From Moldova to Norway: My Journey to Becoming a Crab Fisherman

From Moldova to Norway: My Journey to Becoming a Crab Fisherman

My story about working on a crab fishing vessel is the journey I made from Moldova to Norway, from a cannery operator to one of the most challenging and well-paid maritime professions. The start of my career didn't hint at anything related to the sea, but sometimes life takes unexpected turns, bringing us face to face with unknown and complex challenges. Background: The Path from Music to the Factory Born in the Moldovan town of Soroca, I loved music from a young age. I have an education as a music teacher and instrumentalist - accordion, piano, guitar, trumpet, and even conductor in folk orchestras. Also, after becoming a husband and father, I realized I needed to earn more to support my family. At that time, I was working as an operator at a canning factory, studying at university, and taking care of my family. The average salary in Moldova was 300-500 euros, but it barely covered basic needs. My wife and I had to take out a mortgage, which increased financial difficulties, and I began looking for opportunities abroad. First Steps: Working in the Czech Republic and Planning for the Future My first serious step in my career abroad was working in the Czech Republic, where I handled logistics and distribution for a supermarket chain in Prague. Earnings in the Czech Republic ranged from 1,500 to 3,000 euros, which made it possible to pay off the mortgage and improve living conditions for my family. Everything seemed to be going well, but my inner ambition pushed me to seek even higher income opportunities. At that time, I hadn't even thought about Norway. Like many others, I only knew that Oslo was the capital and that it was very cold and expensive to live there. However, everything changed when I saw a video on Instagram about working on crab fishing boats. An Opportunity in Norway: Refusing Not to Try I was drawn to work in Norway for several reasons: high salary, new prospects, and, of course, the desire to try something completely unknown. However, the path to my dream was not easy. To secure a spot on a vessel, I had to take special safety courses, pass a medical examination, and obtain all the necessary documents. The job search process wasn't easy either: in the first weeks, I faced many rejections. It proved difficult to find a job in Norway without experience in the maritime industry and without specialized references. But perseverance helped me: after a few weeks, after going through all the necessary procedures, I finally secured a job on a vessel. First Swim: Beginning of the Season and Adaptation I made my first trip on December 30, 2023. Crab fishing season is not only physically demanding but also emotionally, especially for a newcomer. The first winter month is tough on a crab fishing vessel due to low temperatures (down to -20-25 degrees Celsius) and strong storms. Conditions sometimes seemed extreme: constant humidity, cold, and the need to be on deck for long periods. However, each day brought experience. I spent the first week in the hold, where I helped load the crabs and distribute the catch. Later, when I gained more confidence and knowledge, I was entrusted to work on deck and in the factory where we processed the crabs. The Capture Process and Work Particularities The work itself on the vessel requires teamwork and high concentration. The crew on crab fishing vessels consists of 20-40 people. All work is organized in shifts, and everyone has their own tasks. At the start of a trip, crab traps are placed at sea depth and then lifted, sorting the catch. A good catch means that each crew member will receive a decent bonus, which motivates us even more to be efficient. After the crabs are lifted from the depths, processing begins. At the factory, crabs are sorted by size and quality before being processed. The catch is sent to the hold, where it is stored until unloading, and the vessel usually returns to port only at the end of the trip. Living and Leisure Particularities on the Vessel Life on board is simple but efficient. Each crew member has a sleeping place, and there is the possibility to rest and recover. Meals are organized on board, but due to constant work, we rarely have free time. Internet on board is available but limited, so communication with family remains rare. During my vacations, I was often involved in the FisherWay project, helping people interested in working on vessels in Norway. I advised them, shared my experiences, and helped them understand the ins and outs of employment. The rest of the crew often spent their free time watching videos, socializing with loved ones, or playing games. Challenges and Dangers: The Reality of Working on Crab Fishing Vessels Working on a crab fishing vessel involves real dangers. Besides harsh weather conditions, the technique and process of crab fishing itself require caution. Falling overboard happens, and in Arctic waters, such incidents rarely end safely. Seasickness I faced in the first few days was another challenge. In the first days at sea, my body barely got used to the rocking and physical effort, but after a week, I started to feel more confident. The Financial Aspect: Labor Remuneration Earnings on crab fishing boats are very high. Income can range from 7,000 to 14,000 euros per month, depending on the season and catch, and sometimes can reach up to 20,000 euros. The high salary and bonuses for successful catches cover all living expenses and provide an opportunity to improve the quality of life for the family. During the working season on the crab vessel, I already managed to buy an apartment in Chișinău, and now I'm considering a home in Spain. Prospects and My Personal Growth There are always new skills to learn on a vessel, whether it's mechanics, welding, or operating equipment. I'm glad I took this path - from a factory operator to a professional on a crab fishing vessel. Working at sea requires endurance, perseverance, and a good mental attitude, but it opens up prospects and opportunities. Now I plan to continue my career in the maritime industry, maybe I'll try my luck in other countries - Ireland, Denmark, the United Kingdom, where salaries are also high and there is a need for seafarers.

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