Medical preparation
Cruise lines and their flag states usually require a seafarer medical certificate before joining, and some employers add their own pre-employment checks. Use the preparation checker and confirm requirements with your employer and the relevant authority.
Fitness
Long shifts on your feet call for leg strength, core stability and mobility. Try the Cruise Crew Energy programme.
Nutrition
Crew mess buffets make overeating easy. Use the plate model in Sea Nutrition and limit sugary drinks.
Sleep
Late finishes, shared cabins and early starts are common. Earplugs, an eye mask and a consistent wind-down routine help. See Sleep & Fatigue.
Fatigue
Long contracts with few days off build fatigue gradually. Use the self-assessment to check in with yourself.
Wellbeing
Busy social life on board can coexist with loneliness. See Seafarer Wellbeing for support options.
Country requirements
Requirements depend on the ship’s flag and your employer as well as your nationality. Check the country database and ask your employer which certificate they accept.
Frequently asked questions
Can cruise crew use SeafarerFit?
Yes. The tools and guides are free for all seafarers, including hotel, entertainment and marine crew on cruise ships.