Portside lounge
Since 22 January, cruise ship crew members have been able to visit the Port of Antwerp-Bruges Portside lounge in the ABC building. There, they can unwind for a while when the ship is docked.
Far journeys to unknown destinations. For many, it sounds like a dream holiday, but for the crew members of MSC Preziosa, it is a daily reality. After demanding workdays, it's nice to have a place to unwind on land. That’s exactly what the new Portside Lounge in Zeebrugge is for. Three crew members share their experiences of life on board MSC Preziosa.
On a journey of discovery
Since October 2024, Luana (29) has been working as a 'programme hostess' aboard MSC Preziosa. "With my colleagues, I put together the daily programme for the guests," explains the Brazilian. "You could describe it as a newspaper with some short sections, interviews and practical information about events and discounts."
The best thing about my job? Meeting new people and travelling to beautiful destinations!
Luana,Programme hostess aboard MSC Preziosa
In her spare time, Luana seizes every opportunity to leave the ship. "I love discovering new cultures and their gastronomy," she says enthusiastically. "Belgium, by the way, is not unknown territory for me. I used to live near Hasselt, but have since traded the Belgian weather for the sun in Genoa. Just give me a warm and sunny climate! But I do miss the tasty food and beer."
New people, new stories
Thanks to Asif (29), the ship always looks spick and span. As a cleaning assistant, he has worked in the cruise sector for a year and a half and made several trips on the MSC Preziosa.
The greatest thing about my job? Seeing the world! Dubai, Qatar, Zeebrugge... everywhere, you meet new people and discover special places.
Asif,Cleaning assistant aboard MSC Preziosa
Life on a cruise ship requires a different mindset. "In my spare time, I try to call my family and friends in India as often as possible," he says. "Travelling offers many advantages, and I've dreamed of visiting Switzerland and the beautiful mountains there since childhood, but you do leave your loved ones behind for a long time. You have to make space for what you're missing out on when you're on the move for months. But giving up my job, I don't see that happening for the time being. I get the chance to explore some unique destinations, while making money. A win-win situation!"
Love comes through the stomach
Hungry on board? Not if it's up to assistant chef Julio (35)! "As an assistant chef, I help prepare meals for both crew and passengers," he clarifies. "My specialism? Filipino cuisine, because that's where my roots are. I love creating something delicious with ingredients and supporting the chef. I've been working at MSC for two years, and enjoy my job every day."
The kitchen team works long hours, leaving little time to explore new places. "Funnily enough, I haven't seen much of the world yet," Julio laughs. "I'm usually working in the kitchen, and I don't get beyond the ports where we dock."
The crew lounge here in Zeebrugge is a nice place to disembark for a while and catch up in peace with my family and friends.
Julio,Assistant chef aboard MSC Preziosa
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