The Port of Lisbon teamed up with MSC Cruises and CLIA this summer to give a group of young people a closer look at what it takes to work aboard a cruise ship.
As part of the “All Aboard!” educational initiative, 11 participants aged 11 to 15 from the Beato Parish Council’s summer program took part in interactive activities exploring different shipboard careers, including navigation, engineering, medical services, environmental operations, guest services and entertainment.
Five crew members from MSC Opera joined the program to share their own experiences of working at sea. They spoke about training, language skills, working with multinational teams and the opportunities that come with an international maritime career.
The experience concluded on July 27 with a visit aboard MSC Opera in Lisbon. Participants toured the ship and met crew from different departments, giving them a firsthand look at daily cruise operations.
The activity forms part of the Port of Lisbon’s “Cruises for the Community” program, which aims to build stronger connections between cruise lines and the local community while introducing younger generations to careers at sea.