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How to become a chef on a cruise ship.

Cruise ship lines look for chefs who have culinary degrees, practical experience and the flexibility to spend weeks or months away from home. Although each line has its own hiring process for chefs, several common factors play a role in the hiring process.

Culinary Education

Cruise lines set high standards for chefs and usually require a degree from an accredited culinary school. Cruise ship managers look for candidates who have a comprehensive education that includes everything from knife skills to whipping up sauces to creating pastries. In addition to basic kitchen skills, a culinary arts program that includes coursework in kitchen management, accounting practices and inventory management provide skills that can be helpful when working in a ship’s galley. Your school’s placement office can help prepare you for your interview, and placement staff may even learn about cooking opportunities on cruise ships before they’re announced to the public. Services are usually offered to current students and graduates.

Typical Positions

Cruise ships offer numerous dining rooms, buffets, and fast food and specialty restaurants, and they need a large number of chefs and cooks to adequately staff these facilities. Typical positions include executive chefs; executive sous chefs; sous chefs; first, second and third cooks; crew cooks; bakers, pastry chefs and trainees. The Franco Lania website notes that ship galleys are similar to hotel kitchens and feature hot and cold sections. If you accept a job in the hot section, you will cook grilled foods, fish, soups, pastas, vegetables, meats and side dishes. Chefs who work on the cold side of the galley are in charge of baking and pastries, salads, ice carvings and cold food items. They also prepare foods for buffets.

Practical Experience and Personal Considerations

Experience in a restaurant -- preferably a high-volume facility -- is required for chef positions. This requirement varies depending on the job, although three to five years of experience is generally preferred. In addition to cooking experience, the position may require previous experience supervising staff or computer skills. Chefs must be in good physical condition and must pass a physical examination and drug test before being hired. If you have trouble maintaining your balance, have a health condition that requires constant monitoring or are prone to seasickness, working on a moving cruise ship might not be a good idea.

How to Find a Job

You can apply for restaurant positions on each cruise line's website. Check websites frequently, as needs can change quickly. Although cruise lines recruit directly, Franco Lania notes that you might have better luck if you work with an agency that recruits chefs for cruise lines; they also advise that reputable agencies never charge applicants for recruiting services. During an interview, explain how your education and experience qualify you for a job on a cruise ship. For example, if you’ve worked in the kitchen of a hotel that hosted banquets or conferences, mention that you have experience creating menus and cooking for large groups.

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• Franco Lania: Cooking at Sea! – Employment of Cruise Line Chefs
• Carnival: Food and Beverage
• Cruise Ship Jobs: Culinary Jobs on Cruise Ships

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How You Can Get a Job on a Cruise Ship

Curious about how to get a job on a cruise ship? Explore the education, training, and skills you may need to start a hospitality job on the sea!

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Clicking the "Get the Survey Now" button constitutes your express request, and your express written consent, to be contacted by and to receive automated or pre-recorded call, texts, messages and/or emails from via phone, text, and/or emails by Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts at the number(s)/email you provided, regarding furthering your education and enrolling. You understand that these calls , texts, messages and/or emails may be generated using an automated or pre-recorded technology. You are not required to agree to receive automated or pre-recorded calls, texts, messages or emails as a condition of enrolling at Escoffier. You can unsubscribe at any time or request removal of street address, phone number, email address via Escoffier website .

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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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Culinary Jobs On Cruise Ships

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With all of this food preparation and dining, there has to be a team responsible for cleaning up after the passengers and cooks. A cleaning crew (utility division) washes all of the dishes and tableware (including the pots and pans), changes the table cloths, vacuums the floors, and cleans the windows and bar areas. In general the galley department offers the following cruise ship jobs: Executive Chef / Chef De Cuisine, Executive Sous Chef, Sous Chef, Chef De Partie, Demi Chef De partie, Commis 1 (First Cook), Commis 2 (Second Cook), Commis 3 (Third Cook), Cook Trainee, Crew Cook / Crew Cook Assistant / Crew Cook Trainee, Crew Cook Utility / Crew Messman, Provision Master/ Storekeeper, Assistant Provision Master/ Storekeeper, Pastry Chef , Assistant Pastry Chef, Pastry Man, Pastry Trainee, Baker Supervisor, Baker Trainee, Galley Steward / Galley Cleaner, Dishwasher / Pot Washer. Read below the various Chef job descriptions and salary ranges.

Executive Chef

The Executive Chef is responsible for the entire galley staff, food planning, quality control, directs all the culinary and associated activities throughout the vessel either personally or through subordinate managers and supervisors. He/ she reports to the ship's Food and Beverage Manager and...

Executive Sous Chef

Job description: responsible for the day to day operations of the galley staff, assisting the Executive Chef with the food planning, preparation and quality control. He/ she communicates with the Executive Chef on daily basis, reviews menus to estimate food and time requirements. He/ she meets with the Sous Chef to review guest comments to implement revisions and improvements. The Executive Sous Chef manages the financial aspects of the assigned food operation, prepares a variety of reports and letters utilizing personal computer system and equipment. He/ she trains and monitors all levels of cooks and chefs for proper skill and service. She/he collaborates with the Executive Chef to plan menu requirements, serving arrangements, guest comments and other related details and also collaborates with the Provision Master to ensure the highest quality, delivery and storage of all food items. Cruise Ship Executive Sous Chef Job Requirements : five to seven years in subordinate position on board and/or 4-5 star hotels, restaurants or high volume food service facilities. Managerial experience required. Must posses the ability to manage international staff in a positive and productive manner. Must speak English clearly and distinctly, write and read English in order to understand written procedures, give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms. Approved certification or culinary school degree-granting program completion required. Executive Sous Chef salary range: $3800-6500 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Executive Chef position.

Job description: the Sous Chef is responsible for the day to day operations of the galley staff, assisting the Executive Chef with the food planning, preparation and quality control. The Sous Chef Manages and coordinates activities of various workstations engaged in preparing, timing and cooking. He/ she reviews food requisitions from the various workstations and forwards to Executive Sous Chef for final approval. The Sous Chef monitors the assignment of duties and responsibilities to employees. He/ she observes and evaluates employees and work procedures to ensure quality standards and services are met. The Sous Chef manages the financial aspects of the assigned food operation, prepares a variety of reports and letters utilizing personal computer system and equipment. Trains and monitors all levels of cooks and chefs for proper skill and service. The Sous Chef recommends measures to improve work procedures and employee performance to increase quality of food and job safety. Sous Chef Job Requirements : five to seven years in subordinate position on board and/or 4-5 star hotels, restaurants or high volume food service facilities. Must speak English clearly and distinctly, write and read English in order to understand written procedures, give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms. Ability to read, interpret and demonstrate the preparation of recipes for all basic meat, fish, sauce and side dishes. The demonstration includes advanced cooking methods such as braise, sauté, broil and grill and the use of a variety of knifes to slice, dice, chop, julienne, etc. Approved certification or culinary school degree-granting program completion required. Cruise Ship Sous Chef salary range: $3400-5800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion from Sous Chef to Executive Sous Chef position.

Chef De Partie

Demi Chef De Partie

Job description: the Demi Chef de Partie is responsible to assist the Station Head or Sous Chef in contributing to the overall success of the assigned station. He/ she meets with the assigned station-head, the Chef de Partie or Sous Chef on daily basis to review the requirements of the meals and time frames for restaurant service. The Demi Chef de Partie knows and operates all equipment according to standard operating procedures. He/she performs multitask activities in food preparation including setting up of mis en place for daily menu requirement as well as ensures that all food on plates is correctly portioned and served uniformly. The Demi Chef de Partie must be able to explain menu ingredients and preparation techniques when working buffet areas. Demi Chef De Partie Job Requirements : minimum two years experience cooking and preparing food in a 4 or 5-star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility required. Good English language skills required. Culinary school education required. Cruise Ship Demi Chef De Partie salary range: $2700-3700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion from Demi Chef de Partie to Chef De Partie position.

Culinary Administrative Assistant

Job description: the Culinary Administrative Assistant is a two stripe officer acting as a secretary and providing administrative work to the Executive Chef and Galley management, such as checking and answering emails, posting notices, composing routine letters and correspondence, printing out ratings reports and comment cards, scheduling appointments, maintaining filing systems, distribute emails and fax messages as required. The Culinary Administrative Assistant works in close cooperation with the Crew Purser’s office to familiarize new crew members with their assigned accommodations, uniform shop, crew laundry and other facilities onboard the cruise ship. She/ he operates computer equipment, software and printer to perform necessary word processing functions and utilizes spreadsheet software packages for basic mathematical formulas and graphic presentation of information. Facilitates, schedules and coordinates all departmental training activities, seminars and all other work related activities with the employees and the respective trainers. Maintains and files all departmental related reports, USPH related logs and records i.e., Time & Temperature Control Sheets, USPH Training Attendance and Schedules. Culinary Administrative Assistan Job Requirements : high school diploma required, university degree preferred. Two to three years of word processing experience in a secretarial capacity preferred. Knowledge of standard office procedures and organization skills as well as ability to operate basic office equipment, including telephone, copy machine, fax, adding machine. Working knowledge of computers with emails Microsoft Word, Excel and related printers and equipment required. Culinary Administrative Assistan salary range: $1900-2300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Commis 1 / First Cook

Job description: the Commis 1 / First Cook supervises Commis 2 and Commis 3 (second and third cooks). Food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by the Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. The First Cook organizes and prepares mis en place, measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. The Commis 1/ First Cook works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. He/ she performs multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. The Commis 1/ First Cook butchers chicken, fish and shellfish. He/ she cuts, trims and bones meat prior to cooking or serving. The First Cook must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Commis 1/ First Cook Job Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility. Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English language skills required. Commis 1/ First Cook salary range: $1900-2500 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Demi Chef De Partie position.

Commis 2 / Second Cook

Job description: food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by Commis 1, Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. Organize and prepare mis en place. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. Works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. Perform multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. Butcher chicken, fish and shellfish. Cut, trim and bone meat prior to cooking or serving. Must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Cruise Ship Commis 2 / Second Cook Job Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility . Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English Language skills required. Commis 2 / Second Cook salary range: $1600-2200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion from Commis 2 (Second Cook) to Commis 1 (First Cook) position.

Commis 3 / Third Cook

Job description: food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by Commis 1, Commis 2, Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. Organize and prepare mis en place. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. Works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. Performs multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. Butcher chicken, fish and shellfish. Cuts, trims and bones meat prior to cooking or serving. Must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Cruise Ship Commis 3/ Third Cook Job Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility . Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English Language skills required. Commis 3 / Third Cook salary range: $1400-1800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.one or two years in subordinate position on board and / or hotel and restaurant experience required. Fare English Language skills required. Possibilities for promotion to Commis 2 (Second Cook) position.

Cook Trainee

Food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by the First Cook - prior hotel / restaurant experience required. Culinary school education required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $800-1200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Strong possibilities for promotion from Cook Trainee to Commis 3 (Third Cook) position.

Crew Cook/ Crew Cook Assistant/ Crew Cook Trainee

Food preparation and cooking responsibilities for the crew as directed by the First Cook - prior hotel / restaurant experience required. Culinary school education required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $900-1200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Strong possibilities for promotion from Crew Cook/ Crew Cook Assistant/ Crew Cook Trainee to Third Cook position.

Crew Cook Utility/ Crew Messman

Cleaning, general maintenance as directed by the First Cook - entry level position, no experience required. Very basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $600-900 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion from Crew Cook Utility/ Crew Messman to Buffet Steward position.

Pastry Chef Supervisor

Responsible for the supervision of the pastry staff, oversees the developing and preparation of all pastries) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1900-2400 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Pastry Chef Supervisor

Responsible for the supervision of the pastry staff as directed by the Pastry Chef Supervisor, oversees the developing and preparation of all pastries) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1600-2100 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Pastry Chef Supervisor position.

Cruise Ship Pastry Chef

Pastry trainee.

Pastry support staff are responsible for assisting in the preparation and cooking of all pastries as directed by the Pastry Chef Supervisor. Cleaning and maintenance of pastry stations) - culinary background of no less than one year restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $800-1300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Pastry Chef position.

Baker Supervisor

Responsible for the supervision of the baker staff. Controls the preparation and cooking of all bakery products) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1800-2300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Baker Supervisor

Responsible for the supervision of the baker staff as directed by the Baker Supervisor. Assists in the preparation and cooking of all bakery products - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1600-1900 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Baker Supervisor position.

Bakery staff responsible for preparation and cooking of all bakery products as directed by the Baker Supervisor) - culinary background of no less than two years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Fare English Language skills required. Salary range: $1200-1700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion Assistant Baker Supervisor position.

Baker Trainee

Bakery support staff responsible for assisting in the preparation and cooking of all bakery products as directed by the Baker Supervisor) - culinary background of no less than one year restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $900-1300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Baker position.

Cruise Ship Provision Master/ Storekeeper

Responsible for the entire storage, ordering and distribution of all food supplies as directed by the Executive Chef - food and beverage background essential, knowledge of accounting required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1500-1800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Provision Master/ Storekeeper

Responsible for the storage, ordering and distribution of all food supplies as directed by the Provision Master / Storekeeper - food and beverage background essential, knowledge of accounting required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1200-1600 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Provision Master/ Storekeeper position

Galley Steward/ Galley Cleaner

Cleaning and maintenance of assigned galley stations - entry level position, no experience required. Minimum English Language skills required. Salary range: $500-700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Cabin Steward position (see Housekeeping Department).

Dishwasher/ Pot Washer

Cleaning and stacking of all galley and passengers dishes, pots, pans etc.) - entry level position, no experience required. Minimum English Language skills required. Salary range: $500-600 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion from to Assistant Cabin Steward position (see Housekeeping Department).

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Cruise Ship Chef & Cooking Careers

If you have a passion for cooking the most delicious meals, and for travel and adventure, perhaps applying for cruise ship chef jobs is exactly what you need. Perhaps you are looking for a fresh start, or perhaps you need to gain some experience. When you are deciding to hop aboard a cruise ship as an executive chef, sous chef, galley chef, food and beverage manager, or as part of the kitchen staff, you will be glad to know that there are so many positions open and hundreds of cruise liners to apply to for cruise ship employment.

Overview of Cruise Ship Chef Jobs

As a chef working in any restaurant or hotel you have to master the art of preparing menus, preparing the meals, organizing the ingredients and stock, and cooking the meals. Everything that you would normally do in a top restaurant or hotel, you will also do on a cruise liner, whether you work inside the cruise ship restaurants, or in the galley cooking for the crew members. You can apply easily and find many interesting cruise liners to choose from when you become a member!

There are a large number of chefs and positions that will be needed on a cruise liner. The main ones are:

• Cruise ship executive chef
• Cruise ship sous chef
• Cruise ship pastry chef
• Cruise ship kitchen staff
• Cruise ship food and beverage manager
• Cruise ship galley chef
• Cruise ship baker
• Cruise ship chef de partie

For most of these chef jobs you will need to have a degree or qualification from a cooking school, usually with a few years of experience working in a restaurant or hotel of high standards. If you want to learn more about the kitchen and being a chef, but you have no qualifications or experience, you can apply for a cruise ship kitchen staff position. Here, you will wash and clean dishes, keep the kitchen hygienic, keep the chef's stations cleaned and stocked before shifts, help with the food preparation including the cutting and peeling.

Tips for Traveling and Working as a Cruise Ship Chef

Working away from home for lengthy periods of time can be tough, but as a cruise ship chef you will be pretty busy in the galley or restaurants on board for all the meals of the day. You will work in shifts and usually get a day off per week which you can spend on land excursions at whichever ports are on the cruise liner itinerary, or you can enjoy the many facilities on board the cruise ship. Learn more about working on a cruise ship and travelling all over the world when you join as a member.

Details of Cruise Liner Chef Jobs

Cruise Ship Executive Chef: The executive chef on a cruise liner is responsible for the administration aspects and cooking of all the meals. The executive chef is the person in charge of the kitchen and all the other chefs and kitchen staff.

Cruise Ship Sous Chef: The sous chef is the second in command of the kitchen and will work closely with the executive chef. The sous chef will make sure that all the food going out to the guests is of the best standard, and also prepare food as delegated by the executive chef.

Cruise Ship Chef de Partie: The chef de partie is in charge of preparing the gourmet cuisine and sauces. This is a specialty position and requires creativity and expert knowledge on international cuisine.

Cruise Ship Baker: The baker supervisor must make all of the bread and other baked goods that are required by the restaurants, galley, and shops for the duration of the journey. The baker will also need to keep an accurate record of all the ingredients and stock needed and used.

Cruise Ship Food and Beverage Manager: This position is one of the most important on the ship. The food and beverage manager is responsible for all of the areas that deal with food and beverage, and will manage the stocks, budgets, standards, health and hygiene and more.

Cruise Ship Pastry Chef: The pastry chef is responsible for preparing and making all of the pastries and desserts on board the ship for the guests and crew, as well as for the various gift shops.

You can learn much more when you become a member and find tons of jobs on our job board. You can choose the specific cruise liners that you want to travel on, specific destinations you want to travel to and the type of chef jobs that most interest you. Join today to access the best cruise liner chef jobs!

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I left Michelin-starred restaurants to work as a cruise chef. We can feed 10,000 people a day and I'll never leave this job.

• Gary Thomas had never seen a cruise ship before he went to work as a chef on Oasis of the Seas.
• Thomas plans to work for Royal Caribbean until he retires and hates to think of leaving cruising.
• He oversees the meals across all 26 ships and shares why they'll never take prime rib off the menu.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Gary Thomas, the senior traveling corporate executive chef for Royal Caribbean. This essay has been edited for length and clarity.

I never thought I'd work in the cruise industry. I'd never even seen a cruise ship in person before I rolled up to Oasis of the Seas. It was the first cruise ship I worked on and the biggest ship on the planet when it was being built.

That moment will live with me forever. 

I've been the senior corporate traveling executive chef for 11 years and worked at Royal Caribbean for nearly 15. I oversee the culinary operations and 6,000 chefs across all 26 ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. From menus and inventory to the day-to-day running of the kitchens in all our ships, I oversee it all. 

I head a corporate team of eight administrators who manage the 52 executive chefs on board the ships. Our team is responsible for making sure each ship can serve as many as 75,000 meals a day, seven days a week.

How I got into the cruise industry

I was always curious about cruises and whether the cooking standards were similar to kitchens on land.

Having spent 15 years working in specialty restaurants — like the luxury hotel restaurants at Claridge's and the London Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gavroche — I decided it was time to satisfy my curiosity.

In the early 2010s, I applied for a four-month contract as an executive chef for Royal Caribbean.

I was coming on board into a high position with no prior cruise experience. I was so nervous, I didn't think I'd last a week. Over a decade later, I'm still with Royal Caribbean. Taking this job was the best choice I ever made. 

What my day is like as an executive chef on board 

Ninety percent of my time is spent on board different vessels in our fleet. I'm usually on the same boat for two to three weeks, and occasionally I work from the Miami or UK offices. I'm based in Liverpool, where my family lives. 

I spend most of my day on calls and answering emails. I average between 1,000 and 2,000 emails a week. 

When I'm on a ship, I do some inspections with my executive chefs, culinary managers, and hotel leaders and offer ad hoc support. In the evenings, I walk around the ship with the executive chef and offer observational feedback.

Life as a chef on a cruise ship versus on land

People always judge the cooking on a ship. 

Our goal is to make sure that everyone's fed and watered — and leaves the ship 10 pounds heavier.

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We are responsible for feeding guests and crew alike. If our staff have full tummies and are satisfied, that translates positively into the guests' experience. 

As a chef on land, you only focus on your restaurant. But on board the largest ship on the planet, the 1,188-foot-long Wonder of the Seas , we have to feed nearly 10,000 people a day. 

This is the largest ship in our fleet. There are 33 kitchens on board, ranging from high-end specialty restaurants and steak houses to buffet areas, pizzerias, and sandwich shops. We also have a main dining room that seats up to 3,000 people. 

On land, your menus don't change much. Here, they change every day across the fleet. Our only fixed menus are the à la carte specialty-dining menus.

When you finish work at a restaurant or hotel at home, you can go home and switch off. As an executive cruise chef, I manage fleet operations seven days a week, 365 days a year.

I get normal annual leave, but it can be hard to switch off even on land. I'm still observing from afar. I don't mind it, though, because there's a good family spirit on board. 

We'd never mess with Royal Caribbean's signature dishes 

We have a product-development team that works with me and my team to develop menus across the fleet. They look at food trends and consumer insights on our dishes, and I do the culinary development with my team based on that. 

Some dishes might be introduced, some might be archived, and some might be tweaked. I listen to the guests more than I listen to anybody else.

There are a few signature dishes in the main dining rooms across the whole fleet that you just don't touch, like the garlic tiger shrimp, the escargot, and the prime rib, because they're so beloved by passengers. 

We'd be hanged, drawn, and quartered if we changed the prime rib.

How a kitchen on a cruise operates 

Everything we serve guests is produced on board. We butcher our own meat and fish, bake all our bread, and make all our desserts. 

For an Oasis-class ship, which carries up to 7,000 passengers, we load nearly $1 million worth of inventory onto the ship every seven days.

The fridges are a sight to behold. We operate a first-in, first-out system. Our target every seven days is for the fresh-produce fridges to be empty, ready to take on the new loading. 

I'll do this job until I retire

The people I've met while working as a cruise chef have inspired me, given me opportunities, and believed in me. You miss home, but there is a real family spirit on board cruise ships. It's one of the reasons I've stayed for so long.

I've been exposed to many cultures all over the world during my 15-year tenure. I estimate I've circumnavigated the globe over 100 times. These experiences are priceless to me.

I will 1 million percent do this job until I retire. I love my job and can't imagine leaving. 

Thinking about walking off the ship for the last time and knowing that I'm going home for good is scary, but I've got some good years left in me yet.

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

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Cruise Ship Chef Jobs

Chef de cuisine onboard a cruise ship is a senior member of the cruise line culinary team and is responsible for all other functional Chefs in the cruise ship kitchen. Chef de cuisine oversees the overall production of all foods in the galley/kitchen .

Working as a Chef on a cruise ship

Cruise ship Chef de Cuisine heads up a brigade composed of Sous Chefs , Chefs de Partie and Demi Chefs de Partie. Chef de cuisine ultimately reports to the executive cruise ship Chef.

The job of the cruise line Chef is to ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the kitchen he/she is assigned to. Other cruise ship Chef job responsibilities include: staff management, production of managerial reports, menu costing, portion standardization, supervision of food preparation and hygiene standards.

Chef de Cuisine working on a cruise ship are expected to be proficient in all aspects of food preparation  and on large vessels, oversee the production from scratch of meals for a population of up to 6000 passengers and crew.

On large cruise ships, a Chef de Cuisine can be assigned to a specific food outlet or can sometimes be responsible for several outlets. These outlets may include specialty restaurants (French, Italian Asian), buffets, dining rooms, Officers Mess, etc.

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What is it like to Work as a Chef on a Cruise Ship?

Professional chefs enjoy a wide range of choices when it comes to work sites. These can include restaurants, institutional kitchens, private households, casinos, and hotels. If you're thinking of parlaying your love of cooking into a life as a chef , you might choose one of these settings. If you're dreaming of a somewhat more adventurous life, you might think of working on a cruise ship.

Why Work on a Cruise Ship?

Do you love to travel? Do you enjoy visiting different countries and meeting people from all over the world? Chances are, a life as a cruise ship chef can provide those opportunities. But most important, a cruise ship chef may have an opportunity to develop professional skills in a rigorous environment that will serve them well in any culinary setting.

Cruise ships typically feature several restaurants, with staff preparing many different types of food during a cruise. Yes, there are breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but also a wide variety of culinary offerings for special parties, buffets, poolside snacks, and other occasions.

Being a cruise ship chef can be demanding. Cruise ships aim for a high standard of culinary preparation, as food is one of the main focuses for the hundreds of guests on board for each cruise. Days can be long, with vast arrays and quantities of dishes to prepare. It's not unusual for a cruise ship to call on its staff to work every day during a three-month contract.

However, most cruise ships do provide ample opportunities for rest and recreation at the end of a shift, and then ship's employees look forward to lengthy time off – typically six weeks to two months – after completing their contract employment.

Job Opportunities on a Cruise Ship

Some of the typical job opportunities on a cruise ship might include the following:

• Executive Chef:  Oversees culinary operations and team, as well as presentations and preparation
• Baker:  Responsible for baking multiple daily bread presentations
• Cook:  All-purpose culinary work
• Pastry chef:  Preparation of a wide variety of pastries
• Sushi chef:  Preparation of sushi or other Asian-inspired cuisine
• Party chef:  Preparation of food for parties and special events
• Pantry cook:  In charge of food forecast and requisitions, budgeting, supervising staff, setting up cold displays at buffet stations
• Sous chef:  Second in command to the executive chef
• Culinary administrator:  Supervising staff, coordinating with the executive chef and other managers, overseeing budget, presentation, quality of food, and sanitation

Living on the High Seas

One of the perks that come with working on a cruise ship are living accommodations. However, as you might guess, accommodations on board a cruise ship are limited for staff, so expect to share space or live in tight quarters. Generally, as staff rise in rank and enter management, living accommodations become more generous.

Staff may also expect to partake in crew mess (cafeterias) for eating, laundry facilities, crew stores, and a pay system so you can manage your finances while at sea. In addition, most cruise ships are likely to provide crew with recreational facilities such as video games, a lounge area, WiFi, a crew bar, and a crew gym.

One great benefit of working on a ship is the opportunity to save money. Many cruise ship staffers report that while taking advantage of the free accommodations and food service, they are focused on their work, and don't spend much of their salary while fulfilling the terms of their contracts.

How to Become a Cruise Ship Chef

If working as a cruise ship chef appeals to you, the next step will be getting the experience and education you need.

Often, chefs get their start by enrolling in a culinary arts program at a college. Depending on the direction you want to focus on, you will learn basic culinary skills, as well as more specialized skills. Some of the coursework is likely to include the following: kitchen organization, cooking methods and principles, baking, pastry fundamentals, preparation of meat, seafood and poultry, nutrition and healthy cooking. Advanced studies will provide instruction on culinary artistry, baking and pastry arts, recipe and menu development, international culinary preparation, and plating and preparation techniques.

If you intend to become a manager, you will need to study kitchen sanitation and safety, purchasing and storeroom management, food service supervision, dining room and service management and supervision for food service.

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Are you ready to sail the high seas, cooking up a storm for waves of hungry cruise ship guests? With accelerated learning and a year-round schedule, you could graduate with a diploma in as little as 15 months. Contact an admissions counselor to see if an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts degree at ECPI University is right for you. It could be The Best Decision You Ever Make!

DISCLAIMER – ECPI University makes no claim, warranty, or guarantee as to actual employability or earning potential to current, past or future students or graduates of any educational program we offer. The ECPI University website is published for informational purposes only. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained on the ECPI.edu domain; however, no warranty of accuracy is made. No contractual rights, either expressed or implied, are created by its content.

For more information about ECPI University or any of our programs click here: http://www.ecpi.edu/ or http://ow.ly/Ca1ya .

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Job Descriptions of Cruise Chefs

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A variety of chef positions are available on cruise ships. The specifics depend on your experience and training. Culinary school and experience in a variety of cooking venues gives a chef the background necessary for the job. Depending on your resume, you may start in a lower position aboard a cruise ship and work your way up the ladder to executive cruise chef, just as you would in a restaurant kitchen. American Cruise Lines suggests that the best cruise lines to work for give chefs the flexibility to experiment with different spices and cooking techniques to create their own signature dishes.

Executive Cruise Chef

The executive cruise chef is in charge of overseeing the preparation of all meals on a cruise ship. Four or five years of previous experience in a four or five star restaurant plus culinary school training are often prerequisites of the job. He manages the galley staff and plans the menus. The executive chef works closely with the ship’s food and beverage manager to keep costs within budget. He reports to the hotel director.

The executive chef oversees both the hot galley, which includes all types of cooking, especially freshly prepared foods, and the cold galley, which includes pastry and buffets. The executive chef monitors the safe handling of food and ensures that all kitchen staff are properly trained in sanitation regulations.

The executive chef supervises the service of all meals in the formal dining rooms, casual restaurants and buffets. An executive chef’s salary ranges between ​ $4,800 ​ and ​ $7,800 ​ a month, depending on his experience and the cruise line, according to Cruise Ship Jobs .

The sous chef works closely with the galley staff to ensure meals are properly planned and prepared. He may work under the supervision of an executive sous chef, who has final say on the budgeting of meals. The sous chef must be familiar with advanced cooking techniques so he can demonstrate food preparation to his staff.

Most cruise lines require the sous cruise chef to have culinary school training and several years of experience in a high-end restaurant. Cruise Ship Jobs indicates that salaries for sous chefs range between ​ $3,400 ​ and ​ $5,800 ​ per month.

Chef De Partie

The chef de partie prepares food in an attractive manner for meals and for buffets. He works closely with the sous chef to follow the meals planned by the sous chef. The chef de partie assigns tasks to the workers in the kitchen. This job also requires culinary school training and several years experience in a large kitchen. The chef de partie’s salary ranges between ​ $3,200 ​ and ​ $4,600 ​ per month.

The first cook or commis 1 prepares salads, gravies, soups, desserts and casseroles at the direction of the chef de partie. The first cook and the people who work under his supervision prepare raw food for cooking. This includes cutting and trimming meat, so he needs to be proficient with the use of sharp knives. Culinary school and experience is necessary for the first cook position,as well. A first cook can expect to earn between ​ $1,900 ​ and ​ $2,500 ​ per month.

• Cruise Ship Jobs: Culinary Jobs on Cruise Ships
• Cruise Ship Jobs: Cruise Ship Jobs – Executive Chef
• American Cruise Lines: Onboard Chefs

Denise Brown is an education professional who wanted to try something different. Two years and more than 500 articles later, she's enjoying her freelance writing experience for online resources such as Work.com and other online information sites. Brown holds a master's degree in history education from Truman State University.

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"cooking and happiness are similar...both are things we can create.", cooking at sea – employment of cruise line chefs.

Cooking at Sea

Would you like to know more about cooking at sea?

Cruise ships are very much like large floating hotels. There are all kinds of job positions available that pull from the full spectrum of the “Hotel & Restaurant Industry.”

Some of these jobs require highly developed skills, while others don’t. So there is a vast amount of job opportunities for skilled and unskilled employment. The focus of this post will be culinary-oriented jobs and chef opportunities on cruise lines. There are numerous jobs in the galley (kitchen department), many of which require prior restaurant or cruise ship experience.

The galley is usually divided into “hot” and “cold” sections into cruise lines, similar to the setup of large hotel kitchens. the hot side would include the cooking of vegetables, fish, meats, soups, pasta, hot side dishes, and grilled items to name a few. the cold galley consists of all baking, pastry, buffet preparation, ice carvings, and garde manger (salad and cold food items.).

So needless to say, there is something for everyone who works in the food industry on board cruise ships, especially in the galley department.

These positions are filled with men and women from all over the world, which allows great opportunities for employment regardless of your nationality. The career of a “cruise line chef” can be a very rewarding one, if in fact travel and constantly being away from home is not an issue for you in your life.

Cruise line chef work is extremely demanding, can be full of challenges, become subject to the conditions at sea, and is an all-consuming job.   Means a cruise line chef, eats, breaths, and lives for the job while on assignment. These jobs are held in high esteem by the culinary industry due in part to the total dedication that one must completely dedicate to the job, in order to complete a contractual work assignment successfully. Most cruise lines serve passengers round the clock.  There are no days off at sea, it is a seven-day work week!

This places a tremendous workload on the chef and his kitchen team . The average workday is approximately eleven hours. This is definitely not a job for clock watchers, those that can’t stand too long on their feet or have back problems. This is an all-consuming type of job, and it is your life for the duration of your employment contract, which could be anywhere from 4 to 8 months depending on your position.

To become a chef on a cruise ship, candidates require special training , go through a rigorous physical examination, and must possess broad cooking experience ,   strong culinary knowledge ,  along with a keen interest in the field of “Culinary Arts.”

The number of passengers on a ship may vary from as little as 500 to as many as 3,000. Therefore, each cruise is equipped with a fully staffed kitchen to serve food to its passengers 24/7. Employers hire chefs that have a previous working experience of around 3-5 years at a hotel, luxury resort, or restaurant.

The kitchens are manned by men and women from various countries around the world .  The chef and his culinary team have the duty to make sure all men and women cooking in the galley are cooking and seasoning in accordance with the company’s culinary vision and company standard , and most definitely not their own. This is the daily challenge of cooking with an international staff.

To become a culinary candidate for employment on a cruise ship, one should possess a cooking degree acquired from an accredited culinary school and obtain 3-5 years of experience cooking at well-established hotels and restaurants on land first.

Galleys on a ship are a very intense place at times . Landing a position in one with little to no experience would be a waste of time for you as well as for the cruise line, not to mention that this is also a dangerous place to be for those with little to zero experience.

If hired, you will be staying on the cruise ship for several months, so employers are always on the lookout for professionals who have sound health. This is due to the fact that acute illness conditions can prove fatal while on a cruise ship. While these acute illnesses can be easily treated or controlled in an emergency room if, on land, it is not easy on a cruise ship.

Therefore the chef and culinary professionals  who work on a cruise ship must be in good health and maintain good health through the duration of a work contract.

Physical, mental, and even sometimes dental examinations are part of the recruitment procedure to hire culinary professionals.

  Most of the huge cruise lines and mid-seized cruise lines have  employment application forms available online. You can easily send your resume online to apply for the chef and culinary positions. In my experience, on-line application hiring for cruise lines generally produced little to no results. Agencies, that hire for various cruise lines is the way to go and produce results.

All cruise lines use hiring agents in addition to their online employment sites. These agencies will walk you through the hiring process and send you all documentation needed to get hired properly and in a timely manner.

Finding a real and legit hiring agent is the tricky part. Any on-line agents that you stumble across on the internet that are asking for money or charging a fee to connect you to an agent are bogus and I highly suggest not to send any money for services that they promise to provide.

The ones I have used along with many fellow culinary professionals are listed below.

Cruise Ship Employment

Employment opportunities for chefs, cooks, and culinary professionals in general that have the desire to work at sea,  I highly suggest for you to look into ALL the sites below.

1) https://www.seachefs.com/en/

2) https://www.backup-jobs.com/en/

3) https://tinyurl.com/4ryavamd

It may take quite some time before you actually get a call from the cruise line. I personally suggest that if you really want to work and cook at sea that you be persistent and follow up as much as possible with these hiring agencies.

They are super busy and deal with hundreds of applications daily, persistence and follow-up prior to landing the job are key.

Here’s the bottom line : Depending on your skill set, experience, and availability you may eventually be called for an interview. Phone interviews via ‘Skype’ are usually the way initial interviews are conducted.

Remember the cruise line  recruitment officers  most likely will be  based out of various European countries, such as France, Austria, Italy, England and Sweden. So, phone interviews are the only way to begin the hiring process. Coinciding times to talk is also a crucial factor, one needs to keep the time difference in mind when orchestrating these very important over sea phone interviews.

During these interviews, I also suggest that you clearly express your culinary, and cooking capabilities, and formal training to make an impression on the interviewer. This may very well be the only chance you get to impress and possibly land a position with a cruise line. So, confidence, knowledge, and an overall appreciation for the opportunity should be expressed to the interviewer.

As mentioned above, a medical examination is mandatory to obtain a cruise line job. So, if you get past the interviewing process, be prepared for it. Drugs and alcohol abuse is a huge no-no and will be tested for prior to hiring.

Besides the financial rewards that can be had from working  on a cruise ship, you also have the opportunity of experiencing and seeing many wonderful and exciting places around the world making the overall job experience a very unforgettable one.

This kind of job is not for everyone, and may only be a job for just for growing and learning experience only. Others may find the cruise line chef job to be a perfect fit and a wonderful career path to follow.

Whatever the case may be, working at sea is a wonderful overall experience. Cooking at sea is a fantastic way to see the world make international friends, create memories that last a lifetime and build your resume.

Chef Franco Lania – Galley

Some of the hardest working men and women I have ever worked with were the men and women I worked with on cruise lines. It is a respectful and rewarding job. Culinary Arts at sea is a whole different ball game than on land. It is a multi-billion-dollar-a-year industry that keeps growing.

Jobs and opportunities are plentiful and with the world economy the way it is today the cruise line industry offers an enormous amount of job opportunities for those in need of employment, especially to those in the Hotel and Restaurant Industry.

Click here to read my post in New Theory Magazine about the cruise line industry in a post-Covid-19 world.

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Career prospects on board

Grow beyond yourself.

“From salad washer to sous chef” - 3-star chef Kevin Fehling worked his way up to the top of the Galley team on board the EUROPA in just two years. He has been running his own restaurant “The Globe” here since 2019 and is regularly onboard himself. This shows just one career path – and how about your future? Are you committed and passionate about your work? Take the chance to develop yourself further and set a course for your career ! On board a cruise ship, you will gather a lot of impressions and experiences – in a much shorter time than is possible on land. We do everything to support you and help you to pick up speed!

Own promotion pool

If there are superior positions to be filled on board, we prefer to promote our own crew members. As an existing part of our team, you are already familiar with everyday life onboard, you know the processes and the ship. We would like to offer this perspective to all crew members. With a lot of commitment you have the best chances of reaching the next career level.

Further training onboard

We want to be at your side at all times of your career. That is why we offer a variety of further education, training and development opportunities . We would like to help you to develop your career, but also so that you can develop personally. In addition to professional training on board, you have the chance to work with the best in the sector . Let yourself be inspired by star chefs like Tim Raue, Kevin Fehling or our Culinary Director Fritz Pichler . As part of our World. Class. Team. you will definitely think outside the box!

Get to know new areas

Would you like to change your perspective? With so-called cross training you have the opportunity to get a taste of other areas during your time on board. For example, if you as a cook want to lend a hand in the Entertainment team, our stage technician team will certainly let you look over their shoulder. Would you like to accompany one or the other shore excursion? Some ships and trips even allow you to get a Zodiac driver’s license in Antarctica or to accompany guests through the Amazon. Inquire in advance at the Crew Office and ask the responsible department head.

Language courses

We offer language courses for our international crew members on some ships. Non-German speaking crew members receive German courses at different language levels. In this way they can further improve their qualifications and career opportunities.

apprenticeship as a Cook

Your training. Seven seas - One career ladder. Start your training as a Trainee Galley on board the Mein Schiff  Fleet. In cooperation with the WIFI Tirol we offer an apprenticeship as a Cook - the only program onboard a cruise ship at sea! Within the two year program, you will acquire high-quality culinary skills and complete your final apprenticeship examination in Tyrol. Within two more years, you can qualify as a Sous Chef in various specialised modules - and discover the world along the way! Particularly committed graduates can look forward to the position as a Chef after a further four modules. PS: Lateral entrants are also very welcome!

Career ashore

Did you know that sea chefs is not only your employer on board, but also offers a wide range of job opportunities on land ? If at some point you have travelled all over the world and feel like settling down, as an expert on processes on board you are the perfect candidate for a position in our offices on land. Here you will get to know what is going on “behind the scenes on land” and you will surely meet one or two former colleagues from on board again.

The corporate divisions include food purchasing, logistics and the recruiting of new crew members. Are you curious? You can find all areas in which sea chefs is active here .

Cruise Ship Jobs - Culinary Jobs. Executive Chef, Sous Chef, Chef De Partie, Commis, Cook, Pastry Chef, Baker Jobs.

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With all of this food preparation and dining, there has to be a team responsible for cleaning up after the passengers and cooks. A cleaning crew (utility division) washes all of the dishes and tableware (including the pots and pans), changes the table cloths, vacuums the floors, and cleans the windows and bar areas. In general the galley department offers the following cruise ship jobs: Executive Chef / Chef De Cuisine, Executive Sous Chef, Sous Chef, Chef De Partie, Demi Chef De partie, Commis 1 (First Cook), Commis 2 (Second Cook), Commis 3 (Third Cook), Cook Trainee,  Crew Cook /Crew Cook Assistant /Crew Cook Trainee, Crew Cook Utility / Crew Messman, Provision Master / Storekeeper, Assistant Provision Master / Storekeeper, Pastry Chef , Assistant Pastry Chef, Pastry Man, Pastry Trainee, Baker Supervisor, Baker Trainee, Galley Steward / Galley Cleaner, Dishwasher / Pot Washer.

Executive Chef / Chef De Cuisine - responsible for the entire galley staff, food planning, quality control, directs all the culinary and associated activities throughout the vessel either personally or through subordinate managers and supervisors. Mentors, develops and provides on-the-job training to subordinates. Reviews financial transactions and monitors budget to ensure efficient operations. Requirements : eight to ten years in subordinate position on board and/or 4-5 star hotels, restaurants or high volume food service facilities. Managerial experience required. Must posses the ability to manage international staff in a positive and productive manner. Must speak English clearly and distinctly, write and read English in order to understand written procedures, give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms. Approved certification or culinary school degree-granting program completion required. Salary range: $4500-7800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Executive Sous Chef - responsible for the day to day operations of the galley staff, assisting the Executive Chef with the food planning, preparation and quality control. Communicates with the Executive Chef on daily basis, reviews menus to estimate food and time requirements. Meets with the Sous Chef to review guest comments to implement revisions and improvements. Manages the financial aspects of the assigned food operation, prepares a variety of reports and letters utilizing personal computer system and equipment. Trains and monitors all levels of cooks and chefs for proper skill and service. Collaborates with the Executive Chef to plan menu requirements, serving arrangements, guest comments and other related details. Collaborates with the Provision Master to ensure the highest quality, delivery and storage of all food items. Requirements : five to seven years in subordinate position on board and/or 4-5 star hotels, restaurants or high volume food service facilities. Managerial experience required. Must posses the ability to manage international staff in a positive and productive manner. Must speak English clearly and distinctly, write and read English in order to understand written procedures, give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms. Approved certification or culinary school degree-granting program completion required. Salary range: $3800-6500 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Executive Chef.

Sous Chef - responsible for the day to day operations of the galley staff, assisting the Executive Chef with the food planning, preparation and quality control. Manages and coordinates activities of various workstations engaged in preparing, timing and cooking. Reviews food requisitions from the various workstations and forwards to Executive Sous Chef for final approval. Monitors the assignment of duties and responsibilities to employees. Observes and evaluates employees and work procedures to ensure quality standards and service is met.Manages the financial aspects of the assigned food operation, prepares a variety of reports and letters utilizing personal computer system and equipment. Trains and monitors all levels of cooks and chefs for proper skill and service. Recommends measures to improve work procedures and employee performance to increase quality of food and job safety. Requirements : five to seven years in subordinate position on board and/or 4-5 star hotels, restaurants or high volume food service facilities. Must speak English clearly and distinctly, write and read English in order to understand written procedures, give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms. Ability to read, interpret and demonstrate the preparation of recipes for all basic meat, fish, sauce and side dishes. The demonstration includes advanced cooking methods such as braise, sauté, broil and grill and the use of a variety of knifes to slice, dice, chop, julienne, etc. Approved certification or culinary school degree-granting program completion required. Salary range: $3400-5800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Executive Sous Chef.

Demi Chef De Partie - Demi Chef de Partie is responsible to assist the Station Head or Sous Chef in contributing to the overall success of the assigned station. Meets with the assigned station-head, the Chef de Partie or Sous Chef on daily basis to review the requirements of the meals and time frames for restaurant service. Knows and operates all equipment according to standard operating procedures. Performs multitask activities in food preparation including setting up of mis en place for daily menu requirement. Ensures all food on plates is correctly portioned and serve uniformly. Must be able to explain menu ingredients and preparation techniques when working buffet areas. Requirements : minimum two years experience cooking and preparing food in a 4 or 5-star hotel, restaurantor high volume food service facility required. Good English Language skills required. Culinary school education required. Salary range: $2700-3700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Chef De Partie.

Commis 1 (First Cook) - supervises Commis 2 and Commis 3 (second and third cooks). Food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by the Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. Organize and prepare mis en place. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. Works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. Perform multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. Butcher chicken, fish and shellfish. Cut, trim and bone meat prior to cooking or serving. Must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility . Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1900-2500 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Demi Chef De Partie.

Commis 2 (Second Cook) - food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by Commis 1, Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. Organize and prepare mis en place. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. Works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. Perform multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. Butcher chicken, fish and shellfish. Cut, trim and bone meat prior to cooking or serving. Must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility . Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1600-2200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Commis 1 (First Cook).

Commis 3 (Third Cook) - food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by Commis 1, Commis 2, Demi Chef De partie and Chef De Partie. Organize and prepare mis en place. Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles. Works in various galley stations that prepare meat, fish, vegetables, and other foods for baking, roasting, broiling, grilling, braising, sautéing and steaming. Perform multitask activities such as wash, peel, cut and shred fruits and vegetables. Butcher chicken, fish and shellfish. Cut, trim and bone meat prior to cooking or serving. Must be able to explain ingredients in the menu and preparation techniques while working in buffet areas. Requirements : two to three years kitchen experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant or high volume food service facility . Ability to read, interpret, demonstrate culinary fundamentals and knife skills, sound knowledge of food handling procedures and food ingredients from international classical dishes, ability to identify and operate common kitchen equipment such as grinders, deep fryers, ovens, Bain Marie, mixers required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1400-1800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.one or two years in subordinate position on board and / or hotel and restaurant experience required. Fare English Language skills required. Possibilities for promotion to Commis 2 (Second Cook).

Cook Trainee (food preparation and cooking responsibilities as directed by the First Cook) - prior hotel / restaurant experience required. Culinary school education required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $800-1200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Strong possibilities for promotion to Commis 3 (Third Cook).

Crew Cook / Crew Cook Assistant / Crew Cook Trainee (food preparation and cooking responsibilities for the crew as directed by the First Cook) - prior hotel / restaurant experience required. Culinary school education required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $900-1200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Strong possibilities for promotion to Third Cook.

Crew Cook Utility / Crew Messman (cleaning, general maintenance as directed by the First Cook) - entry level position, no experience required. Very basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $600-900 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Buffet Steward.

Provision Master / Storekeeper (responsible for the entire storage, ordering and distribution of all food supplies as directed by the Executive Chef) - food and beverage background essential, knowledge of accounting required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1500-1800 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Provision Master / Storekeeper (responsible for the storage, ordering and distribution of all food supplies as directed by the Provision Master / Storekeeper ) - food and beverage background essential, knowledge of accounting required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1200-1600 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Pastry Chef Supervisor (responsible for the supervision of the pastry staff, oversees the developing and preparation of all pastries) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1900-2400 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Pastry Chef Supervisor (responsible for the supervision of the pastry staff as directed by the Pastry Chef Supervisor, oversees the developing and preparation of all pastries) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1600-2100 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Pastry Chef Supervisor.

Pastry Man (pastry staff responsible for creating and preparing of all pastries as directed by the Pastry Chef Supervisor) - culinary background of no less than two years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Fare English Language skills required. Salary range: $1100-1500 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Pastry Chef Supervisor.

Pastry Trainee (pastry support staff responsible for assisting in the preparation and cooking of all pastries as directed by the Pastry Chef Supervisor. Cleaning and maintenance of pastry stations) - culinary background of no less than one year restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $800-1300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Pastry Man.

Baker Supervisor (responsible for the supervision of the baker staff. Controls the preparation and cooking of all bakery products) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1800-2300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Baker Supervisor (responsible for the supervision of the baker staff as directed by the Baker Supervisor. Assists in the preparation and cooking of all bakery products) - culinary background of no less than three years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Good English Language skills required. Salary range: $1600-1900 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Baker Supervisor.

Baker (bakery staff responsible for preparation and cooking of all bakery products as directed by the Baker Supervisor) - culinary background of no less than two years restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Fare English Language skills required. Salary range: $1200-1700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Baker Supervisor.

Baker Trainee (bakery support staff responsible for assisting in the preparation and cooking of all bakery products as directed by the Baker Supervisor) - culinary background of no less than one year restaurant / hotel experience or prior experience in subordinate position on board required. Basic English Language skills required. Salary range: $900-1300 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Baker.

Galley Steward / Galley Cleaner (cleaning and maintenance of assigned galley stations) - entry level position, no experience required. Minimum English Language skills required. Salary range: $500-700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Cabin Steward (see Housekeeping Department).

Dishwasher / Pot washer (cleaning and stacking of all galley and passengers dishes, pots, pans etc.) - entry level position, no experience required. Minimum English Language skills required. Salary range: $500-600 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Cabin Steward (see Housekeeping Department).

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Pastry Chef

Job summary:, responsibilities:.

• Assist Executive Pastry Chef to implement, maintain and review all approved menus onboard
• Prepare all desserts, cakes and pastries for the restaurant menus
• Assist with buffet set up
• Instruct crew in the preparation of pastries, cakes and crèmes
• Monitor and ensure opening and closing procedures for all kitchens and production areas
• Oversee allergy and dietary training of Pastry staff and ensure training is in accordance with strict company LOG’s and guidelines
• Oversee proper preparation of special dietary meals and food allergy for guests and crew
• Delegate, monitor and review the Chefs operational responsibilities
• Strive to meet and exceed guest expectations, never compromising safety and quality, taking corrective action whenever necessary
• Ensure Disney Cruise Line and USPH sanitation requirements are met in area of responsibility
• Monitor and ensure the preparation and presentation of all products on the restaurant menus
• Prepare showpieces, displays, ice cream and sorbets, as well as special request items when needed
• Actively participate in all Castaway Cay job responsibilities associated with position and line of business as directed by DCL leadership
• Execute additional job responsibilities, as assigned by DCL leadership, based on operational need
• Comply with all company set policies and procedures, along with all maritime and ship rules, regulations and procedures
• Participate in Emergency Duties as specified in the ship Assembly Plan

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum five years recent experience as Pastry Chef or Pastry Chef de Partie
• Certified Pastry Chef or equivalent degree in Culinary Arts
• Excellent technical and functional understanding of the ship based Food & Beverage operation
• Proven track record of delivering a high quality product
• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be able to speak, read and write fluent English
• Willingness to live and work onboard one of our vessels for a certain length of time (based on position)
• Be able to work a seven-day, 70-84 hour week with limited time off
• Be able to adhere to Disney Cruise Line appearance guidelines
• Agree to share a cabin with other crew members
• Enjoy working in a high-volume, fast-paced, guest-service oriented environment
• Be flexible with your work schedule, job duties and work locations
• Appreciate diversity among guests and crew

Additional Information:

This is a SHIPBOARD role.

Applicants must:

• Be genuinely interested in a career at sea and willing to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel
• Be committed to the position you are applying for at least 2-3 contracts before a transfer or promotion
• Be willing to follow and perform safety role, emergency duties and/or associated responsibilities as specified in the ship Assembly Plan
• Be willing and able to uphold the general safety management responsibilities specified in the Safety Management System in areas and operations under their control
• Be willing to follow and embrace United States Public Health requirements and guidelines as well as Environmentality requirements and Company practices
• Be willing to share a cabin with other crew members and appreciative of working and living in a multi-cultural environment
• Be comfortable living in a confined space with strict rules and regulations
• Adhere to a structured lifestyle, personally and professionally

Your Responsibilities:

• Have a valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa (DCL will provide you with documents to obtain this)
• Complete a pre-employment medical
• Obtain a criminal background check
• Bring approved work shoes

** Disney Cruise Line is a drug-free workplace. All new hires are required to undergo drug/alcohol testing within the first week onboard and throughout their contracts. Failure to pass the drug/alcohol testing will result in immediate termination.

About Disney Cruise Line:

A leader in the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line provides a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all the magic that Disney has to offer. Guests can sail out of ports around the world on exciting itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska and Europe, among others. Aboard the fleet of five ships – the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish – and Disney’s private island paradise in the Bahamas - Castaway Cay, crew members provide guests with unparalleled service, enchanting storytelling and immersive family entertainment that only Disney can deliver.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with Magical Cruise Company, Limited , which is part of a business we call Disney Cruise Line .

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• Recruitment process

Set sail on a new career with Carnival, and help us bring the FUN to life aboard one of our fantastic vessels! We’re looking for dedicated individuals to join us as Commis!

Our guest love to eat and with all the amazing food on board our ships who can blame them! As a Commis for Carnival you will be assisting cooks when preparing meals, ensuring that all food production recipes and presentation specifications are followed, as per company standard, to produce food of consistent quality and cost.

Part of our hardworking Galley team – Commis are responsible for following recipes and specification to ensure quality and consistency of the meals they produce as well as ensuring the highest level of sanitation is maintained, all in keeping with company and USPH standards. 

You will be a real foodie who, has an eye for detail and enjoys being part of a large diverse and busy team where no two days are the same but there is always FUN! Joining Carnival as a Commis is the first step towards a rewarding career as part of our amazing Galley Team!     

·     Maintain the quality and presentation of all food served and the expedition thereof.

·      Follow all USPH and HACCP procedures in all food production and galley maintenance.

·      Assist the cook in directing and leading the trainees.

·      Serve food on the service lines and present it to company specifications.

·      Follow all recipes to company specifications and avoid wastage.

·      Communicate and cooperate with all other team members, to ensure a smooth food delivery system.

·      Ensure garbage separation standards are being followed.

·      Perform all other tasks assigned by senior management.

·      Advise Superiors on different or inferior products being received.

·      Maintain Hospitality standards at all times towards Crew and Guests.

Undergo assigned trainings to develop skills & knowledge for the future positions.

Report any equipment malfunction, difficulties & concerns to the supervisor on duty.

Follow additional duties, other than listed in the job description, assigned by management due to the operational needs/shortages/changes.

Ensure beverage stations are full at all times and cleaned daily.

Engage in light conversations with guests always greet them with a smile.

You should have at least 2-4 years of experience in a similar role.

Fluency in spoken English to connect with guests is required.

Minimum guest interaction might be required.

You must pass a Seafarers Medical Fitness Examination.

You focus on continuous improvement and collaboration.

Port to plate in 48 hours? How Holland America Line brings fresh fish to guests

The semitruck carrying my dinner backed into its parking spot at the Port of San Diego on a late morning in early April.

Shortly before noon, the vehicle opened to reveal roughly 2,800 pounds of fish that had been caught just days earlier. Workers transferred boxes of mahi-mahi and other seafood from the chilly trailer to a warehouse-like space. The fish was inspected and moved onto an extension lift – think a utility vehicle modeled on Mr. Fantastic – parked near Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship.

Its mechanical arm reached across the edge of the pier into a square opening toward the vessel’s aft, where it disappeared from view. But by about 7 p.m., a piece of that mahi-mahi was on my plate in the ship’s main dining room.

Prepared with cilantro rice, guajillo chiles, chipotle and tomato, the fish was mild and sweet with a kick from the spicy sauce.

As part of its Global Fresh Fish Program, Holland America brings a wide range of seafood from port to plate within 48 hours across its fleet. Last week, the brand took that a step further, revealing it is the first global cruise line to receive Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certifications for more sustainable and responsible seafood sourcing.

USA TODAY got a behind-the-scenes look at how the program works during a recent cruise.

What is Holland America’s fresh fish program?

The cruise line sources fish locally from more than 60 ports around the world. During Koningsdam’s April 5 voyage, the crew picked up the mahi-mahi along with rockfish, swordfish, rainbow trout and sea bass in San Diego.

The 48-hour window applies on most voyages, but on repositioning sailings or crossings, fresh fish may be served over a longer window. In those circumstances, however, the fish is not served under the “port to plate” banner.

On our sailing, they initially loaded enough for five or six days and would later restock. “So out of the 22-day voyage, hopefully, we can do maybe 12 or 13 times fresh fish upstairs and in the dining room,” said executive chef Darran Yardley-Salisbury in a storeroom lined with metallic shelves on one of the vessel’s lower decks.

Michael Stendebach, the line’s vice president of Food & Beverage and Guest Services, told USA TODAY the program was born in response to increasing guest demand for seafood and a desire to make the procurement process more sustainable. He said at least 75% of Holland America passengers order fresh fish once – if not twice – per cruise.

“We were looking into the destinations where we are cruising, like Alaska or the Caribbean, and we wanted to get away from the delivery of (shipping) containers into ports,” Stendebach said. “We wanted to build relationships in the single destinations we are in with suppliers.”

The cruise line previously announced in 2022 that it was certified by Responsible Fisheries Management by serving only fresh, sustainable Alaska seafood on its ships sailing there before scaling up its efforts.

Unlike frozen fish, which is prepared in larger portions – though they vary based on the ship’s size – Stendebach said the fresh fish is cooked “á la minute.”

“The fresh fish is kept cold until the order is coming in and then they start to produce it, so there's no overproduction,” he said. “It's really on the spot, and I think that is the freshest way you can experience the fish.”

During the first few days of the April cruise, other fresh fish dishes included sea bass with lemon butter sauce and tapenade at brasserie Rudi’s Sel de Mer and trout with a bread crumb and cashew crust served in a curry sauce at Asian restaurant Tamarind.

Fresh fish is not available in all ports, though, Yardley-Salisbury said, and the line also still serves seafood that has been frozen (outside of Alaska). The percentage of fresh versus frozen fish varies by sailing.

What kinds of fish are part of the program?

The program features more than 80 kinds of fish, with different selections depending on where the ship is sailing. The Caribbean has options like summer flounder and yellowfin tuna, while Hawaii offers striped marlin and Hawaiian pink snapper, among others (a full list can be found on Holland America’s website ).

Getting fresh supplies is easier on some cruises than others. On sailings like ours with many sea days, the kitchen staff has fewer options than in Europe for instance, where vendors are plentiful. "In Europe, it's a little bit like heaven for a chef," said Yardley-Salisbury. "We can go from port to port and we can get the most amazing stuff."

The cruise line denotes which options are fresh on the menus, and will label items that are MSC and ASC certified as well. MSC certifications apply to wild-caught seafood, while ASC certifications are for farmed seafood.

“Overfishing, unregulated fishing, excessive bycatch, these are all things that have a huge impact on the oceans,” said Erika Feller, regional director, Americas at the MSC.

MSC issues certifications to fisheries that meet its sustainability requirements, as well as Chain of Custody certifications that affirm the fish customers are buying comes from a certified fishery. The process is voluntary and the certifications are based on third-party audits.

The fishery certification lasts five years, while the Chain of Custody certification is good for three. Both undergo annual audits to ensure they are maintaining those conditions.

The crew on Koningsdam did a quality check of its own kind.

Yardley-Salisbury and members of the kitchen staff tasted dishes, including fish, before service to make sure the dishes are prepared according to the recipe and the flavor profile is "as it should be." Gathered around a table in a galley, they each grabbed spoon or forkfuls of every dish.

They repeat that process every day before service. "Any alterations that we need to make should only be seasoning issues, temperature issues, volume issues, maybe a little bit of sauce," he said.

What happens to uneaten cruise food?: These lines are working to reduce waste

Does fresh fish cost more?

Fresh fish may be more expensive, but passengers shouldn’t worry about seeing higher fares or food costs as a result. Stendebach said the line is saving money on logistics costs by cutting back on containers “being shipped from A to B.”

“So for that reason, you can spend more money on the product,” he said.

The program and the new certifications help offer guests a user-friendly way to eat more sustainably . Feller said, “the whole idea here is to make it easy for people to find that good choice.”

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Holland America Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

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

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .