What if Cruise Ships Ran on SAP S/4HANA?

For my co-workers – that not all speak German

Imagine stepping onto a luxury cruise ship… but it’s fully powered by SAP S/4HANA. A seamless voyage, right? Well, unless you’re ready for some authorization icebergs and SAP surprises.

🚢 Captain’s Access Denied
The captain tries to steer, but SAP responds: „You are not authorized to access Navigation Cockpit (Fiori App 403).“
The ship drifts in circles until a ticket is raised with the Basis team. SLA: 72 business hours.

🍽 Buffet Chaos
The chef attempts to restock the all-you-can-eat buffet but gets „Missing MM-PUR-GR-ALL authorization.“
The SAP consultant suggests a workaround: “Just eat what’s already in stock.”
No more lobster, just expired crackers and water.

🛌 Cabin Assignments Gone Wrong
Guest Services tries to check passengers into their cabins but accidentally runs „Mass Change: Assign Guest to Deck 0.“
Now everyone is officially registered in the engine room. IT is investigating.

⚓ Disembarkation Nightmare
Due to strict SoD (Segregation of Duties) rules, passengers can book shore excursions but need separate approval to actually leave the ship.
By the time access is granted, the ship is already on its way to the next port.

🚨 The Ultimate Error: „You Do Not Have Display Rights to the Ocean“
A passenger tries to admire the sea but gets: „Authorization missing for View_Scenery_001.“
They must submit a request via SAP GRC. Approval expected within the next five years.

🔄 System Upgrade During Peak Hours
Suddenly, mid-cruise, the ship’s SAP system starts an unexpected S/4HANA upgrade.
All services are down for maintenance, passengers are locked out of their rooms, and the navigation system reboots in Safe Mode.
The IT team assures everyone: „Please remain calm. Downtime was only planned for 3 minutes but will take 17 hours.“

📄 SAP License Surprise
The CFO receives an urgent email:
„SAP has detected unauthorized indirect access. Your company now owes €37 million in additional licensing fees.“
SAP Support suggests a Business One downgrade as a cost-saving alternative.

👀 Too Many Roles, Yet No Access
The SAP security admin:
„I gave you 37 roles, 215 authorizations, and full SAP_ALL, yet somehow… you still can’t print a boarding pass?“

Would you dare sail on this SAP-powered cruise or swim for your life? 🏊😂