Benefits of working on a cruise
Benefits of Working on a Cruise
Working on a cruise ship allows you to expand your knowledge and horizons while traveling to new destinations, experiencing new cultures, and enjoying the benefits of a competitive global salary.
Traveling and Discovering New Destinations
Cruise lines hire staff throughout the year, and the itineraries vary depending on the cruise line and ship type. This means you may be assigned to any itinerary worldwide, giving you the opportunity to explore different corners of the globe while working in a high-level environment.
Contracts
Contract durations vary by position and cruise line. Generally, contracts can be 4, 6, or 9 months long, after which the employee has a vacation period of approximately two months without pay.
The job can be demanding, as the average work week is 72 hours (extra hours are considered overtime).
Accommodations and Equipment
Employees have everything they need to live and work comfortably onboard. This includes all meals, accommodation (usually shared with other crew members depending on the position), medical assistance, rest periods, leisure activities, and socializing opportunities.
At the start of employment, companies often provide the necessary uniforms and work tools, sometimes at a partial cost to the employee. Generally, the worker does not need to bring tools or uniforms (except for shoes in some cases). The company also handles the cleaning of uniforms and, for certain positions, provides free laundry service for personal clothing.
Competitive Salaries
Depending on the position and experience, salaries can reach up to $5,000 USD. The advantage is that there are virtually no expenses onboard for employees, meaning 100% of the salary remains net, allowing for significant savings and a substantial sum when the contract ends.
Not only is it possible to move up to positions of greater responsibility and rank within the ship, but working on a cruise also allows you to gain extensive experience and training while building a global network of contacts that can open doors to new opportunities and challenges.
Success stories
Learn how working on cruise ships has changed the lives of those working with Selection Partners.
FAQ
How long does a cruise ship contract last?
Contracts usually last between 4 and 9 months, depending on the position and company. After the contract ends, employees typically have a rest period of about two months before they can re-embark.
How much free time is there between work shifts?
The work schedule on a cruise ship is intense and can reach 72 hours per week, although employees are entitled to a minimum of 10 hours of rest within each 24-hour period, according to the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006). Of these, at least 6 hours must be continuous, usually for sleeping and resting.
Can I use the Internet while on board?
Yes, most ships offer Internet access for the crew, although this service is often limited and sometimes chargeable. The connections may not be as fast as on land due to satellite technology. However, more companies are improving their Internet services for staff.
What if I don’t speak English well?
The level of English required varies by position. For roles with direct passenger contact, a good command of English is essential as it is the primary language onboard. However, for internal or technical positions, it may be possible to apply with basic English skills, provided you have the necessary technical skills. Improving your English level will increase your hiring and growth opportunities within the company.
What medical benefits are offered onboard?
Onboard, employees have access to medical care at no cost in case of illness or accident while on the ship. The vessels are equipped with doctors and trained medical staff to handle emergencies and provide basic treatments.
Find your next adventure onboard!
Explore the available positions at Selection Partners for working on cruises. We have many work areas available to help you advance your career!
Restaurant area
Bar area
Galley area
Entertainment and photo areas
Guest services area
Retail area
Housekeeping area
Stage staff area
medical area
Our services are free of charge
The countries where Selection Partners operates are:
Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Peru, Venezuela, and Uruguay.
We have the MLC Certification required by the ILO and issued by Lloyd’s Register.