Re: Merchant Marine

From: Mike
Location: Duluth
Email:
Remote Name: 12.148.27.193
Date: 09/30/04
Time: 04:47:38 PM

Comments

I sailed for one summer when I was in college. Vacation relief is what they called it. You basically filled in for anyone who went on vacation. It was something I had always wanted to do so I figured why not. I was 19 at the time and although it wasn't a mistake and I by no means regret it, I don't think I would want to sail for a living. Like others have said, you spend long periods of time away from family and friends and have little to no contact with them at all while you are on board. Social life outside your crewmates = zero. The food is awesome and the scenery even better. You will pick up many new curse words and absorb the use of them into your own speech. It takes awhile to weed them out once you return ashore. The money was great for a college and commaradery is good too. Everyone watches out for one another. It served as a good wake up call for me since I was frustrated with school at the time and was contemplating different career options. Would I recommend it?....for awhile, yes,..for life...no. Many crewman will agree with me on that one too I am afraid.