Cruise line jobs vary depending on the type of cruise line and size of the sailing vessel. However, the variety of jobs available on cruise ships means that there are openings for a large number of people with different skill sets. Cruise ship jobs include entertainment, bartending, maintenance, medical, casino work, deckhands, customer service, cosmetology and more.
Getting a cruise job is slightly competitive, and there are agencies and recruiters that work with prospective employees on starting cruise careers. The typical job on a cruise ship has a three to six month contract, but extensions are an option with some cruise lines. When applying for cruise line employment, consider the following:
1. Paying for a website membership that lets you view cruise ship jobs may end up being a scam. Apply direct for the best outcome.
2. Cruise jobs require long terms away from family and friends, with no going home just because you want to.
3. Cruise lines employ internationally, so you must work well with other people and be willing to bunk with people who may have different interests.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Apply for a cruise ship job vacancy directly
While recruiting websites and agencies offer what seems like an immediate cruise job opportunity, applying directly to cruise lines or their representatives is the best option. Most popular cruise lines advertise job openings on their websites, along with contact information. Some cruise lines utilize different representatives for different jobs. An engineer may apply to one person, while someone looking to do massages and facials will apply elsewhere.
I recommend: Indigo Guide Cruises offers a list of cruise lines that link to job openings with cruise lines like Norweigan, Princess, Crystal and more.
Disney lists their job openings for their Disney Cruise Lines, along with contact information and job qualifications.
Get an interview package together for cruise line employment
When you apply for a job on a cruise ship, most employers require a passport or visa. It's best to have this up-to-date and availble to show them in an interview. You should also have a resume tailored for a cruise job, along with a list of references.
I recommend: Apply for or renew a passport through the
Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Order a resume tailored for the cruise industry from
Employment911.com.
Take advantage of a cruise ship job opportunity by using job boards
While not all job boards will offer substantial leads, many job boards are helpful in finding employment. These job boards are ideal for anyone who doesn't live near a port or employment representative for a major cruise line. Just be careful when sending in money to any job search company. Companies that offer trial subscriptions are a safe bet.
I recommend: For about $4, you can search the job board at
CruiseJobFinder for 5 days. Just cancel within 5 days for no further charges.
Cruise Placement Hiring Agency offers detailed descriptions along with a job board for qualified candidates. The listings are free, and the agency discloses salary for most positions.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Take advantage of a cruise ship job opening if your career path is going in all different directions. Since most people don't make a life-long career out of cruise jobs, there are always openings. If you have the skills needed for a cruise job, take advantage of the travel opportunity and add more experience to your resume.
- Cruise careers are fairly competitive and cruise lines get a lot of applications and resumes. Make sure you follow all directions about where to send your application and accompanying credentials. If you send your application to the wrong place, or don't include required information, your application will get tossed.
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