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The Most Important Qualities of a Good Chief Cook
When people think about a Chief Cook, they usually think about someone who prepares delicious meals. While cooking is certainly part of the job, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. A Chief Cook is also a leader, planner, inventory manager, budget controller, and problem solver. The quality of the food affects crew morale, but…
How to Increase Your Salary as a Ship Cook
One of the questions I hear most often from Ship Cooks is: “How can I earn a higher salary onboard?” Many seafarers believe the only way to earn more is to wait for another contract or hope for a better company. But after working in the maritime industry for more than a decade, I’ve learned…
Provision Management: A Guide for Ship Cooks
A great Chief Cook isn’t judged only by the quality of the meals served. They’re also judged by how well they manage provisions. Running out of food before the next port isn’t just inconvenient—it can affect crew morale, increase costs, and create unnecessary stress for everyone onboard. Good provision management ensures the galley operates smoothly,…
How to Plan Menus for Multinational Crews
Planning meals on a vessel isn’t as simple as deciding what to cook. When you’re feeding a multinational crew, you’re not just preparing food—you’re managing different cultures, religions, dietary preferences, and expectations, all while working within a fixed budget and limited supplies. As a Chief Cook, I’ve learned that a well-planned menu can improve crew…
What I Learned From More Than a Decade at Sea
More than a decade ago, I stepped onboard my first ship with a suitcase full of clothes and a head full of dreams. Like many Filipino seafarers, my goal was simple. Earn a better income. Support my family. Build a better future. I believed that working hard would be enough. After more than ten years…
10 Things Every New Seafarer Should Know
Becoming a seafarer is a dream for many Filipinos. It offers the opportunity to earn a better income, support your family, and build a brighter future. But life at sea is very different from life on land. The long contracts, demanding work, cultural differences, and time away from loved ones can be overwhelming—especially during your…
ABOUT ALLAN
ENTREPRENEUR, INVESTOR, MENTOR
I document my journey in business, investing and life to help entrepreneurs and OFW’s create a better future.