Living on an oil rig is a whole different world. I worked on the Elly Platform, stationed off the coast of Angola for about six months. At first, it felt exciting, but it quickly turned into a unique routine.
Imagine waking up in a small cabin, surrounded by the endless ocean. You’d step out and see the crew bustling around—everyone had a job, and teamwork was everything. There were about 150 of us on board, all from different backgrounds, but we became a tight-knit family.
Days started early, usually around 6 AM. After breakfast, we’d head out for our shifts. The work was intense, often 12 hours a day, dealing with everything from drilling operations to maintenance. It could get monotonous, but there were always unexpected challenges—like equipment failures or weather changes that forced us to adapt quickly.
One of the wildest experiences was during a storm. We were in the middle of drilling when the waves started crashing against the platform. The whole rig shook like it was about to snap in half. We all huddled together, waiting it out, sharing stories and cracking jokes to keep our spirits up. And let me tell you about the food! The galley staff worked wonders, serving up hearty meals. You’d have everything from grilled steak to fresh seafood, which was a treat considering we were out in the middle of nowhere. It was the little things that kept us going.
Then there were the nights. After work, we’d gather in the recreation area to unwind—playing cards, watching movies, or just talking about life back home. Those moments created bonds that felt unbreakable. But there were tough times, too. Being away from family for weeks on end was hard. You miss birthdays, anniversaries, and just the everyday moments that matter. It takes a toll, and you learn to cherish every call or message from home.