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Cruise ship jobs

Type of Job

There are all sorts of different cruise ship jobs available, working in cabin service or in the bar area, in on-board gyms, or perhaps in a cr?che.

What is the job about?

The most common cruise ship job is as a cabin steward. Duties include:

  • Keeping cabins clean and tidy
  • Making beds
  • Supplying fresh linen
  • Re-stocking supplies (e.g. shampoo, soap)

There are also plenty of cruise ship jobs in catering, for example working in a bar. This would involve:

  • Serving drinks
  • Cleaning glasses
  • Keeping the bar stocked.

Cruise ship jobs could also include customer service or reception staff, helping passengers with questions about on board services, arranging excursions, and dealing with any complaints.

Key Skills & Knowledge needed

For all these positions you will need to be a people person, with high levels of customer service skills. You'll also need:

  • Tact, to deal with difficult situations or complaints
  • The ability to work under pressure
  • The ability to work as part of a team

Qualifications and experience needed

For most cruise ship jobs there are no formal qualifications. However, previous relevant experience, for example in catering, hotel or bar work, would make you more employable.

You could also study for NVQs in Food and Drink Service, or Housekeeping.

What other training and development could I do?

Almost all employers will provide on-the-job training. You could also consider studying for an NVQ in Hospitality, or Multi-skilled Hospitality Services at levels 1 and 2.

Salary and benefit expectations

While rates of pay vary between companies, most employers offer between ?600 and ?1,100 a month, depending on experience. However, all your expenses are covered (accommodation, food, laundry) and your earnings may also be supplemented by tips.

Where else can I go for more information?

Springboard UK
http://springboarduk.net

People 1st
2nd Floor
Armstrong House
38 Market Square
Uxbridge
Middlesex
UB8 1LH
Tel: 0870 060 2550
www.uksp.co.uk/ (careers information)
www.people1st.co.uk