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Over 20 million people go on cruises every year. These vacationers spend a couple days to a week relaxing on the soft waters only to return home at the end of the trip.

However, workers on the boats often need to choose between staying at a hostel or living in a crew house.

While both of these are viable options for crews, knowing the difference between the two can be helpful for a crew that wants to bond together.

What is a Crew House?

A crew house is very similar to a hostel. It can host many different people. However, it is largely intended for crew members to meet and get to know each other. 

What is a crew house?

These locations are standard houses that have been transformed into rental rooms. You can choose to rent out a single room with your teammates or the entire house.

Not only are the houses a great way to stick around with people that you already know, but it's also an easy way to network and connect with crews from all over the world.

There are an estimated 250,000 crew members in the world, each with their own unique experiences and stories waiting to be shared. These are the best places to hear these stories and stay until the next job starts.

Another benefit of this living arrangement is that it almost always is situated near a dock. This makes it easy for you and your crew to get to and from work.

Forget about long commutes. Instead, you can enjoy the simplicity and ease of the area.

What are Hostels?

Hostels are intended for guests that need a place to sleep for a couple of nights. They are similar to crew houses, but they are marketed to everyone.

When you stay at a hostel, you will meet people from all over the world. However, it may be a bit more crowded.

Some hostels advertise 22-bed dorms. That means you'll be sharing a room with 21 other individuals, some you know, some you don't.

Hostels also don't have a lot of the same amenities a crew house will. For example, hostels typical won't have kitchens or private rooms.

If you are planning to stay at a hostel, you'll want to make sure that you have clean sheets and flip-flops. People are constantly staying in these areas, so it's an added protection from germs.

Which is Better?

Both hostels and crew houses are viable options for crew members to stay in. They are cost-effective, simple, and fun.

Choosing the right place depends on your needs. However, there's no place quite like a crew house. You'll get to spend time with people in the same profession as you, learn about their stories, and maybe even find a new boat to join while you're at it.

Crew houses, provide all of the same benefits as hostels. You can't go wrong when you choose them.

Looking for a place to stay? Contact us to learn about all of the crew houses in your area!