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…
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…
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,…
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…