The Complete Guide for Cruise Ship Crew Members
I hesitated to write this blog post, wondering if it might overlap too much with my previous articles, like the overview on life of a seafarer, or the guide to life at sea, or the lengthy pros and cons of working on cruise ships. But after some thought, I realised that this one would be different.
This post is specifically about life as a cruise ship crew member, and it’s structured to cover everything you need to know in a more detailed and comprehensive way.
Instead of diving into a personal narrative, this guide is designed to give you a full picture of what it’s like to live and work on a cruise ship – from the types of jobs available to the daily challenges and unique perks.
Whether you’re considering a career as a cruise ship crew member or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this post will provide you with the insights you need to understand the realities of cruise ship life. Hopefully, it feels distinct from my previous work and offers a fresh perspective.
What Does It Mean to Be a Cruise Ship Crew Member?
Defining Cruise Ship Crew Roles
Cruise ships are like small cities, and they require a wide range of roles to keep everything running smoothly. Jobs on a cruise ship can be broadly divided into three categories: managerial, officer/supervisor, and rank-and-file positions.
Managerial Roles: These include positions like hotel managers, cruise directors, and department heads. They oversee operations, manage staff, and ensure guest satisfaction.
Officer/Supervisor Roles: These are mid-level positions such as assistant managers, team leaders, and department supervisors. They act as a bridge between management and rank-and-file staff.
Rank-and-File Roles: These are the entry-level positions that make up the majority of the crew. Examples include housekeeping staff, waiters, bartenders, entertainers, and engineers.
Each role comes with its own set of responsibilities, and the type of job you have will significantly impact your daily life onboard. For example, entertainers might have more flexible schedules, while housekeeping staff often work long hours with fewer breaks.
Types of Jobs on a Cruise Ship
Cruise ships offer a wide range of job opportunities, from hospitality and entertainment to technical and medical roles. Here are some common positions:
Hospitality: Waiters, bartenders, housekeeping staff, and guest services.
Entertainment: Singers, dancers, DJs, and activity coordinators.
Technical: Engineers, electricians, and IT specialists.
Medical: Doctors and nurses who provide healthcare to both guests and crew.
Each role comes with its own set of responsibilities, and the experience can vary greatly depending on the position.
Contracts and Schedules
Once you understand the types of jobs available, the thing you’ll notice about working on a cruise ship is that your contract length can vary widely. Contracts typically range from 3 to 10 months, depending on the cruise line, your department, and your position. Shorter contracts are more common for seasonal workers, while longer contracts are typical for year-round employees.
Once your contract ends, you’ll usually have a few months off before starting your next assignment. Some crew members choose to extend their contracts if they enjoy the work or if the cruise line needs additional staff.
Work schedules on a cruise ship are intense. Most crew members work 7 days a week, with no traditional days off. Instead, you’ll have blocks of time off throughout the day or week, depending on your role. For example, a bartender might work from 5 PM to 1 AM, while a housekeeper might start at 7 AM and finish by 3 PM. The key is to make the most of your free time, whether that’s exploring a port or relaxing in the crew lounge.
Sea Days vs. Port Days
The rhythm of life on a cruise ship is heavily influenced by whether it’s a sea day or a port day.
Sea Days: These are days when the ship is at sea, and all activities take place onboard. For crew members, sea days are often the busiest. Guests are on the ship all day, which means more work for everyone. For example, youth staff might run activities for kids from morning until night, while waiters are busy serving meals in the dining rooms.
Port Days: When the ship docks at a port, guests usually disembark to explore. This can mean lighter workloads for some crew members, depending on their role. For example, casino staff get time off since casino is closed. However, some roles, like housekeeping and maintenance staff, may have to stay onboard to clean and prepare for the next group of guests.
The amount of time you get to spend in port varies depending on your job. Some crew members, like entertainers or youth staff, might have more flexibility to explore, while others, like kitchen staff, might only have a few hours off.
Shifts and Rotations
Shifts on a cruise ship can be unpredictable. Some crew members work fixed shifts, such as 7 AM to 3 PM, while others have rotating shifts that change weekly or monthly. For example, a casino worker might work nights one week and days the next.
Rotations are common in departments like housekeeping and dining, where staff are needed around the clock. This can make it challenging to establish a routine, but it also means you’ll have opportunities to experience different parts of the ship and interact with a variety of guests and colleagues.
Living Conditions Onboard: The Crew Experience
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Crew Accommodations
Living on a cruise ship means adapting to a very different lifestyle, especially when it comes to accommodations. Crew cabins are much smaller than guest cabins, and you’ll likely share your room with at least one other person. The size and quality of your cabin depend on your job and rank.
Rank-and-File Crew: These crew members usually share small cabins with bunk beds, a tiny bathroom, and minimal storage space. The cabins are functional but not luxurious.
Officers and Managers: Higher-ranking crew members often have larger cabins, sometimes with a porthole or even a small sitting area. They may also have private bathrooms.
Despite the cramped quarters, most crew members find ways to personalise their space with photos, decorations, and small comforts from home.
Crew Amenities
Crew members have access to specific areas of the ship that are off-limits to guests. These include:
Crew Mess: The dining area where crew members eat their meals. The food is basic but filling, with options like rice, pasta, and soup.
Crew Bar: A social hub where crew members can relax, have a drink, and unwind after work. Many crew bars have pool tables, dance floors, and TVs.
Crew Gym: A small fitness area where crew members can work out.
Crew Laundry: Laundry facilities are available, but they can get crowded, especially on busy ships. Crew members often have to wait for a free machine.
These amenities help make life onboard more comfortable, but they’re also a reminder that you’re living in a confined space with limited resources.
Food and Dining
The quality of food in the crew mess can vary widely. Some cruise lines offer a decent variety of meals, while others serve the same dishes day after day. Many crew members supplement their meals by sneaking food from the guest buffet or buying snacks from the crew store.
One challenge is the lack of cooking facilities. Crew cabins don’t have microwaves or coffee makers, so you’re limited to what you can store in your mini-fridge (if you’re lucky to have one).
WiFi and Communication
Staying connected with family and friends can be a challenge. While most ships offer wifi for guests, crew members often have limited or no access. Some ships provide free wifi for crew, while others charge for it, and the connection can be slow and unreliable. Many crew members wait until they’re in port to use free wifi at local cafes or restaurants.
The Challenges of Cruise Ship Life
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Cabin Fever and Burnout
Living and working in the same confined space can take a toll on your mental health. Many crew members experience cabin fever, especially during long contracts with few breaks. The lack of privacy and personal space can make it difficult to relax, and the constant noise and activity can be overwhelming.
Burnout is also common, particularly in high-pressure roles like housekeeping or dining. The long hours, repetitive tasks, and limited time off can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. It’s important to find ways to cope, whether that’s through exercise, hobbies, or simply taking a nap.
Seasickness and Health Concerns
Seasickness is a reality for many crew members, especially those working on smaller ships. The constant motion of the ship can cause nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. While some people adapt over time, others continue to struggle throughout their contracts.
Access to medical care onboard is limited, and serious health issues may require evacuation to a hospital on land. Crew members are encouraged to take care of their health by eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest.
Working Holidays and Long Hours
Cruise ships operate year-round, which means crew members often work during holidays like Christmas, and New Year’s. These are some of the busiest times for the industry, and the workload can be overwhelming.
Balancing work and personal life is a constant challenge. Many crew members miss important family events and milestones, which can be emotionally difficult. However, the sense of camaraderie among the crew can help ease the burden.
The Perks of Being a Cruise Ship Crew Member
Travel Opportunities
One of the biggest perks of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to travel. Crew members visit multiple destinations, often for free. Depending on the ship’s itinerary, you could find yourself exploring Caribbean islands, European cities, or Asian ports.
Some cruise lines even allow crew members to join guest tours for free, as long as they don’t miss work. This can be a great way to experience new cultures and activities.
Cultural Exchange
Working on a cruise ship means interacting with people from all over the world. The crew is incredibly diverse, with members from countries like the Philippines, India, Indonesia, and many others. This cultural exchange is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job, as it allows crew members to learn about different cultures, languages, and traditions.
Financial Benefits
For many crew members, especially those from developing countries, the pay on a cruise ship is higher than what they could earn at home. While the wages may seem low by Western standards, the fact that room and board are covered means that crew members can save a significant portion of their income.
Is It for You?
Pros and Cons
Working on a cruise ship has its ups and downs. The travel opportunities and financial benefits are major perks, but the long hours and lack of privacy can be challenging.
Who Thrives in This Environment?
People who thrive on cruise ships are typically a team player, adaptable, and hardworking. They enjoy meeting new people and are comfortable living in close quarters.
Who Should Avoid It?
If you value your privacy, need a lot of personal space, or have difficulty being away from family for long periods, cruise ship life might not be for you.
How to Get a Job on a Cruise Ship
Application Process
To get a job on a cruise ship, you’ll need to apply through the cruise line’s official website or a recruitment agency. The process typically involves submitting a resume, completing an online application, and attending an interview.
Requirements and Certifications
The requirements vary depending on the job. Entry-level positions may not require specific qualifications, but higher-level roles, like officers or managers, often require specialised training or experience. Some positions, such as those in the medical or technical fields, may require specific certifications. The cruise line will usually provide any necessary training or certifications once you’re hired.
Choosing the Right Job
When deciding which job to apply for, consider your skills, interests, and long-term goals. Some roles, like entertainers or youth staff, offer more flexibility and time off, while others, like housekeeping or kitchen staff, are more demanding but provide valuable experience.
Assignments
Once hired, the cruise line will assign you to a ship based on their needs. You may not have much say in which ship or itinerary you’re assigned to, especially if you’re new to the industry. However, as you gain experience, you may have more opportunities to request specific assignments. Still, the final decision is up to the company.
Safety and Security Onboard
Safety Training and Drills
Safety is a top priority on cruise ships. All crew members undergo rigorous safety training, including fire drills, lifeboat drills, and emergency response procedures. This training ensures that everyone knows how to respond in case of an emergency.
Emergency Situations
While emergencies are rare, they can happen. Cruise ships are equipped with advanced safety systems, and the crew is trained to handle a variety of situations, from medical emergencies to severe weather. The goal is to ensure the safety of both guests and crew members at all times.
Health and Medical Care
Cruise ships have medical facilities onboard, staffed by doctors and nurses. Crew members have access to medical care if they become ill or injured. However, serious medical conditions may require evacuation to a hospital on land.
Crime and Safety
While cruise ships are generally safe, incidents can occur. Crew members are trained to handle situations like theft, harassment, or other security concerns. The ship’s security team is always available to assist if needed.
Life After the Cruise Ship: What Comes Next?
Transitioning Back to Land
Returning to land after a long contract can be challenging. Many crew members struggle to adjust to the slower pace of life and the lack of camaraderie they experienced onboard. However, the skills and experience gained on a cruise ship can be valuable in other industries, such as hospitality, tourism, or event management.
Long-Term Career Opportunities
Some crew members choose to make a career in the cruise industry, moving up the ranks to higher-paying and more prestigious positions. Others use their experience as a stepping stone to land-based jobs in related fields.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Ship Crew Life
Do crew members get days off?
Most crew members work 7 days a week, but they have blocks of time off throughout the day or week.
Can you choose your ship or itinerary?
The cruise line assigns you to a ship based on their needs, but you can express preferences.
Is it dangerous to work on a cruise ship?
While there are risks, cruise ships are generally safe, and crew members receive extensive safety training.
What’s the best part of working on a cruise ship?
The travel opportunities and financial benefits are often cited as the biggest perks.
How do crew members handle relationships and family life?
Maintaining relationships can be challenging due to the long hours and time away from home, but many crew members stay in touch through phone calls and video chats.
Can I bring my family or partner with me on the ship?
Generally, cruise lines do not allow crew members to bring family or partners onboard unless they are also employed by the cruise line.
What is the dress code for crew members?
Crew members are required to wear uniforms provided by the cruise line. The dress code varies depending on your role.
What is the process for getting promoted on a cruise ship?
Promotions depend on your performance, experience, and the availability of higher positions.
What is the policy on tattoos and piercings for crew members?
Cruise lines have varying policies on tattoos and piercings. Some companies allow visible tattoos and piercings as long as they are not offensive.
What is the policy on smoking and alcohol for crew members?
Smoking is usually restricted to designated areas on the ship, and crew members must be sober while on duty.
Is Cruise Ship Life Worth It?
So, is cruise ship life worth it? I know I’ve touched on this question before in my previous post, but here, I want to approach it from a slightly different angle.
After exploring the realities of life as a cruise ship crew member – from the demanding schedules and confined living spaces to the incredible travel opportunities and cultural exchange – it’s clear that this lifestyle isn’t for everyone. But for the right person, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
If you’re someone who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments and doesn’t mind sacrificing some comforts for adventure, working on a cruise ship could be a perfect fit. The chance to travel the world, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and save money while doing it is hard to beat. For many, the financial benefits and unique experiences make the challenges worthwhile.
On the other hand, if you value stability, personal space, and a traditional work-life balance, cruise ship life might not be the best choice. The long hours, limited privacy, and time away from home can be tough, especially for those who struggle with being away from family and friends for extended periods.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personality, priorities, and what you’re looking to gain from the experience.
If you’re considering a career at sea, I encourage you to weigh the pros and cons carefully, talk to current or former crew members, and think about whether this lifestyle aligns with your goals.
