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What is working on a cruise ship like?
Working on a cruise ship is an exciting opportunity to travel the world, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and gain valuable skills. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your maritime career or seeking a unique work experience, cruise ships offer a wide range of roles to suit your talents and interests.
From customer service and hospitality to technical and entertainment roles, cruise ships are like floating cities with endless opportunities. Beyond the paycheck, you’ll enjoy free accommodation, meals, and the chance to explore exotic destinations during your downtime.
At Selection Partners, we specialize in connecting ambitious individuals with cruise ship employers worldwide. Our team offers:
- Expert guidance throughout the application process.
- Insights into the best roles based on your skills and goals.
- A reliable network of trusted cruise line employers.
4 stepsBoarding process
If you’re from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, or have permanent residency in any of these countries, follow the 4 steps below.

Step 1
Application

Step 2
Interview

Step3
Pre Boarding

Step 4
Boarding
Step 1
Aplication
Make a thorough registration! The first filter is through the form and CV, ensure it’s as comprehensive as possible. When filling out your details, provide your previous experiences, company, activity, position, and dates of the same. Bear in mind that the most recent experiences are the most relevant (last 2 years).
- It’s not necessary for you to apply to more than one position.
- Make sure to check available vacancies and their requirements.
Some recommendations for a complete CV:
- CV in format (Word or PDF)
- Full name as it appears on your passport or ID
- CV in English
- Previous job positions with work responsibilities
- Employment dates in chronological order (month and year of start and end in the position, from most recent to oldest)
Step 2
Interview
Upon receiving your application, based on your experience and training, if you qualify for any of the available vacancies, you will receive an email where you can choose a date and time for an interview with Selection Partners.
- The interview will be conducted in English
- You will be evaluated for all the vacancies and companies available at the time.
- There is no need to apply for more than one position.
- Some positions require a second interview with the cruise company. If so, you will have a second interview with the head office recruiters who will decide on your hiring.
- You will receive the job offer specifying the position on board, salary, and contract duration
- You will be informed in detail about the hiring conditions, such as airfare costs (mostly covered by the cruise companies) or other expenses related to boarding.
- After your confirmation, you will need to send reference letters, complete an online English test, and attend an informational conference via Skype.
Step 3
Interview
Upon receiving your application, based on your experience and training, if you qualify for any of the available vacancies, you will receive an email where you can choose a date and time for an interview with Selection Partners.
- The interview will be conducted in English
- You will be evaluated for all the vacancies and companies available at the time.
- There is no need to apply for more than one position.
- Some positions require a second interview with the cruise company. If so, you will have a second interview with the head office recruiters who will decide on your hiring.
- You will receive the job offer specifying the position on board, salary, and contract duration
- You will be informed in detail about the hiring conditions, such as airfare costs (mostly covered by the cruise companies) or other expenses related to boarding.
- After your confirmation, you will need to send reference letters, complete an online English test, and attend an informational conference via Skype.
Pre-boarding
Upon completing the previous stage, you will be directed to the embarkation department, entered into the system of each cruise company, and will start the necessary documentation process (visas, medical exams, criminal records, and other certifications or documents as required by each company).
You will be awaiting an embarkation date which will occur within 3 to 5 months after completing the aforementioned documentation.
In the event that you decide not to proceed with the process, the vacancy will be offered to another candidate, and if you wish to resume later on, you will need to start the process from the beginning.
Step 4
Interview
Upon receiving your application, based on your experience and training, if you qualify for any of the available vacancies, you will receive an email where you can choose a date and time for an interview with Selection Partners.
- The interview will be conducted in English
- You will be evaluated for all the vacancies and companies available at the time.
- There is no need to apply for more than one position.
- Some positions require a second interview with the cruise company. If so, you will have a second interview with the head office recruiters who will decide on your hiring.
- You will receive the job offer specifying the position on board, salary, and contract duration
- You will be informed in detail about the hiring conditions, such as airfare costs (mostly covered by the cruise companies) or other expenses related to boarding.
- After your confirmation, you will need to send reference letters, complete an online English test, and attend an informational conference via Skype.
Boarding
The cruise company will assign a boarding date. At this time, you will receive the documents you need to sign. Most companies cover flights, although in certain specific cases you will have to buy your one-way ticket.
Your Selection Partners boarding administrator will provide you with all the necessary info such as your flight specifications, details of your boarding, emergency contacts and transport contacts, hotel details, and everything required for you to board safely.
Benefits of working onboard
- Salary in dollars.
- Lodging, meals, medical assistance and more at no cost.
- Great savings capacity.
- Possibility of professional growth in an international company.
- To know other cultures.
- Travel the world.
Main requirements to work on cruise ships
- Advanced level of English.
- Having experience in the area you are applying for.
- You must be over 21 years old.
- Availability during the next 6 months.
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.
FAQ about cruise ship jobs
What are the benefits of working on a cruise ship?
Working on a cruise ship provides unique benefits, including:
- Travel Opportunities: Visit beautiful locations around the world.
- Free Accommodation and Meals: Reduce your living expenses.
- Cultural Exchange: Work with an international team and meet passengers from different cultures.
- Career Growth: Gain experience and advance in your maritime career.
What are the working conditions on a cruise ship?
Working conditions on a cruise ship can be demanding, with long hours and fast-paced environments. However, you’ll enjoy perks like days off in port and opportunities to socialize with crew members. Most contracts last between 4 to 9 months, providing a clear timeline for your commitment.
Are there career advancement opportunities?
Yes! Many cruise lines offer training programs and promote from within. With dedication and a strong work ethic, you can climb the career ladder and secure higher-paying positions.
Can I work on a ship with no experience?
While some positions require prior experience, many entry-level roles offer on-the-job training, if you have the knowledge needed for the position.