Life at Sea

Seafaring is a job and a way of living. Crew members work, eat, sleep and rest aboard the same vessel for long periods, far from home.

Watches

Ships operate around the clock. Deck and engine crews stand watches, traditionally in a three-watch system of four hours on and eight off. Day workers handle maintenance during daytime hours. International rules set minimum rest periods to limit fatigue.

Departments

The deck department handles navigation, cargo, mooring and maintenance of the hull and deck equipment. The engine department runs the machinery. The steward's department feeds the crew; a ship's cook is a skilled trade (see Culinary Arts). On passenger ships a hotel department adds housekeeping, dining, entertainment and medical care.

Rotations and pay

Many mariners work a rotation, such as several months aboard followed by time ashore. Pay can be good, especially for licensed officers and experienced engineers, and time off can be long. The trade-off is time away from family and life ashore.

History and reform

Sailors historically faced harsh discipline, crowded quarters and poor food. Reforms such as the U.S. Seamen's Act of 1915, championed by Andrew Furuseth of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific, improved rights and safety. The Maritime Labour Convention (2006) now sets international standards for working and living conditions.

Is it for you?

Life at sea suits people who like teamwork, routine, practical problems and travel, and who can live closely with others. Maritime Crew students visit working vessels before choosing the path.