FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious to know more about the daily life onboard?

Our FAQ below will help you understand how is to live onboard those beautiful cruise ships traveling around the world!

What are some of the benefits of working on a cruise ship?

One of the main advantages of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to travel to different destinations. Although the work shifts are long, you can still visit various ports of call and experience different cultures, landscapes, and attractions.

Cruise ships employ crew members from all over the world, providing a uniquely multicultural environment. You'll have the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, learn about different cultures, and make friends from various countries.

Cruise ships operate year-round, providing stable employment opportunities. Contracts typically last for several months, offering job security and consistent income during the duration of your contract. Contract length varies depending on position and company. On average a crew works 6 months and has 2 months off.

Working on a cruise ship can be financially rewarding. Most positions offer competitive wages, and since accommodation and meals are provided, your expenses can be significantly reduced. This allows you to save a substantial portion of your income. Another advantage is the lack f commute, your workplace is just a few steps away from your crew cabin.

Cruise ship employment can provide valuable opportunities for professional growth. You can acquire new skills and knowledge in various areas, such as hospitality, customer service, entertainment, or maritime operations, depending on your position. These experiences can enhance your resume and open doors for future career prospects.

Working on a cruise ship exposes you to a wide network of professionals in the industry. You can establish valuable connections with fellow crew members, supervisors, and industry insiders, which can be beneficial for your future career advancement.

Living and working on a cruise ship offers a distinctive lifestyle. Depending on your position and the ship you are working on, you'll have access to various onboard amenities, such as gyms, swimming pools, entertainment venues, and dining options. Additionally, some cruise lines provide crew members with recreational activities and crew-only areas, allowing you to relax and unwind during your time off.

Cruise lines often provide training programs to enhance the skills of their employees. These programs can include language courses, leadership training, safety certifications, and career development workshops, which can contribute to your personal and professional growth.

What are the typical working hours for employees on a cruise ship?

Cruise ship crew members typically work long hours, often ranging from 8 to 12 hours per day. The duration of the shift can vary depending on the position and operational requirements. Some positions, particularly those involved in guest services or entertainment, may have irregular schedules that include evening or nighttime shifts. Most positions do not have days off, so choose wisely which position suits your goals and expectations. We are here to help you clarify your questions.

What are some of the challenges of working on a cruise ship?

Some of the challenges of working on a cruise ship include being away from family and friends for long periods of time, adapting to different cultures and work environments, working long hours with limited time off, and dealing with potential seasickness.

Which kind of jobs are available aboard?
Cruise ships have a wide range of positions and job role opportunities that ensure smooth operations and provide a memorable experience for guests. Here are some common departments and positions you may find on a cruise ship.

MARINE

The Marine Department is typically headed by the Captain, who is responsible for the overall operation and safety of the ship. The Captain is typically also responsible for the Deck, Electrical, Engine, Security, Human Resources, and Administrative departments. The positions in the Marine Department on a cruise ship can vary slightly depending on the size and type of the vessel, but some of the most common positions include:

Captain: The highest-ranking officer on the ship, responsible for the overall operation and safety of the vessel.

Staff Captain: The second-in-command of the ship, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Marine Department and ensuring that the ship is in compliance with all relevant regulations and safety standards.

Safety Officer: Responsible for overseeing all safety-related activities on the ship, including training, drills, and inspections.

Chief Engineer: Responsible for the operation and maintenance of the ship's engines, generators, and other mechanical systems.

Deck Officers: Officers who assist the captain in navigating the ship, maintaining safety protocols, and overseeing deck operations.

Electrical Officer: Responsible for the operation and maintenance of the ship's electrical systems, including power generation and distribution.

Environmental Officer: Responsible for managing the ship's waste and environmental protection measures, ensuring that the ship is in compliance with all relevant environmental regulations.

Human Resources Manager: The head of the HR department, responsible for managing the entire HR function, including recruitment, training, employee relations, and payroll.

Training Officer: Responsible for designing and implementing crew training programs, ensuring that all crew members receive the necessary training to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

Crew Administrator: Responsible for maintaining accurate crew records, including contracts, payroll, and benefits.

Crew Welfare Officer: Responsible for ensuring the well-being of the crew, including managing crew accommodations, organizing crew activities, and providing support for any crew members who may be experiencing personal or professional difficulties.

Medical Staff: Includes various roles such as the ship's doctor and nurse, who are responsible for providing medical care to crew members and passengers.

HOTEL

The Hotel Department on a cruise ship is responsible for managing all aspects of the guest experience, from onboard accommodations and dining to entertainment and activities. The department is typically headed by the Hotel Director, who oversees a team of department heads and staff, each with specific responsibilities. Some of the key areas of responsibility for the Hotel Department on a cruise ship include:

Food and Beverage: Responsible for managing all dining options on the ship, including the main dining room, specialty restaurants, bars, and room service.
Housekeeping: Responsible for cleaning and maintaining all guest cabins and public areas of the ship, including laundry services and cabin steward services.
Entertainment: Responsible for planning and executing onboard activities and entertainment options, including shows, concerts, games, kids and youth programs, and other events.
Guest Services: Responsible for providing information and assistance to passengers, including check-in and check-out procedures, excursion bookings, and general inquiries.
Spa and Fitness: Responsible for managing the ship's spa and fitness facilities, including offering a range of treatments and classes to passengers.
Retail: Responsible for managing onboard shopping options, including duty-free shops and gift shops.

Some of the positions in the Hotel Department of a cruise ship can include:

Hotel Manager or Hotel Director: Oversees all aspects of guest services and accommodations, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers.

Cruise Director: Responsible for organizing and coordinating onboard entertainment, activities, and events for passengers.

Assistant Cruise Director: Assists the Cruise Director in managing and coordinating onboard entertainment activities.

Guest Relations Manager: The head of the Guest Services Department, responsible for the Front Desk and Concierge. The GRM primary responsibility is to ensure guest satisfaction and address any concerns or issues that guests may have during their cruise.

Front Desk Representative: Responsible for handling guest inquiries and requests, such as room service orders, excursion bookings, and general information.

Concierge: Responsible for assisting guests with special requests, such as arranging for private tours or making restaurant reservations.

Shore Excursion Manager: Responsible for managing the ship's shore excursion program, including coordinating with local vendors and ensuring that all excursions are safe and enjoyable for guests.

Shore Excursion Staff: Assists passengers with booking and organizing shore excursions and provides information about destinations.

Port and Shopping Guide: Responsible for providing information to guests about the ship's ports of call, including recommended activities, local attractions, and shopping options.

Loyalty Ambassador: Responsible for managing the loyalty program for repeat passengers, including providing special perks and benefits.

Cruise Sales Manager: Responsible for promoting and selling future cruise packages to potential passengers, as well as managing relationships with travel agents and other business partners.

Revenue Manager: Responsible for maximizing the ship's revenue by optimizing pricing and inventory strategies across all areas of the ship, including cabins, dining, shore excursions, cruise sales, bars, entertainment, gift shops, casino, art gallery, etc.

Entertainment Staff: Performers, dancers, singers, and other individuals responsible for providing entertainment to passengers.

Guest Services/Reception: Staff members who handle guest inquiries, provide assistance, and manage passenger needs at the front desk.

Food and Beverage Staff: Including chefs, cooks, waitstaff, bartenders, and sommeliers who work in restaurants, bars, and other dining venues onboard.

Spa and Fitness Staff: Including massage therapists, fitness instructors, and beauticians who provide spa treatments and fitness activities.

Photography Staff: Responsible for capturing and selling photographs of passengers during various events and activities.

IT/Technical Support: Maintain and troubleshoot the ship's computer systems, communication networks, and technical equipment.

Production Manager: Responsible for overseeing the production of onboard shows and performances, including hiring and managing performers, scheduling rehearsals, and coordinating technical aspects of the shows.

Stage Manager: Responsible for coordinating all technical aspects of onboard shows and performances, including lighting, sound, and stage setup.

Performers: A wide range of performers are typically employed in the Entertainment Department, including singers, dancers, musicians, comedians, magicians, and other specialty acts.

Kids and Youth Staff: Responsible for providing entertainment and activities for children and teenagers onboard the ship.

Casino Staff: Responsible for operating the ship's casino, including managing table games and slot machines and providing customer service to casino guests.

Activity Staff: Responsible for coordinating a wide range of onboard activities and games, including trivia contests, scavenger hunts, and other interactive events.

Gift Shop Sales Associate: These individuals work in onboard gift shops, assisting passengers with purchases of souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and other merchandise.

Art Auctioneer/Art Sales Associate: Many cruise ships have art galleries or hold art auctions on board. Art auctioneers or sales associates guide passengers through the collection, provide information about the artwork, and facilitate sales.

Photographer: Photographers on cruise ships capture passengers' special moments during various events and activities on board. They take portraits, group photos, and sell photo packages to passengers.

Executive Chef: The head of the ship's culinary team, responsible for overseeing the preparation and presentation of all food on board.

Cooks: A wide range of cooks are typically employed in the Food and Beverage Department, including grill cooks, sauté cooks, pastry cooks, and other specialty cooks.

Waiters/Waitresses: Responsible for serving food and beverages to passengers in the ship's restaurants and other dining venues.

Bartenders Responsible for operating the ship's bars and serving passengers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Sommeliers Responsible for managing the ship's wine collection and assisting passengers in selecting and pairing wines with their meals.

Buffet Attendant: Responsible for managing the ship's buffets and ensuring that they are properly stocked and maintained throughout the day.

Room Service Attendant: Responsible for delivering food and beverages to passengers in their cabins.

Executive Housekeeper: The head of the Housekeeping Department, responsible for managing and coordinating all housekeeping activities on board.

Housekeeping/Stateroom Stewards: Responsible for maintaining cleanliness and tidiness of passenger cabins and public areas, including cabins, public areas, or laundry facilities.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the benefits of working on a cruise ship?

What are the typical working hours for employees on a cruise ship?

What are some of the challenges of working on a cruise ship?

Which kind of jobs are available aboard? Cruise ships have a wide range of positions and job role opportunities that ensure smooth operations and provide a memorable experience for guests. Here are some common departments and positions you may find on a cruise ship.

Which kind of jobs are available aboard?
Cruise ships have a wide range of positions and job role opportunities that ensure smooth operations and provide a memorable experience for guests. Here are some common departments and positions you may find on a cruise ship.