Arriving At The Ship
When you first arrive at the port, it will be an incredible experience to see this massive ship directly in front of you. When you reach the gangway, not the gangplank as it is often incorrectly called, you will have to tell the security officer that you are signing on. This officer will direct you […]
Accommodation
Ship cabins are cozy so you many want to pack on the light side. You will likely share a cabin with two (or possibly more) people. In your cabin you find bunk beds, a dresser or desk, a small closet and a bathroom. A curtain around your bunk bed will allow for some privacy and […]
Crew Amenities
The cruise line tries to make their crew members as comfortable as possible. There will be a mini-store where crew members can rent movies and purchase snacks. Most crew areas will have a computer room, table tennis, a pool table and a crew gym. Depending on your position, you may be able to work out […]
Shore Leave
You will be able to go ashore in most ports if your work schedule permits. But keep in mind that the ship has the right to delay or cancel crew shore leave at any time. This can happen for various reasons. You may be required to attend a boat drill, the ship may dock late or […]
Seasickness
Not every day is smooth sailing. During the rougher days you may feel a little nauseated, dizzy and perhaps have hot or cold flashes. Seasickness is caused by a disturbance of the balance mechanism in the inner ear. Are you concerned you might get seasick?  Here are some tricks to prevent and treat seasickness: ► Eat lightly. […]
7 Steps To Getting The Job
This article is a great starting point to discover what the steps are to getting a job on a cruise ship.
The Captain
The Captain is the ship’s Master. All departments must answer to the Captain. Every crew member strives to please the Captain and carry out his orders. When you join the ship for the first time, introduce yourself to the Captain. Let him know what position you have onboard and that you are going to be […]
Hotel Department
Hotel Manager The Hotel Manager is a member of the ship’s senior management team. This team consists of the Captain, Chief Engineer, Staff Captain, Hotel Manager and Cruise Director. The Hotel Manager is responsible for the day to day operation of the Hotel department which includes the following: the Purser’s office, the Steward department, the […]
Cruise Staff Department
The cruise staff department of the ship is responsible for arranging entertainment and other recreational activities onboard and ashore for the passengers. Cruise Director The Cruise Director is in charge of all onboard entertainment, daily activities, programs, ceremonies and social parties. The most common way to become a Cruise Director is from the bottom up, […]
Steward Department
Onboard the ship, the Steward Department provides services related to housekeeping and those that work in this department are often from the flag country (where the ship is registered) or hired through agencies in third world countries such as the Philippines and India that tend to favor lower wages. To apply for work in the […]