Shore Leave for American Merchant Mariners: Balancing Work and Leisure

The life of an American merchant marine does not always offer a lot of time for shore leave. Traditionally, the journey has been demanding, but times have changed. A review of the conditions over the years and how they impact the crew's life can provide a clearer understanding of what to expect during a voyage.

Changes in Merchant Navy Schedules

When I first joined the Merchant Navy in 1990, the schedule was relatively relaxed. On one ship, we entered harbor early on Saturday morning, and with cargo work starting on Monday at 0700, we were granted the whole weekend off. However, as the years went on, the demands of the job increased significantly.

By 2005, as a Master, my schedule was marked by the following sequence:

n0400: Pick up pilot n0630: Secure alongside at Sheerness n0700: Start cargo work n1700: Finished cargo work n1800: Sailed for Rotterdam n2030: Dropped pilot Cross the English Channel and head for Rotterdam n0400: Pick up pilot n0630: Secure alongside n0700: Commence cargo work n1800: Finished cargo work n1900: Sailed for Antwerp n2130: Dropped pilot Cross the English Channel and head for Africa

As you can see, the lack of shore leave was a stark reality. The crew would only get a few hours ashore at each port if they were lucky. This was on a reefer ship, and container ships would have even tighter schedules. Some super tankers, which load and discharge at offshore terminals, could not go ashore throughout their contracts.

Factors Affecting Shore Leave Availability

The availability of shore leave for American merchant mariners can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of vessel, the shipping company, the port of call, and operational requirements. Below, we delve into these factors in more detail.

Typical Duration

Shore leave can range from a few hours to several days. In some cases, if a ship is docked for a week or more, crew members may have more opportunities to go ashore. However, this is not always the case, and the ship's schedule still plays a crucial role in determining the duration and frequency of shore leave.

Operational Needs

The amount of shore leave can be heavily influenced by the ship's schedule and operational needs. If the ship is preparing for departure or has urgent maintenance tasks, crew members might have limited time on land. This highlights the need for flexibility and coordination within the crew.

Company Policy

Different shipping companies have varying policies regarding shore leave. Some may encourage crew members to take time off when in port, while others may have stricter regulations. This underscores the importance of understanding the specific policies of the shipping company and the vessel being served.

Crew Size and Shift Patterns

The size of the crew and the shift patterns can also affect shore leave availability. Smaller crews may have more flexibility and opportunities to go ashore, while larger crews with staggered shifts are limited in their ashore time. This can create a significant disparity in the shore leave experience between different ships and their crews.

Impact on the Crew

Despite the demanding schedules, shore leave, when available, can be a valuable chance for crew members to rest and explore the port city. Longer dock periods can offer more significant opportunities for relaxation and tourism, enhancing the overall quality of life for the crew.

Moreover, the absence of regular shore leave can lead to burnout and a negative impact on mental health. It is essential for both the crew and the shipping companies to find a balance that ensures the well-being of the crew while meeting the operational needs of the ship.

Understanding the factors that influence shore leave availability is crucial for both crew members and shipping companies. By recognizing these factors and working together, it is possible to improve the quality of life for merchant mariners and ensure their well-being and satisfaction.