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The Summit, docked in Skagway, Alaska
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So, you're thinking of working on a cruise ship? I've worked in the casino on two major lines, and after two
contracts I feel I have valuable insight on what to expect.
I worked with Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruiselines for two contracts. I wish I had read a site
like this to prepare me for life at sea, because it's not as easy as I thought. I wish I knew what to bring, what not
to bring, and what exactly to expect. I worked as a Casino Dealer, but I was also a Seaman 24/7!
I'd like to think that this site will better prepare you for what ship life is like if you are thinking of applying for
work at sea, or if you are already set to go and need a few tips on packing. Aside from what to physically prepare for,
there's the mental preparation. You're going to be away from family and friends for a long time with extremely little
contact. I'll give you tips on how to stay connected.
Think about whether or not your personality will suit the ship life, and weigh out your options well before
leaving! Enjoy the site, and please contact me for any further information!
-Marlana, September 11, 2006
Update: Can a relationship last while working on board? Well, ten months after my boyfriend and I returned to land,
we ended our three-year relationship. You definitely get to know a person better than you wanted to while living so
closely together. Many relationships form while on the ship, but may not last afterward. I was warned of this,
but I believe that I got to know some traits about him while on board, and it helped me form my decision to end it in June,
2005.
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Immediate Tips
- Purchase a Calling Card from your phone company to use anywhere in the world.
- Purchase seasickness tablets, or for a natural way to curb nausea, try ginger in vitamin-form.
- Pack your own blanket and pillow.
- Ask your bank to increase your credit card limit.
- Set up a free, use-anywhere email account (yahoo, hotmail, etc.)
- Make sure all sharp and flammable items are in your cargo luggage (nail files, scissors, clippers, hair picks, matches).
- Purchase a pay-as-you-go cell phone, and get new cards mailed to you each month from someone at home.
- Extend medication like Birth Control pills, order as many packs and at least one month more before you go (your contract
may be extended!)
- Bring photos of loved ones.
- Keep a list of email address and post-mail addresses of your loved ones, and emergency contacts
- Bring two extra toothbrushes (you never know where you'll find another drug store along the way, and that goes for
other personal toiletry items).
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...of you have visited this site!
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