catering division founded by chef Alain Ducasse.

Bar Manager

The Bar Manager is responsible for the barmen and will be waiting to offer you a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails and drinks, from timeless classics to more innovative creations. Discover the cocktail of the day, sip on an apéritif or digestif and enjoy unforgettable moments over a drink.

Head Housekeeper

The Head Housekeeper and their team will change your bedlinen, oversee the laundry service and organise your bedtime ritual . When you retire to your cabin each night, a small pastry will be waiting for you, the curtains will be drawn and your bed will be ready for you to go to sleep.

Excursions Manager

On our Yachting Cruises, the Excursions Manager will help you book land excursions, which can be private or in small groups, as well as manage your flights and transfers. On our Expedition Cruises, the Expedition Manager will provide you with information on outings and visits to shore planned throughout your cruise.

Restaurant Manager

The Restaurant Manager will be your Head Waiter on board. They are responsible for seating passengers, particularly those travelling alone, at the tables in the restaurant at dinner. Their team is made up of a team of waiters and a sommelier.

Spa Manager

Why not pamper yourself? The Spa Manager and their team invite you to relax at the hair salon and spa *. You will not only benefit from their expertise and personalised advice , but also enjoy top-quality treatments, including hair styling and colouring, and massages, to name but a few.

The Petty Officer is an experienced sailor. They are the most senior rate of the deck department and are under the authority of the First Officer. They supervise and coordinate a team of sailors in carrying out day-to-day operations and maintenance work.

Passengers who have booked a suite* have access to a butler service . If you opt for this, your butler will provide you with a fully personalised service throughout your cruise.

The Studio PONANT team* will capture all the unforgettable moments of your cruise through photos and videos, including at the Captain's Dinner and during land excursions.

The Shop Manager will talk you through our collection of clothes and souvenirs, as well as the range of accessories on offer. To get a sneak preview, why not have a look at our online shop?

Except aboard Le Ponant

Expedition Cruises

Expedition Managers and naturalist guides are present on board all our Expedition Cruises. They are specialists in the regions you will visit , particularly on their flora and fauna, geological formations, history and culture. Passionate and knowledgeable in their areas of expertise, they are responsible for organising safe visits to shore and outings based on the opportunities and unforeseen circumstances which make up any expedition. Whilst on board, they will complete your experience by organising talks and other events, and will be delighted to answer all your questions.

Discover a range of facial treatments, aromatic baths, exfoliation and body massage treatments designed to provide moments of complete relaxation . You can also supplement your beauty ritual with additional services such as hair-removal, makeovers, manicures and pedicures.

• On board Le Bellot and Le Jacques-Cartier : Spa menu with Clarins
• On board Le Commandant Charcot : Spa menu with Biologique Recherche
• On board Le Paul Gauguin : Spa menu with Algotherm
• On board Le Ponant : Spa menu with Biologique Recherche
• On board all other ships : Spa menu with Sothys

Our ships* have many spaces designed to offer guests privileged moments of relaxation and comfort .

Leisure and wellness

Because a cruise offers the ideal environment in which to take time for yourself , our ships offer special spaces dedicated to wellness and relaxation.

Leisure area

Dedicated to leisure and relaxation, the libraries onboard all our ships stock a range of books and board games. This space is also equipped with Wi-Fi connected computers. The Sisterships and The PONANT Explorers have a special area for children onboard known as the Kids Club . Books, television, board games and consoles (PS4 or Wii™) are all provided for their use and enjoyment.

The outdoor areas on our ships, comfortable and conducive to relaxation, have been designed to merge into the sublime scenery and surroundings of the sea and horizon. There is a heated seawater pool featuring its own sun lounge on the top deck of our Sisterships ( Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial ), on the third deck of the PONANT EXPLORERS ( Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-D’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot ) and on deck 8 of Le Paul Gauguin . On Le Commandant Charcot , you can enjoy the Blue Lagoon on deck 9 and on Le Ponant , a solarium and a jacuzzi on the 400 m² (4,300 ft²) Sun deck.

The theatre

Settle comfortably into your seat and enjoy a range of different shows, concerts and performances organised by the professional dancers and musicians onboard. Special musical evenings, dance evenings and culture and music quizzes are held In the Grand Salon lounge onboard Le Ponant . Additionally, traditional local music concerts, featuring styles such as Corsican polyphony and Caribbean steel band music, are performed out on deck in the open air by bands specially invited onboard for the purpose.

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return.*

* As Le Ponant is laid out differently due to its smaller size, it may not have all facilities.

More From Forbes

7 things to do as soon as you board a cruise ship.

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Making the most of embarkation day can set you up for an enjoyable cruise vacation.

If you’ve never cruised before, embarking a modern vessel for the first time can be truly overwhelming. You don’t know what you don’t know, but by not doing certain things within the first hours, you risk spoiling your dream vacation.

The embarkation day process for a cruise is like a streamlined airport experience. Cruise lines provide a time window, usually from late morning to mid-afternoon, for arrival at the port.

Upon arrival, keep your boarding documents and ID ready. Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, cruise staff guide you to check-in where you'll present your ID, complete a health form, and receive your cruise card or wristband.

This card acts as a boarding pass, room key, and payment card onboard. Some lines offer keyless embarkation, allowing direct access to rooms and cards collected at the cabin. Before boarding, you'll go through a security line, albeit less rigorous than at an airport.

Once onboard, make sure to do these seven things as soon as you can. From checking your accommodations to enjoying the iconic sailaway, these steps ensure you maximize your onboard experience right from the start.

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As soon as you enter your cabin, inspect everything to ensure it meets your expectations and everything is in working order. Check that all facilities, such as the shower, toilet flush, lights, and electrical outlets, function properly.

If there is anything amiss, this is the time to contact guest services. You should expect a long queue on embarkation day, but the sooner you identify an issue, the higher the chance of a quick resolution, especially if an alternative cabin may be required.

You should check your cruise ship cabin and meet your room steward as soon as you can on embarkation ... [+] day.

This time also gives you an opportunity to stow your valuables in the cabin safe, and freshen up if desired.

Meet Your Cabin Steward

Introduce yourself to your cabin steward . They are key to ensuring your stay is comfortable, and will most likely call on you as soon as they realize you have arrived.

Discuss any specific preferences or needs you might have, such as extra pillows or allergies, or mention if you are late sleepers, for example. If you have any queries about room service or laundry options, now is the time to ask.

Cabin stewards are always professional, but getting to know yours early can enhance your onboard experience significantly.

Book Everything

Modern cruise ships are home to a dazzling range of entertainment and dining options. Early booking is crucial for popular onboard activities, dining reservations, and shore excursions.

In some cases, popular activities may have sold out prior to the cruise. For those that need to be booked on board, visit the relevant information desk or use the onboard app to make all your bookings as soon as possible.

You should also check your allocated dining time, if you are on a ship that operates a fixed dining concept. If you’re unhappy with the allocation, visit the maitre’d to request a change.

Attend Muster

The only absolute must-do on the first day is the muster drill. Prior to the pandemic, many cruise lines still required physical attendance in the theater or other large venue to go through the cruise safety procedures .

Nowadays, almost all cruise lines offer a virtual muster experience. Typically, a safety video is available on the cabin TV (which must be watched before accessing other functions) or even on the cruise line app.

You may still need to attend your designated lifeboat station to have your name taken, but this is straightforward and takes mere minutes.

Take Advantage Of Ship Tours

When you arrive in your cabin, check your daily planner to see if there are any introductory tours or sessions offered by the cruise line.

Embarkation day can be hectic and overwhelming. Join a guided tour to get your bearings.

Ship tours are ideal for first-time cruisers unfamiliar with the ship’s layout and generally how things work on board.

Keep an eye out for embarkation day tours or introductory sessions at the spa, fitness center, or casino. These often include special promotions or offers to kickstart your cruise experience.

Airplane Mode

To avoid hefty roaming charges, switch your phone to airplane mode. While at sea, your device could inadvertently connect to a cellular maritime network , which incurs high costs or data.

Even if you don't actively use your phone, you might accrue a significant bill from background data usage by your apps before you even receive an SMS notification—if you receive one at all.

Most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages, so consider purchasing one if you need to stay connected. Remember, cruise line apps typically require connection to the ship’s Wi-Fi network, but you can use them without buying an internet package.

Alternatively, use this time to disconnect and enjoy the break from constant connectivity. If so, use the time before sailaway to send some farewell messages.

Enjoy Sailaway

The sailaway party is a cruise tradition not to be missed. On many lines, the top decks will host live music and festivities as the ship departs.

It’s the perfect time to grab a drink, meet other travelers, and take in the stunning views as you set sail on your adventure. If you want to toast the sailaway, be sure to get a drink in good time, as the bars will all be busy.

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FinanceBuzz

16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the top travel credit cards and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.

Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?

Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship.

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Pack a carry-on bag

Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.

Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action.

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Verify that travel documents are in order

You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.

These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.

Check out the schedule on the cruise app

Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.

While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out:

• Where you can find lunch
• What time the muster drill will be at
• How to access your cabin
• Whether any special events are planned for the evening

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Find your cabin

Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.

Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.

Unpack your carry-on

Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.

You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later.

Find out if the internet works

If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.

If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up.

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Set your phone to airplane mode

You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.

Dress for the day’s events

If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance.

You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.

Apply sunscreen

Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn.

Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time.

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Take anti-nausea medication

Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.

If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy.

Attend the mandatory muster drill

Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.

All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.

You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.

Explore your surroundings

Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.

While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.

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Consider choosing an e-muster

Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.

Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away.

Double-check reservations — or make them in the first place

You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.

Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots.

Find the best spot to enjoy embarking

There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.

Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it.

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Unpack the rest of your bags

You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.

The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

Bottom line

Follow this simple 16-step checklist to avoid wasting money and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.

You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.

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I work from a cruise ship for 3 months a year. Here's how I stay productive at sea.

• Walter Biscardi runs his travel business remotely from cruise ships for three months each year.
• He said WiFi reliability has improved, but video calls and finding power outlets can be challenging.
• Biscardi recommends Virgin Voyages for remote workers because of the spaces to work and the WiFi.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Walter Biscardi, a 59-year-old travel agent based in Orlando. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I used to work in film, television, documentary, and marketing, and I ran two creative agencies in Atlanta for 25 years.

A few years ago, my wife and I turned my second passion, travel, into " Where's Walter Travel ." We specialize in travel planning services for cruises , group vacations, theme park tours, and company retreats.

We live in an Orlando rental, but I run the travel-planning business from a cruise ship for three months out of the year.

We started taking advantage of our remote working situation after the pandemic

In a few short years of working on cruise ships, I've noticed that more and more people are starting to do the same thing.

We predominantly cruise the Caribbean. Last year, our three months were spread over six different trips on the Royal Caribbean , Oceania , Virgin Voyages , and Carnival cruise lines. If it were up to me, I'd be at sea for six months a year, but my wife prefers three.

This year, we'll be back on Virgin Voyages in June and on the Sun Princess in October. We're planning a few more, too.

WiFi speed and reliability onboard ships have been game-changers

I don't always look for speed but rather consistency and reliability.

Even though the WiFi is reliable on most ships , it's still not perfect, and you need to manage your expectations. The WiFi on ships is satellite-based, so the signal will be slower if there's a lot of cloud cover. Rain may also temporarily cut it out completely.

The WiFi signal in rooms can be weak. When I get on board, I walk around public places, look at the ceiling, and find the repeaters , which amplify the router's signal . I park myself under a repeater to work, so at least I know I'm getting the fastest signal.

Video calls can be dicey, but voice calls over WiFi work well

Most of my work is using emails, social media apps, and a web browser, so I don't tend to have problems. The upload speed is the most difficult thing about working on a cruise ship.

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Working from a cruise ship might not be for you if you're required to upload a video to YouTube or be on video for 100% of your Zoom calls. Zoom with video turned off works well. I post TikToks all day, but uploading to YouTube will fail almost every time.

Turn off your cell service on the ship, even if you have unlimited roaming overseas. Phones use satellite maritime cellular, and it's ridiculously expensive. I've heard of people who have come home with $1,000 cellular bills because they didn't turn off their roaming.

I can typically make most of my calls over WiFi, but you won't be able to on some ships. Texting from ship to land usually works well if you're using the same type of phone as the person you're messaging, but when you're texting cross-platform, sometimes it doesn't work.

Finding power outlets can be challenging

Typically, if you need to put in a full day of work connected to power, you need to stay in your room. One tip to finding power when you're looking around public areas is to see where they plug in the vacuum cleaners.

I strongly recommend bringing a powerboard with multiple USB sockets. I have one with 10 USB connections, so I can charge my phone, GoPro, and other devices simultaneously.

Virgin Voyages ships are the most friendly for remote workers

The galley on a Virgin Voyages ship is set up like a coffee shop, with easily accessible power and USB sockets at the table. There are dozens of outlets, as they're inviting people to bring their laptops and work from the ship.

I usually upgrade to the premium WiFi option, which can cost anywhere from $19 to $39 per day on most lines, but Virgin only charges $10 per day to upgrade.

I work in an office at home, so working on a cruise is a big change

I operate at sea as I do on land, with the same office hours available to my clients other than when I know we're going on an excursion.

Cruise ships are comparable to remote working spaces, but they offer so much more. On a cruise, almost everything is included: breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, entertainment, and most amenities.

If I want to take a break from work, I go to the pool. When I finish for the day, I'll go to the theater to see a show.

Meeting places are usually free on a cruise ship. Generally, all you have to do is reserve a conference room. AV facilities are usually included too, although you may have to pay a setup fee.

Remember to be respectful — many people are on board for a vacation. I've been out by the pool and seen people taking business calls on speakerphone, which is ridiculously annoying.

I suggest picking at least one port on every cruise and make it a 'ship day'

About 75% of people will get off the ship at any port, so staying on board feels like you have the whole place to yourself.

Activities like the pools will still be open, and the spas will often discount their services by 20-40% on port days.

Of course, I still recommend getting off and exploring as much as possible — that's what cruises are for.

Watch: Cruise ship captain breaks down 8 cruise ship disasters in movies and TV

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Cruise ship worker accused of stabbing multiple people with scissors on board vessel bound for Alaska

A South African man has been arrested by the FBI after allegedly stabbing multiple people with medical scissors on a cruise ship .

Ntando Sogoni, 35, was working aboard the Norwegian Encore when other employees saw him trying to deploy a lifeboat on Sunday evening in waters west of Vancouver Island, prompting security to escort him to the ship’s medical centre for an assessment.

The worker was recently hired by Norwegian Cruise Line and had joined the ship in Seattle on Sunday, according to the arrest affidavit.

The cruise was set for a weeklong trip with stops scheduled in ports such as Juneau, Alaska and British Columbia in Canada.

When he arrived for his medical assessment, Mr Sogoni “became irrational and attempted to leave,” according to the affidavit.

In the early hours of Monday, Mr Sogoni allegedly physically attacked a security guard and a nurse inside the examination room, before he ran to another room where a woman, a 75-year-old US citizen, was being examined, according to a news release from Alaska’s District Attorney’s Office said.

He grabbed a pair of scissors, the attorney’s office said, and plunged them into the woman’s arm, hand and face, stabbing her multiple times.

Mr Sogoni then allegedly stabbed two security guards who intervened and were trying to detain him, stabbing one of them in the head and another in the back and shoulders, authorities said.

None of the injuries sustained by the victims were life-threatening.

The cruise ship worker was detained and held in the ship’s jail until the vessel arrived in Juneau on Tuesday.

He has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon within maritime and territorial jurisdiction.

If convicted, Mr Sogoni faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail and a $250,000 fine for each count.

In a statement to The Independent , a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line said that on Monday “a newly employed crew member was observed exhibiting unusual and irrational behavior.”

The spokesperson reiterated that the crew member became “violent without provocation” and attacked two members and a guest, who sustained non-life threatening injuries.

They added that law enforcement authorities were immediately contacted and took custody of the crew member once the ship arrived in Juneau.

“We condemn violent behavior of this nature and are committed to the safety and security of all crew members and guests on our ships. We commend the onboard security team for their brave actions,” the spokesperson added.

They said that senior ship leadership is closely monitoring all involved and senior company executives immediately travelled to Juneau to “meet, escort and assist the guest.”

“We will continue to assist the relevant authorities in the ongoing investigation,” the spokesperson concluded.

Online court records do not show an attorney for Mr Sogoni.

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You can actually take a nude cruise on board a Norwegian ship

• Published: May. 06, 2024, 1:09 p.m.
• Edward Pevos | [email protected]

Passengers on board this upcoming cruise may be able to fit everything they need into just one carry-on bag. An 11-day nude cruise is being offered for next year on board the Norwegian Pearl.

The “ Big Nude Boat 2025 ,” as it’s being called, is being offered in partnership exclusively between CruiseBare.com and Norwegian Cruise Line. It sets sail to and from Miami, Florida from February 3 through February 14, 2025.

The Pearl holds 2,300 passengers and will visit a private island as well as Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, San Juan and Martinique. A cruise experience like this is different, but not all that uncommon. It’s similar to booking a corporate retreat cruise, LGBTQ cruise, or a music festival at sea.

“Full ship charters are popular because it’s essentially a takeover of the ship. The group can customize the experience, including the entertainment, programming, dining and even clothing rules,” Jim Carey, owner of Cruise Holidays told MLive. “On a charter, you’re going with all like-minded people. Everybody who signs up for this is fully aware of the theme and you can’t purchase it directly through the cruise line.”

There are a few rules passengers must comply with on board the Big Nude Boat 2025. Nudity is allowed when the ship is at sea unless an announcement has been made to the contrary. However, when the ship is docked in port, all passengers must be dressed throughout the whole ship, including balconies, until the ship leaves port.

Clothing is required in all dining rooms. Bathrobes don’t count. A clothes-free buffet will be offered on the pool deck. And passengers must sit on a towel or some article of clothing when bare bottomed anywhere on the ship.

No photographs, videos or electronic images of any person may be taken without their consent, whether nude or clothed. There will also be no photo zones located around the pool and in dance venues.

Prices start at $2,000 per person for an inside state room.

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Live Coverage

Man accused of stabbing 3 people on cruise ship headed to Alaska

Cruise ship attack: File photo. A cruise ship worker is accused of attacking two people and stabbing three others as the vessel traveled in Alaska. (Adobe Stock)

JUNEAU, Alaska — A cruise ship worker from South Africa is accused of stabbing three people with scissors and attacking two other people on board a liner traveling through Alaska, authorities said Tuesday.

>> Read more trending news

According to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska, Ntando Sogoni, 35, was arrested on Tuesday in Juneau, Alaska. He was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon within maritime and territorial jurisdiction.

Officials said that Sogoni was employed on the cruise ship and was observed attempting to launch one of the vessel’s lifeboats by other staff members, KTUU-TV reported. He was taken by security personnel to the ship’s medical facility to be evaluated, according to the television station.

The cruise ship worker was observed by other staff attempting to launch one of the ship’s lifeboats before the stabbing occurred. https://t.co/4ylbZoCCFN — Alaska's News Source (@AKNewsNow) May 8, 2024

According to federal prosecutors , Sogoni allegedly attacked a security guard and a male nurse inside the examination room. The suspect then allegedly went to another exam room where a woman was being examined.

Prosecutors said Sogoni grabbed a pair of scissors and stabbed the woman -- a U.S. citizen -- “multiple times” in the arm, hand and face. Sogoni also allegedly stabbed two security guards who attempted to intervene. One guard was stabbed in the head and the other one was stabbed in the back and shoulders, prosecutors said .

Sogoni was detained and held in the ship’s jail until he was arrested on Tuesday.

The incident occurred approximately 16.5 miles from Vancouver Island, KTUU reported.

According to an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Matthew Judy, Sogoni was recently hired by a cruise line and joined the ship, identified by The Associated Press as the Norwegian Encore, in Seattle on Sunday.

The ship left Sunday for a weeklong trip with scheduled stops in Alaska ports and in British Columbia, according to the news organization.

If convicted of the charges Sogoni faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count, prosecutors said .

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Your World. Your Way.®

The oceania cruises difference.

• A variety of distinctive open-seating restaurants, all at no additional charge
• Gourmet cuisine curated by world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin
• Award-winning itineraries featuring more than 600 alluring destinations
• Spectacular port-intensive voyages featuring overnight visits and extended evening port stays
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• Epicurean enrichment programs, including immersive Culinary Discovery Tours™ in the world’s most fascinating destinations

The Perfect Cruise Experience

Being aboard Oceania Cruises makes us feel welcome and well cared for. For us, it’s a second home and it’s great.

Small Ship Luxury

Service From the Heart

Impeccable & genuine.

Where you feel welcome, you feel at home. On board our small, luxurious ships, you’re much more than our guest – you’re like family. Our ships feature two staff members for every three guests, but it’s the way our warm and friendly staff makes you feel that sets the Oceania Cruises experience apart. Whether it’s adding a lemon twist to your favorite cocktail or greeting you with a chilled hand towel poolside, their dedication to your happiness is genuine and the attention to detail is unwavering. In fact, so many of our returning guests reveal that it’s our staff and crew that bring them back time and again. Whether you’re stepping on board for the first time or the tenth, we are committed to ensuring our tradition of service from the heart continues.

ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST

Not everyone holds the impeccable credentials to join our award-winning staff. Only those who have distinguished themselves in the world’s finest hotels and most renowned restaurants will do. They are true professionals with the rare ability to meticulously attend to every detail and magically anticipate your wishes. The ease with which they remember your name, preferences and wants borders on miraculous. Nowhere is this talent more evident than among the English-trained Butlers who meticulously care for guests in all our suites.

PERSONAL TOUCHES

• Extraordinary high staff-to-guest ratio ensures the finest personal service
• Dining room and galley staff chosen from internationally acclaimed restaurants
• Butlers formally trained by members of the Guild of Professional English Butlers
• Expert Concierges to tend to those special requests
• Suite and stateroom attendants carefully selected from the world’s finest five-star hotels
• On board Marina and Riviera , staffed Executive and Concierge Lounges offer complimentary beverages, pastries and snacks to Suite and Concierge Level guests throughout the day and evening

Elegant Resort Casual

Feel at home away from home.

Isn’t it wonderful to feel welcome and comfortable when traveling? It makes the experience so much more enjoyable and encourages you to mingle with fellow travelers and to fully explore your ship and the exciting destinations visited. We have carefully selected the soothing colors and luxurious textures of every fabric, the vibrant glow of every sconce and the plush cushion of each settee, designing each detail so that our ships naturally exude a warm, inviting ambiance. You are instantly put at ease, and it’s so refreshingly casual and friendly that it’s like being in your own private country club where everyone knows your name.

COME AND GO AS YOU PLEASE

This is elegance without pretense nor the need for tuxedos and evening gowns. This is a world where you can be yourself. The overwhelming sense of comfort and belonging seems to kindle geniality. Striking up conversations and making new friends becomes effortless. Meet over cocktails in Martinis and recount adventures ashore. Ask another couple to join you for a friendly game of cards. You will find it exceedingly easy to be sociable. Sometimes you may want nothing more than to relax by yourself. Take comfort in knowing that there are plenty of private retreats reserved just for you.

WHERE YOU BELONG

• Country club casual ambiance; tuxedos and gowns are never required
• Experience the joys of sophisticated and comfortable elegance
• Feel so relaxed, it’s as if you are visiting your own private country club
• Stylish appointments exude warmth without pretense
• Grand venues and intimate casual spaces
• Rich fabrics, soft lighting and art masterpieces throughout
• Everything designed with your well-being in mind
• The comfort of smoke-free environments throughout virtually the entirety of our ships

Your Sanctuary

The Luxury of Space Abounds

The generous dimensions of our suites and staterooms set new standards for the ultimate home at sea. All of our ships are more beautiful than ever, inviting you to experience the epitome of refined living and seagoing luxury. Stylish color palettes evoke the sea, sky and earth in sophisticated and comforting tones to create an environment that encourages rest and relaxation. Every suite and stateroom features designer residential-style furnishings, fine fabrics, plush draperies, luxe lighting and our Oceania Cruises exclusive heavenly Tranquility Bed. It is the consummate sanctuary from the outside world.

The Pinnacle of Perfection

The avowed crème de la crème of accommodations, our lavish Owner’s and Vista Suites, luxurious Oceania Suites and astounding Penthouse Suites are studies in perfection. Their profound grandeur and spaciousness are truly astonishing, affirming their status at the very apex of opulence. Guests who desire only the best need not look further than these extravagant suites. Simply ring the Butler for privileged services that include garment pressing and serving your dinner in-suite, course by course. Pamper yourself with luxury bath amenities. Relax on your private teak veranda. Revel in the fact that the Oceania Cruises suite experience has no peer.

Upgrade Your Experience

Upgrade to an exclusive Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom and enjoy an expanded room service menu and free laundry service. Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms offer an unrivaled combination of luxury, privilege and value. A wealth of amenities and a host of exclusive benefits elevate the experience to the sublime. You will have the ultimate comfort of ordering room service from The Grand Dining Room menu during lunch and dinner, unlimited access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace and much more.

HOME AT SEA

• Every suite and stateroom features the Tranquility Bed, an Oceania Cruises exclusive
• FREE soft drinks replenished daily in your refrigerated mini-bar
• Free still & sparkling Vero Water®
• 24-hour Butler service in all suites
• FREE room service menu 24 hours a day
• Luxury bath amenities
• Twice-daily maid service
• Gourmet chocolates with nightly turndown service
• Interactive television system with on-demand movies, weather and more
• Wireless Internet access and cellular service
• Writing desk and stationery
• Plush cotton towels, robes and slippers

Culinary Masterpieces

While every aspect of the Oceania Cruises experience is a study in gracious understatement, our passion for serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea® is anything but. Our commitment to culinary excellence shines from beginning to end, from sourcing premium artisanal ingredients from around the world to our spacious state-of-the-art galleys and our distinguished chefs who are continually inspired by Master Chef Jacques Pépin, our Executive Culinary Director.

The Essential Ingredients

INSIDE OUR KITCHEN

• An unrivaled commitment to sourcing only the finest ingredients worldwide
• Talented and innovative chefs selected from the world’s best restaurants
• Impressive ratio of culinary staff to guests, enabling each dish to be created à la minute
• Spacious galleys featuring the finest culinary equipment typically found in Michelin-starred restaurants

Wellness At Sea

Beyond the spa, aquamar spa + vitality center.

Revel in the soothing benefits of a basalt stone massage or herbal body wrap as well as healing therapies that draw on the wisdom of the Far East such as the ancient practice of reflexology.

On board Marina and Riviera, medi-spa services such as botox, oxygen infusions and microdermabrasion will leave you radiant and confident.

Feel fit and fulfilled at sea with complimentary fitness classes such as Sunrise Yoga and Core Conditioning as well as access to the state-of-the-art fitness center.

Savor exceptionally light, healthy and flavorful dishes with the Aquamar Vitality Cuisine featured in The Grand Dining Room.

Enlightening enrichment programs such as complimentary wellness lectures, lifestyle consultations and exclusive Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar offer thoughtful insights and further enhance your travels.

Enriching Activities

The Culinary Center

Learn by experiencing.

The Culinary Center on board Marina, Riviera and Vista the first hands-on cooking school at sea, teaches you how to prepare a variety of exquisite dishes at your own fully equipped workstation in a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen. Passionate chef instructors offer guidance and inspiration to fine-tune your techniques, but each dish is prepared by you. Spend a delightful day at sea learning how to make fresh pasta, the fundamentals of cooking seafood or the secrets of traditional French cuisine.

View Riviera Culinary Classes

View Marina Culinary Classes

View Vista Culinary Classes

Epicurean Explorations

Our Culinary Discovery Tours™ take culinary exploration one step further. At select ports, accompany chef instructors while shopping for fresh ingredients ashore at local markets, experience authentic regional fare in private homes or chef selected restaurants and immerse yourself in the local culture through the lens of the cuisine.

Artist Loft

A hands-on approach.

For budding artists, there is Artist Loft enrichment center, where talented artists-in-residence offer step-by-step instruction. Under their watchful eye, try your hand at painting with oils or watercolors, sketching, creating collages and more. The workshops change continually, and with these experienced artists' guidance your talents will quickly blossom.

CREATIVE EXPLORATIONS

Gather together with fellow creative minds and art enthusiasts to tap into your imaginative side, perhaps learn a new technique or even create a memento of your special voyage.

Quietude at Sea

Pick up a steaming cappuccino and settle in to the welcoming ambiance of our onboard library with the novel or bestseller you’ve been meaning to read. Read, relax and feel right at home with more than 2,000 books and periodicals to choose from as you sail from one destination to the next.

English-inspired Enclave

Just as sailing aboard Oceania Cruises recalls the elegance of the Golden Age of Travel, our inspired English-style library is reminiscent of a charming English country estate where you can while away the hours in ultimate comfort. There is something magical about the dark, rich woods and rows of books, each a new world waiting to be discovered.

Guest Speakers

Meaningful & ever-changing enrichment.

On every voyage, a Guest Speaker will share unique insights into the cultures and people of the regions visited, along with fascinating stories and themes related to the destinations. On select sailings, a second Guest Speaker will provide an additional program of enriching presentations and workshops. Also take advantage of complimentary seminars hosted by the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center on a range of relevant and timely health, nutrition and wellness topics to reinvigorate your routines and lifestyle. Check your daily onboard newsletter, Currents, for a schedule of talks, presentations and seminars.

Running Track & Sports Deck

Activities with a view.

Deck Sports

High atop the ship, revel in the breathtaking views and refreshing sea breeze. Breathe in the fresh sea air with a few invigorating laps on the running track at your own pace or choose from an array of activities and games, such as golf and shuffleboard. Round up newfound friends for a lively game and check the daily shipboard newsletter, Currents, for sports deck competitions that give you the chance to win Big O Points.

• Golf Putting Green
• Shuffleboard
• Fitness Track
• Paddle tennis, bocce and croquet on board Marina and Riviera

Brain Games

Trivia, mensa quizzes & more.

Friendly Competition

Team Trivia, Brainteasers Trivia and MENSA quizzes are not only some of the most popular and lively activities on board, these gatherings are also the perfect way to meet, mingle and bond with fellow travelers. Hosted daily, these diversions are filled with friendly competition and lots of laughter.

Entertainment

Evenings aboard Oceania Cruises can be anything you desire. Marvel at the continuously changing talented guest entertainers as you delight in high-energy production shows, talented vocalists, classical music and more. Perhaps stop by the lively Monte Carlo-style Casino for a rousing game or two. Unforgettable evenings are just steps from your stateroom.

Bars & Lounges

Convivial gathering places.

CHEERS, SALUD, CIN CIN

From our famous Big “O” Martini to exquisite vintages by the glass, our tempting array of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer invite you to savor the perfect cruise experience while you relax on board our luxurious ships and enjoy lively entertainment. Enjoy new bar menus, mixology experiences and cocktail programs that reflect the same fresh perspective as The Finest Cuisine at Sea. New and enhanced bar and wine menus now feature dozens of new cocktails and premium wines fleetwide.

• Marina Bars & Lounges
• Riviera Bars & Lounges
• Regatta Bars & Lounges
• Insignia Bars & Lounges
• Nautica Bars & Lounges
• Sirena Bars & Lounges
• Vista Bars & Lounges
• View Beverage Packages

Casinos At Sea®

Monte carlo-style gaming.

The professional staff is happy to provide lessons on how games are played, the rules and proper table procedures. Unwind from a busy day ashore by playing your favorite games of chance and skill in our casino. Enjoy a fun and exciting range of ways to play, from card and table games such as blackjack and roulette to slot machines.

Earn Casino Points

Getting started is easy. Stop by the casino cage and pick up your Oceania Cruises casino player card and start earning points today, by inserting your player card while playing your favorite slot machines and table games. The more you play, the more you earn!

• Reel & Video Slots - For every $5 coin-in, receive 1 point.
• Video Poker - For every $10 coin-in, receive 1 point.
• Table Games - Points are based on average bet, session play or hands played and game type.
• Action packed casinos designed with style
• Table game limits for players of all levels
• Diverse array of reel slot, video slot and video poker machines
• Dedicated and knowledgeable casino staff
• Industry leading player tracking system
• Free gaming lessons

REDEEM CASINO POINTS

You’ve played. You’ve earned. Now you’re ready to redeem. Downloading points for play is quick and easy. Redeem your casino points for play right at your machine by following the on-screen prompts or stop by the casino cage – the choice is yours.

• Earn points for all your casino play
• Redeem points for play right at your machine

CASINO CASH & CREDIT

Front Money deposits are accepted for gaming in the form of cash, traveler’s checks, cashier’s checks and wire transfers delivered to us prior to embarkation. All cashier’s checks require prior verification. For more information please give us a call at 877.625.2094.

Cashless Wagering

Charge gaming to your onboard account directly from your game of choice or at the casino cashier, using your stateroom key card. Convenience fees, daily limits and cruise limits apply. Euros may be exchanged at the casino cashier, exchange rates apply. All gaming is in US Dollars.

• Cashless wagering allows you to game with your key card

Casino Credit is available to all players with an existing reservation. The minimum application amount is $10,000.00 and a personal check is required onboard to activate the credit line. Applications are processed 1 month prior to sailing. The application process is easy and there is no fee to apply. To get started, click here for our credit application or for more information email us at [email protected] or call us at 877.625.2094.

• Casino credit available

WIN/LOSS STATEMENT REQUEST

Win/Loss requests for 2019 and prior are automated. Start Your Automated Request - Note: You will be prompted to log into your account. Once you are logged in scroll down to the Casino Win/Loss Statement section to continue.

Win/Loss statement for the current year will be available after 1/31 of the following calendar year and can be requested by Downloading the Request Form.

For more information, please email to [email protected] .

Onboard Shows

Dazzling performances.

World-class musical performances will delight you, showcasing an ever-changing array of guest entertainers such as pianists, classical string quartets, dynamic vocalists and spectacular headliners.

Exclusive Production Shows

Each of our ships features a unique lineup of onboard shows and entertainers to ensure that your interests are constantly piqued. Bold and crowd-thrilling, nostalgic and upbeat, or intimate and sophisticated – whatever you choose, the night is yours.

Unique Gifts, Jewelry & More

Our stylish boutiques feature a tastefully curated selection of items ranging from sundries to chic resort wear and fine jewelry. Discover thoughtful gifts for friends and family or the perfect memento to remind you of your special cruise experience.

Duty-Free On Board

Browse through our collection of duty-free merchandise including fine jewelry, watches, fragrances and Oceania Cruises logo wear. Also find shipboard keepsakes, designer handbags, sunglasses, books and more.

Stay Connected

Oceania@sea internet center.

Stay in touch with family and friends, monitor business developments and more in our 24-hour Internet center, Oceania@Sea.

For personalized service, Oceania@Sea is fully staffed as follows:

• Sea Days: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Port Days: 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Oceania Cruises also offers wireless Internet access throughout the ship, allowing you to connect through your laptop or mobile device. And as an added convenience, guests in all Owner's and Vista Suites will have the use of an iPad® throughout the voyage. iPad® is available upon request for Penthouse Suites and Concierge Level Staterooms (limited availability).

Letters and postcards with the appropriate postage can be mailed at the Reception Desk. Postage for mail may be purchased at the Reception Desk for a nominal fee. Mail will be collected one hour prior to sailing from each port of call. Incoming mail or faxes received by the ship on your behalf will be delivered directly to your stateroom.

Oceania Cruises offers Wireless Maritime Services (WMS) for all GSM mobile phones and GPRS devices such as Blackberry® when the ship is at sea. You can make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and use other data services when the ship is at sea. You will be billed by your mobile phone provider and calls or messages will appear as roaming charges on your bill. While using the WMS service, international maritime roaming rates will apply. Please consult your wireless service provider for detailed rates and service zones.

• 855-OCEANIA (855-623-2642) or your travel advisor
• Sign Up for Special Offers
• Chat With Us
• Frequently Asked Questions

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