There are pros and cons for working on cruise ships. Let’s take a quick glance at life at sea and the applicable rules. There may be differnces in some aspects depending on the cruise line or the department you work in. The biggest issue that many people complain about is the working hours.
ACCOMMODATION
- Your crew cabin has 1, 2, 3, or 4 bunk beds, desk and chair, T.V. and telephone. Space is very tight.
- Crew members share cabins with one, two or three team members, depending on the entitlements.
- You and your roommates are responsible for keeping your cabin clean and tidy at all times.
- Towels and linens will be provided once a week.
- No guest is allowed in cabins! Violation will result in termination / dismissal.
CREW MESS
- All meals and snacks will be served at the crew mess.
- You will have half an hour for each mealtime when on duty.
- Meals are buffet style; serve and clean up after yourself.
- You are not permitted to remove any food or utensils from the mess.
AMENITIES
- The Crew Gym is for all crewmembers available at posted hours.
- You can purchase toiletries, cigarettes, chocolates, and other necessities needed onboard at the Crew Shop.
- The Crew Bar operating hours and rules are to be adhered to at all times.
- You are not permitted to become inebriated or intoxicated while on your assignment contract. You are not allowed to drink alcohol while on duty. Violation of either of these rules is grounds for dismissal.
- Crew Enrichment/Welfare will provide crew activities and events for all the crewmembers.
- Only employed crew members are provided living accommodations onboard.
UNIFORMS & LAUNDRY
- Crew uniforms will be issued to you onboard.
- Crew uniforms and work clothes are cleaned free of charge on some cruise lines.
- Laundry machines and dryers are provided free of charge for the crewmember’s personal use.
- You will be required to use non-slip safety shoes while on duty. Shoes are not provided; you can purchase the approved brand/style before joining or onboard the vessel.
- Please note: Open toe shoes/flipflops/etc. are not permitted onboard in crew areas.
COMMUNICATION
- The Internet Café is available for all crewmembers at posted hours. Internet access is available at reasonable prices.
- Phone cards will be available onboard. Also, keep in mind that your phone might work at the different ports. Be careful at sea because international roaming will apply and can be very expensive.
- WIFI is readily available throughout the vessel. You can bring your own electronic devices to use. You will need to purchase internet access/minutes and configure accordingly.
- Mail arrives once a week to the ship. The mail will be sorted by department and distributed. Please remember, mail is processed through a central location, therefore, you will experience a small delay. Also, the ship’s itinerary may determine the regularity of the delivery.
WORK CONDITIONS
- You will work 7-days a week onboard for approximately 10 hours per day
- There will be shifts off but not full days off the entire assignment rotation.
- When the ship is in port, many crew members take the opportunity to go ashore to tour, shop, dine, call home, etc.
- You are most likely to be called anytime to work even when you are on your off shift.
GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITIES
- Your boss will be the head or supervisor of the department. The captain of the ship is the commander of all and the final decision maker.
- Career growth is offered through internal promotions. You can apply to the positions onboard as they become available.
- Numerous trainings will be available onboard to enrich your knowledge in different aspects of the business.
- You will be paid monthly via Ocean Pay Card on most cruise liners. You have several options to receive your wages depending on the cruise line you are working for.
DATING ONBOARD
- Dating fellow crewmembers is allowed.
- You will have the opportunity to work and make lifelong friends with crewmembers from around the world.
- Dating guests is not permitted. It will result in termination / dismissal.