Reservations managers on cruise ships are similar to reservations managers that work in hotels, at resorts, lodges, and for other similar accommodations. Reservations managers on cruise ships keep track of inventory, meaning, they are current on the status of all cabins aboard the ship. Reservations managers also oversee all reservations operations, and manage staff. These professionals also perform marketing and sales duties, administrative tasks, and in some cases, they might also perform purchasing duties.
Depending on the size of the ship, reservations may be responsible for solving customer problems and handling complaints related to accommodations, rates, and other related issues. They oversee accounting and clash-flow matters, project occupancy levels, and they may decide which rooms may be offered at a discount.
Reservations managers must have the ability to handle stress and deal with customer complaints. They must have superior leadership ability, and they must be skilled at organizing and handling details. Communication skills are crucial as well as knowledge of security measures and safety procedures, cruise ship operations, and repair and maintenance.
Reservations managers typically spend years working their way up from an entry-level reservations position on a cruise ship, in a hotel, or at a resort. In addition to the skills listed above and years of experience, aspiring reservations managers must also have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, hospitality or hotel management. The degree must be from an accredited college or university.
A skilled reservations manager may earn anywhere from $34,970-$62,880 per year. Top earners may make $84,270 or more per year. In addition a competitive salary, reservations managers may also receive, health insurance, savings and retirement benefits and free accommodations and meals while onboard the ship. If required to travel to and from the ship, this expense will be covered as well.
Applying for Cruise Jobs
If you are interested in a specific cruise line, locate the cruise lines’ OFFICIAL website by visiting the Ships and Cruises Directory. Visit the website and search around for job postings. Most cruise line websites have a career center or employment page. If the cruise line lists job openings, simply follow the application procedure. If the cruise line does not list job openings, send a polished cover letter and resume to the cruise lines Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department is typically located at the cruise line’s headquarters. This information is usually listed on the cruise line website. It is important to include the position you are interested in so that it can be directed to the appropriate department manager.
For more information about jobs on cruise ships visit Cruise Ship Jobs online. Here, you can download the 2010 cruise ship employment guide; you can read through cruise line profiles; you can find out which ships are hiring and for what positions — and you can even apply for a cruise ship job right online. Please note that this website charges a fee. You can apply for a job on your own, free of charge, sign up with a placement agency, or use Cruise Ship Jobs’ service.