SHSJ Spotlight - Women Seafarers in the Cruise Industry - Interviews
International Women’s Day is an annual celebration to celebrate women and also as a focal point taking a look at issues that still impact women such as discrimination & gender equality.
For 2025, the Seafarers’ House San Juan Team visited the cruise ships Seadream II, Viking Sea, and Norwegian Escape to interview women seafarers who work in the cruise industry. We also handed out gifts as a way to say thank you for their hard work in the industry and to take time from their busy schedule to answer a few questions regarding women’s role in the cruise industry.
These were some of the responses that we received:
Katherine – Norwegian Escape – Training Specialist
SHSJ: How do you feel regarding gender equality in the industry?
Katherine: Personally, it is so good. I think maybe, because of my department in Human Resources, we feel very acknowledged by the other heads of management and crew members. I work for Human Resources and in charge of training for Managers, new crew members, etc.
Nicole – Viking Sea – Human Resources Manager
SHSJ: Do you have any words you wish to say for other women working in the industry?
Nicole: When women work on a ship, they should not stop being the person that they are when they are shoreside, with their families and friends, they should keep being that person. That is the value they bring onboard. If they are the type of person and enjoy listening to music, they should bring those traits as well. They should not give up the person they are, their identity.
SHSJ: Do you have any stories that you wish to share regarding your life as a woman seafarer?
Nicole: I feel that as Human Resources Manager, we need to help keep the balance on board because we need to be approachable with everyone but at the same time, we really cannot afford to make friends onboard. Not sure if this is helpful to anyone, but maybe women can relate in general because female seafarers working onboard can be perceived as island out at sea, outnumbered by men. So, it of vital importance that women keep that balance, and they set more rules for and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.
Josephine - SeaDream II – Stewardess Team Leader
SHSJ: What do you think should be worked on in the cruise industry to improve gender equality and women’s rights?
Josephine: At least here with SeaDream, I feel that not a lot is needed because we are treated with respect and as equals.
SHSJ: What do you feel are the biggest barriers facing women seafarers right now in the industry?
Josephine: Overall, on other cruise ships, I feel that the barriers are lessening, women are getting more positions. We are seeing female captains, engineers, etc.
We thank these women again for giving us an insight into their thoughts on gender equality and women in the cruise industry. More information regarding IWD can be found in https://www.internationalwomensday.com/, where people may find how to get involved, news, and fundraising.
