Working on a Cruise Ship FAQs

Cruise ships travel to exciting locations around the world. Information on the itinerary will be made available to you before departure. 

Regardless of your position, all crew members must present the following documents to qualify for employment: 

• A valid passport.
• A C1-D visa (not relevant for Canadian/US residents) – this is a non-immigrant visa issued by US embassies around the world and allows crew members to pass through US ports.
• Relevant itinerary-driven visas (e.g. Schengen) 
• Relevant qualifications/certificates - based on the role for which you have applied.
• You must also pass a pre-employment medical examination and a criminal background check. 

You will need to travel to the port in which the ship is located prior to its departure. Popular methods of transport include plane, train and taxi. 

Travel expenses may not be covered ahead of your first contract. 

As a healthcare professional, you will be responsible for treating both guests and crew members. In serious cases, you may be required to accompany patients to the nearest health facility. 

You will be expected to treat a wide-range of conditions. From administering general first aid, treating sea-sickness and bad sunburn to more serious issues like cardiac arrest, serious injuries and critical care. 

Cruise ship contracts generally run for four months. 

All staff must be able to read, write and speak English. 

As many cruises cater to international guests, additional languages including French, German, Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish are beneficial, but not essential. 

Yes. Uniform will be provided and, in most cases, is subsidised by the cruise provider. Some crew members may be required to purchase elements of their uniform, however, you will receive a briefing before departure. 

In the interest of hygiene, your uniform will be laundered daily.

As cabin space is limited, we recommend that you pack only essential items, including: 

Clothing: 

• Jeans and / or long pants 
• Sweater 
• Shirts 
• Belts 
• Shorts 
• T-shirts 
• Appropriate shoes 
• Tennis and / or beach shoes 
• Swimsuit 

Toiletries: 

• Deodorant 
• Razors 
• Brush / comb 
• Toothbrush / paste 
• Shampoo 
• Shaving cream 
• Sunblock 

Other: 

• Mobile phone 
• Travel alarm clock 
• Medication 
• Beach towel 
• Camera 
• MP3 player 
• Hair dryer

Items that represent a hazard to health or severe fire risk are strictly prohibited. 

Banned items include weapons (guns, knives, etc.), clothing irons, candles and incense. 

Grooming aids such as curling tongs and hair dryers are permitted. 

All cruise ships implement a strict zero tolerance approach to the consumption of illegal substances.

Of course. While you may not be off-duty for a period of 24-hours, you will have downtime. During your free time, you may want to visit the ports or participate in on-board activities. 

In the event of a family emergency, your cruise operator will make every effort to accommodate your requests. 

You will be paid in US dollars every month. 

Yes. You will be assigned you own cabin and accommodation is free of charge. 

Of course. You are welcome to explore the incredible destinations on offer, providing you are off duty. 

Yes, mobile phone service is available. However, international roaming charges do apply.

While emergencies are rare, all crew members are expected to undergo relevant safety training. 

While you may be assigned to a particular cruise ship, remember, you need to be flexible. Be prepared to be transferred to another ship where necessary.

Yes. You will be provided with all of the tools necessary to perform your role to the best of your ability. 

You can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes from around the world. All meals are prepared by onboard chefs and served in allocated dining areas. 

You are advised to bring at least US$200-$300 cash. This will cover any out-of-pocket expenses before you receive your first pay. Alternatively, all major credit cards are accepted aboard ship. 

Yes. Long distance call time can be purchased on the ship. 

Yes. All mail is sent to a central location and distributed to the cruise ships. For more details, consult your shipboard HR team.

Yes, laundry facilities are provided. To ensure the highest standards of hygiene and personal appearance are maintained, your uniform will be laundered on a daily basis.

Each ship boasts a spa, hair salon, shops and fitness facilities. 

Spa & Salon 

You can book appointments for hair, nails and any other beauty or spa treatments. As a member of the ship’s crew, you’ll receive a discount on these services. Booking is essential and guests have priority. 

Gym 

You are free to use the crew gym during your time off. Most ships even have a selection of fitness classes available specifically for crew members. 

Shops 

Shops stock a range of products and typically closed when the ship is in port. There is often a crew shop which stocks basic toiletries and snacks. 

There is the option to apply for a travel companion or to host friends and family aboard the ship, however, this is at the discretion of the cruise company. 

Yes. Each ship includes a bar, lounge and other common rooms exclusively for crew members. 

Medical officers are allowed to visit most guest areas, however, exceptions do apply. 

Wifi spots are available throughout the ship. Internet cafes are also available. Normal per-minute fees apply. 

Each cabin features US 110V and 220V outlets. 

Onshore excursions are arranged for guests, however, if space is available you are welcome to participate at a discounted price.