Has anyone ever worked on a CRUISE SHIP?

Question

I'm concidering working on a cruise ship in my gap year, probably as a kennel worker or a photographer (if there are no kennels!) and i was wandering if anyone could give me any advise on what it's like and weather i should go for it. I think of the job as exciting, and an easy way to travel around the world and getting payed for doing it! So, any tips of advise?

Answer 1

I worked for a small cruise line (US flag, 150 passengers), as a stew and a bartender. It was the hardest work  that I have ever done, but I wouldn't trade that year for anything. We had 3-4 months on and one month off at a time. I worked 7 days a week for 10-12 hours a day.  And it was awesome. The money wasn't always great, as it was more expensive when we were in port a lot and there were more things to spend your money one (but it's totally at your discretion obviously- I liked to go out a lot!), but I did manage to save a few thousand US dollars.  I am really glad that I did it, and would encourage you to do it as well.  I can't tell you how many people say to me that they wish they had done something like that when they could.   Even though you have to work really hard,  the time that you have off is spent doing amazing things, snorkeling, possibly getting onto the shore excursions (at least you could on the line I worked for if you had enough time off), catamaran trips,  etc.  I'm not sure how the big cruise lines work, but my time on a small line was well worth it. I've gotten to experience things that no one else I know has, had some adventures at sea and made some really great friends.  Good luck!  Wishing you calm seas!

Answer 2

There are no kennels onboard so Photographer is the way to go. Just make sure you have a good portfolio that has some great portrait shots. Also highlight any editing or touch-up work you have done.

I've been working on ships for over 6 years now. In my opinion it is a life changing experience that has many positives and very few negatives.

You will have the opportunity to spend time with like minded people with adventurous spirits and a common love for travel. Depending on the cruiseline, you will have the chance to see many countries around the world.

The pay varies depending on your experience, the job you do and your length of service. The advantage is that you will not pay tax, have your accommodation, food, medical and return flights paid for. Due to this, you save 95% of what you earn. *If you are from the US, some cruiselines deduct Federal Taxes from your pay, others do not.

The negatives...

1) You will be away for your family for 4-6 months at a time

2) When you first start, you will share a cabin (a very small Cabin)

3) Long hours

4) Work 7 days a week

The cruise lines lately have worked out that happy staff that stay for a few years are more productive then staff that stay for 6-12 months. Therefore, there are retirement packages for long service, crew gym, crew bar, free tours in port, crew activities, crew parties (free beers etc), crew group tours. One thing you will never be is bored.

Cruise Lines don't just hire anyone that wants a job. You have to have several years experience in your field before you will be considered. Contrary to popular belief, there are not many Americans onboard (not because of the pay) but because not many Americans (with some exceptions) are willing to work the hours required. The minimum age to work onboard is 21.

The best idea is to see working for ships as a very fruitful and rewarding career rather than a good summer job. If you do this, you will become very comfortable financially, will see the world and will make friends from all corners of the globe. Good luck.