In the sixth episode of our Women Power column, we interviewed Cristal Campos, Third Deck Officer for Carnival Cruise Lines. Working on a cruise ship offers a lifestyle with travel opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere.
1. What was the main motivation behind your choice to pursue a career in cruise ships?
I am originally from a small town in Panama City called Santiago de Veraguas, where I studied at a high school with a focus on maritime studies. Initially, I was undecided about continuing my maritime path, but in the last year of high school, I decided to enroll at the International Maritime University of Panama to delve into this career. The view of the Bridge of the Americas, where various types of ships pass through the Panama Canal, inspired me. There is no one in my family who is a sailor, but I was inspired by seeing many women in the Panamanian maritime sector holding important positions in the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line. However, I always wanted to become a Deck Officer on a cruise ship, so I chose to explore this area further.
2. Can you share a moment or a significant experience that made you realize this was the right job for you?
I had the opportunity to spend time as a Deck Cadet on tanker ships, where the work is certainly different from that on cruise ships and is honestly a tough job. There, I had to prove that the work can be the same for both genders in every aspect. I never accept a "no" as an answer and dedicate myself so much. Now on cruises, I commit to being mentally, physically, and emotionally prepared every time I embark. It requires strength and courage, but with a positive attitude, doing everything in a very organized and responsible manner, you are ready to succeed in this environment.
3. What is the specific role you play on board the ship, and what are the challenges and rewards it entails?
Currently, I am a Third Officer, part of a deck team. It is always a challenge for me to discover a new port where all the documents, mooring plans, travel plans, and other documents must be initiated from scratch, but it gives me satisfaction to reach that point, the destination that passengers desire to reach, and that everything has gone well. I suppose sailing on the ship has no real comparisons, knowing that you are doing what you have been trained for and simply being on deck making decisions and reflecting.
4. When you were a child, did you have a dream in mind?
When I was a child, I told my parents that I wanted to go out to see other countries and explore the world. I don't think I would have ever imagined doing what I dreamed of, but at the same time working on it. It is something I am grateful to God for, as he gave me the opportunity to get a job to fulfill my dream.
5. Cruise ships are often considered microcosms of cultural diversity. How do you manage communication and interpersonal relationships with such a diverse crew?
It was difficult for me at the beginning of my career, but over time, you get used to it and respect each different culture. For me, the most important thing is to get to know it and even try not to forget it, as your colleagues on board will be like your second family. I always continue to practice my English because I come from a Spanish-speaking city, but I really enjoy getting to know and working with many new people from around the world, which has allowed me to learn a new language as well.
6. How do you manage the balance between work and personal life when spending long periods away from home?
This is a question my friends always ask me... hahaha!
When I am on board, I try to focus on my work and be productive at the same time. In my free time, I engage in activities that do not consume my energy, and I also have time for myself and my family. I always create a daily routine to maintain a good balance between work and life.
7. What is the most rewarding aspect of your profession, and what motivates you to continue working on cruise ships?
I have accumulated some of the best memories working at sea and have met my best friends in this career. It is a personal challenge for me, a pleasant professional experience. I want to contribute to the growth of the company and women in this industry. That is what motivates me to continue working on cruise ships. It is a career that not many people get used to or hear about, but sometimes it can be the most rewarding job there is.
8. Finally, what advice would you give to those considering a career as a cruise ship officer, especially women who may feel uncertain about this career path?
Give it a try. If you are considering a life at sea or are just curious about cruise ship crew life, inform yourself first, weigh the pros and cons of working in this industry, and encourage yourself to live an unforgettable experience. Working on a cruise ship offers a lifestyle with travel opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere. Never give up; today there is no field where women have not proven their worth. Women have taken on every kind of responsibility with great success.
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