The idea of working on a cruise ship evokes images of glamorous travel and endless adventures. However, the reality of crew life is a complex mix of hard work, camaraderie, and unique opportunities. For anyone considering embarking on this career, it’s essential to separate myth from truth.

Let’s demystify some of the most common beliefs about life onboard:

Myth 1: It’s like a paid vacation.

Truth: Far from it! Working on a cruise ship is a demanding job, with long hours and few days off. The work schedule can be 7 days a week, with 10 to 14 hours daily. Although you’ll be in incredible places, your main focus is work and serving passengers. “Vacation” happens during the few moments of free time in port or during the rest period between contracts.

Myth 2: You’ll get rich quickly.

Truth: While many crew members manage to save a significant amount of money, especially because accommodation and food are provided, it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. Salaries vary greatly according to the position, company, and tips (for roles that receive them). The main financial benefit is the low cost of living onboard.

Myth 3: You’ll get to see all the places the ship visits.

Truth: Unfortunately, no. Your ability to explore destinations depends on your work schedule. In many ports, you’ll only have a few hours off, or perhaps none, if the ship is in transit or if your role requires your presence onboard. However, in some ports, especially on longer routes, it is possible to have time to explore.

Myth 4: Social life is always a party.

Truth: Social life onboard is vibrant and unique, but it’s not a constant party. There are crew bars and recreation areas, and camaraderie is strong, as you live and work with the same people. However, work fatigue and the need for rest are real. Friendships formed onboard are often deep due to the intensity of the shared experience.

Myth 5: It’s easy to get a job.

Truth: The cruise industry is competitive. While there are many vacancies, companies look for candidates with the right skills (especially English fluency and relevant experience) and the appropriate mindset for the onboard work environment. The selection process can be rigorous, including interviews and medical exams.

Truth 1: You’ll make friends for life.

Myth: The intensity of life onboard creates very strong bonds. You’ll go through unique experiences with your colleagues, building a network of friends from all over the world who understand what crew life is like.

Truth 2: You’ll develop valuable skills.

Myth: Life on a ship forces you to be adaptable, resilient, proactive, and to improve your customer service and intercultural communication skills. These are highly valued qualities in any future career, both at sea and on land.

Truth 3: It’s a transformative life experience.

Myth: Living and working on a cruise ship is a perspective-changing experience. You’ll learn about different cultures, gain independence, face challenges, and grow personally and professionally in ways few other careers allow.

Truth 4: Personal space is limited.

Myth: Most crew members share small cabins with one or more colleagues. Personal space is a luxury. Adapting to this reality and respecting others’ space is fundamental for coexistence.

Truth 5: Crew food is repetitive.

Myth: Although crew food is provided and can become repetitive over the months, it is generally nutritious and varied enough to cater to diverse diets and cultural tastes.