cruise ship jobs 18 years old

Can You Work on a Cruise Ship at 18?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re an 18 year old looking for an exciting and unique summer job, working on a cruise ship might be just what you’re looking for. Cruise ships offer seasonal jobs to individuals of all ages, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the world while making money. But, can you work on a cruise ship at 18?

The short answer is yes, but there may be certain restrictions. Most cruise lines will hire individuals who are 18 or older, but the type of job available will vary depending on the individual’s experience and qualifications.

Many entry-level jobs, such as food service or housekeeping staff, will hire 18 year olds with little to no experience in the field. These positions typically require long hours and hard work, but they do offer a great opportunity to travel around the world.

However, if you’re looking for higher-paying positions such as bartending or entertainment staff roles, you may need to be at least 21 years old in order to qualify. Cruise ship jobs can also require certifications such as bartending licenses or lifeguard training that you may not have at 18.

If you’re under 21 and still want to work on a cruise ship, there are still plenty of options available. Many companies will hire younger people for entry-level positions such as retail sales or hospitality staff. These jobs typically involve interacting with passengers and assisting them with their needs while onboard. If you have any customer service experience it may help your chances of getting hired.

Overall, it is possible to work on a cruise ship at 18 , but there are certain restrictions and qualifications that must be met before being hired. If you’re looking for an exciting opportunity to explore the world while making money this summer, consider applying for a position onboard a cruise ship.

Conclusion:

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Age and Other Requirements

What you need to know..

When applying for a cruise ship job, cruise employers consider the age, English skills, and background of the applicant. Although age can be an arbitrary number, having a past background with the law can prevent an applicant from getting hired.

Minimum Age to Work on Cruise Ships

Although the most cruise lines and agencies will tell their applicants that the minimum age to work on board ships is 21, there are crew members that have been able to get hired at the age of 18, 19, and 20. For the most part it depends on which department that you will work for. But, for positions within the food and beverage department and within the casino department, the minimum age is definitely 21. This is mainly due to the minimum age to serve alcoholic drinks and to gamble. It has been know that cruise lines make exceptions for some applicants in select departments based on maturity. For example, the Princess Cruises employment website states that applicants that apply to be production cast members (dancers/singers): “…We do sometimes accept 18 year olds if they show maturity and responsibility.”

Maximum Age for Cruise Employment

Good news for the young at heart, there is no maximum age to work on cruise ships. Unfortunately, the truth is that there are some jobs on board for which applicants over the age of 35 would not be considered. The main concern for the employer is that the job-seeker is fit, both physically and medically. The other concern is would the applicant fit into a team of mostly younger crew members. Applicants need to consider that the days can be long (11+ hours) and there are no days off. Some jobs you are on your feet all day. On the other hand, there are some cruise jobs that are actually better suited to a mature crew member. Additionally age can mean experience for some positions. Cruise ship jobs suited to mature candidates include Future Cruise Manager, Youth Staff, Port and Shopping Guide, Event Planner and Guest Entertainer.

English and Other Languages as a Cruise Employment Requirement

All major cruise lines require that applicants can both speak and understand English fluently. English is the language spoken on board by crew and most passengers. Safety training and drills are conducted in English. Furthermore, employees are encouraged to speak English whenever there are other passengers present. Your level of English comprehension will be evident by the way you have written your resume and cover letter. It will also present itself in how well you converse during an interview. Depending on the job you are hired to do will also determine how well your English language skills need to be. Positions that deal directly with passengers such as entertainers, guest service, stewards and youth staff need above average English skills. Crew that can speak and understand additional languages may be a requisite of some cruise lines or some positions on board. For example, some river cruise lines expect their crew to be fluent in both English and German. Most of the major cruise lines expect that their guest service staff members are fluent in one additional language to English.

Police Clearance for Cruise Ship Jobs

Many cruise employers expect the applicant to produce a police clearance that proves that they don’t have a criminal record. This clearance is an official document that is issued by the police or government agency of the country that the applicant resides. The cruise employer wants to confirm that the applicant has had no previous arrests, convictions or criminal proceedings. Even a DUI could prevent an applicant from getting hired. Other names of this clearance may be called police certificate, criminal history check, good citizen certificate and judicial record extracts. Applicants provide personal information and may also have to submit fingerprints in order to request this criminal record check. In many cases there is a fee involved which must be covered by the applicant. A job-seeker may have all the right skills and experience, but if they don’t meet some of the basic cruise employment requirements, they may not get hired. Candidates with poor English skills need to improve their fluency in order to have a better chance at landing their dream job. Yet, regardless of age or background, if you have the maturity and can sell yourself, you just may get hired.

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Royal Caribbean Productions

Broadway shows. world-class performers., positions available, can you see the world from your window we can..

We are always looking for talented performers to entertain our guests. See below for more information about the positions that are currently available and how to apply. Please note that you must be 18 years of age or older to be hired.

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All About Working on Cruise Ships!

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• Post author: Xuxu
• Post category: Cruise Ship Jobs / Positions

The position of a Youth Counselor (also called Youth Staff) is one of the most fun jobs on a cruise ship. You get to play all day with kids, and have a “boatload” of fun while getting paid to do it.  If you have worked at a summer camp, it can feel similar to the way the activities are run. There’s a list of scheduled activities that you will have to learn when you get onboard and they are always coming up with new ones. The job of a youth counselor is to provide a safe yet fun environment for every kid that comes to the kid’s club. As such, you should be an upbeat kind of person that enjoys working with kids, a person that can get along easily with other people.  Patience is a must for this job. You will be tested on your patience skills, trust me.

Table of Contents

What do I Need in Order to Get a Job as a Youth Counselor?

In order to apply and get a position as a youth counselor, you need to have some experience working with kids, preferably between the ages of 3 to 17. Some cruise lines have programs for kids starting at 6 months, so if you have experience working with babies, you could also apply for their nursery positions. Some companies will have different positions within the youth program department. Normally these are the positions you can apply for:

Non-management Positions

• Youth Counselor
• Teen Counselor
• Nursery Coordinator

Management Positions

• Youth Program Manager
• Assistant Youth Program Manager
• Nursery Manager

The position of the nursery coordinator and assistant manager will vary from ship to ship. Normally the assistant position will be available only on larger ships where the number of youth staff is bigger. The nursery coordinator will depend if the ship you work on has nursery facilities.

What are the Qualifications for the Job of Youth Counselor (Youth Staff)

Below you will find some qualifications that cruise lines will ask for the youth counselor position. Keep in mind that the job requirements below are broad and can vary from company to company:

Minimum 2 years of experience working with kids. Some examples of experiences:

•   Working in a Summer camp
•   Working at a YMCA
•   Experience as AuPair
•   After school programs
•   Teacher in school or Childcare center

Additional Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Able to work with children from ages 2 to 17 years old.
• Able to work with children with special needs.
• Able to work with kids under the age of 2 years. (For nursery coordinator).
• An outgoing individual, able to lead large groups of children.
• Customer service oriented ( you are going to have to deal with the parents as well ).
• Able to obtain and submit a valid CPR/First Aid certificate.
• Pass a criminal background check.

Cruise Lines will hire both male and female youth counselors. You have to be at least 18 years old to apply.

Besides the above job requirements, you will be required to complete and obtain the STCW certificate (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) either before or during your first weeks onboard the ship. Most cruise lines will provide this training to you onboard while some will require that you obtain this certificate before joining. In either case, it’s mandatory to have it and without it, you cannot work onboard.  The STCW certificate is valid for five years.

To learn more about the STCW training and the requirements to work on a cruise ship, visit this post What are the Requirements to Work on a Cruise Ship? (Step by Step)

What Exactly Does a Youth Counselor Do?

Working as a youth counselor on a cruise ship might seeing like just fun and games, hanging out with the kids, playing video games, and eating ice cream. Although all of the above is true in some aspects, there’s much more to the role of a youth counselor than just playing games.

You will be running activities for all the kids registered in the program, normally the majority of the kids will be between the ages of 3 -17 years. The kids are divided into age groups and each group has its designated space onboard.

See below some examples of age groups for NCL, Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean:

Norwegian Cruise Line

6 months to under 3 years.

Splash Academy

• Turtles: 3 – 5-year-olds
• Seals 6 – 9-year-olds
• Dolphins: 10-12 years old

13 – 17-year-olds

Carnival Cruise Line

Penguins: 2 – 5

Stingrays 6-8, sharks: 9-11, circle “c”: 12-14, club 02: 15-17, royal caribbean cruise line.

Aquanauts: 3-5

Voyagers: 9-11, navigators: 12-14, teens: 15 -17.

Disney Cruise Line

“It’s a small world” Nursery: 6mo-2

Disney’s oceaneer club and lab: 3-12, edge: 11-13, vibe: 14-17.

What Age Group Will I Work?

Once onboard, you normally won’t be assigned a specific age group unless you applied for a specific age group position, such as Teen Counselor or Nursery Coordinator.  Each age group will have a list of activities specifically designed for the age group you are in and you will learn those activities on the go. The training you will receive onboard is essentially an “on-the-job” kind of training. You might feel overwhelmed at the beginning, you won’t know everything so it’s very important to be flexible, and patient and take each day as it comes. If you are expecting proper training before you can start working you will be disappointed. They will put you on the floor and start you working right away. You will have to learn as you go, so be very flexible and use your past experience working with kids as it will be your most valuable asset at the beginning.

Another aspect of the job is assisting the kids with activities that will happen outside the kid’s club facilities. It’s common to take kids for lunch, dinner, and activities around the ship.  Activities such as parades, scavenger hunts, and games at the ship’s sports court are normal and expected. It’s very important that every time that, when you are outside the kid’s club, all the kids are accounted for, every time ! This is a very important aspect of your job. The worst thing it can happen is losing count of how many kids you are supposed to have and worts, losing a child during a scheduled activity. Make sure you do a roll call before and after any activity that takes place outside the kid’s club. You will be fired if you lose a child during your watch!

There will be activities included in the kid’s club schedule that will require you to take the kids for breakfast, lunch, dinner or maybe just for some ice cream. A very important aspect when taking kids for meals or snacks is to always check for allergies. The job of the youth counselor, for the most part, is a fun job but essentially you are there for the well-being of the kids, so make sure you don’t lose them or feed them food that will give them an allergy reaction.

Ah, The Parents

At times, one of the more difficult things about working as a youth staff is having to deal with the parents. The parents can be a little pushy sometimes when they expect something that it is not allowed by the company’s policies. A common example that happens on many cruise lines is that kids are assigned to an age group based on the child’s age during the sailing.  For example, if the kid is five years old they will be placed in a group that is between 3 to 5-year-old. Parents sometimes will want us to move the kids to a different age group which is strictly prohibited in some cruise lines. Parents may not be understanding and they will give you a hard time, but in the end, you have to stand your ground, be firm and polite. In most cases, you will not be able to accommodate according to the company’s policies, and the matter is out of your hands.

Sample Youth Counselor Activities on a Cruise Ship

• Princess Parade
• Pizza Making
• Scavenger hunts
• Talent show
• Dance Theme Parties
• Science Fair
• Movie Night
• Pijama Night
• Sports Court Activities
• Survivor Night

Kids Club Hours

Hours of operation for the kids club:

• 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m
• 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m
• 7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m

Arrival in Port until the kids club opens at 5 pm.

10:30 pm-1:30 am

• 10:00 am-1:00 pm
• 2:00 pm-5:00 pm
• 7:00 pm-10:00 pm

Arrival until approximately 2:00 pm. Scheduled activities resume at 2:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

Royal Caribbean

• 9 am to noon
• 2 pm to 5 pm
• 7 pm – 10 pm
• 9 am to 5 pm

Fee applies.

9 am-1 am everyday

How Much Money Does a Youth Counselor Make?

The salary of a youth counselor is a fixed monthly salary. It is not a tipped position but it’s not uncommon to receive tips from parents for a job well done. Youth Counselors also can make extra money from extra fees for some programs. Some cruise lines, when the ship is in port, will have an option for kids to have lunch on board to ship and will have to pay for that service. The same holds true for extra babysitting services after closing hours. Normally the kids club will close around 10:30 PM but for an extra fee per hour kids club will stay open for parents that want to drop off their kids and enjoy the cruise ship at night.

Approximated Monthly Salaries:

• Youth Counselor: $1200-1800
• Teen Counselor: $1200-$1800
• Assistant Manager: $1500-$2000
• Youth Program Manager: $ 2500-$3000

Cruise ship life is very exciting and visiting awesome locations around the world is just one of the many benefits of working on a cruise ship. If this is your first time going to work on a cruise ship, you might be wondering what you need to pack for a cruise ship contract. This post might just be what you are looking for.

How Much Time Off Do I Get?

You will have plenty of time to explore the ports of call while the ship is docked. Whenever to ship docks, most of the families will be off the ship. Although the kid’s club will stay open during port hours, the amount of staff needed to run operations will be less, thus giving the opportunity for some staff to go ashore and explore the ports of call. The scheduling is done on a rotation basis, so if you work today in a port, say Cozumel, you will probably not work that port again due to the rotation. Rotations will depend on the amount of staff and kids onboard. During high season expect to have more kids inboard, even when the ship is docked, requiring more staff to stay onboard.

On Sea days, when the ship is sailing all day, expect the kid’s club to be at its busiest. Normally the kids club will open at 9 am and will close at 10:30 pm, with a small break for lunch and dinner. During sea days you need to make sure you have all the energy you can get because the days will be long and will feel like forever. Staying up till late on the crew bar and having to work during sea day is not fun. Although I have done it many times, I can tell you that your days will feel much longer when you are sleep deprived.

Final Words

Working as a Youth Counselor on a cruise ship is not a stress-free job but you will have fun for the most part. As long as you keep an open mind, ship life as a youth counselor might just be the best job you can have onboard.

I hope that you enjoyed reading this article and that got you inspired to learn more about the position of youth counselor and even apply for the position yourself.

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CRUISE SHIP JOBS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Please, read carefully the following section before you e-mail us your inquires. You might be able to find the answers here.

Considering the fact that most of the major cruise lines are based in the United States, the information and requirements listed below apply to these companies.

- What are the minimum age requirements for shipboard employment?

- Can I apply for employment with a major cruise line in case I live outside the United States?

Yes, all the major cruise lines hire crew members from all over the world. Although these cruise lines are based in the United States, their ships are registered in Panama, Liberia, Marshall Islands or the Bahamas and the employment regulations are slightly different.

- What kind of official documentation is required in order to obtain employment with an U.S. based cruise line (i.e. passports, visas etc.)?

U.S. and Canadian citizens need just a passport, valid for at least three months after the end of the contract. All other nationalities need a C1-D U.S. Seaman's visa, which is easy to obtain (it takes about several business days) from any U.S. consulate abroad.

- Can couples work together on the same cruise ship?

Cruise lines will often give serious consideration to hiring pairs of people that are interested in working together at the same location because the companionship will often result in both employees staying longer with the company. Nevertheless, each cruise line reserves the right to send each crew memebr to a ship where he or she is needed the most at a specific time.

- What are the health requirements i.e. immunization, medical examination etc.?

Once offered a contract by a cruise line, all applicants must pass a medical examinations by designated by the particular cruise line physicians (cruise lines have their own list of physicians for every country). Applicants will be responsible for the cost of the examination (about 60-70 $US), some cruise lines might reimburse crew members for that cost after joining the vessel. Immunization generally is not required, sometimes it is offered onboard the vessel.

- What about healthcare and dental coverage while onboard a ship?

There is a full health coverage onboard the ship, U.S. citizens are covered ashore, as well (in the USA only). It is recommended to buy a travel medical insurance before joining a ship, which sails outside the U.S. ( as most of the ships do). Cruise lines do not provide dental coverage except in cases of extreme emergencies. They could provide assistance in finding a dentist ashore, but in most cases the crew member is responsible for the cost of treatment.

- Is the crew member responsible for transportation to and from the ship?

No, in case you are offered a contract by a cruise line, they will be responsible for the return air transportation between the nearest international airport to your home and the port of embarkation, wherever in the world that port will be. Since cruise lines are flying thousands of people every day (passengers and crew), they get tickets from the airlines at a very low price.

- What are the tax laws regarding income earned on a cruise ship?

U.S. citizens get taxes deducted directly from their pay checks, any other nationality crew members have their own responsibility to declare the income earned on a cruise ship.

- Do cruise lines provide benefits i.e. paid vacation, pension plan etc.?

No, cruise lines do not provide paid vacation or pension plans.

- Is the food and accommodation free for crew members onboard a cruise ship and what are the living arrangements for crew?

Yes, this is what makes a cruise ship career financially attractive and compensates for the lack of employment benefits (paid vacation etc.). Crew members almost do not have any expenses while onboard a vessel. Living arrangements vary by cruise line, but mostly by shipboard position. Senior officers enjoy single cabins, in general two employees share a cabin with a shower, WC and a TV set. The best accommodations are reserved for passengers, of coarse.

- Are there uniform requirements? If so, who provides the uniform?

Yes, there are uniforms required, provided by the cruise line with a very few exceptions (Guest Entertainers, Guest Musicians). There is a dress code for every evening onboard a cruise ship i.e. formal night, semi-formal night or casual night. Crew members, working in passenger areas of the vessel are expected to follow the dress code.

- Do crew members get to see the ports which the ship is visiting?

Yes, crew members are free to visit the ports of call when they are not on duty. Leisure time varies between shipboard positions (Guest Entertainers could perform once or a few times a week, other positions require six to eight hours work a day), after all applicants get paid by cruise lines to work on the ship.

- Are there any recreational areas on a cruise ship for crew members?

Yes, every modern cruise vessel is equipped with a crew fitness center, a crew recreation room (simply crew bar) and a crew deck with a swimming pool and jacuzzi. In general cruise lines are taking a very good care of the well being of the crew members, since it could affect the quality of work and passenger service.

- Are the employees allowed to purchase goods onboard cruise ships and do they get any discounts.

Yes, crew members enjoy duty free prices onboard a cruise ships, they also get up to 25% discount on goods purchased in the onboard boutique shops.

- What are the policies of cruise lines towards use of drugs and narcotics?

Zero tolerance , crew members get fired, disembarked and submitted to local authorities immediately with no exceptions, regardless of ship's location. There are also frequent drug tests performed onboard, any applicant thinking of drugs use while on a ship, should simply forget about cruise lines employment. There is no way around!!!

- What is the standard length of a contract on a cruise ship?

Most cruise lines offer minimum four to six months contracts, depending on the cruise line or/and position, contracts could be extended or employees could take time off and then go back for another contract.

- What are the regulations regarding premature termination of employment?

The contract with a cruise line will be automatically terminated at the date stated on the contract as an end date. It could be renewed by mutual agreement between employee (contractor) and the cruise line. In case the employee (contractor) wishes to terminate the contract earlier than the end date, the employee (contractor) will be responsible for the cost of transportation going back home. In case a crew member gets fired from the job, the cruise line will be responsible for the return transportation, but in this case the crew member can not return to the same cruise line for employment.

- What are the destinations for cruise ships and can employees choose a destination that they would like to work (Southeast Asia, Caribbean, etc.) or is that up to the cruise lines to decide?

Cruise lines offer destinations worldwide, but the biggest markets for the cruise industry are the Caribbean (all seasons), Alaska and Europe (in the summer). Most of the cruise lines do not offer a choice for first time employees, they hire wherever they have openings, after one or two contracts employees get some choice of ships and destinations.

- Are the crew members expected to perform some duties other than their work onboard?

Some cruise lines require all the crew members to participate in weekly safety drills (demonstrating safety equipment to passengers, life jackets etc.)

- After all, what are the plus and minus sides about working on a cruise ship in general?

Cruise Ships Employment is not suitable just for every person. There is a great amount of discipline and hard work required. Applicants should be "team players" and enjoy working with people, to be able to live and share relatively limited space with fellow crew members, to work away from home for a long period of time (a few months) and before everything else to be very much service orientated. There is nothing more important than quality of service onboard of a cruise ship. Passengers are always right, even when they are wrong.

On the other hand there are numerous advantages about working on cruise ships. Saving substantial amount of money for a short period of time, traveling around the world, meeting people from many different nationalities and cultures, developing professional skills and gaining working experience.

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Cruise Job Age Requirements

What is the minimum age to work onboard cruise ships? Is there a maximum age that cruise lines will not hire an applicant? Here are some answers.

Minimum Age to Work on Cruise Ships

In general, the minimum age to work on cruise ships is 21 years old. Although there are some exceptions, where the minimum age to work onboard is 18 years old.

The minimum age to work on cruise ships is actually higher than what is required by international law. According to the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 , the minimum age to work onboard ships is 16 years old, but the Convention states that employment of seafarers under the age of 18 shall be prohibited where the work is likely to jeopardize their health or safety. Also, consider that the age of majority in most countries is 18years old.

US-based cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions and American Cruise Lines have a minimum age to work onboard as 18 years old. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is a US-flagged ship and they also have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. Alternatively, Sea Chefs, a European crew management company, has a minimum age of employment of 18 years old.

Consider for all cruise lines, positions such as room steward, bartender, or jobs in the casino, individuals must be at least 21 years old.

There are a couple of other exceptions to the minimum age requirement of 21 years old to work on cruise ships that sail in international waters. Production show dancers and singers are hired at a minimum age of 18 years old. Also, cadets in the Deck and Technical Departments can start working onboard cruise ships in their cadetship as young as 18 years old.

Maximum Age for Cruise Employment

Although there isn’t a maximum age to work on cruise ships, the unfortunate truth is that cruise lines don’t hire many applicants over the age of 35 years old. That said, there are crewmembers over the age of 35. Many are in management positions after making cruise ship life a career.

Furthermore, there are some cruise jobs that are actually better suited to a mature crewmember. Age can equate to experience for some positions. Cruise ship jobs suited to mature candidates include Future Cruise Manager, Youth Staff, Port and Shopping Guide, Event Planner, Guest Entertainer, and Finance Manager.

Consider though, a potential crewmember must still pass their Marine Medical and prove to an employer that they are medically and physically fit. Will they be able to work 11-hour days with no days off for months on end? Will they be willing to share a cabin with another crewmember? Not to mention, every two years, a crewmember must continue to pass their medical exam prior to working onboard.

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If you have a natural talent for delivering excellent customer service, paired with a “nomadic” spirit, have you ever considered a tourism job? More specifically…on a cruise ship? Not only can you embark on thrilling travel adventures, but you could join a thriving industry.

According to a cruise industry study conducted by Cyrus Shipping News , the cruise ship industry currently supports over one million jobs and is expected to hit $25.1 billion in revenue by the end of 2023. Needless to say, if you’re at all curious about joining a “floating hotel on the sea,” now could be the opportune time to start. Keep reading to discover how to get a job on a cruise ship.

Determine Whether a Cruise Ship Environment Is Right for You

Before we dive into which types of cruise ship occupations may speak to you, it might be beneficial to see if it’s the type of lifestyle you want to lead.

Consider asking yourself the following self-reflection questions:

• Do you consider yourself a people person?
• Are you naturally independent?
• Do you genuinely enjoy helping others?
• Do you relish a teamwork environment?
• Are you okay with not working the typical 9-5 job?
• Are you okay with being away from family and friends for long periods of time?
• Are you comfortable being out at sea for extended time, without immediate access to land?

If you answered yes to all, then that’s a step in the right direction!

Eligibility Requirements for Cruise Ship Jobs

According to Indeed , cruise ship candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a valid passport and/or appropriate visa
• Pass a criminal background check
• Undergo a medical exam or submit medical records

A Cruise Career Success Story: Victor Mancilla

For Escoffier graduate, Victor Mancilla, living near the bustling Panama Canal 15 years ago and watching majestic cruise ships float by sparked his dream to eventually work on one. “At the time, I went to architectural school, but my passion was always about food.”* Victor says.

He seized the first entry-level opportunity he could get with Celebrity Cruises but really had his sights set on an executive chef position—even though he was told it was a “highly competitive” position. But with his unwavering focus and willingness to take on new responsibilities, he managed to secure this high-ranking position in just four years. He became the official Executive Chef for a few ships in the Galapagos.

“Imagine 16 kitchens, more than 12 restaurants, a 24-hour operation, 22 bars, and 375 crew members,” Victor says. “I remember saying, I don’t know how I’m going to make it for the next two years, but it ended up being the best culinary team in the fleet. And that team was the best ship of the year for two consecutive years.”*

Meanwhile, Victor pursued an online Culinary Arts diploma at Escoffier, while working full-time as an executive chef, simply to refine his skill set and “get better” at the culinary fundamentals.

“[Attending Escoffier] was such a rich experience—so helpful for my ego. It brought me back to reality since I was living a dream…I was living in a paradise,” Victor says. “I don’t regret a single cent that I paid…Because it gave me a vision.”*

“I’ve visited more than 250 cities and that’s the beauty of the cruise ship industry. I lived in Turkey for more than five years. I spent years in New Zealand. I had the privilege to be in the Galapagos, which is one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, for months.”* Victor Mancilla, Escoffier Culinary Arts Graduate

From there, Victor continued to expand his career and jumped to managing 900 crew members in Asia, with his promotion to Food & Beverage Director , requiring him to know the ins and outs of every restaurant on the cruise ship. Even though it was a challenging position to take on, especially during the pandemic, he wouldn’t change it for the world.

Although he’s not out at sea anymore, Victor is still overseeing cruise ship operations as the Corporate Executive Chef at COLUMBIA signature, located in Germany. He lives there with his wife (who he serendipitously met on a cruise ship) and two children. He also runs a Chef Academy for Spanish-speaking children and has authored a collection of ten cookbooks for children.

Explore Various Cruise Ship Job Positions

Now that you know which “archetype” is best suited for cruise ship life, let’s take a peek at some of the most common hospitality and food & beverage positions on cruise ships.

Food and Beverage Managers

Wearing multiple hats, food and beverage managers usually oversee all aspects of the operations side. This may include monitoring food budgets, inventory, quality control, and even guest satisfaction.

Food and beverage managers are typically highly-analytical—spending most of their time evaluating numbers in spreadsheets.

Dining Room Managers

If you think of an orchestra, dining room managers can be viewed as the “conductors” of a cruise ship restaurant. They usually address the flow of traffic, wait times, and any guest concerns, while taking immediate care of any staff needs.

Executive Chef

Along with conceptualizing cruise ship menus, an executive chef usually manages all aspects of food service on a cruise ship. This may include hiring and overseeing all kitchen staff, as well as maintaining food quality control.

Bar Managers

What’s a cruise experience without the endless flow of cocktails ? Bar managers can expect to stay relatively busy on cruise ships, with the responsibility of crafting compelling cocktail menus. On top of educating staff on how to create specialty spirits, bar managers usually oversee alcohol costs and revenue.

Working closely with the dining room managers, the maître d’ interacts with guests and also closely monitors overall dining satisfaction—ensuring that it’s up to par with specified standards. On top of being the “face of the restaurant,” they typically work behind the scenes as well—accommodating any restaurant staff requests.

Hotel Managers

Dedicated to creating a seamless guest experience, hotel managers on cruise ships work to ensure that the entire staff is leading with class and professionalism. Along with directly interacting with passengers on a daily basis, a hotel manager may oversee all fiscal operations, communicating closely with the captain of the cruise ship. They’re also typically responsible for training and hiring skilled staff members who are committed to “wowing” guests.

Chief Cabin Stewards

Housekeeping is one of the largest departments on cruise ships and the chief cabin steward is responsible for managing this sector. With demands to maintain a level of cleanliness 24/7, the chief cabin steward usually must be meticulous and set high standards for the housekeeping staff.

Event Managers

In addition to lounging and enjoying indulging in various cuisines, cruise ship guests will often engage in daily events, such as movie nights, salsa dancing, speakeasy parties, corporate events, and even weddings! Event managers strive to plan these types of events that keep guests entertained, which may require great attention to detail and organization.

Consider a Hospitality or Culinary Education

As you can see, there’s a vast range of hospitality and foodservice jobs you can explore on cruise ships! Although there’s no set educational path for these occupations, obtaining a culinary arts or hospitality degree may help you: a) stand out on your resume b) garner the applicable skill set to prosper c) rise in the ranks and get promoted more quickly.

Escoffier’s Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management online degree program can help you prepare for several hospitality-focused positions on a cruise ship—with a curriculum focused on hospitality from a business perspective. Students also explore how to cultivate world-class guest experiences, train and manage hospitality employees, utilize technology to enhance business operations, craft menus, prepare for events, and more.

“Our program is meant to get a student prepared for an entry-level position in the hospitality industry, that could lead to a management position.”* Jason Goldman, Escoffier Lead Chef Instructor

Now, if a culinary-centric job on a cruise ship sounds more appealing, such as an executive chef position, you may want to consider a Culinary Arts program, such as the degree and diploma options that Escoffier offers. With more of an emphasis on contemporary culinary techniques, students can explore a variety of topics, such as cooking methods, bake shop staples, commercial food service operations, world cuisines, farm-to-table philosophy, and more.

At the end of the day, which program you choose will likely depend on the cruise ship occupation that interests you the most and if it’s more geared toward hospitality or culinary arts.

Refine Your Skill Set To Work On A Cruise Ship

As we mentioned before, if you exude great communication and customer service skills, stepping into a hospitality job on a cruise ship could be in your wheelhouse.

But if you don’t have any experience in hospitality, how can you begin to foster the necessary skills it might take to start? This is where education and work experience comes in! At Escoffier, students can begin to develop soft and hard skills from day one, just by immersing themselves in the curriculum. On top of this, students must complete one to two externships in order to graduate. These placements can help provide real-world experience and training you can list on your resume.

For example, you might secure an externship on a cruise ship or in a hotel to “get a taste” of what to expect. An externship is also an invaluable opportunity to forge industry connections, which can plant seeds for your future career.

“The externship class allows students–even those with no prior experience–to get their foot in the door. Once they gain that valuable experience, it is easier for them to determine which path they want to take with their careers.”* Maria Davenport, Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management Instructor

How to Apply for Cruise Ship Jobs

Unlike other jobs where you can apply directly, cruise ships usually partner with agencies that do the hiring for them. So finding a recruiting agency that works with cruise ships can be a great first step. In tandem with this, Escoffier students can also work with Career Services to prepare for the job search, by utilizing one-on-one career coaching and a slew of readiness tools to bolster confidence!

While you begin this stage in the process, you’ll also want to consider exactly how long you’ll want to work on a cruise ship, as placements will vary—meaning you could work on a cruise ship for a week (short-term contract) or several months (long-term contract). Depending on your preferences, look into cruise ships that offer your desired duration, then look into agencies that specifically represent those cruise lines.

Before accepting a job position, you’ll probably also want to consider the type of employment and pay structure that suits you the most. For example, permanent employees might be able to access “contract perks” like longer stints at home, time off preferences, and ongoing healthcare, versus non-permanent employees.

It’s also important to note that some cruise ship positions are salaried, while others are not paid, but you may receive complimentary room and board, plus the occasional gratuity. These are just a few aspects of the job to consider before signing a cruise ship contract.

“The power of working on a cruise ship is that it gives you that confidence. If you put me in a competition right now, I’m not afraid of that. I have to create 18,000 meals a day and design 6,000 recipes in six months.”* Victor Mancilla, Online Culinary Arts Graduate, Corporate Executive Chef

Start Your Cruise Ship Career

If you’re craving more of a non-conventional tourism career on the sea, then securing a cruise ship job could be the best move for you! But before you say bon voyage, you may want to consider starting with an education first, which could help you gain the necessary skills to flourish in this industry.

To take the next step, contact our admissions department to get more information on Escoffier’s Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management or Culinary Arts programs that could help you achieve your dream career.

Enjoyed this article on hospitality? Read these next:

• What is Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management?
• Is Hospitality Management a Good Career Choice for You?
• What Can You Lean in a Hospitality Degree Program?

*Information may not reflect every student’s experience. Results and outcomes may be based on several factors, such as geographical region or previous experience.

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Onboard Employment FAQ

Are you interested in joining the thousands of worldwide employees who are proud to be part of the Princess Cruises family? We are committed to being an employer of choice and understand that our Consummate Hosts need to be supported, empowered, and recognized. Learn more about Princess Cruise careers and our cruise ship jobs in this overview.

We also understand that working at sea can be a challenging new opportunity. Here are answers to some essential questions you might have when considering cruise ship employment.

• What are the requirements to work onboard?

What is a C1/D visa?

How do i get a medical certificate, which ship will i be assigned to, how do i get to and from the ship i am assigned to, do i need travel insurance, how long will i be onboard, can i get off and go home during the contract, will i have my own room, what is the power voltage in my cabin, can i drink alcohol onboard, is there a drug policy, is there a curfew, can i bring a family member or friend onboard, will i have access to guest areas and amenities during my time off, once onboard, how do i stay in touch with my friends and family back home, can i have mail delivered to the ship, is there an atm onboard to use, will i have to pay taxes, can i send money home from onboard, how do i pay for items onboard, how do i do laundry, what if i miss the ship in port, what happens if i get sick while working onboard, can i visit the ports while working onboard, how do i apply to work onboard, what are the requirements for onboard employment.

While specific position requirements depend on the job you are interested in, there are some essential requirements that all crew must meet to work onboard:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Be able to pass a criminal background check
• Hold a valid passport
• Have a US C1/D visa (if you are not a Canadian or US citizen/resident)
• Have a Princess-specific pre-employment medical exam certificate
• Meet the English fluency requirements relevant to your position

Also known as a seaman's visa, some nationalities need this to work onboard a ship and travel to certain countries. This visa normally lasts between two and five years. You will be required to make an appointment at your nearest US Embassy to gain this visa; all paperwork for the appointment will be supplied by your manning agency.

This extensive examination is at the employee's expense and can be conducted through one of Princess's recommended medical facilities—you'll be advised which one is closest to you. Once this is completed and approved by our corporate Medical department, you are cleared to travel and work onboard.

Shipboard employees are scheduled to vessels based on operational need. This means you could be assigned to any one of our vessels in the fleet depending on where a position is open at the time you are travel-ready. After your first assignment, we will be able to provide details about the next assignment after your leave period.

At the beginning of each contract Princess Cruises will provide flights from your designated airport to your assigned ship. At the completion of your contract, Princess will arrange for your travel back home as well. It is your responsibility to get to the airport from your home, but from there we will provide any necessary accommodations and/or transportation to and from the ship.

While you are covered medically in Los Angeles and onboard the vessel, we suggest you purchase basic travel insurance to cover the cost of lost luggage or injuries that could result from shoreside activities.

Contract lengths vary by position but range between four and ten months. After each contract you will receive approximately 60 days of vacation before your next assignment. Your daily work schedule while onboard will depend on your particular position, but you can expect to work seven days a week and anywhere between 10-13 hours per day.

Time off during the contract is not permitted. In case of family emergencies, Princess Cruises does understand that additional time at home may be needed and does accommodate these requests on a case-by-case basis.

Accommodations vary depending on the ship and position. Those in non-management positions generally share a cabin with one to three other roommates whereas those in most management positions are entitled to a single cabin. Cabins include a storage space, TV, and DVD player.

All vessels have 120v US power and some vessels also have 220v European power.

Yes, alcohol is available for purchase during time off. However, Princess Cruises has a strict alcohol limit and at no time can a crew member be intoxicated.

Princess has a zero-tolerance drug policy. All crew are subject to random and reasonable-suspicion drug testing. Violation of these policies will result in termination.

There is no set curfew. However, crew who are out late should be respectful of other crew members and guests nearby.

Crew members who meet specific length-of-service criteria have the option of requesting "relatives travel," a benefit that allows family members to sail onboard for a limited period of time. Some restrictions may apply.

While some officer-level positions do allow restricted access to guest areas, most facilities are for guests only. However, we have a variety of crew-only facilities, such as a crew pool, whirlpool, gym, bar, and  Crew Club, which is a communal room where you can gather to watch movies, play games, sing karaoke, and much more!

Postal mail services are available while onboard. You will also have access to computers in the crew training areas. Wi-fi Internet is also available in the crew areas if you choose to bring your own laptop or tablet. Princess offers discounted rates for phone and Internet cards so you can stay in touch with those at home. But remember that satellite capabilities are sometimes limited while the ship is at sea.

You will be provided with mailing addresses for ports where mail can best be delivered.

There is an ATM in the guest areas; an ATM charge will apply. You can also cash checks in the Crew Office onboard to get cash.

US citizens will have federal taxes automatically deducted and may be required to pay state taxes, if applicable. All other nationalities are responsible for filing their own tax forms upon returning to their home countries (as they are self-employed).

You can wire money via the Crew Purser's office. Details are available onboard and rates may vary.

You will be provided with a bar account number, which is your personal number for the duration of your contract onboard each ship. As the entire vessel is cashless, even for guests, you will provide your account number at the bars, salon, and shops in guest areas. In the Crew Bar you can purchase a CrewCard and add money onto it for purchases. At the end of every month you will be required to settle your account.

There are crew laundry facilities where the washers and dryers are free of charge—you just provide the soap. You can also use the dry cleaning onboard, but there is a nominal cost.

Crew members who miss the ship should contact the ship's Agent who will be at the port (the address and phone number are always in the Princess Patter, a daily newsletter for our guests). The Port Agent will arrange transportation to the ship's next port of call. However, it is the responsibility of crew to pay these transportation costs. Crew may be disciplined for the offense and could be terminated. Depending on the port all crew members are required to be back onboard half an hour to an hour prior to sailing time.

While onboard, all crew are medically covered and can visit the Medical Clinic for health concerns. If you need to be medically disembarked during your contract, Princess will provide transportation to a land-based medical facility and repatriate you back home.

If you are not scheduled to work during the time the ship is in port, you can disembark the ship with your supervisor’s approval. Occasionally, there are crew-specific activities or tours to participate in.

Safety requirements dictate that a certain number of crew members be present on each vessel at all times. As such, there may occasionally be times when, although not scheduled to work, you will be required to remain onboard while the ship is in port.

Princess Cruises recruits globally through authorized hiring partners.  Find a hiring partner located near you.

Once you contact the authorized hiring partner, you can get answers to questions regarding the application process and which positions are currently open in your region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We have developed the FAQ section to help answer many of your questions CruiseJobFinder and our service. In addition to the general list of questions and answers on this page we also offer a FAQ section for each of the three industries we cover. Click on one of the following links if you would like to be taken to those sections immediately.

Cruise Ship Jobs FAQ Beach Resort Jobs FAQ Tour Guide/Adventure Travel & Land Tour Jobs FAQ

Q: What if I've never worked on a cruise ship before?

A: For many positions, cruise lines do not expect you to have previous experience working on a cruise ship. However, you should call out any experience you have had that might relate to jobs on cruise ships. This can include working at a restaurant, gift shop, health club, retail store, to name a few. Basically many jobs on cruise ships are not too much different than jobs in other industries. Cruise lines are more concerned that you will be a good hard worker and help to make the cruise customers have a wonderful experience on their cruise line.

Q: How long does it take me to set up a job using your service?

A: First of all, we don't guarantee jobs. What we do is provide you with the best resources and tools available to help you research and apply for the jobs that are best suited to your needs. For those hired, the time it takes varies from several days to several months. The process for getting a job will vary greatly by company, time of year, and type of job.

Q: How long do I have to work?

A: Contract lengths vary by company, type of job and the time of year. In general, you should expect to commit to at least four to six months for your first cruise ship contract and at least three months for a land tour or beach resort job.

Q: How old do you need to be to work up on a cruise ship or at a beach resort?

A: The minimum age to work on a cruise ship is usually either 18 or 21 years old, depending on the cruise line, cruise ship and position you are applying for. Beach resorts usually have a minimum age of 18 years old for many of their positions. Many cruise lines and beach resorts will require you to be at least 21 if you are serving alcoholic beverages.

Q: Should I work on a cruise ship, private yacht, at a beach resort or as a land tour guide?

A: All four of these industries are great to work in. Obviously, working on a cruise ship or private yacht has tremendous appeal. You will travel to exotic locations and meet lots of interesting people. However, many people like working at destination beach resorts better. This is usually due to the fact that while working at a beach resort you generally have more free time to explore and participate in your favorite activities. Land tour jobs are also great jobs. Many college students work for land tours in Alaska during summers and often make really good money and have a tremendous time.

In general it depends on your personal preferences and desires. All three industries we cover offer outstanding work experiences.

Q: Do companies provide health insurance?

A: Most do provide health insurance, however some don't. We recommend you inquire about this matter with the companies during the interview process.

Q: What about other benefits?

A: Many cruise lines, resort and tour employers do offer a full range of benefits including some or all of the following:

• Profit Sharing Plan
• Medical Insurance
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Tuition Re-imbursement
• Paid Time Off
• Free or discounted travel for you and your family (and friends occassionally)

Q: What makes the information in the Members Services section of CruiseJobFinder.com better than other information on the internet?

A: We have been the leading cruise ship job and beach resort employment research organization for over fifteen years. No other company has the experience that we have in helping people navigate their employment options in these industries. A large number of industry insiders and experts have played a part in helping us put our resources together. There simply isn't any other information available anywhere that is as thorough, up-to-date, and dedicated specifically to help people find employment on cruise ships, private yachts, at beach resorts or as tour guides.

Yes, you can find some limited information for free on the internet. But, to maximize your efficiency of getting one of these jobs, it is important to have the best resources available. We simplify everything for you and provide you with a strategy to succeed. We don't charge much for access to our Member Services section; in fact you can test out the service for five days for only $3.95!

Q: How will being a member of CruiseJobFinder help me find a job?

A: Over 98% of cruise line jobs are not advertised and over 95% of beach resort and tour jobs are unadvertised. Our members section has a vast listing of profiles of many cruise, resort and tour companies that will show you who the companies are, how to get a hold of them, application procedures and much more. In addition, our members receive a plethora of information on how to get started in their job search, career tools and important industry information. All of the research and information we provide are an incredible assistance to those who are serious about landing a job in the cruise, yacht, beach resort or tour industry.

Here are some of the tools and resources included with your membership:

• Access to our exclusive list of Featured Jobs. Many of which are not listed anywhere else!
• List your resume and profile in our proprietary JobSeekers Database that employers can search to fill open positions on their cruise ships, beach resorts and tour companies.
• Detailed up-to-date information about working on cruise ships, at cruise line corporate offices, on private yachts, for land tour companies, for cruise ship concessionaires and at destination beach resorts around the world (including detailed descriptions of the work; lots of insider tips on how to find the best jobs; worker interviews; maps; etc.)
• Detailed profiles of hundreds of cruise lines, beach resorts, cruise ship concessionaires and tour guide companies.

Q: Are there any office jobs available?

A: Yes, most of the companies we profile do offer office jobs in their corporate and branch offices. There are also "office" like jobs on cruise ships, beach resorts and tour companies.

Q: What types employers are profiled in your Members Section?

A: We list and profile the following types of employers:

• Large Cruise Lines
• Medium Sized Cruise Lines
• Small and Specialty Cruise Lines
• Cruise Concessionaires
• Beach Resorts
• Other Specialty Resorts
• Land Tour Companies
• Tour and Escort Companies
• Adventure Travel Companies
• Private Yachts

Q: Can I work on the same cruise ship as my spouse or friend?

A: Yes, this may be possible. However, you don't want to make a whole bunch of requests before you are hired. We recommend that you and your spouse/friend each apply to the same set of companies. But you should each apply separately and then during to the mid to later stages of the interview process, you should let your recruiter/human resources representative know that your spouse/friend is also interested in working on the same ship. If a position is available that he/she is qualified for, many companies will try to make things work out.

Please note, that companies are more likely to accommodate married couples, but often they can help arrange it so you can work with a friend as well.

Q: What is the price of a subscription to your Member Services section?

A: A subscription to the Members section is very reasonable. We charge $3.95 for five days, $12.95 for 30 days, $29.95 for 90 days, and just $49.95 for a full year (six months plus you get six months free for a total of one year). We are fully convinced you will think a membership is an excellent value. If you are even remotely considering a job on a cruise ship, on a private yacht, at a beach resort, or for a land tour company, a subscription to our Members section is well worth the price.

Our five day, 30 day and 90 day memberships do automatically renew. You can cancel your membership anytime by clicking here and following the instructions. Or you can cancelled by calling our automated cancellation line at (877) 321-8766 ext. 87.

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We do not refund unused portions of memberships, but you can use your membership for the full amount of time you have paid for even after you have cancelled your membership.

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A: You can retrieve lost or forgotten Passwords by going to our Password Retrieval Page and fill out the form.

Q: How do I cancel my membership?

A: You may cancel your membership at anytime and still use the remaining time left on your membership. We make it very easy for you to cancel your membership. Simply go to our Membership Cancellation Page and follows the instructions. Please do not send us cancellation requests via email.

For Frequently Asked Questions specifically regarding one of the three industries we cover click on one of the links below!

• Beach Resort Jobs FAQs
• Cruise Ship Jobs FAQs
• Land Tour, Tour Guide & Adventure Travel Job FAQs

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Membership Includes:

• List your resume and profile in our proprietary JobSeekers Database that employers can search to fill open positions on their cruise ships, yachts, beach resorts and tour companies.
• Detailed up-to-date information and proven strategies for getting employment on cruise ships, at cruise line corporate offices, on mega yachts, for land tour companies, for cruise ship concessionaires and at destination beach resorts around the world (including detailed descriptions of the work; lots of insider tips on how to find the best jobs; worker interviews, etc.)
• Detailed profiles of hundreds of cruise lines, beach resorts, yacht, cruise ship concessionaires and tour guide companies.
• Links to online and printable employment applications
• Insider tips on how to get hired and how to maximize your earnings
• Lots of photos, maps and graphs showing valuable information about these industries
• Instant access!
• Memberships start at just $3.95. Yes, you can get a great start on landing the job of your dreams for not much more than the price of a cup of coffee!
• See the Member's Section Table of Contents

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Work and see the world: What to know about getting a job on a cruise ship

Working on cruise ships combined two of Alley Kerr’s passions: dance and travel.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and a downturn in land-based dance opportunities, she came across an audition notice from Royal Caribbean International. Kerr, who is from Los Angeles, saw it as a chance to “do a job that I really enjoy, plus being able to see the world in a capacity that most people aren't able to do.”

She was no stranger to working abroad, having booked her first professional gig in Japan as a teenager. Kerr, now 27, secured a role as a dancer on the line’s Rhapsody of the Seas ship in 2022. She spent seven months working on board as the ship sailed primarily around Europe. She went on to work on a second ship and now makes videos about her travels on her YouTube channel, Wanderlust Alley .

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Kerr’s path is only one of many potential routes to break into the cruise industry, where jobs range from entertainers to room stewards to captains. Workers can earn money – sometimes on a seasonal basis – while saving on overhead costs, and travel far and wide at the same time.

"In 2024 cruise lines will employ a multinational workforce of nearly 300,000 seafarers, and tens of thousands of employees on land," a spokesperson for Cruise Lines International Association, the industry's leading trade organization, said in an email.

Here’s how to get started.

How do I get a job on a cruise ship?

That depends on the type of job you want.

The most entry-level positions tend to be roles like cabin attendants, dishwashers and laundry workers, according to Walt Nadolny, professor emeritus of marine transportation and global business at the State University of New York Maritime College, and a former environmental officer for Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line.

But companies that sail internationally are unlikely to recruit U.S. workers for those roles. The ships are generally flagged – or registered – in foreign countries and are not subject to U.S. labor laws. “The lower-pay jobs are not being compensated at an American salary,” Nadolny said.

In those cases, operators hire primarily from parts of Asia, Eastern Europe and other regions with lower median incomes than the U.S. and relatively weak currencies. However, U.S.-flagged ships must hire U.S. workers, including for those kinds of roles.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America ship, for instance, sails inter-island cruises in Hawaii. "U.S. federal regulations require U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status for employment onboard the Pride of America," the cruise line said on its website .

Major cruise lines do, however, source from the U.S. – along with countries like Canada and the U.K. – for entertainment roles, Nadolny said, from dancers to guitar players to lighting technicians.

Jobs in the pursers department, also called guest services, require certifications depending on the ship’s flag state and cruise lines tend to look for candidates who speak a minimum of two languages. “I've met pursers who are fluent in six languages,” he said.

Jobs on the technical side, like engine officers, require “some serious credentials,” according to Nadolny. Those include a four-year degree from an accredited maritime school and relevant flag-state licenses. Cruise ship captains have many years of experience and generally work with the company for “at least a decade” before moving into that position, he added.

Other notable maritime schools in the U.S. include Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, California State University Maritime Academy and Maine Maritime Academy. Nadolny said the schools typically have two license tracks leading to a federal license as a third assistant engineer or third mate.

"The usual course of study is four years and in addition to the license a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering degree is awarded," he said.

Applicable job experience on land can be useful when applying for roles at sea, too.

For example, staffers in leadership positions in the hotel department – which includes housekeeping, food and beverage and more – often have worked at shoreside hotels, Nadolny said. The onboard chiefs of security he’s met have also largely been former land-based law enforcement officers.

Other onboard roles include doctors, IT staff and bartenders. "The industry offers excellent opportunities for advancement and we are proud of the strong and diverse workforce we have, retention levels that are at 80% or higher, and the career paths that have cultivated a strong team of employees that are the heart and soul of the cruise experience," the CLIA spokesperson added.

Like many other industries, the easiest way to find those jobs is online. He said cruise lines post openings on their websites. Maritime schools may also host recruitment events.

How long are cruise ship contracts?

The length of time employees spend on board depends on the job and cruise line. Contracts for Princess Cruises crew members, for example, can last between four and 10 months according to its website.

“After each contract you will receive approximately 60 days of vacation before your next assignment,” the cruise line said in an online FAQ section . “Your daily work schedule while onboard will depend on your particular position, but you can expect to work seven days a week and anywhere between 10-13 hours per day.”

Some crew members may have responsibilities outside of their time on the ship. Senior officers in particular do continuing education as propulsion methods and other technology evolve, Nadolny said.

Kerr also had two months of rehearsals on land before getting on the ship.

How much do cruise crew members get paid?

Crew member pay varies widely.

Kerr made around $2,900 per month as a dancer on her first contract, and around $3,800 on her second after switching to a singing and dancing role (she also served as dance captain and company manager).

Nadolny said in his experience, newly hired officers make around $7,500 per month or $60,000 annually, while those who are more senior can make as much as $250,000 to $300,000 in a year (including stock options and performance bonuses).

But others make less. Among 35 current and former crew members interviewed by Business Insider in late 2019, around 40% said they made $2,000 per month or less.

However, living costs are often minimal, with cruise lines covering expenses like room and board, meals and medical care. Kerr said she could also take shore excursions – which can be pricey – at no charge, allowing her to explore the ports the ships visited for free when her schedule allowed.

Where do cruise ship crew members live?

Crew members are generally housed in cabins on the lower decks of the ship, Kerr said. Standard cabins are small and can accommodate two people with a private bathroom, though some ships have single cabins with shared bathrooms.

More senior staff typically have larger rooms, which may have additional perks like porthole windows or kitchenettes.

“I would say in general, it's not for everyone but people who love it really love it,” Kerr said of working on cruise ships. She’s grateful for her time onboard and has visited an estimated 26 countries, many of them as part of those sailings.

“And the fact that I was able to do that while working was a really awesome experience.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Work and see the world: What to know about getting a job on a cruise ship