As one of those, who are blessed to avail of it, below are some insights gained therefrom:
1.) Be flexible with your expectations. The ports of call may sound to be very enticing because Google will tell you, of the beautiful attractions to see, but in reality, time is your greatest enemy. Because either the ship stays too short in port, the port is too far from the attractions, or there are work-related constraints that need immediate attention and they can not go ashore. So, all you have to do is feast your eyes of the wonders that is before it.
Expectations:
Reality:
2.) On Variable weather at SeaThe sea is always unpredictable. Sometimes, calm often times rough, especially during winter time. Brace yourself for gigantic waves, and have on hand Anti-motion sickness tablets. Therefore, expect only romantic adventures during summer time.
3.) The Food
While the food onboard is free, don't expect cruise type food preparation. The Cook will depend on the nationality of the ratings. Thus, keep your survival mode always on, and for the picky eaters, try to purchase your own groceries when the vessel is in port.
4.) Broaden your horizon.
In a global setting, where the Officers and Crew are of various nationalities, meeting different people and learning a new culture, allows you to expand your geographical learnings on cultures, up close and personal. Respect differences and appreciate similarities.
5.) Observe Safety First.
Be adaptable to all the safety measures adopted onboard. Participate during emergency drills. It is conducted for awareness and readiness when eventualities happen.
6.) The Value of Prayers
When you pray hard, while on land, double it exponentially while at sea, especially during bad weather. Prayers do wonders.😇
7.) Be Mentally and Physically strong
Stay connected with family and friends ashore and when problems arise, leave it to them to solve it. Physically, stay healthy despite the limited food choices and do some exercise, if weather permits.
8.) Know your limits
As passengers, you are visitors onboard. Therefore, restrict yourself and know your place. Activities and functions that are purely operational in nature, it's best to leave them to the Seafarers.
19.) A Litmus Test of your Patience
On long voyages, your patience will be put to test. Bring with you, some of your favorite hobbies, because boredom can weigh you down. Sailing is the best time to discover unexplored potentials and hone the existing one. A Chief Engineer's wife paints, while she was onboard and exhibits her paintings and sell them when she gets home.😁
10.) The value of money.
Now, that you knew how it is earned, you will be more conscious of how to spend it, WISELY.
11.) Spend Quality Time
Foremost, he is an Officer. Being your significant other comes next.
Try to achieve Quality moments, while onboard. It's an opportune time to understand the ins and out of his job, and to provide tender loving care, during challenging times. Whenever there is a chance, "Get a Life".
12.) During Security Breach
Keep Calm and Follow Instructions on Security Protocols. Pray, Pray, Pray...🙏
13.) Create Memories
Sometimes, important milestones are celebrated onboard simply, due to limited resources. The best gift you can give each other is the gift of your presence. Priceless, indeed.
14.) Promote friendship.Develop a friendship with other families, who are onboard. You will be together only, for a limited time and you never. know, when your paths will cross again.
What happened onboard, remains onboard. When you signed off, from the vessel, treasure the memories, and be glad of the opportunity to sail.
Not everyone is given the chance to circumnavigate the globe for free.😎😀
An Island girl, will always have an endless, love affair with the deep blue seas. Life is good. Make it Beautiful. 🤗Image Source: Self
