Life on a Ship

Medical:

Every crewmember is required to complete a medical examination prior to boarding the ship. The employee pays for all initial testing, and the office must approve the test results. Once the employee is onboard, the cruise line is responsible for any medical care needed throughout one’s contract.

Phone and Internet:

Phone and Internet cards are available for purchase onboard each ship. These can be costly, and the connection for both is typically not very reliable. Internet cafes and call centers are readily available in most ports, and offer much better results.

Language and Culture:

Crewmembers come from a multitude of different countries and backgrounds. Although English is the primary language used onboard American cruise ships, it is very common to hear employees speaking in their native languages as well.

Living Quarters:

Living conditions may vary slightly from cruise line to cruise line but they are all generally comparable. Entertainers may have their own cabin or may be required to share with another person from their department. Each room has its own bathroom and is assigned a cabin steward for daily housekeeping.

Rules and Regulations:

Cruise lines have a strict no drug policy, and keep a watchful eye on alcohol abuse. Random drug testing is common onboard, and alcohol testing is employed in certain instances of misconduct.