A former cruise ship worker has revealed the ‘secret’ codewords crew members use when talking to one another – including one you don’t want to hear as a passenger
While some holidaymakers eagerly count the days until they can unwind in a stunning destination, others prefer to spend their break hopping from one place to another. For those who choose to traverse the oceans on a cruise ship during the summer, they might be intrigued to learn that crew members have ‘secret codes’ they use amongst themselves while at sea.
At last, an ex-cruise ship employee has shared on what six of their most frequently used code words mean and how it affects you as a traveller. Posting on Reddit, he shared: “The ship’s crew uses a whole bunch of slang words and phrases when talking to each other. A passenger would surely make a crew member’s day using some of them.”
To begin with, he suggests giving a wide berth to any crew member who starts muttering about ‘bananas’, as they’re likely not in the best of spirits.
He divulged: “When a crew member does something wrong and gets lectured by the supervisor, we say that he got a banana.”
Moreover, if you spot workers discussing a ‘mamagayo’ with a look of frustration, there’s a reason behind it.
He clarified: “A crew member who spends time in the cabin or hiding somewhere while on duty is called mamagayo.”
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Revealing a couple more, he continued: “Company rich – When crew members break some equipment or a tool they work with, they don’t stress too much. They would just say, ‘No problem. Company rich.'”.
“Lagege – When crew members are very busy, they say, ‘I’m lagege.'”.
“Mucho Trabaho, Poco Denaro – The ones making less money for doing more physical jobs would say this. After some time, they realise that to make more money and work less, they need to apply for another job.”
Finally, he claims crew members will instantly grasp what you mean if you address them as a Paisano or Paisana, explaining: “It means a fellow countryman (countrywoman). You can’t go wrong using this word when talking with a crew member.”
Additionally, he encouraged passengers to “be kind” to the crew serving them as they can experience good and bad days aboard the ship too.
He continued: “Respect the crew members. If I had to choose only one thing that could make a significant difference in your cruise, then this is the one.
“Working 10-15 hours every day for 7-9 months while being far from the loved ones is a physically and mentally draining experience.
“Providing a great service with a broad smile for all that time is not easy, so please be nice to them. They will make your vacation unforgettable.
“If you enjoy your cruise and plan to stick with the same line, book your next cruise while on the ship. That will give you more benefits like discounted cruises, onboard credit, etc.”