Life working on a cruise ship presents a unique culture, particularly regarding interpersonal relationships. According to Lauren Heavner (@laurenheav), a seasoned vocalist with over a decade in the cruise industry, the reality for crew members is often a whirlwind of brief encounters.
In an exclusive discussion with MailOnline Travel, Heavner exposes the nuances of crew life, including restricted areas, surprising perks, and the phrase no staff member wants to hear.
Cruise Ship Crew’s ‘Unhinged’ Hookup Culture
Heavner described the crew hookup culture as more than just active, stating it is “unhinged.”
“Relationships move at an accelerated pace,” Heavner explained. “Couples form quickly, become official within days, only to experience dramatic breakups by the weekend, often repeating this cycle until their contracts conclude.” She further revealed a “darker side” to these fleeting relationships, suggesting superficiality and transient commitments are commonplace.
Lauren Heavner, a cruise industry veteran of over 10 years, shares insights into crew member life in an exclusive interview with MailOnline Travel.
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Beyond casual encounters, Heavner detailed instances of harassment. “Women and men face unwanted advances at the crew bar, and unsolicited contact extends to cabin phone calls at all hours and random messages from unfamiliar individuals who’ve found you on social media,” she stated. “The sense of entitlement transcends rank, indicating a systemic issue within cruise ship culture, not merely isolated incidents.”
Restricted Areas for Cruise Ship Staff
Crew access varies across the ship depending on their position; however, one area remains strictly off-limits to all staff members, regardless of rank.
Heavner disclosed, “The casino is the ultimate boundary for crew. It’s exclusively for paying passengers. Crew members can only observe the casino’s atmosphere from afar.”
Violation of this rule carries significant consequences. “Disciplinary actions, potentially including termination, are enforced,” Heavner clarified. She added, “While some, especially those in higher positions, may bend the rules more easily, cruise ship life operates on hierarchies, where fairness is not always a priority.”
Substandard Crew Meals Onboard
Heavner highlights the casino as a crew no-go zone. Pictured above, Heavner performing onboard. She also notes the constant availability of alcohol on cruise ships.
Prospective cruise ship employees should prepare for potentially unappetizing meals. Heavner recounted witnessing “fish heads and rice” served in certain crew dining areas.
“The food quality can be genuinely poor,” Heavner remarked.
She added, “It’s a recurring complaint in crew welfare meetings, yet minimal improvements occur. Crew meals often consist of low-grade, mass-produced options, seemingly an afterthought.”
24/7 Alcohol Availability for Cruise Staff and Passengers
“Alcohol is ever-present on cruise ships,” Heavner stated.
“Passengers often drink excessively, perhaps seeking escape or to enhance their experience, with some seemingly in a constant state of inebriation,” she observed.
Regarding crew consumption:
Ship safety protocols mandate a minimum crew presence onboard during port stops. Heavner is pictured onboard a previous ship.
Heavner with fellow crew members.
Heavner commented, “The industry accommodates individuals who are functionally dependent on alcohol. Long workdays, isolation, and high-pressure environments can make alcohol seem like a welcome relief.”
‘In Port Manning’: The Most Dreaded Phrase
Maritime regulations require a certain percentage of crew members to remain onboard whenever a cruise ship docks for safety and operational reasons.
This duty, known as “In Port Manning,” falls upon designated crew members, according to Heavner.
“Approximately every five port visits, some crew are assigned ‘In Port Manning’,” she explained. “Being assigned this on a port day transforms the ship into a desolate environment. Instead of shore excursions, those on duty are confined to the ship, facing mundane tasks.”
Heavner notes passengers frequently approach crew members with inquiries while in port.
Free Condoms, Costly Feminine Hygiene Products
Heavner pointed out the revealing contents of crew vending machines, particularly late at night.
“While snacks like chocolate and crisps are available, condoms are the most sought-after item,” she disclosed. “These are dispensed freely, highlighting the accessibility of sexual health resources.”
However, Heavner criticized the lack of accessible and affordable feminine hygiene products. “These essentials carry a high price in the crew shop, costing significantly more than standard retail prices,” she stated.
Expensive and Slow Crew WIFI
“The cost and quality of WIFI for cruise ship crew is exploitative,” Heavner asserted, noting the “exorbitant fees for slow and unreliable connections.”
Heavner pictured with a crew member in performance attire.
She acknowledged, “While maritime laws mandate basic WIFI provision, many cruise lines only offer minimal WhatsApp-only plans, restricting photo, video, or voice communication.”
“Although some companies like Virgin Voyages provide complimentary WIFI, a significant number still charge employees excessively for a service that should be standard in today’s world,” Heavner concluded.
Karaoke Nights in the Crew Bar: A Highlight
The crew bar is a popular after-shift destination for staff, as Heavner explained, “Options for recreation are limited.”
Karaoke Night is the undisputed highlight in the crew bar, according to Heavner.
“Given the large Filipino crew contingent, karaoke is deeply ingrained in the culture,” she noted. “Crew karaoke performances are often exceptional, showcasing impressive vocal talent that frequently surpasses expectations.”
Strategies to Avoid Passengers Ashore
Heavner mentioned that “passengers invariably approach crew members for assistance or questions in port.”
While these interactions are generally benign, crew members often seek personal time off-ship.
To maintain anonymity, Heavner outlined common tactics: “Hats, sunglasses, and headphones are essential for blending in. Walking purposefully with your head down also helps avoid unwanted attention.”
“For guaranteed peace, purchasing a resort day pass offers access to amenities like pools and WIFI, away from both passengers and crew, providing valuable personal space,” she added.
Connect with Lauren on TikTok (@laurenheav) and Instagram (@laurenheav).
Heavner identifies Karaoke Night as a crew favorite. Photographed performing onboard.