Our Way 1
LIFE ONBOARD 3rd Officer Roberto Avellanosa check
s the compass. THE ATMOSPHERE IS GREAT ONBOARD, WE’RE LIKE A BIG FAMILY IT IS LUNCHTIME on the ship – on today’s menu is a mix between Swedish and Filipino cuisine. The mess room is spacious and light, and conversations in different languages are held across the tables. 3rd Officer Roberto Avellanosa (who also happens to be the ship’s pro bono barber) appreciates the multicultural atmosphere onboard: “One of the best things about being a Wallenius Marine employee is that while we’re from different countries and cultures, we all feel equal. Everyone can speak out and get their voice heard.” Roberto heads back to his cabin, where he calls his wife and two young daughters via Skype. It will be another three months until he sees them the next time. “Even though I’m out at sea, I’m always able to communicate with my family. And the Wi-Fi signal is strong no matter where you are on the ship,” he says. ONE OF THE THINGS that makes these vessels managed by Wallenius Marine unique is the extra care about the interiors. The interior is very nice-looking with solid furniture in dark wood, green plants and plush couch pillows, but what is most noticeable is the 8 OUR WAY SHIPPING Chief Cook Cezar Ramirez preparing a meal. Klara Andersson, 3rd Engineer in m/v FIGARO. original artwork that adorns the walls of the ship, purely for the crew’s pleasure. Klara Andersson, currently 3rd Engineer on m/v FIGARO, has been a Wallenius Marine employee for ten years. She believes that the environment on the ships – as well as the many common areas and large cabins, tailored to the needs of the crew – contributes to everyone’s well-being. “Working at sea is demanding and challenging, so the quality of life onboard is really important for the crew, especially when you’re away from home during such long periods at a time,” she says. For Klara, it makes a huge difference. “The atmosphere is great onboard, we’re like a big family,” she continues. “And, I learn something new every day.” All of Wallenius Marine’s seafarers take part in further education on a regular basis. The ongoing upskilling guarantees that employees onboard are up to date with the latest regulations and standards, but also that they are continually improving their skills and adding to their competences for each year they stay at sea. WALLENIUS MARINE works hard with safety, both at sea and onshore. The crew onboard the Wallenius Marine managed vessel learn from one another and stay updated on safety matters through a regularly fleet-wide newsletter. Klara explains that every ship has monthly safety drills to ensure that everyone knows how to act in a crisis situation. But it starts with the small doings. “Just as important as knowing what to do if there’s a blackout or if someone falls overboard is the everyday actions such as wearing hearing protectors or other