Cruise line crew members work tirelessly to meet the every need of passengers and the cruise ships that carry them, enduring long hours of grueling work seven days a week, with no days off for months. From stateroom attendants and dining staff to deck officers and technicians, crew members are the heart of a cruise ship and their efforts are the reasons why many passengers continue to choose cruise vacations and remain loyal to certain cruise lines.
Norwegian Cruise Line recently celebrated its crew members in a post on its facebook page that received thousands of likes and hundreds of comments. Passengers told how crew members made their cruises more memorable, went above and beyond for them, and even became dear friends.
Related: Video: What each Royal Caribbean crew cabin is like
Passenger Mark Bowen shared how one crew member's service demonstrated why he chooses Norwegian Cruise Line:
“On the Joy – Mario, a waiter at Spice H2O. I traveled with him once and had excellent service. He returned on board more than a year later and remembered our names and favorite drinks. His attitude and smile exemplified why we chose NCL for our vacation. “He is truly an asset to the company.”
Passengers on satisfied cruises like this one may be surprised to learn that behind their smiles, some of their favorite crew members may be hiding feelings of exhaustion, stress, and even physical pain.
Cruise crew vlogger asks for one day off per month for crew
On the same day that Norwegian Cruise Line shared its post celebrating its crew, a former cruise worker turned cruise crew vlogger from the Philippines posted a call for cruise line executives to recognize the needs of their hard-working crew. . Through its social media platforms, Rinell Banda of Buhay Sa Cruise Ship is advocating for a day off for all cruise ship crew members.
Long days with shifts of 10 to 13 hours a day, seven days a week, is the most difficult part of the job for many crew members. They typically don't have any days off until their contract is completed, which means going months without a full day off to rest. Cruise ship employment contracts typically last four to ten months. After each contract, crew members typically receive about 60 days of vacation before their next assignment.
Related: Royal Caribbean Crew Member Shares Key Tips on Tipping
in your <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/RinellBandaBSCS/videos/609286811447114″>supplication videoBanda suggests that implementing a day off at least once a month for all crew members could transform their lives and make cruise ships even more efficient and happy workplaces.
“We all know the incredible dedication and passion that goes into providing world-class service every day. But let's face it: everyone, no matter how motivated, needs time to recharge.”
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A day off could benefit crew members, but is it feasible for cruise lines?
According to Banda, a day off once a month could bring a number of benefits to the cruise industry, including increased productivity, stronger teamwork, and better physical and mental health among crew.
“I have seen crew members, including myself, go on sick leave two or three days a month due to exhaustion, physical pain and stress. Instead of medical leave, please give us a day off,” Banda pleads.
“Think about it: Happy team members make for happy guests. It's a win-win,” Banda continues. “So, to all cruise CEOs: let's lead by example and set a new standard in the maritime industry. One day off a month can make all the difference. Your crew, your strength. Let's give them the rest they deserve. “.
Related: Carnival Cruise Line's John Heald Shares Crew Cabin Secrets
A Carnival Cruise Line passenger echoed Banda's request that crew members receive one day off per month in a comment on Carnival brand ambassador John Heald's facebook page. Heald explained why this is not currently feasible on Carnival cruises:
“They (the crew) all have blocks of time off and if we are referring, for example, specifically to a cabin attendant or a waiter, we cannot give them a 24-hour day off. This would seriously affect guest service. We are not like a hotel that can bring in extra crew. However, at least once a week, the cabin attendant and the waiter and other crew members, like I said, have a block of free time. But I think it is very kind of you to think of them in this way, and therefore I sincerely thank you for your kindness and consideration.”
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