Welcome to Crew Life at Sea
The ultimate guide to cruise ships jobs
Is working on a cruise ship for everyone ?
Let’s start by considering a few things. You need to ask yourself: Is this job really for me? Have you ever traveled on a boat, maybe a speedboat or something similar? Did you ever experience seasickness or feel uncomfortable on the water? If you answered “yes,” then the next question is, How much do I want this job?
If this opportunity means the world to you, I’d recommend heading to a local seaside area, renting a small yacht or boat, and spending some time on the water. See if you can handle the sea—whether you can push through and bet against the odds. If you find that you can endure the conditions, then you’re likely to have a good chance onboard a cruise ship.
However, if you continue to feel seasick, or if you find yourself turning green with discomfort, then it may be a sign to reconsider your path.
Keep in mind that sometimes, traveling across the ocean in stormy weather can become extremely rocky and uncomfortable. You may feel nauseous for hours, and remember, there’s no getting off the ship until you reach your destination.
How to find a cruise ship job ?
In today’s world, the internet is becoming the go-to resource for nearly everything. If you’re looking for a recruitment or manning agency for cruise ships, a simple online search will lead you to many options.
Most agencies also have local offices, which you can visit in person for further assistance.
Cruise ships rarely recruit directly anymore. Instead, they rely on approved recruitment agencies worldwide, with whom they’ve established agreements to source qualified candidates.
Another great way to connect with cruise liners is by attending Cruise Show Exhibitions, which typically occur once or twice a year. These events often feature representatives from most major cruise lines and offer a full day dedicated to recruitment and interviews.
These exhibitions are usually advertised through social media and recruitment agencies. In some cases, individual cruise lines may organize their own exhibitions, traveling from country to country to meet potential candidates.
How to avoid cruise ship job scammers ?
It’s truly heartbreaking to hear that so many people applying for cruise ship jobs are falling victim to scams.
This often happens because they lack knowledge about the industry and the hiring process, making them more susceptible to deceitful offers. Always remember: getting a job on a cruise ship is free.
No one is allowed to charge you for the recruitment process. If someone asks for money, walk away immediately.
Many fake job offers are being posted on social media, attempting to lure in unsuspecting candidates. Stick to authorized agents in your area or apply directly through the cruise line’s official website to avoid these scams.
What is required to work on a cruise ships ?
Working on a cruise ship involves meeting several requirements, starting with a comprehensive medical examination, including blood and urine tests, among other checks.
Some companies have age restrictions, while others don’t. However, most cruise lines prefer to hire young, healthy, and fit candidates, as many roles require physical strength, depending on the job title.
An essential part of the process is completing mandatory safety training at sea, known as STCW95. This 5-day course, which must now be completed before boarding, covers basic emergency procedures. It was previously available onboard but is no longer permitted.
Upon completion, you’ll receive certifications in the following areas, each valid for five years:
Now that you understand the process of getting a cruise ship job, it’s time to prepare your documents and apply. With the right experience and a genuine desire to work at sea, success is within reach.
Keep in mind, the process can take anywhere from a week to a year, depending on availability and ship schedules.
We encourage you to start your adventure with us. As a seasoned recruitment company, we’re here to help you achieve your dream. I once shared the same dream of traveling the world and getting paid, and now, 18 years later, I’ve created this company to share what I’ve learned and guide you in your journey.