MV Gemini Crew Report Shocking Conditions During Drydock

A crew member working aboard the MV Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, has reportedly raised serious concerns about their living and working conditions while the ship is in drydock.

According to an anonymous message shared with the Facebook page Crew Center, crew on the vessel – which has been in drydock for two weeks – say that internet, electricity, and water have been restricted to just two hours a day.

The crew member described the situation as “unbearable,” with temperatures inside the ship making it difficult to sleep.

“All doors are left open because of the extreme heat. Each room has four people inside. We don’t know when we will be allowed to leave, and we haven’t received our salaries for three months,” the crew member alleged.

“Please, don’t treat us like animals.”

At this time, these claims have not been independently verified.

Crew Reactions: “Normal” or “Not Acceptable”?

Responses from other seafarers and cruise professionals to the Crew Center post reveal mixed opinions.

Some industry veterans suggested that difficult conditions are not unusual during a drydock.

One commenter noted: “Of course you’re going to have days when the air conditioning will not be working, internet will take some time to use, [and] food is going to be a bit different than on a normal working schedule.”

Another wrote simply: “Dry dock is dry dock, it’s a dry for all – both crew and the ship itself.”

Others, however, were shocked by the severity of the claims – particularly regarding unpaid salaries.

“For three months without salary is a big NO! Report to ITF urgently!” wrote one commenter. Another added: “That’s not normal at all and far from acceptable. And I have done many dry docks, both cruise and cargo vessels. This must be stopped!”

Some commenters urged crew members to seek support from maritime unions or authorities, including the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union.

What Happens in Drydock?

Cruise ships are required to undergo regular maintenance in drydock – a process where the vessel is taken out of the water for repairs, inspections, and upgrades.

This period is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with international maritime regulations.

For crew, drydock often means long working days, changes to food and accommodation services, and temporary interruptions to amenities such as air conditioning or internet.

However, conditions vary widely by company.

Several seafarers commenting on the post contrasted their own positive drydock experiences with other lines, where food, water, and crew welfare were reportedly prioritised.

About Miray Cruises

Miray Cruises, based in Turkey, has operated the MV Gemini for a number of years, using the vessel for both regional sailings and charter services.

The ship gained recent attention when Miray launched “Life at Sea Cruises,” a proposed three-year residential cruise programme, which ultimately faced delays and cancellations.

The company has not issued a public response to the recent allegations shared by crew on the MV Gemini.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.