The first step of applying for a job working on cruise ship is fairly simple. However, getting the job is up to you, the experience you have, the recruiter and the pool of candidates already in the system. Also, from experience, I believe that most importantly, it will depend on you and if you really want it. It can be a lengthy process sometimes, but similarly it can progress quickly if you are persistent.

In addition to this post, please also read the below:

Once you have read the above blog and decided that a life at sea is for you, then the next steps to follow are:

1 . Identify the cruise line for your cruise ship job

Identify which cruise line you want to work with. For instance, companies like Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Regent, Marella and the list goes on. There is a lot of information available on the individual websites as to how to apply for vacant jobs. For instance, some companies utilise several official agencies, procurement allies or hiring partners in different countries to recruit crew. However, speaking from experience, for example – The Training and Recruitment Centre in Jamaica is the agency used by several crusie line companies. Similarly, Trinity Recruitment Services in Barbados. Whether you choose to apply directly with the cruise ship company or with an agency, ensure you do ample research about fraudulent companies. Additionally, a list of these agencies can be found on most of the cruise company’s websites.

2. Decide on what job/position do you want

Once you have decided which cruise line you want to work with, then do research on the job requirements for the desired position (ship jobs often times have slightly different requirements to the land based equivalent). Overall, once you are willing to learn, then it makes no difference.

3. Create an outstanding resume

Update or create your resume. Put the effort in or seek assistance to make your resume noticeable. The reason for this is that there are hundreds of thousands of individuals applying for cruise ship jobs. Because of this, the pool of applicants is saturated. Do not get lost in the crowd. Additionally, try to network with persons already in the field and get a personal referral.

4. Apply for the job

Apply for the job with confidence.

5. Do your best in Interview

You will be contacted for an interview, once there are vacancies available that match your skill set. The interview is your opportunity to sell your offer. Even if you have never worked on a ship before, just be enthusiastic in the interview about everything life at sea has to offer. This can work greatly to your benefit. Again, once you are willing to learn and display that wiliness, then anything is possible.

6. Certificates and Pre-employment medical

There are some companies that will provide you with the necessary training to obtain the required documents and seafarer training certificates. For example, the STCW refers to the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping and is mandatory for all ship workers.

However, my experience was different, because every company is different. But no worries, all the information will be communicated to you.

So, after getting the job, the agency organised for a group of us (new recruits) to attend (about 5 days) the local Maritime institute and do the STCW Courses. The fees were paid by the recruits, and will vary depending on where you decide to do the courses. Once completed, we were presented with the original certificates.

Also, there was a Pre-employment Medical ( PEME). This is done for the purpose of determining your fitness for duty. You may also be required to apply for a visa or visas depending on where you will join the ship and the requirements of that country. For this, we were re-reimbursed the full cost.

Finally, for some crew, they are required to get a Seaman’s Book. The Seaman’s Book (Seaman’s Service Book or Discharge Book) verifies that the seafarer who owns it, is a “Seaman” (Seafarer) as per The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). This book is a full record of a seafarer’s career experience (detailing the ships worked on, the contract periods, the ranks/positions held and the sign on and sign off ports). Likewise, it indicates the STCW certifications. Again, this was a cost paid by the new recruits.

All these costs vary depending on where you are and the companies used. Overall, for me, it was about USD1200. However, very important to note, that some cruise lines absorb most or all of the costs for you. Even if they do not, you recover the money once you start working on the ship.

Once you have the documents, you are good to go. And you are OK to board. You will be glad you did.

7. Embark on an unforgettable adventure

Get the contract. Sign the contract. Make your bucket list of things to see and do … ENJOY!