Your First Day Onboard
You will receive a Joining Letter and flight details from your recruitment agency. Bring this letter with you when you travel to the ship, along with your passport, medical certificate and any safety-related certificates.
Once you have completed any local Immigration and Customs procedures, refer to your joining letter for instructions on where to go. In most cases, there will be hotel information and you will take a free shuttle bus from the airport to the hotel. However, in some ports you will be met by the local Port Agent and brought to the hotel or directly to the ship. The hotel staff will advise pickup times for crewmembers the following morning from the hotel lobby. Depending on the port these times can be very early, so be sure to set an alarm clock or request a wake-up call. If you are picked up by the Port Agent, he or she will tell you the next morning's pickup time.
You will wear your own clothing when joining the ship, but remember that first impressions are made the moment you set foot onboard. A more conservative appearance is suggested. Due to immigration and customs regulations the ship has to comply with, there may be a wait at the dock before you will be allowed to board.
The Human Resources Manager will welcome you at the gangway with a Welcome Onboard packet. This packet will include:
- Customs Declaration form
- Time and place of the safety meeting
- Procedures for obtaining your Employee ID Card
- Cabin Key
- Ship's Map
As long as you work for the company, you will keep the same Employee ID number. Your personal account number will change with each contract. Your Crew Officer (CO) will make sure all your paperwork is correct. They will also make sure you are officially on the payroll and help you with any questions you have about your benefits. Before sailing you will pick up your life jacket at the Bridge or it will be given to you during the safety meeting on the first or second day of boarding.
Your passport, including visas, will be kept in the Crew Office upon signing on. Your Medical Certificate is kept in the ship's Medical Center. It is your responsibility to make sure these documents are valid for your entire time onboard.
New Employee Orientation Program
The New Employee Orientation Program (NEOP) is specially designed to make sure your first day onboard is great. You will be given a card that specifically spells out what you have to do before you begin your duties in your new position.
The program is designed to ensure new crewmembers are familiar with emergency procedures and have the knowledge and ability to correctly use the available safety equipment. Also included are basic items necessary for the crewmembers comfort while onboard.
Expect the first few weeks to be tiring. You will be adjusting to a new a job with different work hours, new living situation and lifestyle, new time zone, and many new rules. Ask a lot of questions during your first contract. This will help you adjust more quickly.
Help from a Buddy
Among the features of the NEOP program is the assignment of a Buddy who is responsible for:
- Providing a ship's tour
- Picking-up a life jacket and locating your assigned life boat
- Delivering medical records to the Infirmary
- Locating your cabin
- Locating the various facilities and services
- Getting fitted for and picking up uniforms
- Ensuring you understand all safety and training items
- Reviewing the House Rules
- Your ship's Security Officer will also spend some time with you. He will review the House Rules, and other policies that will govern your time aboard.
Meeting Your Supervisor
Your Supervisor will continue your orientation by reviewing your specific job duties and seeing that you are situated in your new surroundings. Your Supervisor will explain who, when and how to ask for assistance, or should the need arise, where to go to get problems resolved. Be sure to ask questions at any time during your orientation or even after your orientation!