A cruise ship is a floating town. Its crew can range from a few hundred people on a small ship to more than two thousand on the largest ones, working in very different jobs. Knowing how the ship is organised helps you choose where to apply and how to present your experience on your CV.
Deck department
The deck department navigates the ship and keeps it safe: the captain, deck officers, the bosun, able seafarers and ordinary seafarers. Officers need maritime academy training and STCW certificates of competency; deck ratings need STCW basic training and, for watchkeeping, additional certificates.
Engine and technical department
Engineers, electricians, motormen and wipers run the engines and power plant. Ships also employ many technicians – air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, carpentry and electronics. A technical diploma and workshop experience are usually required.
Hotel department
This is by far the largest department and where most first-time crew start. It includes:
- Food and beverage – restaurants, buffets and bars: assistant waiter, waiter, bar waiter, bartender, sommelier.
- Galley – cooks from commis to executive chef, plus galley utility staff. See our galley careers guide.
- Housekeeping – cabin stewards, public area cleaners and laundry.
- Guest services – reception, shore excursions and concierge, where strong English and a second language make a big difference.
Entertainment and activities
Singers, dancers, musicians, sound and light technicians, cruise staff who run daily activities, and youth staff who look after children. These roles usually involve auditions or a portfolio.
Casino, spa, shops and photography
On many ships these areas are run by specialist companies under contract with the cruise line, and those companies hire their own crew. Read more about casino jobs and spa, salon and fitness jobs.
Medical, security and support teams
Doctors and nurses, security officers, IT, human resources, crew office and provisions staff keep the ship running behind the scenes.
Which department fits you?
- Hotel or restaurant service experience → food and beverage.
- Professional cook or pastry chef → galley.
- Hotel housekeeping → housekeeping.
- Reception, tourism or call centre with languages → guest services.
- Electrician, mechanic or technician → engine and technical.
- Maritime school graduate → deck or engine officer.
Not sure where to start? Read our guide to entry-level cruise ship jobs, browse jobs by department or create your free profile.
