The Very Basic Qualifications
For more cruise lines, in order to be considered for shipboard employment, here are the very basic qualifications:
- You must be 21 years of age or older.
- You must have a good command and comprehension of the English language (reading, writing, speaking).
- You must be able to obtain a passport and required visas. Usually a recruitment agent or cruise line will help with obtaining the visas needed.
- You must be willing to commit to and be available for a full contract as determined by the contract length for the position in which you are qualified for.
- You must also be able to work a 7-day, 70 or 84-hour work week with limited time off.
Four Qualities That Cruise Lines Are Looking For
Enthusiasm
You need a bright and cheerful personality to work on a cruise ship. In fact cruise ship employers look very closely at this. After all you will be living and working long shifts within the confines of the ship and in daily contact with the passengers who have paid a lot of money for their holiday.
Reliability
Interviewers are very wary of recruiting new crew members whom they suspect might “jump ship” when the novelty wears off or when they start to feel home sick. It’s very important you give the clear impression that you are highly reliable and have every intention on completing your contract and intend on coming back. Don’t let them think that you are just going to “give it a go”.
Experience
There is no use applying for a position that you have never done before. If you do have land-based experience in hotel, casino, salon, photography, then this is where you should apply.
High Standards
If you consider that cruise ships are floating 5 star hotels, you should get an idea of the sort of people an employer is looking to hire. It is important to be very professional and take pride in your work. This is not always easy when you are working long hours in a fast-paced environment.
