Sailing: Taking a job on a whim left me stranded at sea for 188 days

What would you do if you were stuck on a ship, far from loved ones, and you had no idea how - or when - you’d get home?

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It is New Year's Eve 2019 and Giulia Baccosi is at a party with friends when her phone pings.

The 31-year-old has recently accepted a new job in Sicily, but isn't sure she's made the right call.

"My heart was telling me maybe I should reconsider," Giulia says. "I look up at the sky and ask the universe for a sign - to let me know if I am on the right path."

The message that flashes up on Giulia's phone is from a friend. It says a cargo ship carrying rum and olive oil from Europe to Central America is about to set sail - and it needs a cook.