Cruise Ship Crew Member Expenses: What do Seafarers Need to Pay for and How Much?

When considering a career as a cruise ship crew member, one of the most common questions is about how much one has to pay for things on board. Does the ship provide all expenses for food, shelter, and supplies, or do seafarers need to pay for certain items? This article aims to clarify the details, including what crew members need to pay for, the perks of being a seafarer, and the role of the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC).

Do Cruise Ship Crew Members Have to Pay for Anything on Board?

Yes, cruise ship crew members do have to pay for certain items and expenses on board, while others are provided free of charge. Below are details on what crew members need to pay for, and the perks they enjoy.

Items crew members have to pay for:

Drinks and snacks: Crew members must pay for their drinks at the crew bars and any soda, candies, or sweets from the machines and the ship store. This applies to both packaged and instant foods and beverages. Personal supplies: Crew members have to pay for personal items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, and other hygiene supplies. Additional uniform parts and any luxuries must also be paid for, often via a cashless system on board, where a fixed amount is credited to each crew member's account. Slop Chest: Unlike the ship's store, items in the Slop Chest, such as soft drinks, chocolates, beers, and wines, can be paid for at a certain point but often require payment. Additionally, other items like toothpaste, toiletries, and junk foods must also be paid for. Dining and Entertainment Expenses: While some cruises offer free dining and entertainment, some may incur additional fees based on the company policy. Crew members might need to pay for their meals, entertainment, and potentially even a small bar fee after their shifts.

Perks of Being a Seafarer

Being a seafarer comes with several perks, most notably the free meals, water, electricity, and various facilities on board. Crew members can enjoy:

Free Food and Beverages: (Perks) All meals, water, and most beverages are provided for free. This includes snacks, soft drinks, and even fine dining options in the crew bars if available. Hygiene Supplies: (Perks) All necessary hygiene supplies, including soaps, toothpaste, and other toiletries, are freely provided, ensuring a standard of living similar to that of land-based personnel. Essentials: (Perks) The ship’s store offers a selection of items such as small uniform items, snacks, and luxury items for an affordable cost compared to onshore prices.

The Role of Maritime Labor Convention (MLC)

The Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) is a crucial document outlining the rights and obligations of seafarers, including the provision of free items to minimize harmful practices. According to the MLC:

Essential Items: Items like food, water, electricity, and PPEs are considered essential and must be provided free of charge to seafarers. Free Recreational Facilities: Recreational facilities, such as gyms, libraries, shops, and entertainment areas, are offered free of charge to ensure seafarers remain occupied and productive. Minimized Access to Harmful Substances: The convention requires limiting access to items that could be harmful to seafarers’ mental and physical health, promoting a healthier work environment.

Additional Services and their Costs

While the MLC ensures many basic and essential services are provided free of charge, there are still some additional services that come with a cost:

Internet: Some cruise lines provide free internet access to their crew members, while others might offer limited data plans that require additional payments for more usage. Television and Entertainment: While TV shows and movies are often provided for free, certain premium channels or exclusive services may incur extra costs. Specialized Services: Exclusive items like electronics, special clothing, and gifts sent home often have to be paid for by the crew members. Catalog ordering systems, as mentioned, can incur charges depending on the items and quantities ordered.

Conclusion

In summary, while cruise ship crew members enjoy a high standard of free living and recreational activities, there are still certain costs and expenses they need to manage, such as personal supplies, additional snacks, and drinks, and internet services. The MLC plays a significant role in ensuring that seafarers receive the necessary support and essential services to maintain their well-being and focus on their work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are all meals provided for free on a cruise ship?

A: Yes, all meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, are provided for free on most cruise ships to ensure crew members have access to sufficient food.

Q: Can crew members purchase additional items from the ship store?

A: Yes, the ship store offers a range of items for purchase, such as personal care products, snacks, and small uniform items. However, these items require payment using the cashless system or a prepaid account.

Q: What happens if a crew member runs out of prepaid credit?

A: If a crew member runs out of prepaid credit, they can top up their account using the cashless system or by requesting a refund of their next payment, dependent on the cruise line's policy.