Life Onboard: How seafarers spend their free time at sea

Life at sea comes with unique challenges and rewards. Being on a ship for weeks or even months demands physical endurance, mental resilience, and adaptability. While seafarers workdays are long, they do get time to relax and recharge. But what do they do in their free time while out in the middle of the ocean? We asked our seafarers to tell us

Hobbies and personal development

Some seafarers use their free time to pursue personal hobbies. Whether it is learning a new language, practicing a musical instrument, or working on a creative project like painting or photography, these activities provide a break from the routine and allow for personal growth. In recent years, more crew members have also taken up online courses during their time at sea. This allows them to develop new skills, further their education, or work towards career advancement, all while on the job.

Dascalita Radu Dan Alexandru, Chief Officer, Frankfurt Express
For amateur photographs like me, working on board is a big plus. There are so many unique phenomena that you don't get to see on land. Out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with no light pollution, the colors of the galaxy are so vivid. In the pitch back, you can see the Milky Way diving the sky and being reflected on the water. Seeing that fills me with great joy.

Socializing with the crew

Our seafarers live and work closely with their fellow crew members, so building strong relationships is key. Free time often means socializing, whether over meals, coffee, or casual conversations on deck. Many crews enjoy playing card games or board games together, creating a sense of camaraderie that helps break up the monotony on board. Group activities like karaoke or movie nights bring everyone closer together.

Edifel Caturza, Officer of the Watch, Santos Express (centre, in front)
There are lots of options for passing the time on board. My favorite is playing basketball. I like team sports, as they strengthen our team spirit – which is something we need here while working together so closely.

Staying fit

Staying physically active is important when spending so much time on the sea. Many seafarers use their free time to exercise. Our ships have small gyms or workout spaces where crew members can lift weights, run on treadmills, or do bodyweight exercises. On larger vessels, some seafarers enjoy group sports like football or basketball, making the most of any open space on deck. Regular physical activity not only keeps seafarers healthy but also helps them manage stress.

Leo Rey Mark Vanguardia Tatad, Engineer Officer of the Watch, Chicago Express (right)
Working at sea is like a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes everything goes smoothly, but sometimes the seas are rough. For me, it helps to relax in the evening in the television room, fort example, or to play a table tennis match to revive my spirits. Later on, I usually try to reach my family.

Entertainment Onboard

Seafarers have a range of entertainment options during their free time. Watching movies and TV shows is a popular way to relax after a long day. Ships often have communal TVs and movie libraries, and many crew members bring their own devices loaded with shows and music. Reading is another common pastime, and many vessels have onboard libraries stocked with books and magazines. In the digital age, Wi-Fi has become common on our ships. That allows our seafarers to surf the web, stream entertainment and stay connected with family and friends.

Rest and Relaxation

Amid the hustle and bustle of life on board, taking time to rest is essential. Many seafarers use their free time to simply relax, sleep, or enjoy the quietness of the ocean. Watching the sunset, stargazing, or just appreciating the peacefulness of the open sea can provide a sense of calm and mental clarity.

Sarah Maria Zimmerer, Officer of the Watch, Santos Express
Our working days are full and, as an officer of the watch, I'm naturally regularly on call, too. So I really enjoy it when I can retreat to a quiet place with a book during my free time on board.

Seafarers find their balance

Seafarers are truly creative in finding ways to balance work with relaxation during their long rides. In conclusion, these are just a few of the many activities that seafarers engage in to make the most of their free time. Whether socializing with their crew, staying fit or pursuing personal hobbies, they manage to maintain their well-being while at sea. The activities they choose not only keep them entertained but also foster strong bonds among the crew, making life on board more human.