Articles

Friends of the Earth has released its 2024 Cruise Ship Report Card, highlighting the best and worst cruise lines based on their environmental practices. The report evaluates 21 cruise operators and 243 ships on sewage treatment, air pollution reduction, water quality compliance, and transparency. According to the score card some companies lead the way in eco-friendly initiatives, others fall short, earning failing grades. Top 5 Cruise Lines with the Highest Scores: Hurtigruten – B+ HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) – B+ Disney Cruise Line – B Regent Seven Seas Cruises – C+ Viking Cruises – C The last 5 on the list are: 17. Seabourn Cruise Line – F 18. P&O Cruises – F 19. Costa Cruises – F 20. Cunard Line – F 21. Carnival Cruise...

Aspiring crew members from Bali have fallen victim to a scam promising employment on cruise ships in exchange for substantial payments, ranging into thousands of US dollars. The victims were lured into transferring money after being deceived by scammers who used social media platforms to carry out the fraud. The scammers created cloned social media accounts resembling PT Ratu Oceania Raya, a legitimate recruiting agency for several cruise lines. I Nengah Yasa Adi Susanto, a director at PT Ratu Oceania Raya, accompanied the victims to file a report at the police station in Bali. He explained that the victims were promised jobs on cruise ships with seemingly simple requirements. "The victims never met the perpetrators face to face. It...

Ever wonder what crew members make and how they spend their time onboard when they aren’t working? Firstly, all crew receive free room and board and all of their meals. They pay high rates for internet and phone, but most cruise lines include WhatsApp now. Unless they are in an Assistance Manager role or higher, they generally share a very small room with 3 other people and one bathroom. Because they all work different shifts, someone is always coming and going - making room and board great for saving money if you’re single without rent or a mortgage, but most crew are working to pay bills at home and raise families. They still have to make ends meet and work 10-12 or more hours a day. Therefore, it’s not a vacation. Crew work 7 days...

Cunard honored two outstanding crew members for their exceptional contributions with Stars of the Year for 2023 award. The programme, known for recognizing excellence in service and adherence to Cunard’s Culture Essentials, continues to highlight the dedication and commitment of those working aboard Cunard ships. This year’s top honors were awarded to two individuals who have gone above and beyond in their roles. The winners were each presented with a choice of a two-week voyage for themselves and a partner or a cash prize of US $1,250, a printed certificate, a commemorative pin, and "Star for a day" treatment onboard. The award for Cunard Culture Essentials Star of the Year was presented to Dennis Silang, a Deck Petty Officer who was...

Costa Cruises announced the grand opening of the new Crew Bar on Costa Fascinosa. The crew bar is a place where all crew members can relax and enjoy free time after a hard day's work, and now the Costa Fascinosa crew can enjoy a completely new venue. Last month, the ship celebrated the inaugural event, attended by the Master, Chief Engineer, the Crew Welfare Committee, and dedicated colleagues. This new space is designed to provide the hardworking crew with a place to unwind and socialize. connect, relax, and enjoy entertainment options during their off-hours. It's a much-needed retreat from the demanding work aboard the ship. “A huge thank you to everyone involved in making this possible, and a special shoutout to our amazing team...

MSC Cruises celebrated its partnership with F1 by offering Crew Members the opportunity to win one of five incredible trips to the F1 Grand Prix events across the globe. The second contest gave crew the chance to win a trip for two to the Formula 1 Qatar Airways British Grand Prix 2024, Silverstone Circuit, UK. The latest winner was Rocio Polleschi, a Cruise Staff member on MSC Virtuosa. Her submission photo of her ‘’Perfect Pitstop", a serene sunset in the desert, won her the all-expenses-paid trip to the F1 race including a paddock tour. Lexi Barringer, Employee Engagement Manager at MSC Cruises, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this incredible prize to yet another dedicated crew member. We are strongly committed to...

Do you need more free Wi-Fi to connect with family and friends? What do you think about an outdoor meditation space just minutes from the ship? Are you struggling to find your favorite shampoo? (We know ”nothing else will do.) Seafarers House at Port Everglades is the one-stop shop you never knew you always wanted. The Seafarer's House at Port Everglades in Florida has long been a cornerstone for the marine community, providing essential services and a welcoming space for crew members. Recognizing the evolving needs of seafarers, the facility recently underwent an extensive renovation, enhancing its offerings and infrastructure. Enhanced Facilities and Services Free Wi-Fi Connectivity Understanding the importance of staying...

Was working on cruise ships a perfect experience? No, it wasn't. Still, looking back, I only see how much the job positively impacted my life. The decision to work on ships came naturally. Young and not feeling the need to think twice, one morning, I decided I was done with the construction job I had been doing since I was young age. What I was dreaming about at that time was moving to some of the Western countries, but their visa restrictions turned out to be a blessing to me—not having many options, I decided to apply for a job on a cruise ship. And I never regretted it. Years later, I only feel grateful for the time I spent on cruise ships and wish I could've returned for at least one more contract. Still, sometimes, life has...