Where Does the Crew Live and Relax on a Cruise Ship?
Where Does the Crew Stay on a Cruise Ship?
Have you ever been on a cruise and wondered where the crew goes after they’ve served your dinner, cleaned your cabin, or mixed your cocktail?
It’s a question that pops up in the minds of many (at least, I think I used to have friends who asked about it), but few ever get to see the answer.
The truth is, the crew lives on the ship, and their living quarters are a world most passengers never see. It’s a hidden part of the ship, tucked away from the glitz and glamour of the passenger areas.
I’m going to take you on a journey through the crew’s living spaces. We’ll explore where they sleep, eat, relax, and even party.
Think of it as a behind-the-scenes look at life on a cruise ship, from the perspective of the people who keep everything running smoothly. (Except I’ll leave the visuals to your imagination – no pictures here!).
Do Crew Members Live on the Ship?
Yes, crew members live on the ship.
The ship is not just a workplace for them. It’s their home for the duration of their contract, which can last anywhere from a few months to almost a year.
The idea of living on a ship might sound exciting, but it’s also a necessity. Cruise ships operate 24/7, and the crew needs to be on hand at all times to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Did you think crew would transport back to land at night? How would we do that from the middle of the sea?
The crew lives on the same ship as the passengers, just in areas that are off-limits to guests.
Their cabins are their personal space – however small that space might be.
There’s no magical transport back to land, no secret submarine, and no second ship trailing behind.
Where Are Crew Cabins Located?
Lower Decks Below the Waterline
Most crew cabins are located on the lower decks of the ship, often below the waterline. These areas are not as glamorous as the passenger decks, but they serve an important purpose.
Being close to the engine room and other operational areas means the crew can quickly get to their workstations when needed.
It also keeps the crew out of sight, which helps maintain the illusion of a seamless, luxurious experience for passengers.
Living below the waterline has its challenges. The noise from the engines can be constant, and the movement of the ship is more noticeable.
f you’re prone to seasickness, this might not be the most comfortable place to be. But for the crew, it’s just part of the job.
Higher Decks for Officers
Not all crew members live below the waterline.
Higher-ranking officers, such as the captain, hotel managers, and department heads, often have cabins on higher decks. These cabins are usually closer to the bridge or other key areas of the ship.
The higher your rank, the better your living quarters. It’s a bit like a corporate hierarchy, but on a ship.
Officers’ cabins are still not as luxurious as passenger cabins, but they’re a step up from the crew cabins below. They might have a window or even a small sitting area.
For the crew, moving up the ranks isn’t just about better pay – it’s also about better living conditions.
Living Spaces
Crew Cabins
Crew cabins are small. Very small. If you’ve ever stayed in a budget hotel room and thought it was cramped, you’re in for a shock.
Most crew cabins are around 10 square meters, and they’re often shared between two people (or more, depending on the cabin size).
The layout is simple: a bunk bed, a small wardrobe, a desk, and a bathroom. There’s not much room for anything else.
The amenities in crew cabins are basic. You’ll have a bed, a place to store your clothes, a small TV, and maybe a minibar if you’re lucky. There’s no room service, and definitely no balcony.
The focus is on functionality, not luxury.
One thing you won’t find in most crew cabins is a window. Natural light is a rare commodity when you’re living below the waterline.
Some crew members (translate: me) joke that they don’t know if it’s day or night until they step outside.
Despite the lack of space, crew members do their best to make their cabins feel like home. Photos of family and friends are a common sight, as are small decorations like fairy lights or little plants.
Some crew members even bring their own pillows and soft toys to make their bunk more comfortable.
Living in such close quarters with a roommate can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to make lifelong friends. You quickly learn to respect each other’s space and routines, even if that means changing clothes in record time.
The Alleyway
The alleyway is the main corridor that connects all the crew areas. It’s like the backbone of the ship, running from the front to the back.
If you’re a crew member, you’ll spend a lot of time walking up and down this corridor, whether you’re heading to your cabin, the crew mess, or your workstation.
The alleyway is also where you’ll bump into your colleagues. It’s a social space, where you can catch up with friends or exchange a quick hello as you pass by.
On larger ships, it’s not uncommon to see people you’ve never met before, even after months at sea.
Laundry
Laundry is a big part of life on a cruise ship, and the crew laundry room is where it all happens. It’s usually located near the crew cabins and has a few washing machines and dryers.
Crew members are responsible for washing their own clothes, and the laundry room can get busy.
Some ships offer a paid laundry service, but most crew members prefer to do their own laundry to save money.
Recreational Spaces for Crew
Crew Gym
The crew gym is a small, no-frills space where crew members can work out. The equipment is basic, and it’s often crowded, but it’s a place to stay fit and blow off some steam.
Some ships also allow certain crew members to use the passenger gym during off-peak hours, which is a nice perk.
Crew Pool
Not all ships have a crew pool, but when they do, it’s a welcome escape from the heat. The pool is usually small, but it’s a place to cool off and relax.
There are often sun loungers nearby, where you can catch some rays between shifts.
Top Deck Access
Some ships have a top deck area that’s reserved for the crew. It’s a place to enjoy the sun, the sea breeze, and the view.
It’s also a popular spot for crew gatherings, especially when the ship is sailing through scenic areas.
Crew Bar and Crew Store
The crew bar is where the crew goes to unwind after a long day. It’s a social hub, where you can relax with a drink, catch up with friends, or join in on a party. The atmosphere is lively, with music, dancing, and plenty of laughter.
The crew bar is also where many of the ship’s social events take place. There are themed parties, karaoke nights, and even talent shows. It’s a chance for the crew to let loose and have some fun, away from the pressures of work.
During the day, the crew bar doubles as the crew store (may be different on different cruise lines). It’s stocked with essentials like toiletries, snacks, and drinks, as well as souvenirs and other small items.
Prices are usually lower than in the passenger shops, but the selection is limited.
Crew members can also buy cigarettes and alcohol here, although there are strict rules about when and where they can consume them.
Library
The crew library is a quiet space where crew members can borrow books, or magazines. It’s usually a small section of the crew lounge, but it’s a welcome escape for those who love to read.
The library is stocked with books left behind by previous crew members. You’ll find everything from romance novels to thrillers, so there’s something for everyone.
It’s a great way to unwind after a long shift or during a quiet day at sea.
Internet Room
The internet room is a lifeline for crew members who want to stay connected with family and friends back home. It’s usually a small space with a few computers.
Internet access isn’t free, though – crew members typically have to buy data package.
The connection can be slow, especially when the ship is at sea, but it’s better than nothing.
Some crew members bring their own laptops or smartphones to use in their cabins, but the internet room is still a popular spot for those who need to print documents or don’t have their own devices.
Hidden Gems
I’d love to tell you about all the secret spots on the ship, but some things are best discovered on your own.
Let’s just say that if you’re curious and willing to explore, you might stumble upon some hidden gems.
Whether it’s a hidden karaoke room or a quiet corner with a stunning view, there are always surprises waiting to be found.
Dining and Social Areas
Crew Mess
The crew mess is where the crew eats their meals. It’s a cafeteria-style setup, with long tables and a buffet line.
The food is served in large trays, and you help yourself to whatever you want. It’s not gourmet dining, but it’s filling.
The quality of the food can vary depending on the ship. Some crew members complain that the food is repetitive and bland, while others appreciate the effort to cater to different tastes.
You’ll often find a mix of cuisines. Since there’s a large number of rank-and-file crew members from Asia, most dishes are Asian-inspired.
Drinks are limited to water, and juice. And coffee and tea.
Officer’s Mess and Lounge
The officer’s mess is a step up from the crew mess. It’s a more formal dining area, with a slightly better selection of food. Officers eat here, along with some senior staff members.
The officer’s lounge is a quieter, more relaxed space where officers can unwind. It’s a place to have a cup of coffee, read a book, or chat with colleagues.
The atmosphere is more subdued than the crew bar, but it’s still a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the ship.
The Challenges of Crew Living
Cramped Quarters
Living in a small cabin with a roommate can be tough. There’s no privacy, and you have to be considerate of each other’s space and routines.
It’s not always easy, but it’s part of life on a ship.
Noise and Movement
The lower decks can be noisy, especially if you’re near the engine room. The constant hum of the engines can make it hard to sleep, and the movement of the ship is more noticeable.
If you’re prone to seasickness, this can be a real challenge.
Limited Privacy
Privacy is a rare commodity on a ship. Whether you’re in your cabin, the crew mess, or the alleyway, you’re always surrounded by people.
It’s something you get used to, but it can be exhausting.
Smoking and Health Concerns
Smoking is common in crew areas, and it can be hard to avoid the smoke. If you’re a non-smoker, this can be a real issue.
Some crew members also struggle with the temptation to smoke more than they would on land, thanks to the cheap cigarettes available onboard.
How Crew Living Compares to Passenger Areas
Luxury vs. Functionality
Passenger areas are designed for comfort and luxury, with spacious cabins, fine dining, and plenty of entertainment options.
Crew areas, on the other hand, are all about functionality. They’re designed to be practical and efficient, not luxurious.
Separation of Spaces
Crew and passenger areas are kept separate for a reason. It helps maintain the illusion of a seamless, luxurious experience for passengers, while giving the crew a space to relax and be themselves.
A World Within a World
Living on a cruise ship as a crew member is a unique experience. It’s not always easy, but it’s full of camaraderie, adventure, and unforgettable moments. The crew areas may not be as glamorous as the passenger decks, but they’re a world of their own, with everything the crew needs to live, work, and play.
So, the next time you’re on a cruise, spare a thought for the crew living below deck. They’re the ones making sure your holiday runs smoothly, and they do it all while living in a world most passengers never see.
