The Ocean Family

 First time on a big ship, heart a little scared,

Thinking ’bout the officers, how life would be out here.

But the moment I stepped on Shelif, everything changed for me,

Found a home in this ocean, found the place I’m meant to be.

I came here knowing nothing, just a cadet with dreams,

But they held my hand and showed me how strong a family can be.

On MT Shelif, I found my family,

Waves may rise high, but they stand beside me.

From sunrise to anchor watch, every single day,

They make me feel safe, they show me the way.

This ship is not just steel, it’s a home across the sea…

MT Shelif… my ocean family.

Second officer guiding me, step by step each day,

Every valve, every line, he explains the proper way.

From zero to everything, he builds me like an officer,

I’ll always remember, sir, your lessons make my future brighter.

Chief officer treats me like a son,

Teaches me the job till the day is done.

Caring like a father, correcting me with love,

Blessed to have him with me, guidance from above.

Third officer feels like a déjà vu scene,

College senior, same place we have been.

Brother on board, making jokes at night,

Irritating me for fun, but everything feels right.

TME joined same day, same vibe, same flow,

Learning and laughing everywhere we go.

Junior engineer, cool like the 3/O too,

Feels like a brother, always helping, always true.

Bosun, AB, pumpy, OS — teaching me every line,

Thanks to them I learn the job, step by step in time.

GS Qudoos — a brother, always with a smile,

These moments with my crew, I’ll remember all the while

Captain so calm, gives me space to speak,

A leader who listens — strong and unique.

Chief Engineer, cool and handsome, quiet but kind,

On MT Shelif, I found my family,

Strangers turned brothers, standing next to me.

Ocean may roar loud, storms may come through,

But I’ll hold these memories, every moment, every crew.

This ship is not just steel, it’s a home across the sea…

MT Shelif… my ocean family.