"Overcontract": What to Do If the Company Delays Your Crew Change at Sea?

Hey colleagues! Your 4-month contract is coming to an end, you're already packed, and the cruise line writes: "Sorry, there are no crew changes at the next port, hang in there for another month." Sound familiar?

Overcontract is a serious blow to your mental health. According to the MLC 2006 convention, the maximum time on board is 11 months. If you're being held longer without consent, you have the right to file a complaint with the ITF (International Transport Workers' Federation) or the flag state. But you shouldn't rush to take drastic action and strike immediately — you could damage your relationship with the company and end up on the cruise line's blacklist.

How do you apply pressure on the company the right way to get relieved? What's the maximum time you've been "locked in" at sea?