Roomate guidelines
If you are planning to work on a cruise ship for the first time, you will most likely start at an entry-level position. On cruise ships, your job and status can significantly impact your life onboard. The higher your position in the hierarchy, the better the cabin you are assigned.
This means that working in an entry-level position will almost certainly involve sharing a cabin with another person. This can be intimidating for various reasons, raising numerous questions and concerns:
- How will we share the space?
- Will the space be clean and tidy?
- Will we get along as roommates?
- Will my roommate's habits bother me?
To make your life on the cruise ship as pleasant and harmonious as possible, there are certain steps you can take from the start to make sharing a cabin easier.
First Steps and Initial Communication
Open and honest communication from the very beginning is key to a successful shared cabin experience. When you arrive at your cabin, you may find that your roommate is already there, so it’s important to approach the situation with respect and empathy. It’s best to immediately establish some basic rules after the initial introductions.
You can start the conversation with something like:
"I’m glad to be sharing this cabin with you. If you have any preferences or things that bother
you, please feel free to let me know. I’ll do the same if something bothers me. I want this
space to be comfortable for both of us."
This conversation helps build initial trust and opens the door for future communication
whenever needed.
Cultural differences
On cruise ships, you’ll encounter colleagues from various countries, which means cultural differences might affect your way of life. It’s important to be understanding and flexible. Respect others’ habits and work toward compromises to create a harmonious atmosphere in the cabin.
Bunkbeds
Many cruise ships use bunk beds, with the lower bunk often being the preferred one. However, when you first arrive at your cabin, you’ll likely need to start on the upper bunk while your roommate, who’s been there longer, takes the lower one. Over time, you may switch and move to the lower bunk. Keep in mind that the lower bunk is often used as a sofa during the day.
Keep it clean
Cabins on cruise ships are usually small, so even the slightest mess can quickly make the space feel cluttered. To ensure both of you enjoy a clean environment, be sure to follow these rules:
- Keep your clothes in the wardrobe.
- Place dirty laundry in sealed bags.
- Take turns cleaning the bathroom using the supplies provided by the ship.
- Change your bedding regularly.
Music
If you enjoy music, remember that your roommate might prefer silence or have different tastes. Before playing music, ask how they feel about it and always keep the volume moderate, as cabin walls are often very thin.
The Smell
Smells can be very personal, so strive to maintain a pleasant-smelling cabin. This includes:
- Keeping dirty laundry in sealed bags.
- Showering regularly and using air fresheners.
- Avoiding foods that may leave strong odors, such as heavily spiced dishes.
Romantic relationships
It’s possible to develop a romantic connection with a fellow crew member during your contract. If this happens, it’s essential to communicate clearly with your roommate about your need for privacy. If your roommate doesn’t have a romantic interest, you may need to plan private time for when they’re off the ship or working.
Couples cabins
For couples, the option of sharing a cabin exists but is often reserved for married couples. For other couples, the number of such cabins may be very limited. In that case, you can try to arrange a cabin swap with someone else, if possible.
Decorations
When personalizing your cabin, keep in mind that everyone has different tastes. Before hanging pictures or adding decorations, ask your roommate if they’re okay with it. Try to find a compromise that allows both of you to enjoy the space.
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