By Barbara Bean-Mellinger Updated June 29, 2018
Working on a cruise ship can be grueling, with long shifts and little time off. For most crew members, salaries are low. Yet many people spend years working on cruise ships for the unique benefits the lifestyle provides. If they decide to work on land again at some point, they have resumes full of unusual experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
Travel the World
One of the main reasons people choose to work on cruise ships is the chance to travel to many places they might not otherwise have the opportunity to see. Since they live on the ship, they receive room and board as part of their compensation. They travel the world without paying for expensive hotels and food. Employees typically sign contracts to work on a ship for six to nine months. Although they don't receive a lot of time off per week, they do have the chance to explore the ports where the ship docks. At the end of their contracts, they can sign on to another ship going to new destinations.
Save Money
Cruise crew members' salaries are low partly because they receive food and a place to live. Jobs that involve customer service, such as room stewards and dining table waiters, are highly dependent on tips. Ship workers find they don't need to spend a lot of money, though, and are able to save money or send it home to support their families. Crew members say that after some initial splurging, they spend very little in ports because they go to them so often. Ships host crew parties on a regular basis, too, covering part of what they'd spend on entertainment.
International Friendships
Many crew members say the friends they make from all over the world are the best part of working on a cruise ship. Most live in two-person rooms and get to know their roommates well. This naturally includes learning about their countries, cultures and beliefs. Working in close quarters on long shifts and going ashore together during time off, they get to know other crew members well too – experiences they wouldn't have if they only visited a country for a week at a time.
Great Food
Crew members eat some of the same food as the passengers, but their cooks also prepare food that's common in employees' home countries. Most consider the food to be very good. Rules usually forbid eating with passengers or in passenger restaurants, but food in the crew quarters is of the same quality and just as plentiful. Staff members – different from the crew and including the captain, the captain's staff, hotel employees, entertainers and retail store workers – have a separate dining room and can sometimes eat in passenger areas as well.
Good Weather
With the exception of Alaskan cruises, most cruise ships travel to places where the weather is pleasant year-round –warm-weather locales like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Mexico and Hawaii – and the scenery is beautiful. Employees choose the cruise they sign on to, so if weather's important to them, they can choose a cruise that matches their ideal climate.
FAQs
You'll Gain Transferable Experience and Skills
Working on a cruise ship is a great way to gain experience and skills that you can use in any career. Whether you're looking to move up within the cruise industry or start a new career altogether, you'll be able to add your time at sea to your CV.
Why you should work on a cruise ship? ›
Benefits of Working on a Cruise Ship
- Travel the World While Earning Money. Imagine waking up in a new destination every week, from the Caribbean to Europe, and Asia to Antarctica. ...
- Free Accommodation. ...
- Free Meals. ...
- No Taxes. ...
- International Friendships. ...
- Free Medical Care.
One of the main reasons people choose to work on cruise ships is the chance to travel to many places they might not otherwise have the opportunity to see. Since they live on the ship, they receive room and board as part of their compensation. They travel the world without paying for expensive hotels and food.
What would you say is the most challenging aspect about working on a cruise ship? ›
Most crew members also agree that being away from loved ones is the hardest aspect of working at sea, especially when homesickness hits them.
How to ace a cruise ship interview? ›
Research and familiarize yourself with typical interview questions asked for cruise ship roles: -Tell us about yourself: Prepare a concise yet informative response that highlights your background, relevant experience, and enthusiasm for working on a cruise ship.
Why do you want to work here and why this role? ›
The best way to prepare for this question is to learn about the products, services, mission, and workplace culture of the company. Try to mention the aspects of the company that align with your values and how this role really fits in with your career goals.
What do I need if I want to work on a cruise ship? ›
Eligibility Requirements for Cruise Ship Jobs
- 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.
Cruise lines also conduct background checks and drug tests on all candidates. This includes checking criminal records, employment history, and credit history. Candidates who have a criminal record or a history of drug use may be disqualified from employment.
Why do you want to work for Carnival Cruise Lines? ›
Informal Tone:-
I am also drawn to the fun and energetic atmosphere that I have heard is present at carnivalcruise.se. Additionally, I am excited about the possibility of meeting and interacting with people from all over the world and being a part of creating unforgettable experiences for guests.
Why do you want to work at sea? ›
❖ Adventure: Life at sea is fully of adventure and interesting experiences. Even with the latest technologies an ocean voyage can be quite exciting. ❖ Excellent pay: Most shipping companies offer excellent packages right, incentives and benefits which are at par or above any other industry in the world.
Cruises are a popular way to spend a vacation because they are affordable, kids can have fun and feel safe, and the food is good. A cruise is a popular choice for a vacation for many reasons, such as romance, variety, reunions, new experiences, and ease.
What do you think it is like to work on a cruise ship? ›
While specific working hours can vary, many employees often work long hours – certain roles require continuous rotating shifts to ensure the cruise carries on safely. You will also need to be prepared to spend long periods of time away from home. Hands-on work is the norm on cruise ships.
Why do you want to work in cruise ship answer? ›
I love to travel and I think it would be a great opportunity to see different parts of the world while working. I also like the idea of working on a cruise ship because it would be a new and exciting experience. Good luck with your Interview at Msc Cruises.
What cruise line is the best to work for? ›
Cruising to Success: The Top Cruise Lines Offering the Best Jobs
- Royal Caribbean International. One of the biggest and most well-known cruise companies in the world is Royal Caribbean International. ...
- Norwegian Cruise Line. ...
- Disney Cruise Line. ...
- MSC Cruises. ...
- Holland America Line.
Cruise Ship Worker Salary
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay |
|---|
| Top Earners | $90,000 | $7,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,000 | $4,833 |
| Average | $49,005 | $4,083 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,000 | $2,500 |
I would love to work at carnivalcruise.se because I have always been fascinated by the cruise industry and the opportunity to travel while working. I am also drawn to the fun and energetic atmosphere that I have heard is present at carnivalcruise.se.
What is the best answer for why do you want to be a cabin crew? ›
Answer: My passion for travel and a strong desire to ensure passenger comfort and safety drive me towards this profession. Being a cabin crew member is not just a job; it is an opportunity to represent the airline's values and positively impact travellers' experiences.
