A former Filipino crew member and influencer Rinell Banda urges the cruise industry to give all crew members at least one vacation day a month.
With over 456,000 Facebook followers, Banda’s filmed request has quickly gone viral, amassing over 12,000 views in three days with the help of CrewCenter.com.
The social media personality addressed the “amazing CEOs” of the cruise ship industry with his bold recommendation, “I have a suggestion that could transform the lives of our hardworking crew members and make our ships even more efficient and happier places to work: implementing a day off at least once a month for all crew members.”
As a former Bell Captain on the private residential cruise ship The World, Banda says this minor concession would improve productivity, teamwork, and mental and physical health.
On his Buhay Sa Cruise Ship (Life on a Cruise Ship) page, he explained, “I’ve seen crew members, including myself, having medical off two to three days a month because of burnout, physical pain, and stress.”
“Instead of medical off, give us a day off,” he reasoned.
The Status Quo: No Full Days Off for Crew Members
A full day off is far from the norm in the cruise industry, with most cruise lines offering employees shifts off that are only equivalent to a few hours. For example, housekeeping staff might work in the morning and have the afternoon off, while restaurant staff might have evenings free between meal services.
Though there are shore leaves and vacation days between contracts, crew assignments often last months, with 10-hour days and difficult guests.
Many of Banda’s followers, who are also crew members, echoed his request, expressing hope that his suggestion will be heard.
“24 hours off?,” wrote one cruise line employee in Tagalog. “I hope that happens in the near future. We have time off in the Restaurant Department but it’s only lunch off.”
Another tired crew member commented, “I fully support this. This would be a huge deal if it happens. Imagine a once a month chance to rest and recharge!”
As he ended his appeal, Banda seemingly spoke on behalf of the over 200,000 cruise line crew members. “To all the cruise ship CEOs out there, let’s lead by example and set a new standard in the maritime industry. One day off a month can make all the difference.”
“Your crew, your strength. Let’s give them the break they deserve,” he reiterated.
