WORKING ON A CRUISE SHIP | DECK DEPARTMENT | SAILING THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

[@donaldwoodmancy1379]

I lived in Hawaii for 3 years in the late 1960's (I'm an old dude) and when we left, our Hawaiian friends and neighbors gave us an Hawaiian farewell at the airport. Your shipmate's farewell brought tears to my eyes and I don't cry for much. Like many others of your viewers, I am in awe of your story telling and editing skills.

[@gabriellafox7948]

I could understand how that would pull at your heartstrings❤

[@MsTruthSeekr1]

I, too, lived in Hawaii in the late 60s for 3 years. I'm 68 now. Hawaii has always felt like home to me. I returned in 94 and worked on the SS Constitution and SS Independence until March 2000. I dearly miss the Islands and its' People.

[@karenshepherd2412]

Ohhh that send off was amazing. It made this old hen misty.😊

[@karenshepherd2412]

​@@MsTruthSeekr1 We are the same age. If I could go back in time, knowing what I know now, I would have had an RN after my name. Being an inside land rubber from Chicago, I'd never thought about working on a cruise ship 🚢. Now that I've seen your video, I'll boost the algorithm and check out some more videos. I'd like to see more of a documentary into the inner workings, like crew quarters, laundry, meals, the boaring to most kind of stuff. The only cruise I've been on was an 11 day Western Mexico Riverara cruise from San Diego to Pourto Vallarta with several stops in between. For a first timer, it was a learning experience. I flew to Honolulu from Chicago on a 747 when I was 14. Loved seeing the REAL ocean for the first time. The color, the undertow, the waves, the sand bar....yeah I'm a beach person. Anyway.😊..

[@dylano7242]

Wow you got live in Hawaii in the best of times than it is now.

[@joeysheremeta4771]

I love all of your videos but this one hits different for me. I was a resident of Kauai and watched this ship come and go in and out of Nawiliwili so many times but have never stepped foot on it. You are a hell of a story teller and filmmaker. Thanks for sharing!

[@Ms.Opinionated]

Some of best food I have ever had was in Kauai.

[@bfhjjvfjkngg]

Same I lived in Kona for a few years saw this ship every Wednesday 5am on my way to work even had a few friends worked on it but never stepped foot on it thanks for the upload Joe

[@mickfeagan4658]

Agree from Big Island. I had no clue lol 😂

[@SSAVAGEEE]

Yessah🤙🏼 just went down to Nāwiliwili yesterday and the ship was in!

[@HoneyKrisp69]

I live in Kapaa and I worked on this ship last summer

[@plthirty2]

The transition from above deck to below might have been the greatest shot yet.

[@CrystalStarscape]

clean af 😲

[@Classicrocker6119]

I believe that this excellent video from Joe has done more for the cruise line industry than any Love Boat episode ever did. Joe not only is a great storyteller but was able to show how the crew members are really great people!

[@WooWoo-co4jf]

Was the ship called Santa Barbara? I'm in the UK but as a child it was on tv midweek afternoons while I was at school, but a younger cousin, who was home with his mum used to call it Auntie Barbara :)

[@jast3053]

Probably not. 😂😂get on it and find out lmao. RUNNNNNNNNNNN

[@jeff7764]

No it hasn’t lol

[@karenshepherd2412]

OMG how true! Never having been on a cruise, I had no idea how attentive the staff was. To have wait staff, room staff assigned only to the table I, hubby and my folks blew me away. I casually mentioned that I love key lime pie, creme Brule and the ships amazing consumer, only to find out that they brought them to me every night with out asking made me feel like a queen! I had no idea this was going to happen.😊

[@karenshepherd2412]

​You have a good memory. I used to watch it as a kid, and have no idea what the name of the ship was.

[@gregstamoulis6387]

Back in 2006 I worked for an airport maintenance company out of NY. My employer won a contract to provide maintenance at Hawaiian airports. By chance I was selected to go to Kauai. I was in my early twenties, single, and all I heard was that Kauai was for the "newlyweds, or nearly dead's"!!! Kauai turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Kauai brought me a moment of calm I never knew possible growing up in Queens, NYC!!!! All the best to you my friend!!! Safe travels!

[@urcousinfromboston9052]

place is magical eh!??! nothing like queens bath and all the goodies of HI - mahalooooo0000000

[@whodat90]

I appreciate how you always make the video about the people you're with as much as the job you do. Thank you.

[@JoeFranta]

The crew I worked with were the best part of the whole trip!

[@lynnmonkres6451]

Thanks. We just returned from Hawaii after two weeks. We didn’t cruise but we did stay in Waikiki, Hilo, and Kona. I know what you mean about not wanting to leave!

[@mikejones3rfs]

​@@JoeFrantafuck the maritime industry.

[@rudycarlson8245]

@@JoeFranta have you been on the Arthur M Anderson?

[@kakafoni]

What a fantastic storyteller you are. You could be working in a pitch black coal mine and still make fascinating content. Good luck on your next adventure!

[@thatoneguy6725]

Now he's gonna go work in a dang cole mine lol this guy just doesn't stop

[@thatoneguy6725]

Coal**

[@justicejohnson1155]

Noo!! Sir you better let the woman and children go first 😂

[@tomc.7520]

I've worked in a pitch black coal mine, trust me, this job looked a thousand times better.

[@rdelrosso1973]

But in a Coal Mine, they have no dancers and no Restaurants!

[@Untitled_Light]

I'm working as a deckhand for a smaller line of cruise ship and so far it has been just like that lots of friends and new adventures all the way from Alaska to the Puget sound but now reaching the end of my contract 6 months in of 12h days and no days off I'm really starting to feel burned out. But watching this really gave me the motivation I needed to finish this contract and finally head home. Awesome job! And Fair weather to you!

[@livenfree]

That's just insane. They don't give you days off. Inhumane I'm so sorry they treat people like that

[@origvincecarter3843]

​@@livenfreeyou're not "Shanghai'd" when you get on the ship. You're told about a 12-hour day, 7-Day work week, at the initial information session. It is how the cruise industry works

[@mlgauss60435]

This is something I wanted SO much to do with my life! When I was maybe 14 or 15, I bought a book about jobs on cruise ships. I studied that book so much that the pages were well worn. But, unfortunately, life had other plans for me. So, here I am, almost 70 years young, and I've yet to step foot on a ship. *sigh* Thank you for sharing your wonderful journey. It made my day/life. ❤ Mahalo

[@tavius88]

Man I hope you go on one one day soon

[@mlgauss60435]

@tavius88 is not going to happen. If you are young, do what you want now! Do not wait till it's too late, like me.

[@tavius88]

@@mlgauss60435 I am only 34, I will do so, thank you

[@TheOriginalMarimoChan]

@@mlgauss60435 What?? 70 is not old!! You can still go on a cruise and enjoy yourself! 😊

[@KingsterLovey]

Cruise ships employ people over 60+... Tons of jobs for people your age..just like Flight attendants also..

[@MsTruthSeekr1]

Hi Joe. I thoroughly enjoyed this video, which I stumbled onto tonight. I spent 3 years in Hawaii in the late 60s when my father was stationed there with the Navy. I absolutely fell in love with the Islands and her People. And so I returned in 94 to work on the SS Constitution and a month later, the SS Independence until March 2000. I worked as a cocktail waitress, then an Assistant Jr Purser, and for the last 3 years, in the Gift Shops. It was a dream come true. Watching your story brought back so many wonderful memories. I was fortunate to have enjoyed many shore excursions.... helicopter rides horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking, bicycling down Haleakala, and riding in a bi-plane. Our itinerary was quite different than yours. We were able to sail past the lava flowing into the ocean on Thursday night as we sailed from Hilo to Kona. Absolutely breathtaking. I'm so glad you enjoyed your time with your Pride of America Ohana and that you shared those experiences with your viewers. Safe travels to you!

[@GreameCumming]

😊pl if on NN😊 pl😢 kit 😮p

[@joejenkins3379]

This is the first cruise ship video that actually makes me to go on the cruise.

[@pawpawmike7372]

Your story telling skills continue to get better with every video,my brother. You have a way of putting us all on board with you. Thank you from a person who will never get to have these experiences for sharing this with us. Safe travels.

[@oneamericanpatriot108]

Hawaii is a place that EVERYONE should see at LEAST once in their life. It is the land of Fire and Water, beautiful, and mystical, and the people are so unbelievably loving and genuine people. Take the chance if you get it. You will never regret it.

[@wherecondorssoar7175]

Good stuff Joe. What a great video. When I get to Heaven, I'm working on a ship like this for a thousand years or so. Then I'm going skiing for a couple hundred years. Thanks for sharing!

[@siberia1409]

Joe, I am so glad you got to experience working on a cruise ship. Norwegian used to have three ships in Hawaii. Pride of Aloha, Pride of Hawaii and Pride of America. I worked Security of Pride of Hawaii, and it was the newest ship in the world when I got on it! Kona was my favorite stop. Don't forget to give me a shout next time you make it to the Port of Houston.

[@scottytissue73]

Wow Joe you have turned into one of the greatest occupational video producers on KZbin. Very well done. Never really had an interest in the mariner life, but your vids have me fully engaged bro! Keep up the great work! Always looking forward to your next adventure....

[@SummerGlimmer237]

Sir you nailed it. I worked on the Pride of America for two contracts 2011-2012. Your video describes my memories perfectly. From “Kona Day”. The color of the water to living two lives. A work life and a social life. Everything you filmed was still the same. The bunk curtain. The hallways. The uniforms from hotel to bar. Coming into port. All of them. Drill day. I was a vice captain on a tender boat. Some parts were hard. But so many amazing memories I will never forget. Thank you for this. And Yes the bbq on the back!

[@rolo7110]

We are locals and just returned from our first cruise on NCL. We absolutely loved it and are thinking of making it an annual event. You’re right, the perspective of seeing the islands from the ship is unique and something we’ve never experienced. Maybe one day, you’ll be back. Best wishes to you!

[@scottwheeler2494]

This ship is unlike any other in the world by virtue of being the only US flagged ship. The vast majority are manned by folks making a small fraction of this vessel. Even with Joe saying he had to take a paycut. The rules for employees (except officers) are very different because they have to attract staff. The ship only exist because of the Jones Act ( a good thing despite what you might hear). But my point is don’t compare what you see here to any other cruise ship. Trust me, the guy in Joe’s job on any other NCL ship is damn happy to be leaving when it his time to go home.

[@scottwheeler2494]

@@SPIKESPIEGEL1969 short answer NO.. this is the only one. Longer answer, because of the Jones Act in order to travel between US ports and haul freight or passengers, you must be a US flagged vessel. To qualify it has to have been built in the US and have a total US crew and master. Only this ship was built in the US and even that is up for debate. Too complicated to go into here. The ship has had its issues. Keeping a crew has been hard as they are very very expensive compared to what other ships pay. Many say the crew does not compare to usual foreign staffed ships, especially the hotel and dining staff. American are too lazy and unwilling to work for dollars a day say some passengers. I don't know as I have never traveled on it. But it is definitely different from the usual cruise ship.

[@stuffnva]

Thanks, Joe, for posting this. We are Platinum NCL cruisers and have considered doing the HI circuit. We've seen the behind the scenes on other ships but appreciate your insight even more. You have shown us much more that the brochures possibly could have. We'll probably book in the near future.

[@JoeFranta]

Awesome. The HI circuit never got old. So beautiful.

[@johnhoye6584]

The only cruise I have been on. Very awesome. There were some ugly American tourists. Most passengers were great though. Every islander I talked was incredibly friendly.

[@joedzny]

OMG you absolutely need this in your life...W went earlier this year and it was worth every second.

[@howieGI]

Do it. As an Aussie family, we enjoyed this back in 2017. Magic cruise bookended with time on Kauai and Waikiki. This video sure brought back the memories and great to see the crew appreciating the beauty of the place too.

[@lawerencestimpson2280]

Did this cruise years ago!! A bit pricey,but well worth it!!! Take advantage of the extra shore programs.Great coffee,pineapple,and rolls for breakfast.

[@sfmc98]

Mann, that was amazing. That was a very well-composed short film. You have grown so much since I first watched your videos about training! I literally laughed, cried, was awestruck, inspired, informed and just went on the journey with you. I had no idea about this ship, and you presented such a wonderful, honest portrait of it, they should pay you even more after publishing this because I can't imagine not wanting to go! Not a wasted shot or second of footage here. I do speed up your narration because I have ADD haha but that's you and you shouldn't change it. Seriously, my favorite moment was Ali giving you that gift. I was literally weeping.

[@sirdanalot320]

Did a great job with this one, Joe. - (Dan, 40 year Hawai’i resident, Diamond Head, Oahu)

[@JellyCatGaming]

Found your channel, binge watched all the content, Found out I have a phobia of being in the open sea. Now I wait to live vicariously through your videos. Thanks dude! Cool stuff.

[@steveduncan8649]

Great video! You have a great way of engaging with the audience through your narrative. Thanks for making this and sharing it. You sharing your life behind the scenes is very interesting and makes me appreciate all the hard work even more. I took this cruise 16 years ago. What a great adventure!

[@acd138]

Dude, you’re giving me the bug. All your videos inspire me to just get out there. I just went through a loss and I’m finding I’m not as tied down as I have been the last few years. There’s this freedom after loss, I’m not sure what to do with my life. This might be it.

[@davidoakley3812]

Your never to old for a career change

[@x...CrankyOldMan...x]

Go for it, you only have this one trip. Make it a good one.

[@roythousand13]

acd138, go for it, brother! Life is too short, and you don't want to leave with any regrets!

[@urcousinfromboston9052]

Joe can tell a story like no other !!! Go for it!!

[@moebeddah2288]

You'll regret it when you become as old as me (76). Conformity and expectations stifled my traveling jones. Wish I could go back. Go for it, brother!

[@nomanaleft8124]

I don't think I could go back to doing cargo ships after this. Great video as always, but this one, I think, is my favorite so far.

[@roythousand13]

For real! Our boy Joe just got spoiled working on this ship!

[@ramosteddy0687]

This is one of the U.S lowest maritime paying contracts every mariner should do at least once but the pay cut is almost half

[@dlagrua]

This was an absolutely GREAT video tour of a beautiful cruise ship and parts of Hawaii. Once it began to play I had to listen to it until the very end. Joe you are very lucky to have experienced this cruise from a workers perspective. Your video expressed how the terrific crew shared love and friendship with each other. It was like a big family that embraced one for all and all for one. There were some very touching moments.

[@vickikenton5439]

I was on Pride of America last week. It was a lovely experience and I am aware that the crew works so hard to make the passengers/guests have an amazing experience. We appreciate you! My family visited Lahaina and spoke with locals, and blessed them directly. My wish is that the island land is returned to locals, and that the state helps locals rebuild. 🙏

[@HoneyKrisp69]

I worked on the ship last summer, I live on Kauai. Glad to hear you enjoyed it. I worked housekeeping/janitorial, 9am-9pm 7 days a week

[@troyrockwell7744]

How much of the land?

[@vickikenton5439]

@@troyrockwell7744 all of the land should be returned to the people of Hawaii.

[@neshanr]

I use to work on the pride of america n believe me it felt like a slave ship..I was so glad to b home! What don't regret is the people I met.

[@TheRange7]

I bet Joe is a great guy to have a few frosties with. The stories have to be wild and plentiful. What a life well spent. Cheers

[@pooh3657]

Best video yet! I agree with almost everyone else here, you are a fantastic story teller! The tears were literally flowing at the end. I hope you continue to have such experiences in the future and that we get to vicariously follow along.

[@dbenadon]

Joe, another great video. Thank you for sharing your extraordinary journeys with us.

[@leekillman802]

Been on that cruise as a passenger, experiencing all the things done. The moments at the Napali Coast were awesome, bringing back special memories.

[@OkieJammer2736]

Discussing your lifeboat duties along with the song, 'Nearer My God, To Thee'. Dude. That is Titanic detailed and creative. Well done.

[@toddbrown4935]

Joe, you are such a talented chronicler. Your videos are masterpieces. Thank you for showing us your world. Stay safe out there!!

[@jefferyholland]

Pretty sweet tour to pull. Hate to see it end Joe, but life goes on and the next adventure is right around the corner.

[@autisticsimon12]

He acted like he was there for years, yet it was only 8 weeks, he know jack shit about life by spending 8 weeks in a country spending only a FEW HOURS a week on shore. Its a stupid as spending 2 weeks on vacation and thinking you know everything about the place.

[@ChristopherNips81]

Amazing job, Joe! I'm so happy I was able to share such a great experience with you! I've worked on that ship for 5 years on and off since 2005, and you captured the essence of its spirit and crew. 🤙🏼

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

That is great to hear? I’m on a holland America ship as we speak doing a Montreal to Fort Lauderdale repositioning cruise. Definitely not the same as the Spirit. My question to Joe is would he comeback? Do a different trip and comeback like you did Chris. This looks to be about the chillest ship work their is. Nice job on the drones.

[@ChristopherNips81]

@@thereissomecoolstuff Hey, I'm a little confused on your message about the Spirt. Can you clarify? I obviously can't speak for Joe, but I returned for a multitude of reasons over a long stretch of time. I was a Jr. Waiter my first contract and would not have returned for that position again. However, I did return as the golf professional on board and did that for several years. I returned most reacently with while Joe was on board, but I was a Deck Cadet learning about the bridge, navigation systems, and deck work. As Joe mentions, the pay is significantly lower than other U.S. Flagged Ships and is the ONLY reason why I will not work for them (at least right now) as a 3rd Mate. I've enjoyed my time with NCL in Hawaii, but I do love other aspects of working elsewhere and the better pay it comes with.

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

@@ChristopherNips81 without knowing your background I thought you came back to work on the spirit because it’s different than conventional ship work. Would Joe consider sailing on her again inspite if the pay. That’s all. Thanks for the reply.

[@ChristopherNips81]

@@thereissomecoolstuffAh, I think there's some confusion as this ship is the Pride of America. I was just saying he captured the spirit of what it is like to work on board this ship. Or am I the one that's confused? lol

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

@@ChristopherNips81 not at all. All I wanted to know is would he go back and do another trip. I get the money thing. I think I would as getting sea time as chill as possible might be nice once in a while. You definitely work hard on the ship.

[@bobuncle8704]

What an experience. So glad you got to see this before the troubles on Maui.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

Joe, you are absolutely amazing and your videos are priceless, especially now with Lahaina, Maui being burned down with so many lives lost. Thank you so much for releasing this incredible work of art!

[@azkiltedrealtor]

I had the honor to serve as PoA's Cruise Director for a number of contracts between 2004-2007. Back in those days we sailed south from Hilo to catch the lava flow from Kilauea, and did the Honolulu turn-around at piers 10 &11, the old cruise terminal at Aloha Tower. Can't thank you enough for the effort put in to capture what is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Would go back in a minute! And, BTW, thanks for helping to keep her looking great...not bad after 20 years! Mahalo Nui Loa, brotha.

[@raymondcharles6995]

Great video. Makes me feel like joining the crew.

[@atomsmash100]

The Pride of America has a very interesting history, and being the only U.S. flagged cruise ship, it has a unique set of challenges. You gave your viewers a great look behind the scenes, with a great speaking voice, and a great presentation. Simply an excellent video! There's nothing like being out in the beautiful Hawaiian islands. They are truly touched by the gods.

[@nomadickneads]

I miss it so...

[@LulaJake]

I wonder how much more it costs to register a ship in the USA compared to the cheap ones that everyone else uses.

[@suzinazsuzinaz9445]

I’m sailing on this ship in march. You made me realize I definitely picked the right ship for Hawaii! Your video is beautiful you’ve really expressed what Hawaii really is!

[@calebandresen4835]

How's it going? I miss working this ship sometimes haha

[@reggie63455]

Thank you Joe you do the things I've wanted to do but since I've become disabled i can no longer do so u live my dreams thru your videos so thank you again joe and please continue with your journeys

[@vahinewahine916]

i've watched a bunch 'ship crew vloggers' (is there a better phrase?) and your storytelling is so compelling in a different way. The others I've seen tend to be very cutesy, everything is the best thing ever, everyone's my BFF, etc but this just felt so real and honest without any sugary coating.

[@lisawargal]

Ok, the algorithm sent me here. Weird, since I’m deathly afraid of wide open oceans and would NEVER good on one. But this man and his Ray Liotta “Goodfellas” sounding narration has me HOOKED. Just listening to him tell of his day to day life is more enthralling than most prime time reality shows we waste our time on. I guess I’ll be watching cruise ship videos now. Let’s gooooo

[@karenshepherd2412]

I was sent here on that algorithm ax well. Lisa, you are like me about open water. I had a very bad run in with someone as a kid where I almost drowned, so deep water where I can't feel the sand underneath my feet is unnerving. I did an 11 day cruise in Mexican waters 22 years ago. The first night was spooky. The ship rolled back and forth, then changed directions and it topped and footed. Hubby, with 8 years in the Navy slept like a rock. It took me a good 3 days to stand at the rail and look down. As we left ports and on and off during the day it helped to sit at the back of the ship and watched the color of the water as the screws churned it up. I was able to whale watch, and loved the send off the Mexican Navy gave us, flooding us for a ling time. I'd still rather be land based where I could go to the beach and enjoy the SHALLOW waters. I still won't go out over my head. If I can survive 11 days in the water, so can you. Don't let fear tell you that you can't do it. Make a short cruise be part of your bucket list. I don't like flying either, but if I couldn't get on a plane I would have missed Washington DC, Hawaii at 14, the cruise and Cancun, number 1 on my bucket list. Now I'm 68 and have had injuries where I'll never get to walk in the sand, swim in the ocean or climb a mountain. Don't waste your life by fearing what you CAN overcome. Life is too short to waste time on. 😊❤❤😊

[@Kolohetom]

This video actually choked me up a little. I worked this exact same itinerary onboard the beautiful SS Constitution and the SS Independence ‘84-‘92. I was on the entertainment staff and sailed 4 months on/two months off, but seeing the ports, the “crew only” deck (if they only knew…hehe), Kalapaki beach on Kauai, the excitement, the sadness, and the emotions of “Aloha week” and the breathtaking vistas upon sail away as the Hawaiian musicians performed Honolulu City Lights on deck, etc., brought the memories flooding back. Well done sir, and my hat’s off to you. Aloha malama pono! 🍻

[@donnamcginnis8038]

I sailed on the Solar Eclipse cruise on the SS Independence in July of 1991. Had a wonderful time and great memories of that trip.

[@RV_Chef_Life]

I saw this ship Twice going up the Columbia when I worked on the river a couple years ago. Magnificent ship and great video. ❤

[@jamesdean780]

It also has no casino which means it does not stink of tobacco smoke. Smoking is only permitted on the starboard quarter, It also has blue exterior lighting because of migratory birds. Very unique. Highly recommended.

[@mistycarreiro114]

Thank you so much for everything that you and crew do to make the ship beautiful. It may be the prettiest ship I’ve been on. So very well taken care of. We have been home for less than a month and every day I miss Hawaii. Thank you for a lovely trip down a not so distant memory lane.

[@markolippmaa9567]

As a student at the Maritime Academy, I find your videos inspiring and they provide an amazing vision of life on ships.

[@chggjhn]

Joe! Just keep getting better! Excellent video, insights, and narrative.

[@k1mgy]

Following along on your path, I see such growth, maturity, and a blossoming of the life of the heart. Thanks Joe for taking us along to experience it all. You make good decisions. And it shows.

[@Bill_N_ATX]

I have been to the Islands several times. By myself, with my family, with a few girlfriends. I took my Mother on that cruise right before she passed away and it was something I’ll cherish till it’s my turn to go on. After watching this, I want to schedule my next trip the Kauai, see the Canyon, maybe go fishing and of course, go spend a day at Polihale State Park with the white sand beach and the amazing cliffs of the island behind you. If I was you, I’d be tempted to take a work-cation every couple of years and spend a few months on the ship to recharge the batteries of your soul, like only Hawaii can. If I want to do it, it costs me several grand. Mahalo.

[@femountain]

I love your subtle and low-key stories where you depict the everyday life as a sailor. I am probably too old now but if I could live my life over I would have become a sailor. Wish you fair winds and following seas, sailor

[@KYJake42071]

OMG one of my favorite vLogs made me cry your mahalo farewell song. You have got to do another Pride of America Hawaiian tour to revisit old friends and catch up and make new memories. I lived in Hawaii for a time and loved and missed it terribly. Please say yes to another Hawaii tour. Great job Joe. All the best 👍

[@genepatterson4375]

This was an excellent video. Your narrative was top notch, the views of the island’s breathtaking. You showed your experience in a classy tongue in cheek manner where you worked and yet enjoyed yourself in your free time. Definitely not a cargo ship adventure but one where some people could find a great nitch to spend their career. Fantastic job.

[@jameshicks914]

Great job of editing and music. Joe --you ROCK!!

[@urcousinfromboston9052]

U r talented in more ways than one Joe, wow..That chant from Oli was something special!! Kauai is unreal, went sky diving there 10 years ago. sending Prayers to the victims from the fires!!!!

[@LOLRussell]

People have to understand that a regular crewmember cannot for any reason go into the public spaces. You must stay in the crew areas at all times. He has a special position that grants him access to these areas because of the job he hold. This is a rare position.

[@teresaforsyth6185]

Absolutely one of the best video makers out there!!!!

[@dedewebb1425]

All I keep saying is OH my goodness!!! This is freaking beautiful and amazing to see. Thank you for sharing your work with us and showing the beauty of Hawaii!! Now, I'm ready to book a cruise there!!

[@ducky1496]

I took this cruise in ‘18. Great to see all the cool sights again!! Also really neat to see the behind the scenes stuff!! Thanks Joe!! Much better job than delivering Bud Light!!! 😂😂

[@JoeFranta]

Haha its also much easier on my body then delivering beer!

[@maddybee4523]

@@JoeFranta Thank you so very much for this video. I took a trip on the ship August 12 and had an absolutely wonderful trip. We did not stop in Maui for the trip nevertheless was great thank you for the behind the scenes section of this video.

[@torgeirbrandsnes1916]

Wow! What a blast of a vlog! No wonder you teared up when you left the ship. This needs to be on my list too! Good job as always. Keep up the good work. Be safe!

[@Jeff-m7p]

I went on this cruise last year June 2022. Had a great time. Boat was clean, crew was awesome. Weather was perfect the whole cruise, well worth the money. Gonna do it again. Thanks for the hard work.

[@ohnoflicks]

Fascinating. Thoroughly enjoyed this. Nice to see the company pays good attention to safety.

[@brucehiggason4656]

Joe, this is definitely one of your best episodes! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep them coming……

[@ticdelarue]

Having just returned from a 12 day NCL Mediterranean cruise (Italy, Croatia, France and Spain) and wondering what the behind the scenes of the passenger side of the ship was like this video was very informative. I was almost tempted to pay for the $125 behind the scene tour but passed on it now I'm glad I did because I got to see a lot of it for free here.

[@gladethomas8158]

Awesome post as usual. Would love to see a behind the scenes video on how you bring this all together with such thorough and professional videography while you’re an employee that could be replaced at a finger snap. Keep telling your stories 👍🇨🇦

[@JoeFranta]

Thanks for this. Creating these videos takes me quite a bit of time and I do put my all into it!

[@nathanwahl9224]

Good PR for the lines, they probably don't know or don't really care, as long as it's not a bunch of negative stuff.

[@josesteens6948]

Such a great video, seeing the cruise through your eyes. We've done this cruise twice, first in 2015 and again late 2022. I love everything about Hawaii, but the vegetation captures my heart, time and time again. To be able to see the variety the islands offer, in just one week, is unbelievable. So glad you felt the same. We passengers couldn't enjoy any cruise if it wasn't for the crew! I know a little about it, my husband and I met on a passengers ship, both crew then, cruising the Rhine and the Mosel in Germany, 44 years ago. May you enjoy many more travels....good luck and thank you, Mahalo and Aloooooha!

[@toddmiller6104]

This is my first of your videos to view. WOW. Blown away by your natural talent at story telling and video production. It was a true feast for my eyes and ears. Keep it up. Can't wait to see what else awaits in your other videos. Mahalo!

[@Bjornontour]

Dude,you are truly one amazing guy,Joe!! This was by far your best vlog,hands down,and I’ve seen them all here on your KZbin channel.Big up big man and lots of love from Liverpool,Merseyside! ♥️

[@remaguire]

I lived in Hawaii for around 10 years and the Na Pali coast is definitely the most awe-inspiring sight in the islands.

[@NFS305]

Kalalau!

[@dianeshaw1145]

I didn't expect that I'd start crying during this video, but it was so heartfelt and beautiful and appreciative of the Hawaiian Islands and people and the crew members. Thank you for this, and best wishes on your future sailings.

[@sfmc98]

That moment was powerful. You weren't the only one.

[@jast3053]

The islands YES the ship and the company, that’s a NO for me 😂😂😂lawd I’m glad I don’t have to deal with crap anymore. I HATED IT, never home and trying to be a fixer for the dumb ish employees do onboard such as child touching, no a/c and people dying. I can go on and on and on RUNNNNNN

[@anitamendez116]

Bra….Great Video. Mahalo for sharing the beauty of our Islands and our people. You are feeling more emotional on this goodbye because you got “hit” with the “Aloha Spirit”. Nowhere else on earth can compare. Mahalo Nui Loa. ❤

[@xmtryanx]

What a blast from the past! I worked POA in 2006-2007 and this brings back so many memories! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@nalentocha]

Fantastic Video Joe! Been watching since the Piney Point days and finally a video I can relate to. I spent a year on the POA in 2015 during a five year run with NCL working in the theatre as a lighitng tech. This ship was by far the best out of them all. Loved the scenery and the people, and the crew bar was always a good time 😁 Brings back some good memories watching this. Keep up the great work!

[@joeybags7411]

It seems like there’s a hell of a lot of awesome people behind the scenes on that ship.

[@russellgray1426]

Perfect! Presentation and production. No pressure but I want more😂👍🏻

[@Shelly58485]

That was so sweet I. Would have shed a Tear he did that to me❤❤❤Thanks for sharing this Awesome job you experienced 😊

[@ofield6561]

I could watch this all day. You are a wonderful story teller and you have a radio DJ voice.

[@ladwanabrown6426]

The tone of your voice is so calming and hypnotizing ❤️🥰

[@kieronbarone7705]

In 2007, I was a bartender on the Pride of America. There were 3 ships cruising the islands. The Pride of Hawaii and the Pride of Aloha. I was in my mid forties at the time and was looking to do something adventurous. I never worked so hard as I did on board the ship. It was usually 12 to 15 hours a day working all over the ship at the different venues. If I was unhappy about anything, it was my cabin. I shared a tiny room with 2 young guys about 20 years old. All they wanted to do was party in the room even if I was trying to sleep. Other than that, I made great money and was able to experience something most people only dream about.

[@thomasreto2997]

Thank you for the realistic picture. I am a maintenance man on the mainland. Wife and I will be moving to Hilo in about a year once our 2 kids finish up college. I see that Pride of America coming into Hilo all the time. We will need employment unless we hit the lotto🤙

[@aliced8678]

What a lovely video! I will never be in Hawaii. I have a disability and I’m 70 and alone other than the great network of supportive friends. your video was more than an engrossing distraction. It was a mini glimpse into the lives of those who give others wonderful memories for the rest of their lives. Your descriptions and images of Hawaii were a welcome break of beauty and insight. Looking forward to more of your videos! Excellent job! Thank you! ❤

[@SixFive8]

God Bless you Alice. Take a cruise go by yourself you will give yourself the best present ever. Go on Holland or Norwegian.

[@karenshepherd2412]

Hi Alice. I was lucky enough to go to Hawaii when I was 14, and took a second trip there in 2004 or 5. We wernt on a cruise ship, but land based. Both times we were on Oahu. I took a Mexican cruise sometime later. As life would have it, I've become disabled as well, and I know I'll never be able to walk in the sand or wade in the ocean again, and I'm OK with it. I can live through videos such as these. Now I craft, paint, make soap, and create epoxy stainless steel tumblers. Lots to do without thinking much anymore of what I can't do. I'm OK with it.

[@karenshepherd2412]

​@@SixFive8 If you do go by yourself ask them if they can accommodate you. Mom had a room where she didn't have a rise to get over to take a shower. She could use her wheel chair to get to the transfer seat in the shower. I use a walker and an electric scooter. I've never seen anyone use a scooter but I'd imagine they have accommodations for that. We used Celebrity and it was an 11 day Mexican cruise that was adults only. It wasn't very expensive either. Everything is included.

[@AnnSmith-ez2yh]

@@karenshepherd2412the scooters are fantastic on the ships. The only bad part is that there are not enough handicap cabins so u need to book a couple years in advance. The crew is very helpful to those in the wheelchairs and scooters. There’s handicap seating around the ship. We always book aft facing g cabins on breakaway or breakaway plus class ships. The people of Bermuda are very helpful to handicap guests and the best part is that the ship is in port for three nice days Wednesday thru Friday. Leave on Sundays from Manhattan cruise pier and arrive back on Sundays. It’s an easy passage from nyx to Bermuda since Bermuda is just east of North Carolina. I’ve done that cruise about a dozen times

[@andrewallan6802]

Until now I hadn’t realised the importance of the word ‘shipmates’. Wonderful film, thank you

[@Opium1960]

Nice vídeo, nice filming, nice document day works on such a Cruiser.

[@darleneworden6874]

Wow, what a great video. Thank you for the perspective of being a part of the crew. Passengers should watch this to see all the hard work and effort the crew does on their behalf.

[@fanetem]

as an crewman in another life over 20 years ago and also a guest on this ship in 2014 , thank you. i really like your videos and the editing . the more people learn about the life of a crewman the better will be. fair winds

[@yakanglernj8798]

I wish KZbin existed when I was young and figuring out my path in life because this career would be on the top of my list thanks to you Joe. What an amazing way to live life and see the world! Thanks for taking us on your adventures.

[@barbcoleus]

Is nice that you appreciate the passengers.

[@dennisshoffner5201]

I deeply appreciate you making and sharing these videos. I’m seeing a side of life I didn’t know anything about! Having spent 12-years in the Navy I’ve spent a fair amount of time on ships. Your experiences and mine are worlds apart! Thanks!

[@venomdust1]

I am Born and raised on Oahu and would see that ship docked . I always wondered if it would be a good job or a bad Job to work on it . Now I know . Great job with showing the local people with the laughs and smiles. The humor and warmth is abundant . The cultures from all over the world blending. I remember in elementary school we had to a report on tracing our family trees . Everyone and I mean everyone Had at least 3-4 nationalities and I only had Irish . Mine was the shortest report . 😂 great video .

[@rupertthedrone4717]

Amazing video! I'm currently doing an apprenticeship to be an AB in the UK, and cruise ships seem a fair bit more interesting than the ferries that I work on!

[@treklub3]

How does it work in the UK going through a AB apprenticeship? I’ve gone through the apprenticeship in the US and always wondered how you guys do it.

[@rupertthedrone4717]

@@treklub3 it changes slightly every year with slightly different assessment criteria but as far as my one goes, The course lasts about 18 months, split up into 5 'phases' Phase 1 All takes place in college and is all your basic stuff like learning basic parts of a ship, some ropework, Mooring proceedures, anchoring, and doing stcw stuff. Phase 2 is just us going to sea for a few months, we're given a TRB (training record book) that we've got to get signed by the captain, chief officer and bosun, along with any competent crew to sign off small tasks, these can be as trivial as preparing steelwork for paint, all the way to stuff like be in charge of preparing and launching a lifeboat. We also have to get our steering ticket in this time as well as our navigational watchkeeping certificate. Phase 3 is back at college, just reenforcing learning and preparing for our Efficient Deck Hand certificate, then phase 4 (which I'm on now) is sea time again for a few months, then final phase is back in college where we'll do our lifeboat and rescue craft qualification along with our EDH, we also have an assessment with the MCA (maritime coastguard agency), once we've completed this we get a reduction in seatime needed to apply for our AB ticket!

[@treklub3]

@@rupertthedrone4717 Wow that's awesome! What you described is almost exactly what I did for my apprenticeship from the phases to the TRB (We call it a seaproject). I just finished phase five and received my AB credentials from the US Coast guard.

[@ScubaDude68]

I made a career out of the Marine Corps, but in a different life could have totally gone your route Joe.

[@sfmc98]

Imagine retiring at just 38, then going into this? Joe's a hard worker no doubt but compared to some of the shit we had to do in the Marines, his jobs seem very doable. Nothing totally back breaking, lots of just detail painting, standing watch, etc. This is a great second career for the younger retirees.

[@S.E.C-R]

This was really nice… I’m used to seeing videos from crew working on a crew ship, but never maintenance crew. It was a different take on the ships and nice to see that you really enjoyed it!

[@juanrodriguezjr451]

This channel is the reason I absolutely love KZbin. I appreciate you! Great content. Living vicariously through your videos!!

[@maeve4686]

If you don't chronicle your life, who will?

[@puertola7186]

Stop the US occupation of Hawaii! Stop the US colonialism! Freedom to Hawaii!

[@evalramman7502]

Good luck with all that.

[@puertola7186]

@@evalramman7502 Thanks! I appreciate 🙂

[@Ugahboogah]

Nostalgic, simple well put together video..very special ending

[@brendagail69]

I lived on Oahu for four years as a military brat in the 70s and of all the places we lived Hawaii is the only place that still has my heart. The Hawaiian traditions and blessings are so beautiful. Loved this video and thankful I ran across your channel and it was this very video that I came across in my feed.

[@msladyk81]

My sis worked several contracts on Pride of America in the early 2010s (over the course of about 3 1/2 years). It was a life changing experience for her and she made many lifelong friends. Although I’ve seen countless pictures and heard endless stories, this gave me a realistic glimpse of what her life was like living on board. Thank you so much for sharing your experience. EXCELLENT video!