Start your onboarding, and make sure all your documents are ready to go. Required documents may include your contract, medical certificate, passport, STCW certificate, Seaman's Book, visa, and vaccination card.

If you require renewal of any of your documents, please make the appointments as soon as you can. Due to the pandemic, consulates and embassies are operating at reduced capacity and hours, so processing times can be much longer than normal.

Carry these important documents with you in hand luggage during travel to your ship, and be prepared to hand over these items upon embarkation.

You will soon be issued your employee ID number — also known as a MAPS ID. Your ID number will be used to access online applications, such as Crew Self-Service (CSS) and GLADIS.

Crew Self-Service is our online portal for you to find information about your upcoming assignment, travel details, company announcements, and much more. Visit CSS from home at https://crewss.hagroup.com.

On GLADIS you can access information resources, training courses, and video programs. The courses and resources on GLADIS are available as an optional learning and development opportunity. To access GLADIS from home, visit: https://hagroup.marinels.com.

Pack your suitcase as if you are going on a trip for approximately two weeks. Bring enough clothing, medications, and toiletries for that time period.

Consider the region where your ship will be sailing. For example, if the ship is sailing in Alaska, you may want to bring a few items of warmer clothing.

Airlines and security agencies have restrictions on the number of bags and transport of batteries, dangerous goods, electronics, and liquids. Please check with your scheduled airline(s) and country regulations for all baggage and airport security regulations.

You're allowed to wear your own clothes during travel and when you first arrive at the ship, but keep in mind that first impressions will be made the moment you set foot on the gangway. A more conservative appearance is preferred.

Besides clothing, medications, and toiletries, other items to consider include books, camera, exercise equipment, laptop computer, travel alarm clock, and universal power adapter.

Please ensure you bring everything you need to last for the duration of your contract. However, if you happen to forget any items or run out of supplies, many accessories, clothing, and toiletries can be purchased from the onboard Crew Shop or from stores in the ports your ship will visit.

If you are taking prescription medication, we recommend bringing an additional two months’ supply.

You may also bring electronic devices such as a laptop, iPad, or camera to keep you entertained and productive during your time onboard.

About one day before leaving home to join your ship, re-confirm your flight schedule. Make sure you have reliable transportation to airport, and plan to arrive at least two hours before departure time.

Prepare for the possibility of an overnight hotel stay. Meal vouchers will be provided at the hotel, if a hotel stay is required.

Collect contact information for your talent partner, port agent, and travel services, which you may need if a problem arises. Connect to our Crew Travel team in WhatsApp using the phone number: 1-206-262-5800.

Make sure you bring your passport, visa, employee contract (two copies signed and dated), medical certificate, joining and Immigration letter, and other required certificates. Pack these important documents, and any prescription medications, in your carry-on bag when you travel.

We’ll provide round-trip air travel to and from your ship — starting at the major airport closest to your place of residence and returning to that same airport upon completion of your contract.

We'll try to arrange travel using the most direct route, but limited flight availability and border restrictions in some countries can cause delays in travel plans. You may be traveling long distances and across multiple time zones, so preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable journey.

We also provide hotel accommodations when traveling for business purposes. Meals or meal vouchers may be provided; otherwise, meal expense receipts are eligible for reimbursement once you're on board.

Ground transportation will be available upon arrival at your embarkation airport. This will include a shuttle or taxi from the airport or hotel to your ship. Details will be available in the itinerary for your trip.

If you have any problems during your trip, using the WhatsApp Messenger app, you can reach Crew Travel anytime for urgent travel support. Connect to Crew Travel by telephone call or WhatsApp using the number 1-206-262-5800.