cruise ship employee benefits

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Benefits of Working for a Cruise Line

Most people go to sea for travel, exotic ports of call, and the experience of meeting both passengers and co-workers from all over the world. For a chance to travel and experience new cultures, (while still earning a living) working on a cruise ship is probably the ultimate opportunity.

As a crew member, you will work and live in an environment that differs from land-based employment, experiencing the world of seafaring, a tradition that predates written history.

On the following pages you will gain a deeper knowledge of cruise ship life, crewmembers, and the earning potential available onboard a cruise ship. You will discover which jobs allow you time off the ship at exotic ports of call, and you will learn what its like to live and work as a cruise ship employee. Our interviews offer a first hand account of life onboard, and in the following pages we discuss what hours and jobs schedules are like for cruise ship employees. This and more, will help mold a clearer picture of what life will be like onboard the world’s best ships.

Find out about ports of call and the types of people on a cruise vacation.

Bear in mind that while cruise ship hours are long, one of the largest benefits for employees is the earning potential of a cruise ship salary. Because room, board, and food are generally paid for, there are very few expenses for employees. Counter that with a large number of work hours, and you may enjoy some nice pay checks. Find out more about cruise ship job salaries on the following pages.

Lastly, check out an interview with a cruise ship employee and see what someone with experience in the field has to say about life onboard.

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Cruise ship worker salary: How much do they make?

Cruise ship worker salary: You may be wondering how much cruise ship employees make if you’re thinking about working on one or if you’re just a curious guest. There aren’t many living expenses while you’re on contract, despite the low pay. Many cruise ship employees can save a significant portion of their pay.

The cruise ship industry reports that the median yearly salary for employees is between $16,000 and $20,000. However, top jobs might pay more than $100,000 annually.

Even though it could seem like the dream foreign holiday, a lot of work goes into the planning. Every position matters, from captain to cabin attendant.

This article will explain how much cruise ship employees make and give you details on some of the jobs that are available on board.

Cruise Ship Employee Salaries: Exploring the Pay Rates for Cruise Ship Workers

According to Business Insider, cruise ship employees typically make between $16,000 and $20,000 a year. Salary ranges for leadership roles can be significantly higher, ranging from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually.

Cruise ship employees earn significantly less than the $31,561 median yearly wage in the United States (as of 2017). There are many advantages to working on a cruise ship, even though the typical annual salary of cruise ship employees is modest when compared to the US:

• Free food and accommodations while working.
• The chance to see the world.
• Onboard discounts.
• Minimal living expenses.
• Flights to the vessel.
• Discounts for you and your family.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the majority of cruise ship employees make salaries that are on the lower end of the scale. Before gratuities, most cruise ship employees make between $10,000 and $15,000. At the top, depending on the size of the ship and years of experience, a cruise ship captain can make over $177,000 a year.

It’s critical to keep in mind that the yearly compensation figures do not account for the number of hours spent. Seven days a week, crew workers put in lengthy work—up to 14 hours a day.

Certain jobs, like those of the ship’s entertainment, might only need a few hours of work per day.

Employee contracts on cruise ships often span four to eight months, with two or three months off in between. Contract lengths range from two to eleven months.

Employees on cruise ships frequently spend extended periods away from their families.

Employee compensation on cruise ships is position-, experience-, and skill-specific, just like in any other business.

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Cruise ship captain

Average salary: $98,000

responsibilities: A captain’s responsibilities include the general operation and safety of the ship, necessitating a combination of leadership skills and maritime knowledge.

Captains of cruise ships are in charge of:

• Navigating the ship
• Overseeing the distribution and use of food, fuel, and water
• Ensuring passenger safety and satisfaction
• Maintaining efficient operations throughout the ship

The main duty of a cruise ship captain is to navigate the vessel, which includes charting courses, analyzing weather trends, and making critical choices regarding speeds and itineraries. Together with managing maintenance tasks and making sure that cargo is stowed properly under maritime regulations, the captain also makes sure that the ship is maintained and that safety requirements are followed.

To ensure smooth sailing and adherence to numerous rules, the skipper communicates with port officials. Captains have to be prepared to take command in an emergency since they are always on call.

Additionally, they are essential in improving the whole experience of passengers by interacting with them, greeting them, handling complaints from them, and providing excellent customer service. A captain’s varied responsibilities necessitate effective problem-solving, great communication, and the capacity to maintain composure under pressure, making it a demanding yet rewarding role.

Cruise Director

Average Salary : $93,000

responsibilities: The cruise director plays a key role in determining the quality of the passenger experience as a senior officer on a cruise ship. All aspects of onboard hospitality, entertainment, and social events fall under the purview of the cruise director.

A cruise director’s duties include supervising the entertainment staff, planning and arranging a variety of activities and events, and guaranteeing the security and happiness of the passengers. As the public face of the cruise line, the cruise director also has a big part to play in public relations, making announcements.

Strong organizational, communication, and leadership abilities are required for this position as they oversee a varied workforce in several areas and uphold high service standards.

Entertainment Staff

Average Salary:  $40,000

Entertainment workers on cruise ships are in charge of organizing and carrying out a variety of passenger-entertaining activities. This include interacting with others, directing activities, organizing gatherings such as game nights and karaoke, instructing workshops, providing live music, and participating in the ship’s entertainment programs as an entertainer (singer, dancer, comedian, etc.).

Security Officer

Average Salary:  $35,000

Security officers aboard cruise ships are in charge of ensuring the crew and passengers’ safety and security. They are responsible for managing baggage screening, collaborating with local port security, conducting safety inspections, supervising entry points, and enforcing ship laws and regulations. Security personnel must complete security training, typically have a police or military background, have outstanding communication skills, and be able to function in a multicultural workplace with linguistic and cultural variances.

Chief Engineer (Engine Crew)

Salary:  $85,000

Chief engineers are responsible for supervising the engineering, electrical, and mechanical departments as well as all other technical operations aboard a cruise ship. Their primary duties include upkeep and repairs of the ship’s equipment.

From air conditioning and life-saving equipment to propulsion systems and fresh water, the head engineer makes sure everything works as it should and complies with safety regulations. In addition, overseeing a group of engineers, making sure work is done quickly, and keeping the ship operationally ready for inspections are also part of this duty.

Apart from their technical responsibilities, Chief Engineers need to have excellent communication skills to interact with other ship departments and outside vendors. They offer technical assistance and organize alterations and enhancements to the ship’s equipment.

Safety is the top priority, and the chief engineer needs to be knowledgeable with maritime safety rules and regulations, particularly fire safety procedures. Strong leadership, technical proficiency, and the capacity to lead a diverse team in a variety of settings—including emergencies—are requirements for this position.

Average Salary:  $37,000

Deckhands aboard cruise ships have a vital role in the upkeep and security of the ship. They are in charge of maintaining the common areas, decks, and exterior of the ship.

Jobs for a deckhand consist of:

• Patrolling the decks
• Ensuring passenger safety
• Assisting with ship loading and securing
• Performing maintenance tasks such as cleaning, painting, and repairing damage

Physical stamina, rope and rigging skills, and endurance are requirements for the role. Working in various weather conditions and handling heavy equipment are part of the job description. Deckhands are required to follow safety procedures and put in lengthy hours of work.

Hotel Manager

Salary: $50,000

The Hotel manager is in charge of the Hotel Division on a cruise ship, which includes Housekeeping, Entertainment, Food and Beverage, and the Purser’s Office.

The main duties of a hotel manager include

• Ensuring that these departments operate at high levels
• Overseeing hotel employees,
• Overseeing customer service
• Collaborating with different ship departments
• Overseeing the ship’s financial operations

They are in charge of onboard sales, maintenance, and administrative duties in addition to responding to inquiries and grievances from visitors. The hotel manager is a key player in determining how guests are treated and in preserving the caliber and popularity of the cruise services.

Cabin Steward

Salary:  $18,000

responsibilities: Passenger cabin maintenance and cleaning are the duties of cabin stewards. The main duty of a stateroom attendant is to make sure that visitors have a comfortable stay. In addition to cleaning, they also store supplies, arrange bedding, and serve room service.

Receptionists

Salary:  $40,000

Duties: The front desk person in charge of guaranteeing a satisfactory visitor experience is the guest services receptionist. In addition to handling requests and questions, receptionists help with the embarkation and disembarkation procedures and offer details on ship facilities.

Executive Chef

Pay: $62,000

An executive chef’s duties include supervising the entire galley team, guaranteeing the safety and quality of the food, and managing the preparation of meals for both visitors and crew. In addition, the executive chef is in charge of budget management, ordering and inventory control, and making sure that health codes are followed.

The primary duty of servers is to ensure that patrons have a first-rate dining experience. Among the roles of a server are:

• Taking and delivering orders
• Maintaining a clean and organized dining area
• Adhering to safety and hygiene standards

Serving thousands of passengers each night is not an easy task. Cruise ship servers are in charge of many tables and guarantee prompt, top-notch customer service.

Salary for bartenders: $17,000

Bartenders are in charge of creating and serving cocktails, giving customers outstanding service, keeping the bar area tidy, and controlling the pricing and inventory of beverages.

Cruise Ship Doctor

Salary : $80,000

Cruise ship doctors are in charge of overseeing the ship’s medical facilities, addressing medical crises, and providing medical care to both passengers and staff. They normally require at least three years of post-graduate clinical experience in addition to a concentration in family medicine or emergency medicine.

Salary : $70,000

Cruise ship nurses are responsible for responding to emergencies, treating passengers and crew members, and providing medical care. They require an ACLS certification, a minimum of three years of pertinent clinical experience, and a nursing license.

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Benefits for Cruise Ship Employees

Compared to regular land-based occupations, working aboard a cruise ship offers certain benefits that suit a distinct lifestyle. Not everyone can handle the long hours and time away from home.

It is difficult to resist the sea’s charm, despite its drawbacks. Thousands of people seek out exciting careers in the cruise industry.

The following are some advantages of working on a cruise ship:

• Financial Aspects: Although cruise ship workers make less money than the typical American, their living expenses are drastically lower. Nearly all of the everyday costs that crew members incur while at sea are paid for the cruise lines. Members of the crew can therefore save the majority of their wages.
• Extensive Benefits for Employees : Cruise ship employees are entitled to a range of benefits, such as lodging, meals, instruction, laundry facilities, health insurance, drink coupons, and transportation to and from the ship. In addition, a lot of employers who work for cruise lines provide their family members with access to cruise discounts, retirement plan contributions, and health and dental insurance.
• Details of Accommodations: Onboard the ship, lodging is provided at no cost to crew members. Deck 0’s majority of crew quarters are below sea level and are designed to be more utilitarian than opulent. Facilities like portholes are absent from crew cabins. Staff employees with higher positions have larger staterooms and private cabins.
• Dining & Refreshments: Free food and soft drinks are served to staff members by cruise lines. Additionally, crew lines provide discounted alcohol packages and drink coupons.
• Deals & Discounts: Employees on cruise ships are entitled to some benefits, including family member cruise fares at a discounted rate.
• Opportunities for Travel and Cultural Immersion: Working aboard a cruise ship still provides the chance to see new places and get a taste of other cultures. On their days off, crew members are free to explore the ports of call on foot.

Working aboard a cruise ship is an appealing alternative for individuals looking for an unusual career path because of the combination of cost savings, special advantages, and the chance to explore the world. Prospective workers should consider these advantages in light of the particular difficulties presented by this workplace, which include long hours, stringent rules, and little personal space.

Is there a cost associated with working on a cruise ship?

Even though there are many financial benefits to working on a cruise ship, such as free meals and lodging, crew members may still incur additional costs while on duty. Here’s a closer look at the potential costs for these:

• Laundry Services: For worker uniforms, cruise liners offer free laundry services. Personal apparel items, however, might cost a little more to clean. Staff employees can also get discounts on necessities like laundry soap and ironing services.
• Internet access and communication: Keeping in touch with others is one of the major expenses for crew members. Although crew members have access to “internet cafes” on cruise ships, the cost of use is not free. Compared to visitors, crew members receive a discount on internet packages.
• Personal Grooming and Relaxation Services: Staff members receive a discounted fee for using the ship’s salon and spa services, which include massages, manicures, pedicures, and haircuts. Some cruise ships encourage their employees to make use of these amenities, particularly while the vessel is docked and the majority of guests have disembarked.

Additional Possible Costs: While on leave or in between contracts, crew members may have to pay for personal travel, alcoholic beverages, and shore excursions.

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Benefits, Injury Compensation & Insurance

Working on board a cruise ship offers crew members the opportunity to travel and get paid for it. What other benefits do cruise lines offer their employees? And, what happens in the case of an unexpected circumstance such as an accident? Is there any compensation or should cruise ship crew consider private insurance?

Cruise Ship Crew Medical and Injury Compensation

Each crew member is expected to pass a medical examination prior to each contract. In addition, each crew member must have the necessary vaccinations for the countries to be visited on their contract. When an employee accepts the terms of their employment agreement or contract, they are acknowledging that the company does not provide medical care or medical reimbursement for pre-existing conditions or for crew member’s misconduct or negligence.

If a crew member gets sick on board, they have access to the ship’s medical staff and prescription medicine at no cost to the crew member. When the medical team decides that the crew member is ok to go back to their duties, they will typically give a doctor’s note to be given to the crew member’s supervisor.

If a crew member must disembark for medical reasons which manifest while working onboard the cruise ship, they may be entitled to additional medical attention and expenses paid by the cruise line, upon their return home. The crew member typically receives a daily allowance in an amount determined by the cruise line until the crew member is able to work. In addition, most cruise lines cover the crew member’s medical expenses.

Accident and Death Benefits for Crew

If a crew member dies or is injured as a result of an accident during their employment, most cruise lines pay a lump sum to the employee’s next of kin and children. Rarely will a cruise line offer compensation for accidents or death that occurred while on leave. They also do not pay benefits if the death or injury was a result of the crewmember’s negligence, misconduct, suicide, or natural causes.

In the event of a permanent disability, the cruise line generally pays a lump sum to the crew member based on the percent degree of permanent disability. As with any accident, the cruise line does not pay a benefit if the disability was a result of the crew member’s negligence, misconduct, or natural causes.

Health and Disability Insurance for Crew Members

Depending on the country that you are a citizen of will most likely determine if you need private disability insurance. For example, in Canada, each province has a health care system in place that would cover the costs of medical care if you were injured on your leave. Many countries, such as specific states in the United States expect citizens to pay their own medical costs unless they have private insurance.

You may want to look into this further before joining a cruise ship. If you do want to purchase some type of disability or health insurance, make sure you understand its terms and conditions. How long are you permitted to be outside of your home country before your insurance is not valid? You may also not be covered if you are negligent or participate in a dangerous sport (or shore excursion). Read the fine print.

Compensation for Loss of Personal Effects

Crew members may suffer a loss or damages to their personal effects as a result of fire, flooding or other cruise ship disasters. Depending on the employment agreement, the crewmember may be entitled to compensation. Generally, cruise lines will not provide compensation for loss of cash or jewellery.

In the case of the Costa Concordia, where crew members had to leave most, if not all, of their personal effects behind, the compensation for each crew member varied. According to the Financial Times, one crew member’s settlement contract offered a maximum of $3,750 to cover personal effects and cash lost on board, plus pay for the remainder of the crew member’s contract.

On the other hand, uninjured passengers were compensated the full cost of their cruise, travel expenses, medical expenses and about $14,500 each, by the cruise line to cover lost baggage and psychological trauma, according to the Associated Press. Injured passengers were compensated more.

Crew Personal Effects Insurance

Crew members may or may not consider personal effects insurance when they work on a cruise ship. Most cruise lines compensate for loss as a result of flooding, fire or collision. For example, Princess Cruises compensates for actual loss up to a maximum of $3,000 per crew member. Unfortunately, most cruise lines do not compensate against theft.

It’s common to find an insurance company to provide personal effects insurance for short term travel. This type of insurance covers you in case of lost luggage from a flight or cruise as a passenger. As a crew member you need the insurance to cover you for 6-10 months, depending on the length of your contract.

Ship Crew:  Private Insurance Resources

Here are a few marine insurance companies’ websites for more information on private insurance:

Other Employee Benefits for Cruise Ship Crew

Some cruise lines have discounts for onboard purchases and services, discounts for cruising as a passenger, company retirement plans, stock purchase programs, and family travel benefits. Generally, the benefits increase as your service with the particular cruise line increases. Rank may also determine what type of benefits you have.

For example, Carnival Cruise Lines offers the Fun Ship Retirement Plan. The plan provides a lump sum benefit upon the crew member’s retirement from Carnival, provided they have at least 10 years of continuous service. The amount of the benefit varies with the individual’s position with the company.

Crew members can also take advantage of extensive training programs that will look great on a future resume.

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If you’re considering getting a job on a cruise ship or a curious passenger, you’re probably wondering how much do cruise ship workers make? Although the salary is low, there are minimal living expenses while you’re on contract. Many cruise ship workers can save a high percentage of their income.

According to Business Insider ,  the median annual earnings of cruise ship workers is between $16,000 to $20,000. But top positions can make over $100,000 per year.

While it may sound like the exotic vacation of a lifetime, there is much work behind the scenes. From the cabin attendant to the captain, every role is important.

This article will help you understand how much cruise ship workers make and provide information on some of the positions on a ship.

Table of Contents

Business Insider says cruise ship workers earn an average annual salary of $16,000 to $20,000 . Leadership positions can make substantially more with a yearly salary from $30,000 to over $100,000.

Cruise ship workers make far less than the median annual income in the US of $31,561 (in 2017). While the median yearly earnings of cruise ship workers are low relative to the US, there are plenty of benefits from working on a cruise ship, including:

• Free food and accommodations while working.
• The chance to see the world.
• Onboard discounts.
• Minimal living expenses.
• Flights to the vessel.
• Discounts for you and your family.

It’s important to remember that most cruise ship workers earn towards the lower end of the salary range. Most cruise ship workers make $10,000-$15,000 before gratuities. At the top, the cruise ship captain can earn over $177,000 annually, depending on the ship’s size and years of experience.

It’s important to remember that the annual salary figures don’t consider the number of hours worked. Crew members work long hours of up to 14 hours per day, seven days a week.

Some positions, such as the ship’s entertainers, may only work a few hours daily.

Cruise ship employee contracts are between two and eleven months long , with the average lasting four to eight months with a two- or three-month break between contracts.

Working on a cruise ship means the workers are often away from family for long periods.

Like every organization, the salary of cruise ship employees varies by position, experience, and skills.

While compiling this post, we checked several sources, including Indeed , Payscale , ZipRecruiter , and Business Insider . We also spoke with 17 current and former cruise ship workers to get an idea of their salaries and what life is like working on a cruise ship.

Cruise Ship Captain

Average Salary: $98,000

Responsibilities: A captain’s role encompasses the overall operation and safety of the vessel, requiring a blend of maritime expertise and leadership abilities.

Cruise ship captains are responsible for:

• Navigating the ship
• Overseeing the distribution and use of food, fuel, and water
• Ensuring passenger safety and satisfaction
• Maintaining efficient operations throughout the ship

A cruise ship captain’s primary responsibility is navigating the ship, which involves plotting courses, interpreting weather patterns, and making crucial decisions about routes and speeds. The captain also ensures the ship’s maintenance and adherence to safety standards, including overseeing maintenance works and ensuring proper cargo stowage per maritime regulations​ ​​ ​.

The captain liaises with port authorities for smooth transit and compliance with various regulations. Captains are on call 24 hours a day and must be ready to take charge in emergencies.

They also play a crucial role in enhancing the guest experience by socializing and greeting passengers, attending to guest complaints, and ensuring high customer service. A captain’s multifaceted role demands strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm in emergencies, making it a challenging yet rewarding position​ ​​ ​.

Cruise Director

Average Salary: $93,000

Responsibilities: As a senior officer on a cruise ship, the cruise director is pivotal in shaping the passenger experience. A cruise director is responsible for all onboard hospitality, entertainment, and social events.

The responsibilities of a cruise director include organizing and scheduling various activities and events, leading the entertainment team, and ensuring passengers’ safety and satisfaction. The cruise director also plays a significant role in public relations, making announcements and acting as the cruise company’s public face.

This role demands strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, as they manage a diverse staff across multiple departments and maintain high service standards.

Entertainment Staff

Average Salary: $40,000

Responsibilities: Cruise ship entertainment staff are responsible for various activities to entertain passengers. This includes socializing, leading activities, hosting events like game shows and karaoke nights, teaching classes, live music, and performing in the ship’s shows—entertainers, including singers, dancers, and comedians.

Security Officer

Average Salary: $35,000

Responsibilities: Cruise ship Security Officers are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of passengers and crew. Their duties include supervising entry points, enforcing ship rules and regulations, conducting safety inspections, coordinating with local port security, and overseeing luggage screenings. Security officers require security training and usually come from a military or police background, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work in a multicultural environment with language and cultural differences.

Engine Crew

Chief engineer.

Salary: $85,000

Responsibilities: The chief engineer on a cruise ship has a vital role that involves overseeing all the technical operations of the vessel, including engineering, electrical, and mechanical divisions. Their key responsibilities encompass maintaining and repairing the ship’s machinery.

The chief engineer ensures everything from propulsion systems and fresh water to air conditioning and life-saving equipment functions properly and meets safety standards. This role also requires managing a team of engineers, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently, and maintaining the ship’s operational readiness for inspections.

In addition to technical duties, the Chief Engineer must possess strong communication skills for liaising with other ship departments and external suppliers. They coordinate modifications and improvements to the vessel’s machinery and provide technical support.

Safety is a paramount concern, and the Chief Engineer must know maritime safety laws and regulations, including fire prevention protocols. This role demands technical expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to manage a diverse team effectively in various situations, including emergencies.

Salary: $37,000

Responsibilities: Deckhands on cruise ships are integral to the vessel’s maintenance and safety. They are responsible for upkeep of the ship’s exterior, decks, and common areas.

A deckhand’s duties include:

• Patrolling the decks
• Ensuring passenger safety
• Assisting with ship loading and securing
• Performing maintenance tasks such as cleaning, painting, and repairing damage

The role requires physical strength, endurance, and knowledge of ropes and rigging. The job involves handling heavy equipment and working in all weather conditions. Deckhands typically work long hours and must adhere to safety protocols.

Hospitality

Hotel manager.

Salary: $50,000

Responsibilities: The Hotel Manager on a cruise ship oversees the Hotel Division, including Entertainment, Food and Beverage, Housekeeping, and the Purser’s Office.

A hotel manager’s primary responsibilities involve

• Ensuring high standards of operation across these departments
• Managing hotel staff,
• Supervising customer service
• Coordinating with other ship departments
• Overseeing financial aspects of the ship

They also handle guest queries and complaints and are responsible for onboard sales, maintenance, and administrative tasks. The Hotel Manager plays a crucial role in shaping the passengers’ experience and maintaining the quality and success of the cruise services.

Cabin Steward

Salary: $18,000

Responsibilities: Cabin stewards are responsible for the upkeep and cleanliness of passenger cabins. A stateroom attendant’s primary responsibility is to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. Their duties include cleaning, arranging bedding, stocking supplies, and providing room service.

Receptionists

Salary: $40,000

Responsibilities: The receptionist at guest services is a crucial frontline employee responsible for ensuring a positive guest experience. Receptionists manage inquiries and requests, provide information on ship amenities, and assist with embarkation and debarkation processes.

Executive Chef

Salary: $62,000

Responsibilities: An Executive Chef manages the entire galley staff, ensures food quality and safety, and oversees food preparation for guests and crew. The executive chef also handles administrative tasks like ordering and inventory control, budget management, and ensuring compliance with health regulations.

Responsibilities: Servers are responsible for providing an excellent dining experience for guests. A server role includes:

• Taking and delivering orders
• Maintaining a clean and organized dining area
• Adhering to safety and hygiene standards

It’s not easy serving thousands of passengers every night. Cruise ship servers manage dozens of tables, ensuring fast and top-tier customer service.

Salary: $17,000

Responsibilities: Bartenders are responsible for mixing and serving drinks, providing excellent service to guests, maintaining clean bar areas, and managing beverage stock and costs.

Medical Team

Cruise ship doctor.

Salary : $80,000

Responsibilities : Cruise ship doctors are responsible for providing medical care to passengers and crew, handling various medical emergencies, and managing the ship’s medical facility. They typically need a specialization in emergency medicine or family medicine and a minimum of three years post-graduate clinical experience.

Salary : $70,000

Responsibilities : Cruise ship nurses provide medical care to passengers and crew, respond to emergencies, and administer treatments. They need a nursing license, at least three years of relevant clinical experience, and certifications like ACLS.

Cruise Ship Worker Benefits

Working on a cruise ship offers unique benefits catering to a different lifestyle than traditional land-based jobs. The long hours and time away from home aren’t for everyone.

Despite the disadvantages, the allure of the sea is hard to resist. Thousands of people flock to the cruise industry for an adventurous career.

Here are the benefits of working on a cruise ship:

• Financial Aspects : Cruise ship employees may have a lower salary than the average American, but their living costs are significantly reduced. Cruise lines cover almost all the daily expenses crew members face at sea. As a result, crew members can save most of their earnings.
• Comprehensive Employee Benefits : Cruise ship workers receive various benefits, including accommodation, food, training, laundry services, medical care, drink vouchers, and flights to and from the ship. Additionally, many cruise line employers offer access to cruise discounts for family members, contributions to retirement plans, and health and dental insurance.
• Accommodation Details : Crew members receive free accommodation on the ship. Most crew cabins are below sea level on deck 0 and are more functional than luxurious. Crew cabins lack amenities like portholes. Higher-ranking staff members have private cabins and more spacious stateroom accommodations.
• Dining and Refreshments : Cruise lines provide employees with complimentary food and basic drinks. Crew lines also provide drink vouchers and alcohol packages at reduced rates.
• Deals and Discounts : Cruise staff receive various perks and discounts, including reduced cruise fares for family members.
• Cultural and Travel Opportunities : Working on a cruise ship still offers the benefit of traveling to various destinations and experiencing different cultures. Crew members can get off the ship on their days off and explore the ports of call.

This blend of financial savings, unique benefits, and the opportunity to travel the world makes working on a cruise ship an attractive option for those seeking an unconventional career path. However, potential employees should weigh these benefits against the unique challenges of this work environment, such as long hours, strict regulations, and limited personal space.

Are there Expenses Incurred for Working on a Cruise Ship?

While working on a cruise ship offers several financial benefits, such as free meals and accommodation, crew members may still encounter additional expenses during their tenure. Here’s a closer look at what these expenses might entail:

Laundry Services : Cruise lines provide complimentary laundry services for staff uniforms. However, personal clothing items may incur a small charge for cleaning. Additionally, essentials like laundry soap and ironing services are available at discounted rates for staff members.

Communication and Internet Access : One of the significant costs for crew members is staying connected. While cruise ships offer “internet cafes” for crew usage, the access is not free. Crew members can purchase internet packages at a discounted rate compared to guests. It’s important to note that the internet connections for guests and crew are usually separate, and staff are generally not allowed to use the internet in guest areas.

Personal Grooming and Relaxation Services : Crew members can use the ship’s salon and spa services, such as haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and massages, at discounted rates. Some cruise ships encourage staff to utilize these facilities, especially when the boat is docked and most passengers are off-board.

Other Potential Expenses : Crew members may incur expenses for alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and personal travel during time off or between contracts.

Despite incurring some additional expenses, cruise ship staff find that they can save more money than in many land-based jobs due to providing lodging and meals.

FAQs About Working on a Cruise Ship

How many hours a day do cruise ship workers work.

Cruise ship workers typically work long hours, often ranging from 10 to 14 hours per day . Some positions, such as entertainers, work fewer hours.

Do Cruise Ship Workers Get Days Off?

Cruise ship workers usually do not have traditional days off. Instead, they have specific hours or parts of the day when they are not scheduled to work. Their schedules are structured in shifts, allowing for some time to rest, but full days off are rare during their contract , which can last several months.

Do Crusie Ship Workers Share a Room?

Yes, most cruise ship workers share a room with one or more colleagues. Accommodations for staff are typically more compact and less luxurious than guest cabins. The number of people sharing a room varies by cruise ship and the worker’s position.

High-ranking employees like the captain and officers have solo accommodation and larger cabins.

Marcello De Lio

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Onboard Employment FAQ

Are you interested in joining the thousands of worldwide employees who are proud to be part of the Princess Cruises family? We are committed to being an employer of choice and understand that our Consummate Hosts need to be supported, empowered, and recognized.

We also understand that working at sea can be a challenging new opportunity. Here are answers to some essential questions you might have when considering cruise ship employment.

• What are the requirements to work onboard?

What is a C1/D visa?

How do i get a medical certificate, which ship will i be assigned to, how do i get to and from the ship i am assigned to, do i need travel insurance, how long will i be onboard, can i get off and go home during the contract, will i have my own room, what is the power voltage in my cabin, can i drink alcohol onboard, is there a drug policy, is there a curfew, can i bring a family member or friend onboard, will i have access to guest areas and amenities during my time off, once onboard, how do i stay in touch with my friends and family back home, can i have mail delivered to the ship, is there an atm onboard to use, will i have to pay taxes, can i send money home from onboard, how do i pay for items onboard, how do i do laundry, what if i miss the ship in port, what happens if i get sick while working onboard, can i visit the ports while working onboard, how do i apply to work onboard, what are the requirements for onboard employment.

While specific position requirements depend on the job you are interested in, there are some essential requirements that all crew must meet to work onboard:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Be able to pass a criminal background check
• Hold a valid passport
• Have a US C1/D visa (if you are not a Canadian or US citizen/resident)
• Have a Princess-specific pre-employment medical exam certificate
• Meet the English fluency requirements relevant to your position

Also known as a seaman's visa, some nationalities need this to work onboard a ship and travel to certain countries. This visa normally lasts between two and five years. You will be required to make an appointment at your nearest US Embassy to gain this visa; all paperwork for the appointment will be supplied by your manning agency.

This extensive examination is at the employee's expense and can be conducted through one of Princess's recommended medical facilities—you'll be advised which one is closest to you. Once this is completed and approved by our corporate Medical department, you are cleared to travel and work onboard.

Shipboard employees are scheduled to vessels based on operational need. This means you could be assigned to any one of our vessels in the fleet depending on where a position is open at the time you are travel-ready. After your first assignment, we will be able to provide details about the next assignment after your leave period.

At the beginning of each contract Princess Cruises will provide flights from your designated airport to your assigned ship. At the completion of your contract, Princess will arrange for your travel back home as well. It is your responsibility to get to the airport from your home, but from there we will provide any necessary accommodations and/or transportation to and from the ship.

While you are covered medically in Los Angeles and onboard the vessel, we suggest you purchase basic travel insurance to cover the cost of lost luggage or injuries that could result from shoreside activities.

Contract lengths vary by position but range between four and ten months. After each contract you will receive approximately 60 days of vacation before your next assignment. Your daily work schedule while onboard will depend on your particular position, but you can expect to work seven days a week and anywhere between 10-13 hours per day.

Time off during the contract is not permitted. In case of family emergencies, Princess Cruises does understand that additional time at home may be needed and does accommodate these requests on a case-by-case basis.

Accommodations vary depending on the ship and position. Those in non-management positions generally share a cabin with one to three other roommates whereas those in most management positions are entitled to a single cabin. Cabins include a storage space, TV, and DVD player.

All vessels have 120v US power and some vessels also have 220v European power.

Yes, alcohol is available for purchase during time off. However, Princess Cruises has a strict alcohol limit and at no time can a crew member be intoxicated.

Princess has a zero-tolerance drug policy. All crew are subject to random and reasonable-suspicion drug testing. Violation of these policies will result in termination.

There is no set curfew. However, crew who are out late should be respectful of other crew members and guests nearby.

Crew members who meet specific length-of-service criteria have the option of requesting "relatives travel," a benefit that allows family members to sail onboard for a limited period of time. Some restrictions may apply.

While some officer-level positions do allow restricted access to guest areas, most facilities are for guests only. However, we have a variety of crew-only facilities, such as a crew pool, whirlpool, gym, bar, and  Crew Club, which is a communal room where you can gather to watch movies, play games, sing karaoke, and much more!

Postal mail services are available while onboard. You will also have access to computers in the crew training areas. Wi-fi Internet is also available in the crew areas if you choose to bring your own laptop or tablet. Princess offers discounted rates for phone and Internet cards so you can stay in touch with those at home. But remember that satellite capabilities are sometimes limited while the ship is at sea.

You will be provided with mailing addresses for ports where mail can best be delivered.

There is an ATM in the guest areas; an ATM charge will apply. You can also cash checks in the Crew Office onboard to get cash.

US citizens will have federal taxes automatically deducted and may be required to pay state taxes, if applicable. All other nationalities are responsible for filing their own tax forms upon returning to their home countries (as they are self-employed).

You can wire money via the Crew Purser's office. Details are available onboard and rates may vary.

You will be provided with a bar account number, which is your personal number for the duration of your contract onboard each ship. As the entire vessel is cashless, even for guests, you will provide your account number at the bars, salon, and shops in guest areas. In the Crew Bar you can purchase a CrewCard and add money onto it for purchases. At the end of every month you will be required to settle your account.

There are crew laundry facilities where the washers and dryers are free of charge—you just provide the soap. You can also use the dry cleaning onboard, but there is a nominal cost.

Crew members who miss the ship should contact the ship's Agent who will be at the port (the address and phone number are always in the Princess Patter, a daily newsletter for our guests). The Port Agent will arrange transportation to the ship's next port of call. However, it is the responsibility of crew to pay these transportation costs. Crew may be disciplined for the offense and could be terminated. Depending on the port all crew members are required to be back onboard half an hour to an hour prior to sailing time.

While onboard, all crew are medically covered and can visit the Medical Clinic for health concerns. If you need to be medically disembarked during your contract, Princess will provide transportation to a land-based medical facility and repatriate you back home.

If you are not scheduled to work during the time the ship is in port, you can disembark the ship with your supervisor’s approval. Occasionally, there are crew-specific activities or tours to participate in.

Safety requirements dictate that a certain number of crew members be present on each vessel at all times. As such, there may occasionally be times when, although not scheduled to work, you will be required to remain onboard while the ship is in port.

Princess Cruises recruits globally through authorized hiring partners.  Find a hiring partner located near you.

Once you contact the authorized hiring partner, you can get answers to questions regarding the application process and which positions are currently open in your region.

Ex-Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line workers reveal what it's really like to live at sea

• Cruise ship jobs have a number of distinctive features that separate them from land-based jobs.
• Business Insider spoke with 39 current and former cruise line employees who described what it's like to live and work on a cruise ship.
• They described long hours, bad food, and an intense hookup culture.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Cruise ship jobs have a number of distinctive features that separate them from land-based jobs. Perhaps the biggest difference is the fact that cruise ship employees live where they work.

That can have advantages, like short "commutes" and close bonds with co-workers, but it also presents potential downsides, like poor food quality and a sometimes excessive party culture.

Business Insider spoke with 39 current and former cruise line employees who described what it's like to live and work on a cruise ship. (Some of those mentioned in this story requested anonymity due to a fear of reprisal from their current or former employer.)

Here's what they said.

Have you worked on a cruise ship? Do you have a story to share? Email this reporter at  [email protected]

There's a big party culture, but it isn't always as fun as it seems.

Cruise ships have a reputation for fostering a party culture among employees fueled by long hours and cheap drinks available at crew-only bars.

But social drinking can turn into self-medication , according to Brian David Bruns, who worked as a waiter for Carnival Cruise Lines for 13 months between 2003 and 2004 and wrote a book, "Cruise Confidential," about the experience.

Bruns told Business Insider that the stress and loneliness of working on a cruise ship made alcohol an attractive coping mechanism. During his time as a waiter, an outside observer would likely have determined that he developed a drinking problem, Bruns said.

"I'm sure any third party would observe me and say I had a problem," he said. "It can happen very quickly where you go from a social drink to self-medicating because of loneliness."

The food is bad.

Cruise ship workers with lower-paying jobs, like bartenders and waiters, are often at the mercy of the crew cafeteria. There, according to five current or former cruise ship employees, the food leaves much to be desired .

Some described their distaste for the food as a logistical issue. Since many ships employ crew members from around the world, the food served in the crew cafeteria can reflect that variety, making it difficult for some to find food similar to what they would eat at home on a consistent basis. Others described food of poor quality, like chicken with a rubber-like texture or sauteed fish heads.

"The food sucks," a former employee for Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America Line said.

Workers would keep tuna, granola bars, and other snack foods in their rooms or favor simple foods that require little preparation, like fruit, cereal, and sandwiches, she said.

Not all of the cruise ship employees Business Insider spoke to disliked the food in the crew cafeteria. Two former cruise ship employees said they enjoyed both the quality and variety of the food served to crew members.

You work long hours.

Rather than working traditional five-day weeks, cruise-ship employees often work seven days a week for the duration of their contracts, which can range from about two months to 11 months. Between four and eight months was the most common contract length cited by 31 current and former cruise-ship employees who spoke with Business Insider.

The hours can also be intense, from about eight to nearly 20 hours a day. The employees Business Insider spoke with reported an average of about 12 hours.

A former waiter for Carnival Cruise Line who said he worked about 12 hours a day described his schedule as "crazy" and said it led to fatigue and stress.

"We don't get enough sleep," he said.

Employees have a lot of sex with each other.

Among the many distinctive features of a cruise ship job is the fact that you live with your co-workers. That can result in unusually close bonds among employees and an unusual amount of sex between them.

"There's a lot of sex on cruise ships," said a former casino manager for Holland America Line.

Some compared the hookup culture as being similar to, or even exceeding, that of a college dorm.

But the permissive sexual culture on cruise ships can also lead to aggressive or inappropriate behavior. A former Royal Caribbean Cruises employee said one of her managers would make comments about her sexual orientation and criticize her for never changing her hairstyle.

Royal Caribbean did not respond to a request for comment.

Romantic relationships start and end quickly

Romantic relationships among employees develop and end much faster than on land , which, along with frequent turnover, can make long-term relationships difficult.

"One month on a ship is maybe like two years on land, because you spend so much time with these people," said Taylor Sokol, a former cruise director for Holland America.

But the close proximity between employees can make it difficult to maintain a healthy amount of space from a romantic partner, Sokol said.

"It's kind of hard to give someone their space when you live maybe 10 feet away from them."

Almost all of the passengers are pleasant, but some are annoying

Current and former employees had largely positive things to say about passengers, characterizing the vast majority of them as pleasant and respectful.

But some employees described frustrating tendencies they've noticed in passengers, like being too rowdy, asking annoying questions, and talking too much.

• How 30,000 meals a day are made on the world's largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas
• The 10 large cruise ships with the best food
• The 8 best luxury cruise lines in the world, ranked
• Ex-Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line workers reveal the things they couldn't live without on board

• Main content

Cruise Tips For Families & Single Cruisers

Things to Know Before You Cruise

Top 5 Cruise Lines To Work For: Benefits, Job Opportunities, And More!

I’ve always loved the idea of working on a cruise ship. The thought of traveling the world while getting paid sounds like the ultimate dream job. But with over 300 cruise lines out there, it’s tough to know which one to choose.

That’s why I’ve done the research and put together a list of the top 5 cruise lines to work for. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, job opportunities, and other essential information about each cruise line.

Whether you’re looking for a job in the hotel or marine department, on larger or smaller ships, with luxury or specialist cruise lines, we’ve got you covered. So if you’re ready to embark on a new adventure and work on a cruise ship, keep reading to find out which cruise line is the best fit for you.

• Royal Caribbean, Cunard, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and AIDA Cruises are the top five cruise lines to work for.
• Luxury or specialist cruise lines may pay more and offer better benefits, so it’s important to research salary expectations and work-life balance before committing to a contract.
• The cruise industry offers many job opportunities and roles in various departments, such as the hotel and marine departments, and larger ships may offer more job opportunities while smaller ships offer more personal interaction with guests and potentially higher tips.
• Employee satisfaction and work-life balance are prioritized by top cruise lines, and they offer benefits, perks, structured programs for career advancement, and organized events and activities for crew members to socialize and explore ports of call.

Cruise Line Rankings

I think it’s important to note that Royal Caribbean is ranked as the best cruise line to work for, followed by Cunard and MSC Cruises, according to industry experts.

These cruise lines offer a range of benefits including discounts on cruises, free accommodation, and access to crew gym and deck privileges.

Additionally, compensation and benefits are competitive, and there are opportunities for training and development.

However, it’s important to research salary expectations and work-life balance before committing to a contract.

It’s worth considering that larger ships may offer more job opportunities, while smaller ships offer more personal interaction with guests and potentially higher tips.

Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean Group are umbrella companies for multiple cruise lines, and luxury or specialist cruise lines may pay more and offer better benefits.

While no one-size-fits-all answer exists for the best cruise line to work for, it’s advised to apply for multiple roles and consider the length of the contract before making a decision.

Perks and Rewards

Imagine having access to exclusive discounts on cruises, merchandise, and experiences, free accommodation, and even the use of onboard facilities – these are just some of the amazing perks and rewards offered by the top cruise lines to work for. As an employee, these benefits are not only a great way to save money, but they also enhance the work experience by providing opportunities for crew members to enjoy the same amenities as guests. Additionally, many cruise lines offer compensation and benefits packages, training and development programs, and corporate cultures that prioritize employee satisfaction and work-life balance.

To give you an idea of the types of perks and rewards offered by the top cruise lines, here is a table outlining some of the benefits available:

Overall, the perks and rewards offered by the top cruise lines make working in the industry a unique and exciting experience. With a focus on employee satisfaction and work-life balance, cruise line jobs offer the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and build a rewarding career.

Employment Opportunities

Exploring the various departments and roles available on a cruise ship can provide insight into the employment opportunities within the industry. Most cruise lines offer job opportunities in both the hotel and marine departments.

The hotel department includes roles in the casino, culinary, entertainment, and guest relations, while the marine department includes roles in electrical, engine, security, and environmental. It’s important to note that the specific job opportunities and roles available may vary by cruise line.

When considering employment opportunities on a cruise ship, it’s important to also consider salary expectations and work-life balance. While the benefits and perks of working on a cruise ship may be enticing, it’s important to understand the time commitment and potential for long hours.

Additionally, salary expectations may vary based on the cruise line and specific role. It’s important to do research and have a clear understanding of the job responsibilities and expectations before accepting a position on a cruise ship.

Additional Information

Wow, the cruise industry is absolutely massive, with over 1.8 million people working in various roles across multiple cruise lines. It’s important to have additional information before applying for a job on a cruise ship. Work life balance is a crucial aspect of any job, and it’s no different when working on a cruise ship. It’s important to find a balance between work and personal time while on board. Challenges will arise, but this is an opportunity for growth and development. The cruise industry offers many opportunities for career advancement, and it’s important to take advantage of them.

To help you decide which cruise line is right for you, here is a table outlining the work life balance, challenges, and growth opportunities of the top five cruise lines to work for:

Remember, while the table provides a general overview, it’s important to do your own research and speak with current and former employees to get a better understanding of what it’s like to work for each cruise line.

What is the application process like for getting a job on a cruise ship?

The interview process for cruise ship jobs varies by company and position. Required qualifications often include experience in hospitality, fluency in English, and a valid passport. It’s important to research individual companies and apply for multiple roles.

Are there opportunities for career advancement within the cruise industry?

I discovered that there are ample opportunities for career advancement in the cruise industry, with various training programs available. Many cruise lines offer promotions and encourage employees to further their education and skills to advance within the company.

What is the typical work schedule like for cruise ship employees?

Flexible scheduling and work-life balance vary by role and cruise line, but typically employees work 10-12 hour shifts for 4-8 months. Days off and vacation time are provided, allowing for exploration and relaxation while on board.

What are some common challenges that cruise ship employees face while working onboard?

Working on a cruise ship can be challenging due to long hours, limited personal space, and cultural differences. Maintaining work-life balance can be difficult, but communication and adaptability can help mitigate any issues.

How does the experience of working for a luxury or specialist cruise line differ from working for a mainstream cruise line?

Luxury or specialist cruise lines offer a better work culture, job responsibilities, and perks, with an average salary of $3,000 to $10,000 per month. Higher pay and more personal interaction with guests make for a more fulfilling experience.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

How Is It Working On A Cruise Ship

Published: December 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Anna Boling

• Sustainability

Introduction

Working on a cruise ship can be a dream come true for those seeking adventure, travel, and a unique working experience. Imagine waking up to stunning ocean views, traveling to different ports around the world, and meeting people from various cultures — all while getting paid! However, this glamorous and exciting lifestyle comes with its own set of challenges and sacrifices.

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of working on a cruise ship, the job opportunities available, the typical work schedule, housing and living conditions, meals and food options, salary and benefits, health and safety regulations, entertainment facilities for crew members, and the cultural exchange and travel opportunities that come with working on a cruise ship.

Working on a cruise ship is not your typical 9-to-5 job. It requires a sense of adventure, adaptability, and a passion for serving others. Whether you’re considering a career in the hospitality industry, entertainment, or any other field, working on a cruise ship can offer a unique and fulfilling experience that will broaden your horizons.

Pros of Working on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship can offer a multitude of benefits and advantages. Here are some of the pros of working on a cruise ship:

• Travel Opportunities: One of the biggest perks of working on a cruise ship is the opportunity to travel to different destinations around the world. From the sandy beaches of the Caribbean to the breathtaking fjords of Alaska, working on a cruise ship allows you to explore new places and experience different cultures.
• Unique Work Environment: Cruise ships are like floating cities, providing a diverse and dynamic work environment. From the bustling restaurants and bars to the luxurious spas and entertainment venues, there is never a dull moment on board. You’ll have the chance to work with people from various countries and backgrounds, expanding your horizons and forming lifelong friendships.
• Competitive Salary and Benefits: Cruise ship jobs often come with attractive salary packages, including accommodations, meals, and insurance. Additionally, many cruise lines offer opportunities for career advancement and professional development, allowing you to grow and excel in your chosen field.
• Opportunity to Save Money: Since accommodations and meals are provided on board, working on a cruise ship offers the opportunity to save a significant portion of your earnings. Without major expenses like rent or utilities, you can save up for future endeavors or goals.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: Cruise ships require a wide range of professionals, from chefs and bartenders to engineers and entertainers. Whether you have experience in hospitality, customer service, or even healthcare, there are likely job opportunities that match your skills and interests.

Overall, working on a cruise ship combines adventure, travel, and the opportunity to meet fascinating individuals from around the world. It offers a unique and rewarding work experience that can enrich your personal and professional life.

Cons of Working on a Cruise Ship

While there are many advantages to working on a cruise ship, it’s important to acknowledge the potential downsides and challenges that come with the job. Here are some of the cons of working on a cruise ship:

• Long Working Hours: Working on a cruise ship often involves long hours and demanding schedules. Depending on your position, you may be required to work seven days a week for several months at a time. This can lead to exhaustion and limited personal time.
• Isolation and Homesickness: Living and working on a cruise ship can be isolating, especially for those who crave a sense of stability or have strong connections to their home and loved ones. Being away from family and friends for extended periods of time can lead to feelings of homesickness.
• Limited Personal Space: Crew members on a cruise ship typically have small cabin accommodations, shared with one or more colleagues. The lack of privacy and personal space can be challenging for some individuals, especially if they are used to living alone or in larger living quarters.
• Seasickness and Motion Discomfort: The constant motion of a cruise ship can cause seasickness and motion discomfort, especially for those who are prone to motion sickness. This can make it difficult to perform daily tasks and can impact overall well-being.
• Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be a challenge on a cruise ship. With long working hours and limited time off, finding time to relax, recharge, and engage in personal activities can be difficult.

It’s important to carefully consider these factors and weigh them against the benefits before deciding to work on a cruise ship. While the experience can be rewarding in many ways, it’s essential to be aware of the potential challenges and make an informed decision.

Job Opportunities on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship offers a wide range of job opportunities across various departments. Whether you have experience in hospitality, entertainment, administration, or technical fields, there’s likely a role that suits your skills and interests. Here are some common job opportunities on a cruise ship:

• Food and Beverage: From chefs and kitchen staff to waiters and bartenders, the food and beverage department plays a crucial role in ensuring guests have a memorable dining experience onboard.
• Guest Services: Guest service positions, such as receptionists or concierge, are responsible for attending to guests’ needs, managing inquiries, and providing exceptional customer service.
• Entertainment: The entertainment department offers opportunities for singers, dancers, musicians, and other performers to showcase their talents through onboard shows, concerts, and interactive events.
• Housekeeping: Housekeeping staff is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and providing a comfortable environment for guests in their cabins and public areas throughout the ship.
• Deck and Engineering: The deck and engineering department includes positions such as navigation officers, engineers, and electricians who ensure the smooth operation of the ship’s systems, safety protocols, and maintenance.
• Spa and Wellness: Spa therapists, fitness instructors, and beauty specialists help guests relax and rejuvenate by offering a range of spa treatments, fitness classes, and salon services.
• Retail and Sales: Retail positions include duty-free shop attendants and sales associates who assist guests in shopping for luxury goods, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Childcare and Youth Activities: Cruise ships often have dedicated staff to organize and supervise activities for children and teenagers, providing entertainment and age-appropriate programs.

These are just a few examples of the job opportunities available on a cruise ship. It’s important to note that different cruise lines may have unique positions based on their specific offerings and target demographics. It’s advisable to research and explore different job listings to find the right fit for your skills and interests.

Typical Work Schedule on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship requires a different approach to scheduling compared to traditional land-based jobs. The work schedule on a cruise ship can vary depending on the department and position. Here is a glimpse into a typical work schedule on a cruise ship:

Crew members on a cruise ship often work long hours, typically between 8 to 12 hours per day. However, the exact schedule can vary based on the needs of the ship and the nature of the job. Some positions may require working split shifts or being on-call during certain hours.

Unlike a Monday-to-Friday office job, the work schedule on a cruise ship is structured based on the ship’s itinerary and operational needs. This means that crew members may need to work on weekends, public holidays, and even during times when the ship is docked at different ports of call.

As part of their employment contract, crew members are usually assigned to specific work shifts, which can be mornings, afternoons, evenings, or overnight. The exact schedule is determined by the department and position, taking into account the need for continuous operation and guest services.

While the work schedule on a cruise ship can be demanding, most cruise lines have policies in place to ensure that crew members receive adequate time off. Typically, crew members are given a set amount of hours or days off each week, allowing them time to rest and recharge.

It’s important to note that due to the nature of the cruise industry, the work schedule can be subject to change based on the ship’s itinerary, guest needs, and any unforeseen circumstances. Flexibility and adaptability are key qualities for those considering a career on a cruise ship.

Despite the demanding schedule, working on a cruise ship also provides opportunities for crew members to explore various destinations during their time off. They can participate in shore excursions, explore local attractions, and experience different cultures, making their time off more rewarding.

Overall, the work schedule on a cruise ship may be challenging and require flexibility, but it also offers unique opportunities to travel and experience different parts of the world.

Housing and Living Conditions on a Cruise Ship

When working on a cruise ship, crew members have specific accommodations provided by the cruise line. These accommodations vary depending on the position and seniority of the crew member. Here is an overview of the housing and living conditions on a cruise ship:

Crew cabins on a cruise ship can range in size and amenities. Lower-level crew members often share cabins with one or more colleagues, while higher-ranking officers may have private cabins. Cabin size varies depending on the ship, but typically includes a bed, storage space, a bathroom, and basic furnishings.

Living conditions in crew cabins are functional but compact, aiming to provide a comfortable space for crew members to rest and relax during their off-duty hours. It’s important to note that due to limited space, privacy may be limited, and cabin mates will need to respect each other’s personal space and schedules.

Cruise lines make efforts to ensure that crew cabins are well-maintained and clean. Regular cleaning and maintenance schedules are implemented to uphold cleanliness and ensure a comfortable living environment for crew members.

Living on a cruise ship also means sharing common areas with other crew members. These areas may include crew lounges, dining halls, fitness facilities, and recreation areas. These spaces provide opportunities for socializing, relaxation, and maintaining a sense of community among the crew.

Meals for the crew are typically provided in dedicated dining halls or mess halls. Cruise lines offer a variety of meal options to cater to different dietary preferences and cultural backgrounds. Some cruise lines even have dedicated crew restaurants that offer a range of cuisines.

It’s important to remember that living conditions on a cruise ship are designed to prioritize the comfort and needs of guests. Crew members work hard to ensure guest satisfaction, and their living conditions reflect this focus on guest experience and service.

While the living conditions on a cruise ship may be different from traditional land-based accommodations, many crew members appreciate the convenience and unique experience of living and working on a floating community. The camaraderie and shared experience among crew members can make the living conditions a positive aspect of working on a cruise ship.

Overall, the housing and living conditions on a cruise ship are functional and aim to provide a comfortable environment for crew members to rest and recharge during their time off-duty.

Meals and Food Options on a Cruise Ship

One of the highlights of working on a cruise ship is the abundance of food options available to crew members. Cruise lines take pride in providing a variety of culinary experiences to ensure that crew members are well-nourished and satisfied. Here is a closer look at the meals and food options on a cruise ship:

Crew members are typically provided with meals in dedicated dining areas, separate from the guest dining venues. The crew dining halls, also known as mess halls, offer a range of cuisines and dishes to cater to the diverse tastes and cultural backgrounds of the crew.

The menus in the crew dining halls often include a selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The breakfast menu may feature a variety of hot and cold items, such as omelets, cereals, pastries, fruits, and yogurt. For lunch and dinner, there is usually a choice of main courses, sides, salads, and desserts.

Cruise lines understand the importance of providing balanced and nutritious meals to crew members. Therefore, the menus in the crew dining halls typically include a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request, ensuring that crew members with specific dietary needs are well-catered to.

In addition to the crew dining halls, some cruise lines have dedicated crew restaurants that offer a more extensive range of food options. These restaurants can include buffet-style stations, specialty cuisines, and even a la carte menus, providing crew members with a dining experience similar to what guests enjoy onboard.

Outside of the designated dining areas, crew members may also have access to self-serve snack stations or grab-and-go options. These offer quick and convenient choices for crew members who may have limited time during their breaks or in-between shifts.

It’s important to note that while crew members have access to the same culinary options, the dining experience may differ from the guest experience. Crew dining areas are designed to accommodate the ship’s operational needs and the large number of crew members, focusing on functionality and efficiency rather than luxurious ambiance.

Overall, the meals and food options on a cruise ship provide crew members with a wide selection of delicious and nourishing choices. The focus on variety, dietary accommodations, and quality ensures that crew members can enjoy satisfying meals throughout their time on board.

Salary and Benefits for Cruise Ship Employees

Working on a cruise ship not only provides an exciting and unique experience, but it also offers competitive salary and benefits packages. Cruise lines recognize the value and dedication of their employees and provide various perks to attract and retain talent. Here is an overview of the salary and benefits for cruise ship employees:

The salary for cruise ship employees can vary depending on the position, experience, and the cruise line itself. Entry-level positions such as housekeeping, food service, or entertainment staff typically receive a monthly salary, while more senior roles like ship officers or department managers may receive a higher salary based on their responsibilities and expertise.

In addition to their salary, cruise ship employees enjoy benefits such as accommodations and meals. Most cruise lines provide crew members with shared cabins or private accommodations, depending on their rank and position. This eliminates the need for additional housing expenses. Similarly, meals for crew members are typically provided in dedicated crew dining halls or mess halls, ensuring that employees have access to nourishing meals without additional cost.

Cruise lines also offer insurance coverage to their employees. This can include health insurance, which covers medical expenses, as well as travel insurance for crew members who may need to seek medical treatment while in different ports of call. The specifics of insurance coverage may vary between cruise lines, so it’s important to read the terms and conditions provided by the employer.

Many cruise lines offer retirement savings plans or pension schemes to help employees secure their financial future. This allows crew members to save a portion of their salary and receive employer contributions, ensuring a nest egg for retirement.

In addition to financial benefits, cruise ship employees often have access to onboard facilities and amenities. This may include recreation areas, fitness centers, pools, and even crew-only lounges. These amenities provide opportunities for relaxation and leisure during downtime, fostering a well-rounded work-life experience.

It’s important to note that while working on a cruise ship can be financially rewarding, it’s essential to manage expenses wisely. Crew members have a unique opportunity to save money since they have limited living expenses on board. It’s advisable to create a budget and plan for future expenses or financial goals.

Overall, the salary and benefits for cruise ship employees reflect the cruise lines’ commitment to providing a comprehensive and rewarding employment experience. From competitive salaries to accommodations, meals, insurance coverage, and access to onboard facilities, cruise ship employees can enjoy a range of perks that contribute to their overall job satisfaction.

Health and Safety Regulations on a Cruise Ship

Ensuring the health and safety of guests and crew members is of utmost importance on a cruise ship. Cruise lines adhere to strict regulations and implement comprehensive measures to maintain a safe and healthy environment onboard. Here is an overview of the health and safety regulations on a cruise ship:

Cruise ships are subject to international and national regulations to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. These regulations cover areas such as proper sanitation, emergency procedures, fire safety, and medical care.

Sanitation is a top priority on a cruise ship. The ship’s crew follows stringent cleaning protocols to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of illnesses. Regular cleaning and disinfection of common areas, cabins, and dining facilities are conducted to minimize the risk of communicable diseases.

Emergency procedures are in place to address potential hazards or incidents that may occur onboard. Crew members receive thorough training on safety drills, evacuation procedures, and the use of safety equipment. These drills are regularly conducted to ensure everyone is prepared and aware of their roles and responsibilities in emergency situations.

Fire safety is a critical aspect of maintaining a safe environment on a cruise ship. Ships are equipped with advanced fire suppression systems, early detection systems, and well-trained crew members who undergo regular fire safety training. Strict protocols and standard operating procedures are established to prevent, detect, and manage any fire-related incidents.

Medical facilities and resources are available on cruise ships to provide necessary medical care to guests and crew members. A medical center staffed with trained medical professionals is available around the clock to address any medical concerns or emergencies. Medical facilities are equipped to provide basic medical care and stabilize patients until further treatment can be obtained at the next port of call or through medical evacuation, if necessary.

Additionally, cruise lines have taken enhanced health and safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures include pre-boarding health screenings, frequent testing, increased sanitization protocols, social distancing measures, and improved ventilation systems. These efforts aim to safeguard the health and well-being of both guests and crew members.

It’s essential for crew members to adhere to all health and safety regulations, follow proper hygiene practices, and report any concerns or incidents to the ship’s management. By actively participating in maintaining a safe environment, crew members contribute to the overall well-being of everyone onboard.

Cruise lines continuously monitor and update their health and safety protocols to align with international health standards and emerging best practices. The safety and well-being of guests and crew members remain a top priority, as ensuring a safe and enjoyable cruise experience is paramount to the success of the industry.

Entertainment and Recreation Facilities for Crew Members

Cruise ships understand the importance of providing opportunities for crew members to relax, unwind, and enjoy their time off-duty. To enhance the well-being and overall experience of crew members, cruise lines offer a range of entertainment and recreation facilities on board. Here is a glimpse into the entertainment and recreation options available for crew members:

Crew lounges and recreation areas are designated spaces where crew members can socialize, relax, and engage in recreational activities during their leisure time. These areas often feature comfortable seating, TVs, game consoles, and pool tables, creating a space for crew members to unwind and connect with their colleagues.

Fitness centers and sports facilities are typically available to crew members, offering a range of equipment and exercise options. Whether it’s hitting the gym, participating in fitness classes, playing basketball, or even jogging on the ship’s designated track, crew members have the opportunity to maintain an active lifestyle while on board.

Some cruise ships have designated crew-only swimming pools or sun decks where crew members can enjoy some downtime under the sun. These areas provide a space for relaxation and enjoyment without the crowds of the guest areas.

Special events and parties are organized for crew members to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and other occasions. These events offer the opportunity to come together as a community, have fun, and create lasting memories.

Onboard activities and workshops are often arranged for crew members to develop new skills or engage in hobbies during their time off. These activities can range from language classes and photography workshops to dance lessons and cooking demonstrations.

Cruise lines may also provide discounted or complimentary access to entertainment shows, performances, and guest lectures available to guests on board. This allows crew members to enjoy world-class entertainment, such as Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, and educational lectures.

It’s important to note that while crew members have access to these facilities and activities, it’s essential to balance leisure time with work responsibilities and adhere to the ship’s policies regarding usage and conduct.

The availability of entertainment and recreation facilities for crew members demonstrates cruise lines’ commitment to ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience for their employees. These facilities contribute to the overall well-being, happiness, and job satisfaction of crew members, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among the ship’s staff.

Cultural Exchange and Travel Opportunities on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and travel adventures. Crew members have the chance to interact with people from different countries and experience diverse cultures while visiting various ports of call. Here are the cultural exchange and travel opportunities on a cruise ship:

Interacting with colleagues and guests from around the world allows crew members to engage in a rich cultural exchange. Working alongside individuals from different backgrounds provides a unique platform to learn about customs, traditions, languages, and cuisines.

Cruise ship itineraries often include ports of call in different countries and regions. While the ship is docked, crew members have the opportunity to disembark and explore the local attractions, landmarks, and points of interest. This allows them to immerse themselves in new cultures and gain firsthand experiences of various destinations.

Visiting multiple ports of call during their contract duration exposes crew members to a wide range of cultural experiences. They can witness diverse architecture, taste traditional cuisines, explore local markets, and engage with the local community in each destination.

Aside from exploring the ports of call, crew members can also participate in shore excursions organized by the cruise line. These excursions offer guided tours and activities that allow crew members to experience the unique highlights of each destination.

During their time off in port, crew members can independently explore the local area, interact with locals, and engage in cultural activities. This can include visiting museums, historical sites, or participating in local festivals and events.

Cruise lines also promote cultural exchange onboard by organizing themed events, performances, and activities that celebrate the diversity of the crew members’ backgrounds. Crew members can showcase their talents, share their traditions, and learn from others in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The travel opportunities provided by working on a cruise ship allow crew members to broaden their horizons, develop a global perspective, and gain a deeper appreciation for different cultures and customs. It offers a unique chance to explore the world and create unforgettable memories.

It’s important to note that while the travel aspect of working on a cruise ship is exciting, crew members must balance their work responsibilities and ensure they follow the ship’s policies and regulations regarding time off, shore leave, and exploration of ports of call.

The cultural exchange and travel opportunities on a cruise ship not only enrich the personal lives of crew members but also provide invaluable experiences that can positively impact their future careers and personal growth.

Working on a cruise ship offers a truly unique and rewarding experience. From the opportunity to travel the world and immerse in different cultures to the competitive salary and benefits packages, the advantages of working on a cruise ship are undeniable. However, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges that come with the job, including long working hours, potential isolation, and the need to adapt to a different lifestyle.

Cruise ship employees have a wide range of job opportunities available to them, catering to various skill sets and interests. Whether it’s working in the food and beverage department, entertainment, guest services, or other departments, there are options for individuals from different backgrounds.

The work schedule on a cruise ship may be demanding, but it comes with the chance to explore different destinations during time off. Crew members can enjoy the onboard facilities and amenities, fostering a sense of community among colleagues and creating lifelong memories.

Health and safety regulations are strictly enforced onboard cruise ships, ensuring the well-being of both guests and crew members. Additionally, cultural exchange and travel opportunities provide crew members the chance to broaden their horizons, develop a global perspective, and establish lifelong connections.

In conclusion, working on a cruise ship can be an incredible adventure filled with unique experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth. It is a career path that allows individuals to combine their passion for travel, hospitality, and cultural exchange while being part of a vibrant and diverse community. Despite the challenges, the rewards far outweigh the drawbacks, making working on a cruise ship an unforgettable and fulfilling journey.

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What Are the Benefits of Working on a Cruise Ship and Why You Should Work hard?

Hard work on the cruise ship comes with many benefits. Working diligently on a cruise ship comes with a multitude of perks that serve as strong motivational factors, propelling us forward despite any challenges we may face.

Embracing a job on a cruise ship opens up a world of advantages, attracting numerous individuals from developing nations seeking to make the most of these opportunities. The significant number of people opting for such positions is a testament to the appeal of this lifestyle. While shipboard life may not suit everyone, it undeniably offers many benefits.

Financial Benefits

Foremost among these advantages, particularly for those hailing from developing countries, is the financial aspect. Despite occasional grievances about pay from certain cruise ship companies, even the most basic positions on board provide sufficient support for families from economically challenged nations. Reputed cruise lines diligently adhere to wage laws, ensuring that staff working in galleys and housekeeping roles receive decent pay by international standards. Moreover, due to favorable currency conversion rates, they can significantly augment their earnings compared to similar positions on land.

Medical insurance

Medical insurance is another benefit that is required by maritime law. Employees at reputed cruise companies can choose from various programs that suit their situation. This means that while there is basic insurance coverage, other paid programs are also available for broader coverage or discounted rates for medical services such as advanced eye care. It is worth noting that medical assistance and services are quite expensive in developed countries like the US or the Caribbean, where cruise lines stop, so having medical insurance taken care of is a great boon.

Life Insurance

Cruise companies also offer basic life insurance for free, with supplemental insurance that can be paid for by the employee. In addition, there is life insurance for spouses and children, covering accidents, death, and travel to and from the ship.

Some employees are even eligible for retirement savings plans through the cruise company. Some cruise lines, for example, pay those who have worked for five years or more up to six percent of their pay if they contributed as much towards the retirement plan during their years of service.

If you are looking at investments with your hard-earned money, your company might offer you a chance to be part of the cruise industry's growth. Employees can often buy company stocks at a rate lower than the market price. As the company profits, so do you.

Flight Tickets

However, not all benefits are related to finance. When you join on contract, the cruise company pays for your tickets to and from your home to wherever the ship is docked. On board, you can avail of free laundry service, depending on your position. Crew bars, stores for general supplies and medicines, and even restaurants on the cruise ship you work on offer discounts and low rates for the crew.

Shore Excursions

The benefits of cruise ship jobs can even extend into port. Tours to sites of interest or activities are cheaper for the crew than for guests. Management puts in place a crew director who looks after employee affairs, including organized tours and trips at cheaper rates in port.

Food and Accommodation

In addition, the company pays for food and lodging for the duration of your contract. The cruise ship crew mess will serve food from the place of origin of most employees, so you will be bound to find your local dishes along with other worldwide favorites like mashed potato, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and desserts in your buffets each day.

All in all, the many benefits of cruise ship jobs when considering employment in the hospitality industry are worth noting.

But what Does It Mean To Work Hard on the cruise ship and what keeps us going?

The initiative to work hard is a valuable trait that applies to all aspects of your life. But what does it really mean to work hard on the ship?

What does it mean to work hard?

Everyone has a slightly different opinion of what it means to work hard. However, at the core of working hard are several universal principles. Working hard is going above and beyond your usual effort to achieve higher success. It's being focused, consistent, and staying motivated to produce quality results. It means using your physical, emotional, and mental abilities to be purposeful. Sometimes, that is extremely hard when you are stuck at sea from your family for so many months.

Why should you work hard in your job?

I know. Sometimes, you are not validated for your hard work on the ship. However, there will always be people who will motivate you and inspire you. There are many advantages to being a hard worker, especially in your career on the cruise ship. Here are five reasons to show why working hard is essential:

Personal and professional growth

Working hard makes growing and advancing your skills, qualifications, and overall career easier. You grow personally by developing skills and abilities that apply to various aspects of your life. Your colleagues and managers professionally see you as valuable, persistent, and dedicated.

Working hard encourages you to be ambitious and reach for higher goals. When your hard work pays off, you feel more confident and determined to take on the next challenge.

Working hard makes your managers and ship supervisors see you as reliable and able to produce high-quality work, contributing to the team's success. You gain respect from your colleagues by being a proven team player willing to take on extra work and help others to work towards shared success. Be the star of your department.

Self-satisfaction

Working hard provides you with a rewarding feeling and a sense of purpose. Looking back on your commitment to excellence, you'll be satisfied knowing you did your best.

Working towards your goals and fulfilling your dreams takes patience, time, commitment, and hard work. When you finally reach your goals, you can look back and attribute them to your hard work. Many successful people credit their accomplishments to the value of hard work.

Everyone has different reasons why they need to work hard. Everyone also has different reasons that make them feel motivated. Whatever your motivation is, that will serve you as fuel in the demanding cruise ship industry; it will help you to accomplish your goals and progress in your career. Sometimes, hard work pays off quickly; sometimes, it takes time. It all depends on many different factors. Stay focused, and work hard; it will pay off in the future; it's only a matter of time.

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Carnival Cruise Line Benefits For Employees, Members & Shareholders 2024

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the various Carnival Cruise Line benefits and what they entail. Whether you’re an employee, shareholder, or frequent cruiser, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as a Carnival associate.

Carnival Cruise Line Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, offering a wide range of itineraries and activities for travelers of all ages. The Cruise Line not only caters to its guests but also takes care of its employees, shareholders, and loyal customers by offering a variety of benefits and perks. From employee benefits and membership benefits to shareholder benefits and stock benefits, Carnival Cruise Line has a lot to offer. Keep reading to learn more!

Carnival Cruise Employee Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the largest and most popular cruise lines in the world, offering a wide range of benefits to its employees. Here are some of the employee benefits provided by Carnival Cruise Line:

1. Health and Wellness Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line offers a comprehensive health and wellness benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees can choose from a range of plans, including PPO and HMO options, to suit their needs. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line provides access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which offers confidential counseling services and resources to help employees and their families cope with personal and work-related issues.

2. Retirement Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan that enables employees to save for their retirement years. The company also offers a generous matching contribution, which means that Carnival will match a percentage of the employee’s contributions to the plan.

3. Time off Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line provides employees with a range of time off benefits, including paid time off, sick leave, and bereavement leave. The amount of time off an employee receives depends on their position and length of service with the company.

4. Travel Benefits

As a cruise line, Carnival Cruise Line offers its employees some unique travel benefits. Employees can enjoy discounted rates on cruises for themselves and their families, as well as reduced rates at partner hotels and resorts.

5. Training and Development Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line is committed to the growth and development of its employees. The company offers a range of training and development opportunities, including online courses, in-person training sessions, and leadership development programs.

6. Employee Recognition and Rewards

Carnival Cruise Line values its employees and recognizes their hard work and dedication. The company has a number of recognition and rewards programs in place, including the Carnival Cruise Line President’s Club, which honors top performers each year.

Overall, Carnival Cruise Line offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health and wellness benefits, retirement benefits, time off benefits, travel benefits, training and development opportunities, and employee recognition and rewards programs. See more here !

Also Read // Do Royal Caribbean Employees Get Free Cruises? (6 Employees Benefits & Perks)

Carnival Cruise Membership Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line offers a loyalty program called the VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club, which provides additional benefits and perks to repeat cruisers based on their membership level. Here are the benefits of each membership level:

1. Gold Member

After being on a Carnival Cruise for 25 – 74 nights, guests become Gold Members of the VIFP Club. Gold members receive a range of benefits, including a dedicated phone number for member support, exclusive member-only offers, and priority check-in and boarding.

2. Platinum Member

After being on a Carnival Cruise for 75 – 199 nights, guests become Platinum Members of the VIFP Club. Platinum members receive all the benefits of Gold membership, as well as additional perks, including complimentary wash and fold laundry service, priority tender and debarkation, and a complimentary meal at a specialty restaurant.

3. Diamond Member

After being on a Carnival Cruise for 200+ nights, guests become Diamond Members of the VIFP Club. Diamond members receive all the benefits of Gold and Platinum membership, as well as additional perks, including priority access to onboard events and activities, a complimentary 7-day cruise for two in a balcony stateroom, and a dedicated line for guest services and guest relations.

It’s worth noting that these benefits are subject to availability and may vary based on the ship, itinerary, and other factors. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line may make changes to the VIFP Club program and benefits at any time. See more here !

Carnival Cruise Shareholder Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line offers shareholder benefits to its shareholders as a way to thank them for their investment in the company. Here are the various shareholder benefits offered by Carnival Cruise Line:

• Onboard Credits: Shareholders of Carnival Corporation and plc, the parent company of Carnival Cruise Line, are eligible to receive onboard credits for cruises on Carnival Cruise Line, as well as other cruise lines owned by the corporation. The amount of the onboard credit varies based on the length of the cruise and the shareholder’s ownership level.
• Reduced Deposit: Shareholders of Carnival Corporation and plc are eligible for a reduced deposit when booking a cruise on Carnival Cruise Line or other cruise lines owned by the corporation.
• Annual Report and Proxy Statement: Shareholders of Carnival Corporation and plc are eligible to receive an annual report and proxy statement from the company.
• Shareholder Meeting: Shareholders of Carnival Corporation and plc are invited to attend the company’s annual meeting of shareholders.

To be eligible for these benefits, shareholders must meet certain requirements, such as owning a minimum number of shares and holding them for a certain period of time. Shareholder benefits are subject to change at any time, and some benefits may not be available on all cruises or on all ships. Shareholders should check with Carnival Cruise Line for the most up-to-date information on shareholder benefits. See more here !

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Carnival Cruise Stock Benefits

Carnival Cruise Line offers various stock benefits to its employees as a way to reward them for their hard work and commitment to the company. Here are some of the stock benefits offered by Carnival Cruise Line:

1. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): The ESPP allows employees to purchase Carnival Corporation stock at a discounted price. Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary to the plan, and Carnival Cruise Line will match a portion of their contribution.

2. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): RSUs are a form of compensation that provides employees with the right to receive shares of Carnival Corporation stock at a future date. The number of RSUs awarded to an employee is typically based on their job level and performance.

3. Stock Options: Stock options give employees the right to purchase Carnival Corporation stock at a fixed price for a set period of time. The exercise price and expiration date of the stock options are determined at the time of the grant.

4. Performance-Based Stock Awards: Performance-based stock awards are granted to employees based on their achievement of certain performance goals. The number of shares awarded is typically based on the employee’s job level and the level of performance achieved.

It’s worth noting that these stock benefits are subject to change at any time, and some benefits may not be available to all employees. Employees should check with Carnival Cruise Line for the most up-to-date information on stock benefits.

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Total Employees: 2,500

Year Founded: 2013

Cruise Benefits Overview

A job at Cruise is meaningful. Your work on all-electric, self-driving vehicles will save lives, help the planet, and make cities better. It’s something to be proud of. It’s career-defining work. When you’re building something that’s never been done before, it’s important to feel safe — safe to experiment, safe to fail, safe to share, and safe to express yourself. At Cruise, we’re committed to the safety, inclusivity, and professional development of our employees from the recruiting process through retirement — and every professional milestone along the way. In addition to professional development perks, Cruise offers a range of robust medical, family and wellness benefits that ensure you and your family feel supported, safe, and healthy—whether working onsite or working from home.

Child Care & Parental Leave Benefits

Company sponsored family events

Family medical leave

Generous parental leave

Volunteer in local community

Flexible work schedule

Open office floor plan

Partners with nonprofits

Remote work program

Team based strategic planning

OKR operational model

Dedicated diversity and inclusion staff

Mandated unconscious bias training

Diversity employee resource groups

Cruise Community Groups include: AAPI, Chai-paani, Cruisers of the African Diaspora, Empowering Women of Cruise, Families at Cruise, Latinx, LGBTQruise, Middle Easterners @ Cruise, and Veterans.

Financial & Retirement

401(K) matching

Company equity

We’ve developed a unique Recurring Liquidity Opportunity that gives Cruisers the potential upside of a private company and the liquidity of a public company.

Performance bonus

Health Insurance & Wellness Benefits

Dental insurance

Disability insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Health insurance

Life insurance

Vision insurance

Wellness programs

Mental health benefits

Office Perks

Commuter benefits

Company-sponsored outings

Free daily meals

Company-sponsored happy hours

Recreational clubs

Free snacks and drinks

Home-office stipend for remote employees

Professional Development Benefits

Continuing education stipend

Job training & conferences

Mentorship program

Online course subscriptions available

Promote from within

Lunch and learns

Vacation & Time Off Benefits

Generous PTO

Paid holidays

Paid sick days

Unlimited vacation policy

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Senior Associate, Finance Business Partners

We're Cruise, a self-driving service designed for the cities we love.

We’re building the world’s most advanced self-driving vehicles to safely connect people to the places, things, and experiences they care about. We believe self-driving vehicles will help save lives, reshape cities, give back time in transit, and restore freedom of movement for many.

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I'm a cruise ship worker these are SEVEN gadgets you must take on your holiday on board

• Lucy Southerton from Birmingham has worked on cruises for nearly a decade 
• READ MORE:  I'm a cruise ship worker... here are nine things NOT to do at the buffet

A seasoned cruise ship worker has revealed the seven essential gadgets you need in your bag for a seamless and relaxing trip.

Lucy Southerton, 28, has racked up nine-years of experience working on board cruise ships around the world.

Lucy, from Birmingham , regularly shares her insider knowledge on how to have the best time at sea to her YouTube channel - Cruising as Crew .

Forgetting your essentials while you are in the middle of the ocean can be an absolute nightmare.

However, Lucy has shared her top seven must-haves passengers should ensure they have before setting sail.

1. Portable Charger

On the top of the list of the experienced cruise ship worker's essentials was a portable charger.

Urging both crew members and passengers to remember the handy device, Lucy explained that forgetting the power bank can be a nightmare both on-and-off the ship. 

READ MORE:  I'm a cruise ship worker - these are the 3 things crew members HATE passengers doing when coming aboard

There is nothing worse than being in a foreign country and being without a phone and unable to navigate your way around - hence why the cruise ship worker pressed it's importance.

'I always recommend taking a portable charger because there is nothing worse than getting half-way through your day and your phone is on ten percent battery,' she said.

'Then you are like "We still have four more hours in port and now I have no phone."

She added: 'It is actually even worse if you are using your phone for Google Maps and then it dies.'

According to Lucy, this can cause additional issues if you want to use an internet cafe whilst in dock instead of purchasing a wi-fi package.

However, this proves to be impossible if your phone goes flat before you even arrive. 

2. Travel Sized First Aid Kit

Making sure you are stocked up on bandages and plasters is always a good idea - however ensuring you have Imodium, pain killers and sea sickness tablets may even save you some money.

Lucy explained that even though there are shops on ships which sell the medications you may need, the prices are astronomically hiked up.

She revealed: 'You are a captive audience so the price is going to be ramped up because they know you can't get it from anywhere else.

'So while you may be able to get a packet of sea sickness pills for $3 at home, you are going to pay $10 on board for the same pack of sea sickness tablets.'

Similarly to her first essential item, the cruise ship employee also advised her fellow crew members to bring a first aid kit onboard so they can avoid the medication centre.

She added: 'Especially if you are on vacation. You do not want to spend your time waiting around in the medical centre unless you really need to.'

3. Waterproof Phone Case

Protecting your phone from theft or damage is a must regardless of whether you are on holiday or not.

However when you are next to pools of playing children and beaches, the potential damage to your phone is more immediate.

To protect your expensive devise, Lucy recommends bringing along a waterproof phone case so that your phone won't break after a day lying by the pool or a boat excursion.

Retelling her friend's tale, Lucy shared: 'I had a friend who was on vacation and she was lying by the pool because she liked to watch and see everything going on.

'They were doing a belly flop competition and she wasn't really thinking about [her phone].'

But after half an hour of pool fun, the friend eventually realised her phone was directly in the splash zone - but by that point it was too late.

4. Noise Cancelling Headphones

Although you may have bought a ticket for a cruise getaway in a bid to relax for a couple of weeks - others onboard may have different plans.

According to the cruise ship worker, even though most cruises are large enough to escape the noise of the pool - others are not.

On smaller voyages you may walk all the way to the quiet zone on the tail end and still be able to hear the hustle and bustle of the pool area.

So if you want to be prepare for 'inescapable' noise, Lucy recommends a 'good' pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

She explained: 'It just means you can plug yourself in and pretend that you are on your own and that you are in a serene environment.'

The cruise ship worker also explained that headphones could be a good solution for parents having to watch their kids by the noisey pool or for bookworms wanting to tune out the thudding of their neighbouring cabin.

5. Lightweight Backpack

Some may be more used to taking a small handbag with them whilst adventuring new cities.

But Lucy is firm in the belief that a small lightweight back-pack will prepare you for any situation - especially for parents.

Sometimes a handbag may not be big enough to tuck away everything you may need whilst off the ship.

So to be prepared to the best of your ability, the cruise ship worker advises taking a backpack - so you can also have free hands. 

'You are going to want to take sunscreen a bottle of water you are going to want to be prepared for every eventuality,' she explained.

'You are going to want your hands free to explore the ports.'

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6. Universal Adaptor

Dubbing it one of the 'best purchases' she had ever made, Lucy was especially fond of her universal adaptor.

It can be a nightmare when you arrive to a location and realise you do not have the correct plug to charge all your essential gadgets for the trip.

Equally on a cruise it can be unpredictable what plugs they may have, so a universal adaptor won't only save you suitcase space - it will save you a lot of hassle too, according to Lucy. 

'Instead of taking European or American adaptors  you can just take one adaptor and it will have you sorted for all eventualities,' she said.

'I have done it before. You pack thinking you know what the plug sockets are going they aren't there and some cruise ship don't have USB ports.

'So a universal adaptor is definitely something I would recommend.'

Ensuring you have installed the right apps for the duration of your journey was must do on Lucy's list.

Although an app isn't a physical gadget, it is an essential piece of technology that could make your holiday a lot easier according to the cruise ship worker.

According to Lucy, you should make sure you have downloading every app you think you may need prior to getting onboard to avoid any possible hassle.

The cruise ship worker of nine years explained that even if you buy a WiFi-package for your time on the ship, downloading any software of documents will be a hassle.

'So any apps you want to download for your cruise whether that's the cruise line's app, google maps or google translate - any apps you may need to you navigate the cruise or time on port - please make sure you download these before you get on the cruise.'

She added: 'You don't want to be running around the port to try and find WiFi to download app trust me I have been there it is just not fun.'