So last week I grabbed my backpack for my Southeast Asia trip and realized I still had that nagging question about Mariners Purse Policy. Ain’t gonna lie – the whole thing sounded like some dusty old sailor rulebook. Had to figure this out before hopping between islands. Here’s exactly how it went down.
The Darn Confusion Starts
First thing I did was what anybody would do – googled it late at night. Big mistake. Half the sites talked about cargo ships, others mentioned cruise lines, all using fancy insurance words that made my eyes glaze over. Almost threw my laptop when one page demanded my credit card just to read the info. Felt like chasing seagulls for breadcrumbs.
My Breakthrough Moment
Called up my buddy who works docks in Singapore. He laughed his head off when I asked. “Mate,” he says between chuckles, “it’s simpler than tying a bowline knot.” Basically:
- It’s NOT travel insurance – more like a safety net if you get stuck mid-journey
- Covers essentials like a bunk and beans if your ship sails off without you
- You gotta sign up BEFORE boarding that boat
He sent me this crumpled pamphlet photo from his port’s notice board. Had cartoon sailors and everything.
Actually Using The Thing
Fast forward to Bali. That sketchy ferry to Lombok got delayed for three days because of some engine trouble. While other tourists were panicking about hotel costs, I dug out the policy number from my email. Here’s exactly what happened:
- Walked to the grumpy port guard shack waving my phone
- Showed my digital policy certificate (saved offline, thank God)
- Got handed a key to shared crew quarters behind the docks
- Ate basic rice bowls at the mess hall thrice daily
- Zero fancy, but kept me fed and dry
The ceiling leaked above my bunk and it smelled like fish, but darn it, saved me $200.
What I Learned The Hard Way
Policy ain’t magic – I had to pester the shipping office daily until they assigned me that bunk. Almost missed a connection because nobody explained how to claim bus tickets. Pro tips I wish someone yelled at me:
- Screenshot EVERYTHING – marine wifi is a cruel joke
- Know which ports have Mariners Purse offices (not all do!)
- Pack earplugs – those shared dorms echo like crazy
Left Bali with salt in my hair and relief in my wallet. Still found better coffee shack though.
