In the year 2022, Issack Hindo Abdihafidh walked into Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) with a simple dream: to become a seafarer and, one day, work aboard a cruise ship.
He enrolled in the STCW Basic Safety Training course at BMA. After completing his training and obtaining his Seaman’s Book, the journey towards his dream began.
His passion for cruise ships was undeniable. His photo gallery, Google searches, and social media feeds were filled with images and videos of cruise vessels.
“I used to watch movies and documentaries about cruise ships. Day in and day out, my passion grew stronger, so I decided to enroll in the STCW Basic Safety Training course at BMA,” Abdihafidh recalls.
His determination eventually paid off. He secured employment with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). He was assigned to the MSC Virtuosa, a luxurious Meraviglia-class cruise ship measuring 331 meters in length and capable of carrying more than 6,000 guests.
The vessel features world-class restaurants, entertainment facilities, swimming pools, a waterpark, a spa, and other amenities, while sailing to destinations across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and other regions depending on the season.
Abdihafidh started his career aboard MSC Virtuosa as an Ordinary Seaman and later progressed to Able Seaman and now as an entertainer.
For Abdihafidh, life aboard a cruise ship has provided more than employment—it has allowed him to travel the world, experience different cultures and explore port cities across the globe.
“Life on a cruise ship is exciting because you get to meet people from different countries, experience different cultures and visit different cities around the world,” he says.
His message to young people is simple: take the first step.
“I encourage young people to consider maritime training. If you have the passion and determination, get the right training and pursue your dream. I started with a dream, came to BMA for training, and today I am working aboard a world-class cruise ship. Maritime training can open doors to opportunities around the world,” he says.
From watching cruise ships on his screen to working aboard one, Abdihafidh’s journey demonstrates how training, determination, and passion can turn a dream into a reality.