Who Is Bill W on Cruise Ships?

By Alice Nichols

Bill W on Cruise Ships

If you’ve ever been on a cruise ship, you may have heard the name “Bill W” mentioned in passing. But who is Bill W, and what does he have to do with cruises?

Who Is Bill W?

Bill W is the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), an organization that helps people recover from alcohol addiction. He was born in 1895 and struggled with alcoholism for many years before getting sober in 1935.

After getting sober, Bill W wanted to help others struggling with addiction. He co-founded AA with Dr. Bob Smith in 1935, and the organization has since helped millions of people around the world.

Why Is Bill W Mentioned on Cruise Ships?

Many cruise lines offer AA meetings for passengers who are in recovery or who want to attend meetings while on vacation. These meetings are often led by members of the ship’s crew who are also in recovery.

When discussing these meetings, it’s common to refer to them as “Bill W meetings” or “AA meetings,” since Bill W was one of the founders of the organization.

Some cruise lines also offer Al-Anon meetings for family members and friends of those struggling with addiction. These meetings are based on the principles of AA but are tailored specifically for those affected by someone else’s addiction.

  • What Happens at a Bill W Meeting on a Cruise Ship?

At a Bill W meeting on a cruise ship, attendees will typically gather in a designated location at a set time each day. Meetings are usually open to anyone who wants to attend, regardless of whether they’re an AA member or not.

During the meeting, attendees will often share their experiences with addiction and recovery. Meetings usually follow a set format that includes readings from AA literature, personal stories from attendees, and time for reflection and discussion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in recovery or simply interested in attending an AA meeting while on a cruise, it’s worth checking with your cruise line to see if they offer meetings on board. Attending a meeting can be a great way to connect with others in recovery and stay on track with your sobriety goals while on vacation.

No matter where you are in your recovery journey, remember that help is available. Whether you attend a meeting on a cruise ship or find support closer to home, reaching out for help is the first step towards a happier, healthier life.