Crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a large commercial cargo ship takes about seven days. For the captain and crew on board, those seven days mean hard work, long hours, and a very strict set of rules. Life at sea is not like any other job.
The captain has to make all final decisions about the safety of the ship. To hold this position, the captain must have a Class 1 Master Mariner certificate — this is a legal requirement in most countries. Every morning, the captain needs to review the weather forecasts and assess any risks. The captain doesn't have to do physical deck work, but must always be contactable — by radio, phone, or in person.
Every crew member has to complete an approved safety training course before they are allowed on board. Once at sea, they must know how to operate a lifeboat — this is not optional. Crew members need to work rotating 12-hour shifts. They don't have to spend their off-duty hours working, but they must remain on the ship for the entire voyage.
The rules on board are strict. No crew member must consume alcohol while on duty — this is strictly prohibited. In bad weather, everyone needs to wear appropriate clothing on deck. You don't need to bring much personal equipment from home — the ship provides most of what you need. But you must follow the daily schedule without exception.
One thing many people find surprising is the food. Crew members don't have to cook their own meals — there is a professional chef on board. But they must eat at set times, and the kitchen closes between meals.
"You have to put the crew and the ship first," says an experienced captain. "Everything else comes second. That's the job."