Holidays for offshore workers have many unique aspects, and one of the main questions for those in the maritime sector or considering joining this career is: how do holidays work for those working at sea? While most people enjoy their days off to rest, travel, or spend time with family, offshore professionals experience a different reality.
If you want to understand how holidays on board work, what labor rights apply, and how these professionals handle celebratory dates away from home, keep reading!
How Do Holidays Work for Offshore Workers?
Unlike land-based workers, who have a traditional schedule with weekends and fixed holidays, offshore workers follow a shift system that determines their working and rest periods. This model is essential to ensure that maritime and offshore operations continue running without interruption.
The offshore work system is based on work vs. rest cycles, which can vary depending on the type of vessel and the worker’s role. The most common shift models include:
🔹 14×14 – The worker is on board for 14 consecutive days, followed by 14 days off.
🔹 28×28 – One month on board and one month off.
🔹 60×60 or more – Some operations, such as international cruises or long-term missions, may require two months of work followed by two months of rest.
This dynamic differs from the traditional work model on land, where workers have weekends and holidays guaranteed.
How Do Holidays Affect Offshore Work?
Since maritime workers follow a fixed cycle, holidays do not change operational routines. This means that:
✔ If a holiday falls within the worker’s onboard schedule, it is just another workday, with no breaks or additional leave. This applies to major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and national holidays.
✔ If the holiday coincides with the worker’s leave, they can enjoy it as any other land-based professional.
🔹 There is no practical difference between holidays and regular days on board. The vessel operates on its normal schedule since continuous operations are essential for maritime transport, offshore platforms, and cruises.
Labor Rights: Are Offshore Workers Compensated for Holidays?
Brazilian labor laws include specific regulations for maritime and offshore workers. According to the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) and the Maritime Law (Law No. 9,537/97), some cases allow for compensation.
When is a worker entitled to holiday pay?
🔹 If holiday pay is included in the employment contract or collective bargaining agreement, workers may receive additional compensation or extra time off.
🔹 Some companies offer bonus payments or future compensatory leave for crew members who work on holidays.
🔹 In the offshore sector, many workers already have schedules that account for worked holidays, meaning there is no additional payment in most cases.
It is always essential to check what is stated in the employment contract and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the specific category.
How Are Holidays Celebrated Onboard?
Even without official time off, many crews find ways to make celebratory dates more enjoyable and special. Some common traditions include:
Christmas and New Year’s: Bringing Festive Spirit to the Sea
The holiday season is one of the most emotionally challenging times for offshore workers, but many teams do their best to recreate a bit of Christmas magic and New Year’s excitement.
✅ Decorating the ship – Some crews set up lights, wreaths, and even small Christmas trees in common areas.
✅ Special holiday meals – Ship kitchens prepare festive meals featuring traditional Christmas and New Year’s dishes.
✅ Onboard celebrations – Some vessels hold team gatherings, where crew members exchange symbolic gifts or play “Secret Santa.”
✅ Fireworks (where permitted) – On some cruise ships or offshore platforms near the coast, celebrations may include fireworks displays.
Even away from family, these moments help maintain the holiday spirit and strengthen team bonds.
Birthdays and National Holidays: Small Gestures, Big Impact
In addition to major holidays, many crews make an effort to celebrate colleagues’ birthdays and other important dates, such as Seafarers’ Day, Labor Day, and national holidays.
🎈 Cake and recognition – Even a simple cake and a few kind words can make a big difference for someone away from home.
🎁 Small surprises – Some teams sign group cards or give small gifts to celebrate special occasions.
🎶 Music and relaxation – When possible, some teams gather for a short break to celebrate.
These small traditions are essential for maintaining team motivation and well-being.
Staying Connected with Family: A Vital Lifeline
Thanks to technology, staying in touch with family is much easier today than it was in the past. Many offshore workers can connect with loved ones even during the holidays.
💻 Wi-Fi and satellite internet – Although not always reliable, the connection allows for video calls and instant messages.
📱 Maritime phone services – Some vessels offer special phone plans for international calls or provide scheduled free call times.
📩 Digital messages and emails – When real-time communication isn’t possible, many workers send messages and emails to stay connected.
Even though a phone call cannot replace being physically present, these moments help reduce homesickness and maintain strong family ties.
How to Cope with Holidays Away from Home?
Working offshore requires resilience and adaptability. For those spending holidays away from family, a few strategies can help:
✔ Stay connected whenever possible – Video calls and messages can make a huge difference!
✔ Create new traditions with onboard colleagues – Building stronger relationships makes the experience more enjoyable.
✔ Focus on post-shift compensation – When your leave time comes, make the most of it with family and friends.
Is Offshore Work Worth It Despite Missing Holidays?
Although spending holidays at sea is challenging, the maritime career offers great benefits, such as competitive salaries, long leave periods, and professional growth opportunities. For many workers, the extended rest periods after their shift compensate for the time spent away.
If you already work offshore or are considering entering this field, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and prepare for this unique lifestyle.
