Besides experience, there are at least ten things you can do to help get your foot in the door at cruise lines – or at least a call for an interview. First, you should make sure your resume is complete and succinct. This means, get to the point and do not omit important information relative to the position for which you are applying. Always state specific dates (from-to) of employment. Next, Never use “to whom it may concern.” Just visit the cruise ship website to find the name and/or department to address your resume to. Most websites feature a career center or “jobs” tab with job listings and contact information. Next, do some research on the cruise line. Find out as much as you can about the line and how it is marketed.
The next few tips cover the interviewing process. First, never choose the latest date you possibly can to meet for an interview. This can give the impression that you are not eager and it might even be a sign that you are a procrastinator. If the employer offers several dates and times, pick the earliest time. You won’t regret it. Next, choose professional attire whether you are interviewing for a deck hand position or a cruise director position. A polished appearance makes an excellent first impression. Arrive for your interview at least 15-20 minutes early. Nothings worse than a late arrival and excuses as to why you are late.
During the interview, be positive, upbeat, flexible, and enthusiastic. And finally, let the interviewer know that you really want the job and tell him why you are the best person for it. Refrain from canned responses. Just be yourself. Good luck!
About Working on Cruise Ships
Jobs on cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes so chances are, if you’re interested in an exciting career in the cruise industry you will find the perfect position to match your background and skill set. Jobs on cruise ships can be found in the following departments: Activity/Entertainment Department, Deck & Engineering Department, Service & Hospitality Department, Personal Care Department and Office Positions. One of the nicest perks, no matter what department you plan to work in, is in most cases, all standard living expenses are covered including room, food, health coverage, etc., which means the majority of your earnings can be saved. Compensation varies depending on position, the cruise line, etc.
Jobs on cruise ships in the Activity/Entertainment department are considered some of the most glamorous jobs aboard the ship. These positions deal with anything relating to passenger entertainment. This department includes: DJs, Production Managers, Photographers, Managers, Casino Staff, Host/Hostess, and Cruise Consultant, to name a few. Those best suited for jobs in this department are typically enthusiastic and extroverted.
The Deck & Engineering Department is one of the most important departments on the vessel –without it the ship would never set sail. This department is responsible for maintaining and running the vessel. Please note that the positions in this department are not typically entry-level positions, especially on large ships. The department consists of deckhands, maintenance workers, engineers, and officers. These positions help to motor or sail the ship, attend to the physical maintenance needs of the ship, and keep it in accordance with fleet regulations and international maritime laws. Officers are in charge of passenger safety as well.
Considered the “Hotel Management” Department, staff members in the Service/Hospitality Department have the responsibility of managing the bars & restaurants and passenger cabins, as well as shipboard retail concessions like gift shops. Just a few Service/Hospitality positions include: Hotel Manager, Cabin Stewards/Stewardesses, Accountant, Executive Chef, Wine Steward, Chief Purser, Purser Staff, Chief Purser, Bellman, Pastry Chef and the list goes on and on. Most service positions such as bartenders, waiters, and cocktail servers can earn a good amount of extra money from tips.
No cruise would be complete without a department devoted to helping passengers pamper themselves. The Personal Care Department includes spa, fitness, beauty, and medical services. It helps manage hair stylists, manicurists, massage therapists, fitness instructors, beauty therapists, spa attendants, nurses and physicians all dedicated to the well-being of passengers.
Most office positions are onshore — employees typically work in the main office performing administrative tasks, arranging cruises, or performing general office tasks. Office positions generally fall under the following categories: Accounting, Administrative/Clerical, Air Operations, Marketing/PR, and Reservations/Sales.