International Women in Maritime Day – Q&A
International Women in Maritime Day was celebrated on May 18th. On this day, we celebrate women seafarers for their contributions and to also spread awareness of the vital roles they play in the Maritime Industry. On a recent ship visit to the Rhapsody of the Seas, we sat down with several women seafarers to ask them a few questions about their time working in the industry. Here are some of the responses we received:
What do you enjoy the most working in this industry?
Security Staff: I enjoy working with my co-workers and meeting new people. Also, the crew parties are fun.
Maître’D: I enjoy taking care of the guests onboard, as well as seeing the world and different cultures.
Bar Server: I am new here onboard, but I have worked previously on other vessels. I enjoy meeting and serving people of so many different nationalities.
Do you have a fond memory you wish to share with us while working in this industry?
Housekeeping: I recently visited Norway, which was a beautiful place to visit, and I really like our travel itineraries, I also really have fond memories from visiting new places.
Photographer: My brother started working in this industry before me, he inspired me to work here. My time working onboard has given me very fond memories working with the passengers, taking their pictures.
Security Staff: The fondest memories for me would be the ones i receive, working everyday with my fellow crew, who have become a second family to me. Each day is something new.
As the theme for this year is “An Ocean of Opportunities for Women”, do you see growth of opportunities in leadership roles for women in the industry?
Bar Server: Yes, but I consider myself a feminist and I have seen how it can be difficult working in a male dominated industry. I noticed situations of inequality I feel that there should be more done to give more growth opportunities in the industry.
Maître’D: I personally believe so, we see more and more women entering the industry and seeing a growth in promotions for them as well.
Do you have any words of encouragement for women trying to get into the maritime industry?
Photographer: They should feel mentally prepared for the imbalance in the industry of male to female seafarers. It might feel overwhelming at first, but they will adjust.
Bar Server: Keep track of your menstrual cycles and be aware of your hormones in situations of stress. Also, I would tell women to stand your ground and to not bow down to everything they are told.
Maître’D: They should be safe in knowing you will have the opportunity to grow in this industry.
A special thank you to everyone that participated in our Q&A. Happy International Women in Maritime Day!!