At Beilun Port in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, international seafarers shared their stories of life at sea with reporters from the Beilun Media Center. Their voyages have taken them across continents, weaving tales of adventure and resilience.

Michael, a Filipino crew member on the OOCL Genoa container ship, embraced the seafaring life after trying various land-based jobs. He highlighted the financial stability that comes with being a seafarer, crucial for supporting his family. The allure of travel and exploration further solidified his decision.

Over the years, he has set foot in the United States, Europe, Southeast Asia, and China, experiencing diverse landscapes and cultures. In his downtime onboard, he finds peace watching the ebb and flow of the tides from the deck.

"The vast ocean I once dreamt of is now my daily reality," he reflected, expressing a tinge of regret about the limited time in ports hindering deeper cultural exploration.

On the MSC Topaz ship, Croatian captain Grgin Nerio has spent years adjusting to the challenges of long voyages and solitude. While most days at sea are serene, sudden severe weather tests the crew's endurance amidst the roar of machinery and unsecured items.

Frequent time zone shifts often disrupt his sleep cycle, but for him, the hardest part of being at sea is the quiet nights when thoughts of family and friends weigh heavy. Staying connected through daily messages and cherished photos helps ease the isolation.

"Every day, I message my family so they can still feel my presence despite the distance." His phone is filled with photos of cherished moments with loved ones. "Looking at these pictures makes me feel as if they are right here with me."

To brighten life on board, he keeps small gifts and treats such as chocolates and ice cream to share with visitors.

"Seeing the surprise on their faces and exchanging stories makes me genuinely happy." Likewise, he treasures souvenirs received from guests, believing they carry heartfelt blessings and memories to cherish.

Decorated with red lanterns, Chinese knots, and Spring Festival couplets, the CMA CGM Jacques Saade exuded a festive atmosphere, fostering warmth among the international crew.

French seafarer Puthier was particularly captivated by the traditions, crafting a lantern with unsteady hands but unwavering enthusiasm. He described celebrating Chinese New Year onboard as a rare and unforgettable experience. Despite the monotony of sea life, mutual understanding and cultural exchanges among the crew create a sense of harmony that transcends borders.