The Treatment of Crew on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas
Recently returning from a voyage aboard the Wonder of the Seas, a group of American travelers shared their experiences with crew members they encountered. These travelers noted that the crew was well-paid and received numerous benefits, far beyond what they might find in other industries. During a meet and greet with the Captain, it was highlighted that the crew's diversity is a significant asset, illustrating that they are valued more than just as mere numbers.
Upper-Level Management vs. Service Crew
It is crucial to distinguish the treatment of two groups within the crew. Upper-level management and officers are undoubtedly favored with excellent conditions. However, the majority of the service crew faces vastly different circumstances. By first-world standards, their conditions are indeed very poor. These crew members typically come from third-world countries, particularly the Philippines, and their pay is extremely low—ranging from USD 6 to USD 10 per day. Additionally, they are often responsible for paying for their own transportation, food, and accommodation.
Working Conditions and Fair Compensation
Working hours for the service crew are generally 12 hours a day, six days a week. This regimen is comparable to the demanding work schedules on cruise ships. However, the treatment of these crew members is reminiscent of equipment rather than human beings. In most cases, they are utilized until their services are no longer needed, and then they are replaced. The Royal Caribbean case is a stark example: if a crew member dies due to an incident, the maximum payout for their family is limited to USD 50,000 without any dependent support. This issue was highlighted during an incident at White Island, where 22 guests and crew were killed during a volcanic eruption. The insurance coverage and compensation for the crew would be minimal, while the cruise line could face significant financial responsibility.
Living Conditions and Benefits
To mitigate some of the harsh conditions, the cruise lines provide basic necessities such as housing, transportation, clothing, food, and some entertainment. However, these benefits do not fully address the issues faced by the majority of the service crew. They are often restricted from accessing many parts of the ship, especially during their off-hours. Only a select few are allowed to go ashore, and even then, their access is limited to a few hours in the port.
Pros and Cons of the Service Crew’s Role
Despite the challenging conditions, the service crew finds their roles beneficial. The jobs offer far better opportunities than those available at home. Additionally, the income earned from a single nine-month contract can be substantial enough to support years of work at home. Many crew members work for a period of 10 to 20 years before returning home to retire. The extended off-periods, which can last several months, provide ample time for them to save and invest their earnings.
Valuation and Diverse Crew
Interestingly, even the senior crew and officers often respect the lower-ranking personnel, revealing a positive atmosphere onboard. The Captain emphasized that diversity among the crew is a significant asset, indicating that the crew is valued beyond mere numbers. This suggests a more comprehensive approach to crew management and well-being, which is a critical aspect of the overall cruise experience.
Conclusion
While the treatment of employees, particularly the service crew, on Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships is a complex issue with both pros and cons, it is clear that the cruise industry has a long way to go in ensuring comprehensive, fair, and humane treatment of its workforce. Transparency about working conditions, fair compensation, and improved access and integration for all crew members are essential steps towards achieving a more equitable environment.