Behind-the-scenes of cruise ship unveils less-than-glam Below Deck lifestyle

Life at sea isn’t for everyone but for Erica DePascale, it has allowed her to see the world.

She’s lived and worked on cruise ships for over six years, and has been able to tick off dozens of countries. At last count, she’s visited seventy two.

On her TikTok account, @ericafromamerica, she offers us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into life at sea for the crew.

It’s certainly an eye opener and a very different world to the cabins the guests stay in on the decks above.

Most crew cabins are windowless and they have to share them with at least one other person.

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@ericafromamerica it do be hard to know night from day though #cooljob #cruiseship #shiplife #travelforwork #travelontiktok #learnontiktok #dayinmylife #roomtour #crewmember ♬ Storytelling – Adriel

If you’re lucky enough to have a higher position, you get some privileges such as a better cabin and even housekeeping.

It’s certainly not for the claustrophobic – although given the long shifts, the crew purely use them for sleeping.

There are other areas on ships where they eat, socialise and relax. This includes games rooms, sun decks and buffet that the crew have private access to. Their space isn’t large – only around 120 square feet.

There’s also no window so there’s no chance of laying back and letting the view and movement lull you to sleep.

In Erica’s video, the cabin features two single beds with their own privacy curtain, as well as a bathroom with a small sink, toilet and shower. Everything is split in two; two drawers, two shelves etc.

There’s also a bar fridge in the cabin.

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There’s not a lot of space – and certainly none for a big wardrobe.

“Now the closet space I think is a deal breaker for some people out there, but for me, I got used to it over the years”, she explained. “You can comfortably fit about eight to 10 outfits if you know how to hang things correctly”.

There are also three lockable drawers to stash away valuables.

It may not be for everyone, but working on a cruise ship means you don’t have any outgoings. Therefore whatever you make, you’re likely to save.

There’s free medical care and there are certainly no commuting costs i- ncluding flying to and from home to see your family.

You’ll meet people from all over the world, from all walks of life and visit places you’ve most likely only dreamed about.

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