It's a strange feeling. Ever since I stopped working on the cruise ship, there hasn't been a single day when I don't think about going back. It was demanding work, with long hours, poor management, and lengthy contracts involving seven-day workweeks. Yet, I miss it immensely. It's hard to explain why; it's almost like an addiction. Once you experience life at sea, your perspective changes forever. The unique lifestyle, the incredible opportunity to travel the world, visit stunning exotic destinations for free, and meet amazing friends - that's what I long for.

Working on a cruise ship can be tough, with grueling hours and minimal time off. Salaries for most crew members are low. However, many people choose to spend years working on cruise ships because of the unparalleled benefits and experiences. If they decide to work on land again at some point, they carry with them resumes filled with extraordinary encounters and memories that will last a lifetime.

When people generally think about cruise ships, they envision a relaxing vacation rather than considering the advantages of working on board. Images of sunbathing, fruity drinks, delectable food, breathtaking scenery, and quality time with loved ones typically come to mind.

However, there's another side to life on a cruise ship, one of hard work to ensure the smooth operation of the vessel and the satisfaction of its passengers. Working on a cruise ship offers a unique, challenging, and incredibly rewarding job opportunity.

One of the greatest perks of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world, or at least a significant portion of it. Cruise ships embark on various itineraries, covering destinations such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. As a crew member, you get to explore these places as part of your job, an experience that most people never have. The policies for time spent ashore differ between companies, but all cruise lines allow crew members to enjoy their free time exploring the area, dining in local restaurants, stocking up on essentials, or simply relaxing on the beach. Some companies even offer discounted rates for crew members to book experiences or excursions, provided they do not interfere with their work schedule.

While most new crew ship employees start in entry-level positions, ambitious individuals can rise through the ranks. Staff members are encouraged to participate in regular training courses and apply for promotions, and there are numerous success stories in the industry.

It is often mistakenly believed that life on a cruise ship is one extended holiday for the staff. However, employees work diligently throughout their contracts, regardless of their roles. Crew members work every day of their contract, with time off measured in hours rather than full days.

Another remarkable benefit of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. As cruise ships attract passengers from various countries, crew members have the chance to interact with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Not only do you get to meet passengers from around the globe, but you also form bonds with your co-workers, learning about their cultures and experiences. Many cruise ships have designated crew areas for socializing, such as crew bars or lounges, providing further opportunities to meet new people during meals and after shifts throughout your contract.

Moreover, working on a cruise ship allows you to travel the world for free. Few jobs offer this incredible benefit, and it becomes even more meaningful when you consider the friendships you make along the way. Personally, I have friends in countries like Germany, Italy, Hungary, Serbia, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, the Philippines, the USA, India, China, Ukraine, Russia, and many more. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to visit my good friend in Hungary, which was an unforgettable experience.

The breathtaking sunrises and sunsets are another remarkable aspect of life on a cruise ship. Unless you are fortunate enough to live by the sea, there is nothing quite like witnessing the sun gracefully sink into the ocean while savoring a glass of wine. It is truly a part of the ship's life experience.

Food is readily available everywhere on the ship. The crew mess is open throughout the day, and often crew members can enjoy leftover guest food for a late-night "midnight snack" between 11 PM and 1 AM.

Working on a ship will change your perspective on life. During my time on board, I was fortunate enough to have a job that allowed for a few hours of work and plenty of free time. Before complaining about your own work hours, consider those who work 12-14 hour shifts in their mundane office jobs. Ship life is incomparable to anything else. You meet incredible people who are away from their families for 6-9 months at a time, working on board to support their loved ones in their home countries.

Because "real life" simply cannot compare...

When you get back on land, it's all great for two days, and then, you suddenly miss saying 'hello' to 100 different people as soon as you walk out your cabin door. In ship life, you are removed from the immediate world and placed in a microcosm of society. You have to experience on your own and create your own life-changing experience.

The last time when I arrived back home, I was saying hello to all the random neighbors in the street where I live. It was like a real surprise to everyone because people in my country are usually used to being cold and distanced from each other. That's what ship life teaches you, the real values,

TO BE KIND AND NICE TO EVERYONE ELSE, FOR NO PARTICULAR REASON!