From the Depths of the Sea to the Heights of Dreams: My Journey in Crab Fishing

From the Depths of the Sea to the Heights of Dreams: My Journey in Crab Fishing

I have always considered myself a land person. Originally from Moldova, I grew up far from the sea. At some point, it became clear to me that working in logistics or a canning factory would not allow me to achieve the goals I had set for my family. I wanted more and would have done anything for them. That's when I learned about working on a crab fishing vessel in Norway - this opportunity was the beginning of a new life for me, full of challenges, difficulties, but also amazing discoveries. First Steps at Sea Working in Norway began with a very large number of preparatory tasks that I didn't even realize I had to do. To become a seafarer, it wasn't enough just to send a resume. Special safety courses were needed, a medical commission for seafarers, and of course, a full understanding of what awaited me. I completed the safety course and obtained all the necessary certificates in a few days - it wasn't easy, but the awareness that I was about to have a new, much safer life was encouraging. My first encounter with the sea was both thrilling and frightening. The waves, the cold, and the noise of the ship's engines all seemed daunting and majestic. When we set off, I immediately realized that this place would test my courage. Life on a Ship: Challenge and Camaraderie Working on a ship is not just physical labor, but also a constant battle with nature itself. Winter in northern waters is particularly harsh: temperature peaks, minus 25 degrees, and storms. You have to be extremely focused on deck because every step can be dangerous. I worked in the hold and at the crab processing plant, learning how to handle the equipment and traps. The work required maximum concentration and sometimes I didn't see the sun for months. But this unity with nature gave strength, and the team spirit on board was supportive and inspiring. The crew is my second family. We are all from different countries and cultures, but we work shoulder to shoulder, supporting each other in any situation. Relationships with colleagues are based on mutual respect and the desire to help. It's not always easy with sailors, but we know that the success and safety of the entire team depend on each one of us. Challenges and Rewards Working on a crab fishing vessel involves risks and physical challenges, but I accepted the challenge. Often, people think it's just about romance and big earnings, but life at sea requires maximum dedication. The seasickness I suffered in the first days, the exhausting 12-hour shifts without days off - all these test your courage. Our job on deck is to set the traps and haul in the catch, while in the factory each crab is processed and sorted manually. That being said, we know that the better the season, the greater our earnings. The money I earn is used to secure my family's future. We have already managed to buy an apartment with this money, and my dream is to buy a house by the sea, where my family can relax and enjoy life. Separation from Family and the Desire to Return The hardest part of life at sea was being separated from my family. Even at sea, I always kept in touch with my wife and child, trying to be close at least through a phone call. But every minute spent away only strengthens my desire to return home and secure my family's future. In my free time on the ship, I try to work on my FisherWay project - advising those who, like me, are looking for work on ships. This helps me stay connected with those at home and share my experiences with those who want to try the seafaring profession. My Dream: A House by the Sea and Confidence in the Future Working on a crab fishing vessel has given me more than just a livelihood. I have learned how to overcome fear and fight against difficulties, I have felt united with the sea, and I have found colleagues I can rely on. This experience has given me confidence in myself and in the future. I dream of the day when my family and I can sit on the beach in my house and remember all the hardships we overcame for them.

---

Watch my lesson for free where I explain in detail how you can get a job at sea and start earning a decent salary: Free lesson!