Getting a job on a cruise liner

Question

How do I apply for bar/waiter jobs on criuse liners. Or is it too late in the season to apply?

Gunter Stanton

What the expert says

Steve Nunes, managing director catering, Blue Arrow

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"For experienced hospitality staff, cruise ships can offer exciting career opportunities and the chance to visit exotic foreign locations. But it's not all glamour and partying aboard cruise ships and when applying for these jobs you should be aware that it can be very hard work. Á¢Â€ÂœThe accommodation can be small and is often shared Á¢Â€Â" not to mention the fact that after a hard day at work, you canÁ¢Â€Â™t go home and you may be away for several months. Á¢Â€ÂœBut for people with realistic expectations of the work, there are fantastic opportunities to do something a bit different and see the world. There are job opportunities all year round as cruises sail in all seasons Á¢Â€Â" so it is never too late to apply. Á¢Â€ÂœMake sure you apply for jobs through reputable companies to avoid rogue operators. Well-known cruise operators include Carnival Cruise Liners, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, P&O and Festival Cruises. Also watch out for Web sites that purport to link you with cruise jobs, but are only interested in taking your money. Á¢Â€ÂœCompetition for jobs is fierce, as thousands apply for limited places. To increase your chances of success, I would suggest the following: - Apply for a specific position Á¢Â€Â" untargeted applications will not usually secure the job - Keep your CV short and precise because thousands of people apply - The ability to speak English is a must, but other languages are a bonus and may give you an edge in the selection process - Do your homework Á¢Â€Â" find out about the cruise liner company before you apply - You must have a good health record to be successful - Most companies prefer to take on people with hospitality experience, preferably in the work you are applying for, eg bar work Á¢Â€ÂœRemember, you may have to pay for your ticket from home to join the cruise ship Á¢Â€Â" but this will usually be refunded at the end of your contract. Á¢Â€ÂœContracts typically last for six months, so make sure you are happy to be away from home for this period. Further opportunities may be offered at the end of the contract if your contribution has been satisfactory. Á¢Â€ÂœTraining in health and safety issues will usually be provided by the cruise company. Á¢Â€ÂœHappy cruising!Á¢Â€Â