Many people want to work on a cruise ship. The nice thing about working on such a ship is that you see a lot of the world in a short time. At the same time, it is hard work and there is little privacy. All kinds of crew are needed on a cruise ship, such as nautical crew, a hairdresser and nurses. Training and experience are usually required. People are also needed for the catering industry. For many people, working on a cruise ship seems like a very attractive option. It seems attractive because they often celebrate in a warm climate and see a lot of the world. So there is a very romantic image surrounding this work. At the same time it is also hard work. There are about 250 large cruise ships and countless smaller ones worldwide. The most luxurious ships have room for more than six thousand passengers and more than two thousand crew members. There is therefore usually a high demand for new staff. Most cruises take place in the summer season in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. That is because of the sunny climate in these regions and the presence of different cultures and ancient cities that make them relatively close to each other. There are also ships that cruise around the world or visit Alaska, for example.
Working on a cruise ship
Many different people are needed on a cruise ship. There is the nautical crew, such as the officers and the crew on the bridge in the engine room. In addition, many people are needed in services, such as a hotel manager, waiters in various restaurants and bars, cleaners and cooks. Most cruise ships often also have a hair salon (i.e. a hairdresser), casino and shops on board. People are also needed for that. In the evening, passengers are often entertained in the theater or with a film. For example, this requires lighting technicians and dancers. And there is always a doctor and passengers on board.
How much do you earn working on a cruise ship?
If you want to work on a cruise ship, it is best to apply for a shipping company. They do impose a number of requirements. Typically, you must have a professional education and at least 1 to 3 years of work experience in the relevant field. Furthermore, you must generally be at least 21 years old and speak English. In some cases this is also German, but this depends on the shipping company. When you are hired, you usually receive a fixed salary that is not very high. The rest is made up on the basis of tips or a commission, with each member of the team receiving a percentage of the turnover per cruise. The higher your position, the higher the percentage you will receive. You will usually receive a new contract for each trip. Once you have been hired, you must also be able to show proof of good conduct. It costs thirty euros to apply for this from a municipality. These costs are usually reimbursed by the municipality.
Advantages and disadvantages of working on a cruise ship
There are certain benefits of working on a cruise ship, such as seeing a lot of the world. At the same time, you should also consider that there are certain disadvantages to working on a cruise ship. Take this into account in your decision. It’s hard work on a cruise ship. Sometimes there are 16 hour shifts. You also have little privacy, because you usually share a small cabin with three other crew members. Even in your spare time you will not be able to get off the ship quickly, unless it is in a port, but then there is also a chance that you will have to work. Furthermore, you will be away from home for a long time. That’s wonderful for some people, but you have to be able to handle it well.