Concerns Raised by MV Gemini Crew
A crew member aboard the MV Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, has voiced serious concerns about their living and working conditions while the ship is in drydock. According to an anonymous message shared with the Facebook page Crew Center, the crew has faced significant hardships. They report that internet, electricity, and water are available for only two hours each day.
Living Conditions on Board
The crew member described the situation as “unbearable,” with extreme heat making it difficult to sleep. To cope, all doors are left open, and each room accommodates four people. The crew is uncertain about when they will be allowed to leave and have not received their salaries for three months. The plea was clear: “Please, don’t treat us like animals.”
Mixed Reactions from the Maritime Community
The post on Crew Center sparked varied reactions from other seafarers and cruise professionals. Some industry veterans suggested that challenging conditions are not uncommon during drydock periods. One commenter noted that disruptions to air conditioning, internet, and food services are expected. Another simply stated, “Dry dock is dry dock.”
Unpaid Salaries Raise Alarm
However, the issue of unpaid salaries for three months drew significant concern. Many commenters found this unacceptable and urged the crew to report the situation to maritime unions or authorities. Suggestions included contacting the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union for support.
Understanding Drydock
Drydock is a necessary phase for cruise ships, involving maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This process ensures safety and compliance with international maritime regulations. For crew members, it often means long working days and temporary changes to amenities. However, conditions can vary significantly between companies.
Miray Cruises and the MV Gemini
Miray Cruises, based in Turkey, has operated the MV Gemini for several years. The ship is used for regional sailings and charter services. While some seafarers shared positive drydock experiences with other cruise lines, the situation on the MV Gemini highlights the need for prioritising crew welfare during these periods.
Leave a Reply