Work and Leisure Time

A work period could last up to several months.A work period on the MT Oksøy began in the spring and continued throughout the summer and up until the autumn. In winter, the vessel was usually laid up in Volda, Sunnmøre.

As a rule, crew members worked for the entire period, meaning they might be at work for several months at a time. They were given one week’s holiday during the work period, a much welcomed respite. Being away from their families for so long could be difficult for the crew.

In 1978, a work new rotation system was introduced and henceforth crew members worked four week shifts followed by four weeks off.

The crew on a leisure trip with the work boat in the Kragerø skerries in 1980. The island Jomfruland in the background.

There were not many organised leisure activities on board. When off duty it was possible to borrow the workboat and go fishing or on minor excursions. The crew also borrowed book crates from the Lighthouse Service. What was known as “The Welfare Service” was actually called the National Merchant Navy Welfare Service, an organisation which was present at ports all around the world.

“The Welfare Service” organised sports meetings at various venues, including Oslo. Whenever possible the crew of the Oksøy would take part in these meetings. Football and athletics were particularly popular on board. The MT Oksøy had a young crew who were interested in sports, and several of them were active footballers at home.