Ep 18. Crew's Cruise

In season 3 episode 18 of Dirty Jobs, titled Crew's Cruise, host Mike Rowe takes the viewers on a unique journey on the Mississippi River. Mike boards a riverboat called the American Queen, which offers luxury cruises to passengers while also providing employment to a 200-strong crew that ensures everything runs smoothly.

The episode kicks off with Mike getting a tour of the American Queen from Captain Brent Houston. The riverboat is a stunning sight to behold, with its five decks, ornate furnishings, and beautiful décor. The crew's responsibilities are extensive, ranging from serving drinks and meals to cleaning cabins and maintaining the engine room.

Mike then meets with Stewart Noland, the American Queen's executive chef. Noland shows Mike the inner workings of the ship's galley, where all the meals are prepared fresh for the passengers each day. It's no easy task keeping up with the demands of a large crowd, but Chef Noland and his team are up to the task.

The episode takes a turn when Mike gets his hands dirty on the riverboat. He works with the maintenance crew, who keep the ship in tip-top shape by performing routine tasks such as painting, cleaning, and repairing. Mike is impressed by their efficiency and dedication, as they explain to him the hard work and physical exertion required to keep the ship running smoothly.

Mike then meets Megan, a member of the American Queen's housekeeping staff. Megan shows Mike how her team prepares and cleans the cabins after each passenger has disembarked. Mike notes that the housekeeping crew has to work quickly, efficiently, and meticulously to ensure that the cabins are ready for the next set of passengers.

Towards the end of the episode, Mike takes on the role of a waiter, serving drinks and meals to the passengers. He learns the art of carrying trays and serving plates with balance, grace, and speed. Mike is astonished by the precision and skill required to be a successful server while navigating through a moving vessel filled with dozens of diners.

The episode concludes with Mike bidding farewell to the American Queen and its hardworking crew. Crew's Cruise provides viewers with an inside look at how a luxury riverboat operates and the incredible effort that goes into making sure everything runs according to plan.

Overall, Dirty Jobs season 3 episode 18 delivers an eye-opening and informative experience for its viewers. The show takes us on a journey downriver and highlights the dedication, hard work, and sheer will of the American Queen's crew. The episode also reinforces an important lesson that every job, no matter how glamorous or unglamorous, is essential and deserves recognition and respect.