FAQ

Q: Who gets hired by cruise lines?

A: Career-changers, occasionally students and retirees.

Q: What is the most common background experience of employees?

A: Hospitality industry: hotels, restaurants, bars, etc.

Q: Do the employees have to be able to speak English?

A: Yes, English is a must. Additional languages are a benefit.

Q: Do people with previous experience in the cruise industry have an advantage?

A: Yes, the cruise lines prefer them. They usually get better jobs.

Q: What kinds of jobs are available on cruise liners?

A: Find the descriptions in the Jobs section of this site.

Q: How much do the employees earn?

A: The tipping personnel earn from $1500 up to $4000 USD per month (that's including the tips). The non-tipping personnel earn from $350 to $500 per week.

Q: What should I do to apply for a job on a cruise ship?

A: Please follow the instructions in the How to Apply section.

Q: Do non-US citizens need a visa?

A: Yes, they need to apply for C1 and D visa.

Q: For what length of time can I work on a cruise liner?

A: You will sign a contract for 6 months. You may prolong it to 10 months. Then a compulsory break of 6-8 weeks follows. You may be offered a new contract after the break.

Q: What should my resume be like?

A: Read the guide for writing good resumes / CV's.

Q: How long is a working day on cruise ships?

A: From 12 to 14 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Q: What is the accommodation on ships like?

A: Small cabins, shared by 2 or more employees. Some cabins have a TV set. Staff share bathrooms.

Q: What happens if I get ill when working on a cruise liner?

A: You get free medical help. Your employer will pay for your medical insurance.

Q: Who pays for the plane ticket from my home to the port?

A: You buy yourself a single ticket and pay a travel deposit of $300-$500 to the cruise line.The deposit will be returned to you when your contract expires.

Q: Where should I send my application for the job?

A: Please follow the instructions in the How to Apply section.

Q: Will I get any training before I start work?

A: Yes, you will pass some courses of work safety, first aid, hygiene etc., prior to embarkation.

Q: Where can I find out about cruise companies?

A: See our list of cruise lines.

Q: Where do the cruise ships sail?

A: North, Central & South America, South Africa, Egypt, Mediterranean Sea, North Europe, Pacific.