Cunard has released a new episode of its Crew Conversations podcast focusing on career development, training and support for women working aboard cruise ships.

The episode features Fran, an onboard HR Manager, and Barnaly, a Learning and Development Officer. They discuss changes they have witnessed in the maritime industry and the training opportunities available to crew members. They also address the support available to women aboard Cunard’s ships.

Cruise lines are celebrating Housekeeping Appreciation Week by recognizing the thousands of crew members whose hard work keeps ships clean.

The annual event runs from September 13 through September 19, 2026. During the week, cruise companies and shipboard leaders are sharing team photos, videos and messages of appreciation for cabin attendants, public-area cleaners, laundry workers, supervisors, butlers and other housekeeping employees.

Here is how some of the major cruise lines celebrated Housekeeping Appreciation Week

Behind every crew member and officer, there is a remarkable story shaped by dreams, sacrifices and years of hard work. Before Captain Ivan Mladina took command of Carnival cruise ships, he represented Croatia at two Olympic Games and won two medals at the Mediterranean Games.

Born in Split, Croatia, Mladina made his Olympic debut at Sydney 2000, competing in the 100-meter butterfly and the 4x100-meter freestyle relay. Four years later, he returned to the Olympics in Athens as a member of Croatia’s 4x100-meter freestyle relay team. 

Princess Cruises is introducing three shipboard employment policies intended to give crew members clearer options when personal or family circumstances affect their ability to complete an assignment.

The changes cover unexpected departures, temporary stays in the country of disembarkation and requests to shorten future contracts for important family events. According to a company FAQ, the policies will apply to contracts issued on or after October 1, 2026.

Royal Caribbean has recognized Zikang “Khan” Zhang, a Loyalty Ambassador aboard Allure of the Seas, for his thoughtful approach to guest service.

In one case highlighted by the cruise line, guests complained that outdoor movie nights had become unusually dark. Khan coordinated with several departments to address the problem and help restore the popular onboard experience.

A Crew Center follower has shared an emotional letter about the uncertainty of waiting for another contract with MSC Cruises. The crew member says it has been a year and a half since their last contract, despite being ready to return to work and hoping to continue a career with a company they still consider home. We are sharing the letter in full below, as it reflects a difficult reality many seafarers can relate to: waiting for an assignment without knowing when, or if, the next opportunity will come.

Letter from the crew member:

For many people, working on a cruise ship sounds like a dream job. Traveling the world, visiting exotic destinations, meeting people from different cultures, and living at sea all have a certain appeal. But behind the beautiful ocean views and smiling service lies a side of shipboard life that passengers rarely see.

Every seafarer has a story. Some experiences are rewarding, others challenging, and many fall somewhere in between. Now, maritime professionals from around the world have an opportunity to help shape future research by taking part in the SIROS – Survey of Incidents and Responses Onboard.

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything "right" but still feel something is missing?

Have you ever questioned whether ship life was the right path for you?

For many people working at sea, these questions can be difficult to answer.

A Virgin Voyages crew member received the surprise of her career after a guest handed her a $5,000 cash tip in a video that has now gone viral.

The emotional video shows the guest speaking with a housekeeping crew member and asking her what the biggest tip she had received during her current contract was. The crew member replied that the largest tip she had received was $300.