Jobs at Sea & How to Handle Being Apart on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic dinners, shared moments, and thoughtful gestures, but for couples who are separated by distance, such as when one of you works in a job at sea, it can feel like a bittersweet reminder of the miles between you. 

Whether you’re apart because of your maritime job, other work commitments, travel, or other responsibilities, being away from your partner on this special day doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate your love and connection. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity to strengthen your bond. 

But if the thought of spending February 14th thousands of miles away from your partner still fills you with gloom, here are some tips to help you handle being apart on Valentine’s Day.

Tips for maritime job workers for coping with Valentine’s Day 

When you’re working in a seafarer job, the day of romance is going to be pretty much like any other. Whether you’re in the engine room, out on deck, on the bridge or even in the galley, you’re going to be experiencing the usual ups and downs of your life at sea.

However, both you and your loved one on land might be feeling the separation that jobs at sea entail a little more keenly, so here are some ways to help you get through the next 24 hours!

1. Reframe the day

It’s natural to feel a little down when you can’t be with your partner, but a change in perspective can make a big difference. Instead of focusing on the physical distance, think of Valentine’s Day as a chance to show your love in a unique way. After all, love isn’t about being in the same place at the same time; it’s about connection, effort, and thoughtfulness.

Providing that you have a stable internet connection onboard your vessel, technology can bridge the gap between you and your partner, allowing you to create shared moments even from afar. 

Set aside time for a virtual date to celebrate together, such as watching a movie or favorite show together, playing an online game that you both enjoy, or just saying “I love you” via facetime or Facebook messenger.

If you want to get creative, before you leave home for your next maritime job, you could also arrange for something unexpected, like booking a local food delivery service to bring them their favorite meal, a florist to deliver them a bouquet of flowers, or planning a small surprise with the help of their friends or family.

Read more: How to Cope When Your Partner Works Away From Home

3. Share your love through words

When you can’t be there physically, words can have an even greater impact. Take the time to write a heartfelt letter or poem that expresses your love and appreciation for your partner, and leave it with instructions to only open on the 14th of February.

Share specific details about what you love about them, what you’re looking forward to when you’re reunited when your current maritime job contract is finished, and how they’ve made a difference in your life.

Even a simple text that says, “I’m thinking of you today and always” can brighten their day and remind them of your connection.

4. Create a countdown

If you already have a reunion planned, create a countdown to the day you’ll see each other again. Share it with your partner and use it as a reminder that your time apart is temporary - albeit until your next job at sea. You can even plan small surprises for each day leading up to your reunion, like sending short emails, photos, or messages to build excitement.

If you don’t yet have a date set for when you’ll reunite, use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to plan one. Having something to look forward to can make the distance feel more manageable.

5. Focus on gratitude

When you work at sea, being apart can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the strengths of your relationship. Take time to think about what you’re grateful for in your partner and your connection.

You can even share your gratitude with them by listing the things you appreciate most about them. This simple act can remind both of you of the love and support you share, even from a distance.

6. Do something symbolic

Find a meaningful way to celebrate your relationship, even if you’re apart. For example:

• Get out on deck and look at the moon or stars while they do so at home and think of each other while doing so.
• Listen to a playlist of songs that remind you of your relationship.
• Start a shared journal where you each write your thoughts and feelings when you’re apart, then exchange it when you meet again.

These symbolic gestures can make you feel closer, even across the miles.

7. Celebrate self-love

If you’re spending Valentine’s Day alone, whether you’re working in a job at sea or you’re the partner ashore, take the opportunity to focus on self-care and self-love. Treat yourself to something that makes you happy, whether it’s a relaxing shower, a yoga or gym session, or a good book. 

Remember that taking care of yourself is also a way to show love and respect for your relationship - the stronger and happier you are, the more you can give to your partner.

8. Stay positive

It’s natural to feel a sense of longing on Valentine’s Day, but try to stay positive. Remind yourself that being apart doesn’t diminish the love you share.

Instead, think of it as a test of your resilience and commitment. Focus on the ways your relationship has grown stronger because of the challenges you’ve faced together.

Read more:How to Cope with Working Away from Home in a Job at Sea

9. Plan ahead for next year

While it might be tricky to know whether you’re going to be working at sea this time next year, if being apart this year feels especially hard and you know you’ll be ashore, use it as motivation to plan something special for next Valentine’s Day. 

Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a fancy dinner, or simply a cozy night in together, having a plan for the future can make the distance feel more temporary.

Why is Valentine’s Day important to many couples?

Valentine's Day is special for many people as it celebrates love, affection, and connection. It’s an opportunity to express gratitude and devotion to romantic partners, friends, or family. For couples, it’s a chance to reignite romance with meaningful gestures, from heartfelt notes to thoughtful gifts. 

For others, it’s a day to cherish self-love or platonic relationships. Rooted in history and tradition, the day serves as a reminder to pause amidst life’s busyness and prioritize the relationships that matter most. Whether through grand gestures or simple acts of kindness, Valentine’s Day fosters joy, warmth, and a sense of being loved. 

And that can be a little bit trickier when one of you works in a maritime job that takes you away from home.

Staying mentally strong when you work in a job at sea

Staying mentally positive while working away from your partner requires effort and intention. First, remind yourself why you’re working in a seafarer job and how it benefits both of you - whether it’s to build a better future or to achieve personal goals. Keep your mind focused on the big picture rather than temporary feelings of loneliness. 

When you can, communicate with your partner to share feelings, updates, and support, which can make the distance feel less overwhelming. Engage in activities that boost your mood, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with your fellow crewmates, to maintain a sense of fulfillment and happiness. 

Lastly, celebrate the little wins and milestones in your relationship, knowing that your efforts while working in a job at sea are helping to strengthen your bond.

Final thoughts for those working in seafarer jobs

When one of you works in a maritime job at sea, there are going to be times when you’re away on holidays or special occasions and if you’re in a committed relationship, being apart on Valentine’s Day is never easy. However, with a little effort and creativity, you can still make the day meaningful. 

By focusing on connection, communication, and thoughtful gestures, you can celebrate your love in a way that transcends physical distance. Remember that love isn’t defined by geography - it’s built on the foundation of trust, care, and shared moments, no matter where you are in the world. 

Whether you’re sending a heartfelt letter, planning a virtual date, or simply sharing kind words, the most important thing is letting your partner know they’re in your heart, today and every day both when you’re working at sea and back on land.