Taboos on board: Cruise crews are not allowed to discuss these topics!

Taboos on board: Cruise crews are not allowed to discuss these topics!

In his book “Cruise Confidential,” Brian David Bruns, a former cruise ship crew member, offers an in-depth look at the strict rules of behavior that apply to crew on board. Bruns worked for over four years, including ten months as a waiter at Carnival Cruise Line, and reports on the challenges and working conditions that are often perceived as harsh. Employees are required to work overtime, often requiring them to work over 100 hours per week with no days off.

Before Bruns started his first mission, it was made clear to him that certain topics were considered taboo on board. Loud travel reporter There are strict rules that say crew members are not allowed to talk politics. This is justified by the fact that different national backgrounds could lead to tensions, as not all crew members come from democracies. Discussions about military matters are also prohibited, especially on American ships, to avoid potential insults to passengers.

Taboo topics and punishments

The topic of religion is particularly sensitive and is considered to be the most taboo. Bruns emphasizes that discussions about this on board can cause serious problems. The consequences for violating these rules are drastic – crew members could be sent home without any money. Arguments between each other are also taboo, as stated world.de emerges.

The strict regulations are reinforced by the fact that work requirements are already very high. Although the contract only stipulates 80 hours per week, waiters often have to work overtime. Bruns earned just $50 a month, but tips from passengers ranged from $1,000 to $3,000. The hierarchy on board is remarkable: waiters and bartenders rank above other hotel employees such as chefs and chambermaids.

Insight into the crew perspective

The working conditions are often difficult. Crew members share cabins and usually have limited sleeping options, while also having little time to go ashore. As a rule, they only have three to five hours available. Despite the demanding work, Bruns shows that there are positive aspects. Many crew members find the diversity of passengers an enrichment. However, there are also moments when the crew begrudges passengers their free time or makes derogatory comments about certain guests, especially overweight passengers.

Bruns emphasizes that sexual relationships between crew and passengers are strictly prohibited, but sexual activity can occasionally occur in crew cabins. The allure of the captain, who exudes authority, is also widely noted. Despite the challenges, Bruns encourages employees not to be servants and criticizes those passengers who treat the crew poorly.

Overall, Bruns' narrative offers a compelling perspective on the lives and working conditions of crew on cruise ships, highlighting the strict conventions that prevail on board while emphasizing the potential for real, albeit complex, human interactions.