All cruises allow you to explore the world. However, only the private yacht-style cruises from Windstar bring you close enough to truly experience it. Each of Windstar Cruises’ yachts can accommodate between 148 and 342 passengers. This intimacy offers luxuries like time, space, and the freedom to immerse yourself in both the journey and the destination in ways that may be unimaginable.

Among all the things that make Windstar different from the ordinary, the crew is the most exceptional. For them, hospitality is not just a job; it’s a calling, and they strive to create a dream voyage for passengers, considering personal details that result in a unique and unforgettable experience.

Why work at Windstar Cruises?

Windstar offers an exclusive experience, with a crew member for every 1.5 passengers on board. This creates a different work experience, one that is more close-knit and family-like, both among crew members and passengers, without neglecting the courtesy and respect that each cruise upholds.

Moreover, the smaller size of these ships allows for more agile navigation to remote and shallow ports that other cruise lines can only imagine approaching. This more intimate and authentic experience for passengers also translates to crew members, giving you the opportunity to visit different and exotic places around the world, away from the crowds.

Requirements to work at Windstar Cruises

• Must be over 21 years old.
• Proven experience in luxury hotels/restaurants.
• Fluent in English.
• Valid STCW certification.
• C1D visa.
• Up-to-date passport.
• Seaman’s Book or Seafarer’s Book.
• COVID vaccinations.

Contractual Conditions for Windstar Cruises

• 6 to 9 months of contract (depending on the position) / 2 months of vacation. Open to those who wish to shorten the contract / temporary contracts.
• All expenses are reimbursed on board (visa, STCW, medical exams, COVID vaccine, and other tests).
• Flights are provided by the company.

Available Positions at Windstar Cruises
Kitchen – Bar – Buffet

• Waiter
• Sous Chef
• Executive Sous Chef
• Chef de Partie
• 1st Commis
• Bartender
• Bar Steward
• Buffet Steward
• Sommelier
• Galley Steward – Dish Washer
• Assistant Cook

Housekeeping

• Room Division Supervisor
• Stateroom Steward
• Junior Stateroom Steward

Customer Service

• Future Cruise Consultant
• IT Assistant
• Junior Assistant Purser / Guest Service Officer

Entertainment Department

This area is responsible for offering recreational and entertainment activities to passengers during their cruise. Professionals in this department create memorable and fun experiences, from live shows to recreational activities.

Specific Positions:

• Production Assistant / Sound Technician
• Stage Crew / Light and Sound Operator
• Cruise Staff
• Youth Staff

How to Apply for a Cruise Job

Application: Complete the form and CV in English in detail. Include your full name as it appears on your passport, your most recent work experiences with dates and responsibilities. Apply only for one position and check the requirements for available vacancies.
Interview: If you meet the profile, you will be contacted for an interview in English. You may be evaluated for different vacancies. Some positions require a second interview with the cruise company.
Pre-embarkation: Once approved, you will receive the job offer and terms of employment. You will need to complete documentation and certifications such as visas and medical exams.
Embarkation: You will be assigned an embarkation date and receive details about flights, emergency contacts, and everything you need for your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Seaman’s Book?
The Seaman’s Book is a form of identification and record issued by foreign flag states, such as Panama, Liberia, the Marshall Islands, and Vanuatu. This document is required by the country in which the vessel is registered and allows the seafarer to maintain a record of their time at sea while working on a ship flagged by that country. Additionally, it may include additional certifications, such as Able Seaman, Survival Training, Fast Rescue Boats, Basic Safety Training, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), Radio Operator, Advanced Fire Fighting, Advanced First Aid, among others. A Seafarer’s Identification Book is valid for five (5) years from the date of issuance.

This document is a comprehensive record of a seafarer’s professional experience and certifications. Every maritime worker must carry this document on board, which acts as an official and legal record of their experience at sea. The Seaman’s Book is one of the essential documents for applying for crew transit visas, as it certifies that the holder is a seafarer, in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). It also records all employment on commercial vessels.

To apply for it, you must have the following documents:

• A copy of a valid, signed passport (identification page)
• Current OEUK/OGUK medical examination or the specific medical form for the required flag state (medical forms can be found at the end of the corresponding page)
• Passport-sized photo
• Completed and signed application for the relevant flag state

How to apply for a C1D visa?
To obtain a C1/D visa, which allows you to work on vessels or aircraft destined for the United States, you must follow these steps:

1. Complete Form DS-160: This is the non-immigrant visa application form. You can complete it online on the U.S. Department of State website. Once completed, you will receive a confirmation with a barcode, which you must bring to the interview.
2. Pay the visa application fee: Before scheduling your interview, you must pay the application fee. Payment methods and amounts may vary by country, so it’s important to check this information on the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate website.
3. Schedule an interview at the embassy or consulate: Generally, you will need to go to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for an interview. When scheduling the interview, be sure to specify that you are applying for a C1/D visa. Bring the DS-160 form and any relevant documentation provided by your employer.
4. Prepare the necessary documents: You must bring several documents to the interview, including:
   • Valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended entry date into the U.S.
   • Confirmation of the DS-160 form
   • Proof of payment of the application fee
   • Passport-sized photo (although most applicants have already submitted it online)
   • A letter from your employer or recruiting agency explaining your position, contract duration, and need for the visa.
   • Any additional documents requested by the embassy.
5. Attend the interview: During the interview, the consular officer will ask you questions about your job position, the vessel or aircraft you will be working on, and your travel plans. Be sure to bring all requested documents and to be honest and clear in your answers.
6. Await the decision: After the interview, you will be informed if your visa was approved. If approved, processing may take a few days, and the visa will be placed in your passport.
7. Receive the visa and verify the details: Once you receive your passport with the visa, check that all the information is correct. With the C1/D visa, you will be able to enter the U.S. to board the vessel or aircraft where you will work.

What is an STCW?
The STCW, which stands for Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, is an international convention that sets minimum standards for the training, certification, and watchkeeping of seafarers. It was adopted in 1978 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and has been amended several times, with the most well-known update being the Manila Amendments in 2010.

The main objective of the STCW is to ensure that seafarers worldwide receive uniform training and certification that enables them to perform their duties safely and efficiently on board commercial vessels. This is achieved by establishing specific requirements for training in areas such as safety, first aid, fire fighting, survival at sea, and technical knowledge in navigation and machinery operations.

Key Components of the STCW

• Basic Safety Certification: All seafarers must complete this certification, which includes modules on personal survival, fire prevention and fire fighting, first aid, and personal safety and social responsibility.
• Advanced Training: Depending on the role, seafarers may need advanced certificates, such as navigation, radio operations, and emergency management.
• Refresher Training: The STCW also requires that certificates be renewed periodically, which may include update courses to ensure that seafarers keep their skills current.