Monday, December 14, 2009

Cruise Ship Entertainment Jobs - singers, dancers

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

This is a great site for singers and dancers: copy and paste into browser - no direct link.

http://www.getgigs.com/ship.html

Thursday, December 10, 2009

NCL Musicians contact for cruise ship jobs

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

Here is the direct contact for musician jobs onboard NCL, Celebrity and RCCL - all instruments - singers, bands, duos, showband, solo.

Mike Suman - N.C.L.
msuman@sumanent.com

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Princess Cruises - Cruise ship Musicians

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

For Princess Cruises - all musician jobs - all instruments.

musicianreferrals@princesscruises.com
or direct to:
Brian Gilliland - Princess Cruises
1-800-872-6779
bgilliland@princess.com

Friday, December 4, 2009

New Princess Cruises Contact; Production Staff

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

For Princess Cruises job's in Audio, Visual, Lighting, Stage Crew, Prduction Assistants, Sound Engineers, Automation, Lounge Techs and Video.

Contact Kathryn Daly at:
Princess Cruises
Production Services
24844 Avenue Rockefeller
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
kdaly@princesscruises.com

Friday, November 27, 2009

Cruise Ship DJ Princess Cruises

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

They are looking for cruise ship DJ's.
contact:
Kelly
siegelent@telus.net

Princess Cruises Guest Entertainer Jobs Contact

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

He hires mainstage perfomers, guest entertainers, jugglers, singers, magicians, comedians, comedy magic, musicians and guest entertainer DJ's.

Roger Hawk
Director, Entertainers/Music Services
Princess Cruises
rhawk@princesscruises.com
24305 Town Center Drive
Santa Clarita, CA
91355
661-753-0000

Cruise Ship Musicians

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

For all cruise ships musician jobs for Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Azmara Cruises. (all the same family under RCCL)
Solos
Bands
Orchestra
Duos

Rob Waterfield Specialist,
Contracted Musicians
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Phone - (305)539-6741.
Fax: (305)358-9295
rwaterfield@rccl.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Cruise Ship Jobs - ALL Contacts Up To Date!!!

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

Charly McDonald
Director, Guest Activities
Royal Caribbean International
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
Tel: 305-982-2566
Cell: 305-495-7759
cmcdonald@rccl.com

RCCL
Amy Chambers
AChambers@rccl.com

Lucy Hodgson – Recruitment Manager
V.Hospitality (V.Group), 24 Av de Fontvieille,
MC 98000 MONACO
Tel: +377 9205 1060
Email : lhodgson@vhospitality.net
Web Site : www.vhospitality.net
Web Site : www.vships.com
She hires for all the 5-6 Star cruise lines and high end resorts - all positions

Ana Callava
Manager, Shipboard Global Talent Acquisition
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
1080 Caribbean Way, Third Floor
Miami, FL 33132-2096
acallava@rccl.com
Phone: 305 539-4211 Fax:305 539-3937

For Princess Cruises / Global Fine Arts, the contact for "Art Director" is:
fpfinearts@princesscruises.com
slengson@princesscruises.com
Attn: Sandra Lengson

For Park West / Plymouth Auctioneering, the contact for "Art Auctioneer" is ShipAuctioneerHR@parkwestgallery.com, Attn: Recruiting Manager.
Her name is Selena Kim. skim@parkwestgallery.com

Musicians / bands / entertainers
www.sixthstar.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
www.mmec.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
www.proship.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
www.karsttalent.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)

Star Cruises
Eloise Diaz,
Star Cruises Centre
100 Andrews Avenue
Newport City
Pasay
Metro Manila
Philippines 1309
( +632-836-6083
7 +632-836-6001
eloisa.diaz@starcruises.com

Cindy Wong,
Human Resources
Princess Cruises
24844 Ave Rockefeller
Santa Clarita, CA, 91355
cwong@princesscruises.com
Copy your email to:
Katy Daly
kdaly@princesscruises.com

If you are looking for cruise staff, AV, media, tech production, stage crew, lounge tech etc for Carnival - here you go.
Carnival:
Chris Unstead, Manager of Entertainment: Cruise Staff, Bands, Youth staff
James Riccio, Supervisor of AV Media: All shipboard tech positons for all A/V, lighting, staging positions. (twitter.com/JARiccio)
Andrew Wicks Carnival AV Manager

Your envelope should look like this - typed not handwritten.

Carnival Cruise Lines
(Name and title of individual above)
Carnival Place
3655 NW 87 Avenue
Miami, FL 33178
MSSE 204N

RCCL:
Lisa Trefois
HR Specialist
Royal Caribbean International
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132-2096
1-305-539-6000
If you call her, make sure you pronounce her family name correctly..Tre-Fwah

NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)
Mina Yi
myi@ncl.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales, Divers, Shore Excursion
Peter Grant pgrant@ncl.com - all entertainment and program positions

Holland America Line
Carey Rae Bolton
Manager of Entertanment Staff
CBolton@HollandAmerica.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales, Divers, Shore Excursion
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions: in the subject line write: Your name, Onboard employment. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.

For Celebrity Cruises and Azmara Cruise Lines
Clint Wells
Celebrity Cruises
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL
33132-2028
clintwells@rccl.com

Barbara Bisconti
Entertainment Department
MSC Cruises
Corso Italia, 214
80063 Piano di Sorrento, Napoli
Tel. 0039 081 5344001
Fax 0039 081 5342404
E-mail : mscentertainment@mscctd.it

Mike Conroy, CTC
Manager, Onboard Sales
Holland America Line
1-800-355-3017 ext. 3233
Fax: 206-301-5484
mconroy@hollandamerica.com
(Onboard Cruise Sales Manager positions)

For dancers and singers:
www.jeanannryanproductions.com
www.stilettoentertainment.com
For Shops Onboard Ships:
Starboard contact phone number:
(786) 845-7536

*Princess hires their own boutique staff

More when I have time.
Good luck and be nice...please don't waste their time!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

All the current cruise ship job contacts in one blog - coming up

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

To help out the lazy folk, I am going compile all the current cruise ship job contact info, onto one posting. I hope to have this posted shortly as time permits.

Check back into the dark postings of past, because I update contact info as it changes. Holland America, Carnival, NCL, Princess, RCCL, Celebrity, Azmara, Disney, MSC, Costa, Florida Day Cruise/Casino ships, European Cruise Lines -its all here!!!

Monday, November 9, 2009

New Information for cruise ship jobs

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

Here is a great website full of wonderful information. Disect it and use it to further your cruise ship job search. It's the Florida - Caribbean Cruise Association website.

www.f-cca.com

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Royal Caribbean cruise ship job contact information

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

Charly McDonald
Director, Guest Activities
Royal Caribbean International
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
Tel: 305-982-2566
Cell: 305-495-7759
cmcdonald@rccl.com

He is responsible for the support and creative direction of the Youth Program, Onboard Activities, Vitality & Sports Programming, Broadcast & Interactive Television and Entertainment Technical Operations. Send your info and if need be, he will direct your resume to the right person.

Remember to make a great first impression and don't waste their time.

Cheers

Cruise Ship contacts - real people real contact Info

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

If you cruise through the recent and previous blog postings, you will find personal contacts for Princess, Holland America, NCL, Celebrity, RCCL, plus European cruise lines, to name a few.

That the problem with a blog is that as new posting come along, the older postings get pushed way down the line. But, the info is still current, if and when it changes, (and I know when it does) I change it here for you, so go and search out your next or first, cruise ship job now.

Cheers

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Things Can Change Fast

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

So, I have been corresponding with a prestigiouos 6 star cruise line in Europe, hoping for a shot at the CD positon, even as vacation relief. The guy I have have been communicating with for 7 months, but never met, has just up and left his post for another career. I received a form letter from his replacement advising me blah blah blah CV on file blah blah blah six months blah blah blah.........Its like playing the game Snakes and Ladders; you get all the way up to the top line and them, BAM! you snake slide aaaaaall the way to the bottom again.............

It is neccesary to put alot of time, energy, expectation and emotion into each job enquiry, so it sucks when the possibilites fall part so quickly.
Thats why when someone offers you something you say yes, you jump at it!

For me, this is my Karma getting back at me for saying no to Princess Cruises way back when. I thought I wanted to retire and live a "normal" life on land. When they called I said no - it ws a polite no, but no nonetheless. I am quite sure they will never hire me again. Their tone was always plesant, but the answer was always the same - nothing available at the moment.

But thankfully, there are many great cruise lines available to all, and I have moved onto many great shipboard experiences in great positions. So if you've had an unfortunate cruise ship experience, it will not hold back your future.

Monday, November 2, 2009

What did I say about saying NO????

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

A good person was recently asked to join the brand spankin' new, big ass ship from Royal Caribbean, called the Oasis of the Seas!!!
...and he said no! OMG call Britney........sorry C.H. ;)

In his defence, he has to renew a visa, but please, before you start approaching cruise lines, make sure you have everything in place except your medical obviously, because it differs from cruise line to cruise line. Cruise line positions can come slow or they can come very fast, and when they do, you have to be willing to say YES!

So remember the golden rule, Never Say No!!!! Even if you are not completely ready - and who is anyway, say yes, and then run your ass off to get it done!

Also, come closer, no, I mean real close...and listen carefully, this is very important; take whatever friggin' ship and intinerary they give you - make their job easy, do a great job onboard wherever you go and the cruise line will love you. Then you can start making requests after you successfully complete your first contract.

Remember the only answer is yes yes yes yes yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Like a drunk girl in the crew bar; or a drunk boy in the crew bar - ok that was out of line...or was it...hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

What's the first thing a Steiner says when she wakes up in the morning?
"So, do all you guys work in the Deck Department?"

Sunday, November 1, 2009

European Cruise Ship Jobs

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.


If you want to explore the European cruise ship opportunities, visit the offical association member website and peruse the various cruise lines.
www.europeancruisecouncil.com

Click "membership" then look at both cruise operator members and associate members.

Good second languages would be German, Spanish, Italian, French.

I did a relief contract as a Cruise Director with a Europe based cruise line - it was my best experience to date - and they pay in Euro - sweet!!!!

In fact as we speak, I am in negotiation to return to Europe full time, after my remaining US based contract is complete.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Cruise site for jobs

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read
the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current
contacts.

I am not generally a fan of job sites because eventually they
ask you for money. You should never have to pay for a shipboard
job. Here is a good site I like, and they offer amazing cruise
ship (and resort based) jobs.

The company is called V Ships and the cruise/hospitality division
is called V Hospitality. (You will have to copy and paste - its not
a direct ink, sorry)
www.vhospitality.net

Are you fluent in more than one language? Cruise lines want you now!

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read
the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current
contacts.

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azmara are looking for staff who
can speak English as well as possess conversational fluency in
two or more languages - preferably Spanish, French, German,
Russian, Italian, Greek, Portugeuse, Dutch, Arabic, Japanese,
Mandarin.

Multi-lingual staff are in need in most onboard passenger service
positions such as Pursers, Front Desk, Hosts, Cruise Staff,
International Hosts, Dining Room Supervisors, Photographers,
Shore Excursions, Room Stewards, Bartenders, Entertainment,
Internet Cafe Manager, Shops and Casino.
She hires for Royal Caribbean, Azmara and Celebrity, as
they are all part of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Remember to be well prepared, concise and focused before
you submit anything. Send 1-2 page relevant resume and good
quality head shot photo. Sending to her via email is fine.

In the Subject Line, only write your name and position
desired ie "cruisegary, activities manager".

Contact:
Ana Callava
Manager, Shipboard Global Talent Acquisition
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
1080 Caribbean Way, Third Floor
Miami, FL 33132-2096
acallava@rccl.com
Phone: 305 539-4211 Fax:305 539-3937

Cruise Ships are Always Hiring

Remember to share this blog with your friends and always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and current contacts.

Cruise ships are always hiring. Like any service business, they want good people in all positions onboard. As many of you know, cruise ships tend to have a constant turnover of staff for many reasons. Therefore, if you see any older job posts here you are interested in, my advice is to apply nonetheless, following the guidelines and procedures I have suggested.

As well, even if the slow economy is still lingering, cruise lines all have new ships coming out. Remember, these ships were ordered sometime ago, when no one could predict the current economic state of affairs. And cruise lines still have to crew all these new ships nonetheless. So, positons always exist to those of us who pursue them in the correct fashion.

Friday, October 30, 2009

New Ships Get Bigger - lots more jobs, but lots more work onboard

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

Cut and paste these links to see these amazing and huge new ships coming out soon.

Royal Caribbean www.oasisoftheseas.com

NCL www.epic.ncl.com

Carnival www.carnival.com will debut a new huge ship called Magic in 2011.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnival_Magic

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

A Reminder to Read The Older Posts

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

A number of the email enquiries I receive, revolve around information which I have already posted. You can use the blog search to find answers to your questions. As well, you will find CURRENT contact names and contact information for various cruise lines.

If there is information you don't see listed, you can advise me and I will source it out and post it here.

Thank you.

Monday, October 26, 2009

Shipboard Jobs - Art Auctioneer / Art Director contacts

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

For Princess Cruises / Global Fine Arts, the contact for "Art Director" is:
fpfinearts@princesscruises.com
slengson@princesscruises.com
Attn: Sandra Lengson
The Princess art program does not yet have a dedicated website.

For Park West / Plymouth Auctioneering, the contact for "Art Auctioneer" is ShipAuctioneerHR@parkwestgallery.com, Attn: Recruiting Manager.
They are now offering the art sales for ships under Plymouth and not Park West. This email is for the person who does the hiring.
Their website is www.plymouthauctioneering.com.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Art Director / Auctioneer Positions Available

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

Both Princess Cruise's Global Fine Arts, and Park West's Plymouth Auctioneering are hiring onboard Art Directors / Auctioneers and Associates.

I will post more contact information in the next couple of days. In the meantime, Google around and see if it is a job you might like.

Helpful if you have some art background but not essential as you receive intensive training. As well, these are really sales positions. You must have great interpersonal and social skills and be a good "closer".

Google cruise ship art auctions as well as the company names above, to get a feel for the job.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Cruise Ship Vacations Advice from the Inside

Always remember to read older posts first for pertinent information.


I have many requests to provide information for cruise ship passengers. While this blog's purpose is to provide potential and returning crew members with current, VALID, contact information for ship jobs now, I do not mind posting the odd bit of info for passengers - after all, without passengers, we would not have such great jobs at sea!


For those of you waiting, the first bit for pax wil be about the cruise lines, profile, when to cruise, where to cruise and how to ensure you select a cruise vacation that suits your expectations. I shall post in about a week or two.


In the meantime, follow our good friend Phil Reimer, a great Travel Columnist and cruiser and his cruise blog at www.portsandbows.com.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

cruisegary is now on Twitter

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

www.twitter.com/cruisegary

Follow all my cruise ship job information updates.

All the Other Cruise Ship Job sites on the Web

Always read the older posts for lots of cruise job information and contacts.

Someone asked me why I allow Google to run ads for other crusie ship job sites on my blog. Well, first, this is not a job site. It is a free site with the most up to date industry and contact info out there - I know because I persue all the other so-called "free sites", and as for paid sites, well, lets just say I prefer to hope people choose to hustle a bit, do their own research, because if you do, you will find your own cruise ship job. The info is out there...and here too!

Cruise lines are employers and like all employers, they place a high degree of value on the effort you have to put into getting a shipboard job - it shows your stamina, committment, character and perseverence.

This guy at USA Today has a great cruise blog - lots of information about what's going on in the industry. His name is Gene Sloan.
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/cruises/default.aspx

So, why do I leave all the other Google ads on my blog? So people can go and check them out to see exactly what they try to sell you - info you can get here for free and, the info on my site is always up to date, because I am in the industry and still work onboard ships as we speak!

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Applying for Cruise Ship Jobs - Does It Matter Where I live?

The answer is a resounding no! Remember to read or search older posts first - lots of info you need to know.

No, it does not matter where you live - not these days anyways. I have conducted interviews via telephone, internet, Skype Audio and Skype Video (which is becoming quite a popular choice for cruise lines)

If you don't know much about Skype, it is easy to sign up and get online. Just don't use a computer in an internet cafe - with all the surrounding noise, music, conversation and general activity, it gives a bad impression.

So, you can apply to any cruise line job of interest around the world and technology will allow you to be availble for interviews etc.

For example if you apply to MSC Cruises, they are located in Naples Italy so obvioulsy any interview for anyone has to include either a computer or a telephone. If you are doing a video Skype interview, dress for the part and be in a professional looking/sounding environment - don't sit on your bed with your laptop and pj's.

So, as with any method of contact and interview, presentation is key - even with internet style interviews.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

CruiseGary Rambles On - Updates

This is the number one site for FREE and LEGITIMATE cruise ship job information.

Real cruise line people to contact and all the pertinent information you need to get that great cruise "vacation" job!

The information is REALTIME and always updated as soon as it changes.

As I always mention, read or search for older relevant postings first.

There is alot of great info here and its all recent and its free!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Cruise Ship Job Survey at the Bottom of the Page

Please add to the survey so I will know what types of shipboard jobs to focus on at any given time.
Cheers

Cruise ships - all the bad news!!!

Every now and then, I think its only fair to balance the good information with the bad. Many websites are focused on reporting the negative aspects of the cruise industry.

Here are the 3 major websites who make it their job, to report the alleged bad side of cruising, and 1 site that monitors shipboard health and safety standards.

As a prospective crew member, it is good to know a little bit about how the industry is perceived by many who's only purpose is to report negativity!

At least it's good reading.........................

Reports all the alleged bad stuff:
www.cruisejunkie.com

Also reports alleged bad stuff:
www.cruisebruise.com

Reports of passengers who mysteriously disappear or die or get injured:
www.internationalcruisevictims.org

This is the offical site that inspects all cruise ships for health and safety violations and reports the results here. They conduct surprise random inspections of all sanitary areas, food handling, prep, storage and serving, the overall cleanliness of a ship, laundry, supplies, temperatures everything! They watch the routines of staff, their cleanliness and whether or not they perform their duties in accordance with US Public Health regulations.

On this site, you can see which ships are clean and which ships are not, which ships pass and which ships fail this very important inspection, as every shipboard inspection is listed here:
wwwn.cdc.gov/InspectionQueryTool/Forms/InspectionSearch.aspx

Cruise Ships Jobs - All Positions

Take a moment to look over older posts. There is alot of good and current information.

All the various cruise line contact people and their personal contact information is all here for free!

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Showband Musicians, Bands, Specialty Acts etc

Bottom of the page has a job survey. What shipboard job do you want?


These agencies are well known and well respected by all major cruise lines! They all can pick up the phone, make one call and get you hired! And remember, they don't get a dime unless they get you the gig you want!

http://www.sixthstar.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
http://www.mmec.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
http://www.proship.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)
http://www.karsttalent.com/ (as all agencies, they may require a standard %)

They hire Bands, Showband Musicians, Intermissionist Pianists (no vocals), Solos & Duos - Piano/Vocal and Guitar/Vocal Entertainers,  Specialty Acts – Comics, Jugglers, Instrumentalists, Impressionists, Main Stage Vocalists, Ventriloquists and Magicians.

If you are an AV tech, sound lights etc, contact them as well.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Princess Cruises is currently hiring Photographers

Always remember to read the older posts first. You can search this blog for specific information using the blog search...duh.

Anyway, Princess Cruises is currently hiring Photogs. They are one of the only cruise lines who hire their own and who do not use a concessionaire. By all accounts, a great company to work for. As well, Photographers, like all "Staff" onboard, enjoy more shipboard passenger area priviledges than most other cruise lines - just don't abuse them.

Cruise the world and take pictures of beautiful lanscapes, historic ruins, cities, beaches and yes, the dining room -disgusting eaters with food all over their faces...eating like its the last meal they'll ever see - oh and my favourite, photos of every single tired, irritable passenger boarding the ship, and you get to take their picture in front of some ultra tacky, fake background scene.

But who cares - afterwards it's the crew bar for dollar Coronas! ...and...you get paid to travel the world...sweet....


So, visit http://www.pmcmarine.com/. They are a recognized and legitiamte recruiter for Princess Cruises. They will not charge you a penny for a job. They get paid by the cruise line!

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

New Cruise Ship Contact, Star Cruises

I bet no one ever thinks about Star Cruises. Well, they own NCL as well, they are a very large cruise line with lots of money!

Check out their website at www.starcruises.com, beautiful ships, fabulous itineraries and they hire from all over the world as per other lines like Princess, RCCL etc.

Again, please don't waste her time. Be prepared, know what job you want. I recommend spending a few hours around the net, looking at information about Star Cruises, their history, their ships etc. They are based out of the Philippines and Malaysia, but like most cruise lines, they have ships all over the globe.

The HR contact is:
Eloise Diaz,
Star Cruises Centre
100 Andrews Avenue
Newport City
Pasay
Metro Manila
Philippines 1309
( +632-836-6083
7 +632-836-6001
eloisa.diaz@starcruises.com

In the "Subject Line", write only: Your Name and Positon desired. (ex. Cruise Gary, Activities Manager) that's it!

Applying for more than one position at the same time

Always read older postings first for pertinent information.

Had this question again recently and it makes sense. What to do if you have an interest in more than one shipboard job.

Once you are onboard, you will see alot of other onboard jobs you never considered. I found the Port Shopping Lecturer job to be interesting albeit hard work, so I did one contract, made a ton of cash - SHOULD have returned but said no. (what did I say about saying no? - never say it)
Anyway, because you are already onboard, you will have an instant contact with say, the Casino Manager, Cruise Director, First Purser etc, as well as other crew in those departments who can give you the low down on what the job is like etc. Having said that, many cruise lines forbid departments from poaching each other, and in most cases there is a protocol for moving departments within the same cruise ship.

Back to the question. If you are interested in 2 different jobs, then approach it no different than applying for 2 different jobs on land. While your resumes all still get screened initially through HR, they do pass them onto the various managers responsible for that specific department/job.

But don't sound wishy washy - each application needs to be clear and focused on a particular department and position. By doing this, you create a better opportunity to getting onboard because the cruise line has a clear idea of who you are, what you want - makes it easy for them to match you to their needs. If you say you are willing to do anything, you just want to get any job onboard, you love cruising and want to see the world? - you will never hear back. Of course its a no-brainer those are some of the reasons we work on ships, so don't regurgitate the painfully obvious. Stay focused on the position you want, and what you bring to the job.

Where was I - oh yeah, so....if you wish to apply for more than one job, make the same effort for each position you apply - but here's what I would suggest. Apply for these different positions with different cruise lines. For example, apply for Cruise Staff with Princess, Youth Staff with Carnival, Shore Excursions with NCL etc. Don't go over board with applications to same cruise line, eventually it will raise a red flag that you are simply spamming in hopes a getting something. (I know from experience)

Use the same professional and tenacious process - be ready, prepare resume/photos - perfect; use express post AND email for submitting your application and don't be afraid to call.

1) Express post - you can track when it was received - wait 2 weeks then,

2) Email - mention you have sent your information via express Post - wait 1 week then,

3) Phone call - your best voice and remember don't call until you have a specific name to call. All you say is that you are following up on available positions. - wait 1 week then,

4) Email - re-iterate your interest - ask if they require any additional information - always let them know your available date - helps them with the bigger picture to know who is ready to go and when. - wait 1 week then

5) Express post again - follow up with any additional information you can think of, to justify another letter (and a $5.00 Starbucks card to say thank you for their consideration of your application)

I tend to go overboard (pardon the pun), but for me it works - its about selling your ability to "hustle."

And it's called schmoozing people - its what the whole industry is all about! Remember, they get hundreds of emails and hundreds of resumes each week - you need to be remembered for ANYTHING!

Monday, October 5, 2009

Princess Cruises Job Contact

If you wish to apply for any job with Princess Cruises, here are the contacts at their head office in Santa Clarita CA. These people are responsible for reviewing all applications for all positions, and directing them in-house to the right department hiring manager.

Before you waste your time, make sure your resume and photo are top notch - otherwise, it gets passed over and you will never here from them again.

Remember, they get hundreds of email applicants per week - make yours count. In addition to replying via email, also send a hard copy of both resume and photo via Fed Ex or Express Post. Use cardboard inside the envelope, so the photo and resume don't bend out of shape. Before you get the job, you have to get their attention!

In your email, make sure you follow this standard procedure.
In the Subject Line, write the position you want, then your name - that's it!

Example:
Activities Director, CruiseGary
Kandace Rendorff, Youth Counsellor


Here is the contact:

Cindy Wong,
Human Resources
Princess Cruises
24844 Ave Rockefeller
Santa Clarita, CA, 91355

cwong@princesscruises.com

Copy your email to:
Katy Daly
kdaly@princesscruises.com


If you prefer the assistance of a fabulous and legitimate Princess Cruises hiring partner, contact www.pmcmarine.com. And as I said before, they will not charge you for a job as they are renumerated by the cruise lines.

Please don't waste their time! Be professional in your presentation.

Thank you.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Legitimate Recuiters

Always read older posts for pertinent information

Without being too negative, not every online website or recruiter, is "recognized" or "approved" by cruise lines.

As you have probably seen, there are literally hundreds of sites for cruise ship jobs, all claiming to have some kind of "cruise ship" affiliation etc. This is not true. Or they claim to be an "Offical Hiring Partner."

Nowadays, most cruise lines have employment links and information on their on company website. So, before you lay out a bunch of cash, you have to ask yourself, what will they do for me that I can't do on my own?

Wanna know the truth? if can't hustle your own job, you probably won't last long on a ship. Of course I recognize the exceptions. But, its the whole process of finding the job that educates you, about the cruise lines you are interested in, their customer profile etc, and the industry as a whole.

So, what might be an example of a credible agency? Of course these are the ones I suggest because I work as a Cruise Director, and I have seen thousands of crew come and go and after a while, you start to notice where the good ones come from. It's that simple. And, the best agencies, the most respected agencies from an insiders point of view, are the agencies who DO NOT CHARGE YOU! Why? Because credible recruiting agencies are paid by the cruise line!!!!!! Now of course you may have to pay for your medical or travel or STCW safety certification, but you are not required to pay for the job!

If an agency asks you for money up front, ask for a written guarantee that you will get the exact job you are paying for; and see what they say - probably something like this: You will get a full refund if you can provide them with 3 letters of rejection. Guess what, cruise lines don't send letters of rejection. Therefore, you will never see your refund. The only letter you will receive from a cruise line, is if they are intersted in your services as a potential crew member. Also, I have noticed many websites charge you and all they do is provide links to other websites.

If you want a list of all cruise lines, go to www.cruising.org as this is the offical cruise line association website.

These recruiters are legitimate and no, they pay me so stop asking you cheeky monkeys: (these are not links, you will have to copy and paste into your browser)
www.pmcmarine.com
www.vhospitality.net
www.sixthstar.com
www.cruiseshipemployment.ca
www.mmec.com (these are ENT's agents and they may require a standard %)
www.proship.com (these are ENT's agents and they may require a standard %)
www.karsttalent.com (these are ENT's agents and they may require a standard %)

Always be respectful of the requested method for applying. But don't be afraid to pick up the phone.

If you reside in the US close to major cruise ports Like Miami or Long Beach, just go to the termianl office. If you do not live near a prt, simply go through the comapny website as per requested. Don't be afraid to call teh cruise line and ask them who is responsible for hiring for the position you are intersted in. And follow up - phone, fax UPS, phone fax, UPS....

Keep coming back and I will post contact information after iI have confimed it to be up to date. I am on a ship, so I always don't get here on a daily basis.

S, after all that, if you still choose to use an internet agency - give me your money instead, I need a new hairpiece.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Good cruise industry information

As I always say, its good to know about the business you are trying to enter - that is, the cruise industry.

A good site for relevant up to date info is www.portsandbows.com.

Tell Phil, CruiseGary sent you! and no I don't get paid...silly.

New Carnival Cruise Line Job Contacts - Use Wisely

Remember to read the older posts for lots of pertinent and useful information. It is important to learn about the cruise lines and the industry with regards to finding that great shipboard job!

Please use these contacts wisely and don't waste your time. You only get ONE SHOT!!! Don't shoot yourself in the foot!!!! or worse, screw it for other people who got their $hit together.

If you are looking for cruise staff, AV, media, tech production, stage crew, lounge tech etc for Carnival - here you go.

Carnival:
Chris Unstead, Manager of Entertainment: Cruise Staff, Bands, Youth staff
James Riccio, Supervisor of AV Media: All shipboard tech positons for all A/V, lighting, staging positions. (twitter.com/JARiccio)

Your envelope should look like this - typed not handwritten.

Carnival Cruise Lines
(Name and title of individual above)
Carnival Place
3655 NW 87 Avenue
Miami, FL 33178
MSSE 204N

Read older posts if you want to know what your resume and cover letter should look like. Also, always send a photo that represents the industry and positon you are applying for.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Ships are a changing - itineraries that is!!!

Now is the time ships begin to reposition - in other words, follow the good weather. In the coming days all except a couple of ships will have left the Alaska season behind and sailed back down to Mexico and the Caribbean. East coast cruises to Canada and the US maritimes will cease as well. Some ships will make their way over to Hawaii and down to Australia. And some still, will find a home sailing the Med...ahhh the Med, it is my favourite.

But cruising is a year round business and so hiring is a year round business. With the weather changing for most of us here in North America, now is the time many contemplate travel and travel jobs on ships....Maybe you chose not to return to school in September, and working through another pissy winter is not your idea of fun.

Well, read some of the older posts and maybe you will find you have an interest and a skill set suitable for cruise ship employment.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Royal Caribbean Contact

Please always read old posts as they contain very good information.

Here is a new contact for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Remember, before you send anything, make sure you have researched the job you want to make sure you know what it is called.Only use typed address lables - no handwriting and use 8 1/2 x 11 kraft envelopes - white, not yellow. Include a quality photo style which presents you in the manner comensurate with the job you want.
As I have indicated previoulsy on other blogs here, your resume needs to be short, concise, and relevant in some way to the job you are applying for onboard. Please include a professional photo which shows you in the manner of the job for which you are applying. If you are applying for an onboard supervisor or management position, your photo should be in color, business attire, polished look and smiling. If you want to be cruise staff or work with kids, your presentation should fun and outgoing with your BIGGEST smile!!! (time for Zoom!!)

RCCL:
Lisa Trefois
HR Specialist
Royal Caribbean International
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132-2096
1-305-539-6000
If you call her, make sure you pronounce her family name correctly..Tre-Fwah

I will post email when I receive it....

Always be professional and please don't waste their time.

Monday, September 7, 2009

New Ship Job Agency Contact

There is an agency which originated in Montral Canada called Cast-A-Way.

www.cast-a-way.com

They have now franchised to several countries around the world. This is helpful to have a "local" contact for ship jobs in other countries. The people involved have all worked on ships previously, so they will have some info of how things used to be, albeit not current personal experience obviously, because unlike me, they are no longer onboard ships. But as I said, they seem like stand up people. Find out who pays them - is it you???

I know a few people who have been hired through these guys. Like every agency they are not for everyone, so check it out for yourself! The principal owners name in Montreal is Eric, and he seems like a nice approachable guy.

His email is eric@cast-a-way.com - 1(514) 694-1194

Use the same professional approach - research the job you want and don't be afraid to pick up the phone and call!

Cruise Ship Questions Answered

How long are the contracts for?Contracts can vary between 4-8 months depending on which cruise line you will be working for. After each contract you will have a work break that can range from 4-8 weeks. Work breaks are usually not paid, so be sure to put some money away for your vacation.

How much notice will I get if I am hired?The amount of notice you may get can vary. Positions are always coming up, some sooner than others. Emergency positions do come up that may only leave you with a few days notice, so be prepared!!! We will always try to give the crewmember as much notice as possible.

How will I get paid?Depending on the cruise line, you may be paid bi-weekly or monthly. You will need to take some cash, ATM card/and or credit cards with you to carry you through the first month. You’ll find you probably won’t use much, but better too much than too little. In most cases you will be paid in U.S. cash.

What about taxes? Income taxes are only withheld for American Citizens. As every country has different tax laws, we suggest you consult an accountant to find out your tax obligations.

What do I do about banking?You have a few options, you can open an account in your homeport, or in one of the ports in your itinerary. We suggest making money orders and sending them home to either a family member, a friend or directly to your bank. It is probably the smartest and safest option. As you are paid cash onboard, don't keep all your cash in your cabin. Some ships offer safety deposit boxes for crew - check with the crew purser onboard.

Who do I work for?Although you are techniclally an independat contractor, the cruise line or concession that hires you, will be your employer. Please take notice that all cruise lines have different rules and regulations that need to be followed. Failure to do so can result in dismissal.

How often will I be working?In most cases, you can expect to work 7 days/week and anywhere from 8-12 hours/day. Steiner spa employees will work 5 1/2 days/week, and 10 hours/day, musicians 3-5 hours/day.

What about my flight to the ship?Your flight to the ship may or may not be provided by the cruise line. Depending on the company policy, you may have to pay your way there, and upon completion of your contract, they will fly you home. Some cruise lines require you to pay your flight there, and upon completion of your contract, you will be reimbursed your flight, and flown home free of charge. Then there are some lines that will pay your flight to and from the ship!

Can I get mail?Every ship has an address. We can usually give you the address prior to departure. If not, you will receive the information onboard.

Can I make phone calls?There are phones on board, however we recommend using them for emergency use only. They are extremely expensive and could range up to $15.00 per minute. You will have access to crew calling centers at mostly every port.

What am I responsible for as far as living expenses?All your food and accommodations are provided. Cruise lines also provide medical insurance whilst under contract. You will be required to pay for any incidentals, souvenirs, as well as any alcoholic beverages.

Do I share a cabin?Yes, all the cabins are small and compact and are shared with one other person of the same sex. In some instances you may have to share with up to three people. Most cabins have a bathroom, however some bathroom facilities can be shared by up to four people. The cabins are cleaned with linen changed daily by your cabin steward.

Can I do laundry on the ship?Yes, you may have access to laundry facilities or a service will be offered for a nominal fee.

Do I have to wear a uniform?Yes, your uniform is supplied by the cruise line and will be given to you upon arrival to the ship. In some instances you nay have to pay for your uniform in which case it will be deducted from your salary.

Do I require special safety training prior to joining the ship?
Yes, most cruise lines will require you present an STCW-95 safety certificate or equivilent. Ask your cruise line or agency about this requirement.


Do I have to have a medical before I get on board?Yes, you have to complete a medical prior to leaving for the ship. The medical is a thorough exam that involves taking blood tests, urinalysis, blood pressure, eye, hearing and lung function tests, as well as a chest x-ray. They are testing that you are physically fit to work on board. Please note that a drug test will also be conducted. Failure of the medical or drug test will result in the termination of your contract. In most cases, it is your responsibility to pay for your medical exam, however there are some cruise lines that will pay for it, or reimburse you the expense.

Can I get off the ship while in port?Of course you can! When you have free time during the day you can get off the ship and do what you please, providing that you are not scheduled to work and that you are back on board by the required all aboard time for crew. This time is usually different than all aboard for passengers so check!!!

Can we socialize with the passengers?Depending on your position, it may be an integral part of your job, although it is important to note that fraternization with passengers (if caught)can be cause for immediate dismissal.

Can we drink in the passenger lounges/nightclub?Some positions have "passenger privileges" and some may not. If you don’t, you are not permitted to be in passenger areas when you are off duty. Positions that usually have deck privileges, such as officers, cruise staff, youth staff, merchandise, shoppies, photogs, pursers, entertainers, casino… are able to socialize with passengers in the lounges until your set curfew which will be given to you when you get onboard. Some ships do not allow staff to drink alcohol in passenger areas. Should you be found drunk while on duty or too drunk to perform emergency procedures, this will result in automatic dismissal...this means next port...you are gone!!!!

Can we smoke in passenger areas?You cannot smoke whilst in any passenger areas. On many ships you cannot smoke in your cabin either. Fire is the number 1 danger onbaord a cruise ship so the ship takes these offenses very seriously. Only smoke in designated areas!!! If you are not sure...ask!

Is there a crew bar onboard?Yes, the crew bar and officer bar serves drinks until their particular set time, which may vary, from ship to ship. It is where you can relax and socialize out of sight of the passengers. There are usually various crew activities as well organized by various departments and the crew welfare committe onboard most ships.
Get involved...volunteer!

Can we use the passenger gym?This depends on whether you have passenger area priviledges, and if so, as a rule you can use the passenger gym. As long as you are not depriving any passengers of the facilities. Most ships have pretty good crew gyms as well.

Can we use the passenger swimming pools?As a rule aboard most ships you are not permitted to use the pool. Some ships do have a small crew pool at the front. Anytime that you would have to use the pool, you will probably also be able to get off the ship and sightsee, go to the beach or shop in port!!

Can the crew sunbathe onboard the ship?There will be designated areas on the ship for the crew to sunbathe. Remeber, most ports will be in sunny destinations so you can simply find your favorite beach!

Can family or friends come to cruise?Of course they can! Every cruise line has their own policies about visitors. There are discounts and it is usually based on employment /length/status and of course availability.

*some of the content in this piece is appropriated from additional sources.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Marine Safety Certification for all Cruise Ship Crew

Once again...an important reminder.
Yes, yes, it is true, most crew members, probably all crew members, are required to have their STCW-95 Certification prior to boarding a cruise ship and assuming your duties.
In the US it is called STCW-95; in Canada, the equivalent is called BST (Basic Safety Training). In whichever country you take this training, make sure it is equivalent to the US Coast Guard STCW-95 - if you are not sure, contact the Coast Guard in your country and just ask them. Also, make sure the cruise line and/or hiring agent, clarifies what you need before you spend hundreds of dollars!

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Small Ship Cruise Jobs

Here is my favorite site for perusing smaller passenger ships and the jobs which may be available. Not everyone wants to be on a 5000 passenger RCCL ship with 1800 crew.

www.smallshipcruises.com

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Can US Citizens Get Jobs on Cruise Ships?

I get asked this question alot....hmmmm, and the answer is of course!
Now if you have done some research on ship jobs, you already know many positions onboard are always reserved for crew members from specific countries around the world.
You will never see an American cleaning rooms, or serving in the officers mess or painting the ship, or serving in the main dining rooms, or working in the galley etc - get my drift?

You will however, see Americans in positions such as shops, casino, cruise staff, photogs, musicians, shore ex, pursers, computer officers, entertainment, and sometimes managing the newer boutique restaurants popping up on newer ships. As well, I do know cruise lines are trying to recruit Executive Chefs, Restaurant Managers from the US and Canada, UK etc.I know a guy from Vancouver BC who manages one of these smaller restaurants onboard Holland America - another guy from Colorado who who manages a boutique restaurant for Royal Caribbean.

If you are new to ships, you may try to work onboard the casino ships. They all employ US citizens in various capacities - especially if they are a US flagged vessel, in which case the are required to do so by law.

NCL has a brand called NCL America (one ship - Pride of America), whereby it sails around the Hawaiian Islands. The ship was constructed from a hull built in the US and flagged US so they did not have to conform to the Jones Act. (look it up)
Basically this (antiquated) law states that foreign flagged ships cannot begin and end their route in the us without stopping in a foreign port in between.

So, for example, ship sailing Alaska from Seattle, usually make a brief stop in Victoria, Prince George, Nanaimo, Campbell River (the requisite foreign port), in order to comply with the Jones Act.

Other cruise lines sailing the Hawaiian Islands would have to either cruise back to Ensenada Mexico or cruise for 2 days to Fanning Island, touch land, and then sail 2 days back to Hawaii, just to comply with the Jones act.

However, because the NCL America brand was flagged US, it can only employ US citizens in ALL positions onboard. As you can imagine, they have a difficult time finding US citizens willing to peform some of the jobs onboard. Here are the links for the Pride of America and its job site for US citizens.

1) www.ncl.com/nclweb/fleet/shipInformation.html?shipCode=PRIDE AMER
2) 164.109.173.40/employment/nclAmerica/index.htm
3) Mina Yi; myi@ncl.com

Another company which hires US Citizens in all capacities is Cruise West based in Seattle. Here is a link to their job page.
www.cruisewest.com/jobsatsea

"On the big ships, they fill all of the unskilled positions [kitchen and housekeeping] with cheap labor from foreign countries. That leaves far fewer jobs for Americans, and they usually want someone with special skills: dealers from Las Vegas casinos, performers through Hollywood talent agencies, fitness instructors with shoreside teaching experience, or hosts with tour guide experience."

This might sound discouraging, but cruise companies do vary in their hiring practices, and there are still plenty of jobs available on large cruise lines; you just need the right amount of persistence and determination. Furthermore, small, local companies tend to hire all-American crews. For the most part, non-English speaking employees work low-skill, low-paying positions such as kitchen staff, bedroom stewards, and janitorial positions. On many big-name cruise lines, these positions are filled almost exclusively with workers from Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Mexico adn Central American countries. Of these lower skill departments, each is further segregated by hiring primarily one nationality or another. For example, onboard P&O, the food service staff is almost all, but not entirely from India.

This form of discrimination has been around since the early 1900s, borne out of the Jones Act of 1886, a law forbidding foreign-flagged vessels from transporting passengers on one-way trips between ports in the United States. This law, intended to help the U.S. shipbuilding industry, proved to actually work against it. Registering a ship in the United States requires the ship to be built in the United States and staffed with an American crew. However, paying American wages and complying with U.S. employment regulations is extremely expensive compared to using employees from developing countries, who will perform the same work for a fraction of the pay demanded by North Americans. Foreign countries also subsidize their cruise shipbuilding industry, while the United States does not. As a result, almost all major cruise lines use ships built in Germany, France, and Italy, and then register them in countries imposing less onerous requirements on employers, such as Liberia and Panama. Some cruise lines even maintain recruiting and training facilities in places like Indonesia and the Philippines.

But there are still some US only companies out there - usually smaller ships but good for first time experience. Here are 2 links. They show you which companies are US flagged.
www.cruiseshipportal.com/categories/cruise-lines-ship-operators/casino-ships
www.gamingfloor.com/DayShips

Monday, August 24, 2009

How to Gain Some Relevant Experience

If you live in a city which offers dinner cruises, sight seeing cruises, ferry service, day boat trips - even private boats - try to get some work onboard these vessels. Any catering, banquest, hotel work will serve you well as experience.
And no, playing with your red boat in the bathtub, doesn't count!

Keep in mind that cruise ships are just like little cities, so just about any job you can think about exists on a ship. Having said that, many positions are always earmarked for certain nationalities. Usually deck/engine crew are foreign nationals, the officers are usually but not exclusively from UK, Italy, Greece, Portugal, USA, Canada. If you are a cadet in training, you may be from Canada, USA, UK - just about any country.

The bar department crew can be from a number of countries - but it is looooong hours and mostly tips - monthly salary is very low. The same goes for dining room staff. Bartenders do a little better and many are from UK, Caribbean Islands, some from USA. Room attendants/housekeeping make pretty much straight tips only with a small monthly stipend or salary - once again, mainly crew from overseas.

My recommendation is to focus on Front Desk/Purser Dept, Shore Excursions, Shops/Boutiques, Casino, Photogs, Cruise Staff, Youth Staff, Future Cruise Sales, Port Shopping Guide, Bands/Musicians, Fitness/Spa, Internet Manager, Golf Pro, Show Dancers, Captains Circle/Repeat Cruisers/VIP Concierge.

Regarding river cruises, there is also a google ad link here somewhere, www.EuropeanRiverCruises.com - check it out to see the various river cruise companies in Europe. The most notable is Viking River Cruises.

Other Cruise Ship Job Options like Day and Casino Cruises

Keep in mind there are options other than the big cruise lines. Consider for example day cruise casino ships like Discovery Cruise Line and Palm Beach Casino to name a couple. Or the 2 and 3 day cruises onboard Celebration Cruises out of Fort Lauderdale.

These involve more excitement and saving money than travel. But day cruises are great. I worked onboard SeaEscape which after 20 years, finally succumbed to the economy, the local indian casinos and as a result, no longer sails. It sailed twice daily from Fort Lauderdale on cruises to nowhere. It was a casino ship. Each night we were docked back in Fort Lauderdale, so many international crew had apartments, cars - 2 days off each week - it was great - a regular lifestyle.

As you see, many options.

Here are some contacts for these day cruises.

Celebration Cruise Line, Fort Lauderdale (Used to be Imperial Majesty) www.bahamascelebration.com
They hire all shipboard positions including salon, photogs.
You can send any job inquries to Yolanda Reilly.
yreilly@imperialmajesty.com (if they are using the new ship comapny email, it might be yreilly@celebrationcl.com)
employment@celebrationcl.com

Same rules apply - make sure your presentation is professional, (resume / photos) and relevant to the position. Also, in order to get onboard, it is good to be flexible in what positions you will accept. I once applied as to a ship in Europe as a CD and they offered me the Ass't position - didn't take it but I should have.
So apply for what you want, but keep an open mind.

Las Vegas Cruise Lines is strictly a casino ship. If you have any casino experience, here is where you would apply. They sail out of Port Canaveral (where the space rockets take off from)
www.lasvegascasinolines.com
You can send any job inquries to employment@lasvegascasinolines.com
The main principle for employment in the company is Giles Malone, managing director. The ship has been having financial problems and is currently for sale. It continues to operate.

Palm Beach Casino Line is a combination day cruise / casino ship. They hire all casino positons, cruise staff, youth staff, musicians, purser staff. Check their website.
www.palmbeachprincess.com
HumanResources@pbcasino.com
1.561.845.2101 (If you have your phone pitch together, call them to inquire)
Port of Palm Beach
Riviera, Florida

Discovery Cruise Line
www.discoverycruiseline.com
This ship sails early each morning from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas. You get 3-4 hours tops in the Bahamas. It returns to Fort Lauderdale the same evening - arriving around 10 pm - but, because you visit a foreign country (Bahamas) all passengers must clear immigration and customs before crew each night upon your return to Fort Lauderdale.
Here is the link to the employment page with listings of current openings:
www.discoverycruiseline.com/home/ResPckgDet_OB_2_GR_WEEKSPC_SE_1_ST_JOBS%20%20%20

Send your inquiry to the Entertainment Manager - his name is Anthony.

All bar, deck, food service and housekeeping positions are hired from overseas. For these positions, contact Apollo Ship Chandlers www.apolloships.com‎
1775 NW 70th Ave
Miami, FL 33126-1341
(305) 592-8790

It's Time to Re-Read the Other Posts

There is alot of good and current information on the previous postings. Peruse these and locate the information pertinent to your current cruise job search.

Getting a job on a ship is more than simply knowing a contact name and an address. You need to present yourself as a good candidate - this is re-hashing I know, but the obvious needs to restated from time to time.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Good luck to Minerva

It's nice to get compliments...like the time quite recent actually, when a passenger approached me and said she just saw "The Fighter", and that I looked like Mickey Rourke. Come to think of it, he looks pretty nasty and all beat up - not pretty at all - and my nose looks nothing like that!


minerva said...
Dear Gary,
First of all I will like to thank you for your Cruise ship advice, for soo long i have been applying and was very discourage when i didntrecieve a reply or when i was rejected.
I took your advice and i recieve a call from disney cruiseline, had my interview and now i am waiting for a response. Thank you once again for sharing your expertise it is greatly appreciated.

Minerva Gaskin

August 20, 2009 5:05 PM

Who Owns Which Cruise Lines

Many people are curious as to who owns which cruise lines. This is important because sometimes, if you have had a bad previous onboard work experience, you may not be permitted to work on any of the corporate companies other brands. I know from experience. Here are some.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line also owns:
Celebrity Cruises, Azmara Cruises

Carnival Corporation owns:
Carnival Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Cruise line, P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, Ibero Cruceros, Ocean Village, Aida Cruises, Yachts of Seabourn, P&O Cruises Australia

Star Cruises owns:
Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line

MSC Cruises is independant

Crystal Cruises is independant

Disney Cruise Line is independant

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is independant

Paul Gauguin Cruises is independant

SeaDream Yacht Club is independant

SilverSea Cruises is independant

Oceania Cruises is indenpedant

Windstar Cruises (sold by Holland America and is now owned by Ambassadors International Inc and operated under the Majestic America Line)

Friday, August 21, 2009

Cruise Ship Hook Ups

Yes yes yes...of course there are...for all ages! If you are one of the lucky onboard staff who have passenger priviledges, you will no doubt hook up with a passenger...if you want, and of course, if he or she, also wants to. Be as discreet as you can, but truthfully, when it comes to hooking up, everyone can usually see.

In many cases you will have the opportunity to hook up with more than one passenger per cruise. When I was a DJ with NCL, on the first night of the cruise, I spent the night with a nice young woman from Atlanta Georgia. Then, 4 days later, on our last formal night, I spent the night with a sexy older woman, also from Atlanta Georgia - yep, you guessed it...turned out they were mother and daughter - and Basil, don't even get me started about the Texas twins...Oh do behave!

On many cruise lines the policy is this: if you get caught with a passenger in your cabin, you will probably receive a written warning. If, on the other hand, you are found to be in the passengers cabin, you will most likely be dismissed from the ship - almost immediately! The sad fact is that it depends on who you are, who you know and whether or not senior staff/officers like you! So, as I have always advocated, (and not for this reason specifically), be nice to everyone you meet onboard - you will have a much better contract!

Just rememeber, what happens on a ship - stays on a ship - it's a tired cliche, but it's true. And remember, shipmates before shagmates! Don't forget about your duties and responsibilities.

Cruise ship jobs - hiring contacts, up to date

Always read the older posts for important job information

Manager of Cruise Programs
Celebrity Cruises
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL
33132-2028
Fed Ex only



This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions and follow up with a phone call. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Manager of Cruise Programs
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL
33132-2028
Fed Ex only

Or, contact:
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
Amy Chambers
Casting Specialist (fancy way of saying hiring person)
Guest Activities & Technical Operations
AChambers@rccl.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales, sound, lighting, stage crew, production staff, musicians, bands
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions and follow up with a phone call. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Carnival Cruise Lines
Chris Unstead,
Manager of Entertainment Staff
CUnstead@carnival.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, onboard future cruise sales, divers, shore excursion, musicians, bands, duos, dancers, singers
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions: in the subject line write: Your name, Onboard employment. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.
___________________________________________________________________________________
NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)
Mina Yi
myi@ncl.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales, Divers, Shore Excursion
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions: in the subject line write: Your name, Onboard employment. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Holland America Line
Carey Rae Bolton
Manager of Entertanment Staff
CBolton@HollandAmerica.com
This is for cruise staff – all positions, youth/teen staff, lecturers, internet cafe manager, DJ's, teen DJ's, Onboard Future Cruise Sales, Divers, Shore Excursion
*Note: you may send your resume for other positions: in the subject line write: Your name, Onboard employment. On most occasions, it will be forwared to the correct person.

Monday, August 17, 2009

Lets Review Your Resume - WTF are your sending?

Always review older posts for information to your questions and contact current information.

I was recently asked to review some resumes. And after all I have suggested, regrettably some people are just getting it - and that's to be expected.
Errors like, Hope to hear from you shorty, Have a keen eye for derail, Dear Sir or Madman, I'm attacking my resume for you to review, I am a rabid learner, My work ethics are impeachable (go Nixon), I have nervous of steel and so on - you get the picture. A recent 2009 study of cruise line HR executives, stated that 3 out of 4 of HR executives, will absolutely not hire someone with even 1 spelling or grammar mistake in their cover letter or CV/resume. That's harsh! (On a blog, it don't got to madda much now do it peeps.)

No matter what anyone or any other website tries to tell you, getting a ship job is like searching for employment anywhere. Ship jobs are not gimme's. Yes, they are out there and indeed they are plentiful, but, you and 1000's of others want the same thing! Dig? Good!

You need to make sure you have done your investigative homework, who will you send it to, know the correct name or at least correct title of the department head or their position - that is who you are Fed-Exing, also your photo - not a shopping mall machine or blackberry photo - pro shot only - and for crying out loud .....SPELLCHECK!!! (See above again!)I have said this a thousand times and still, I receive emailed resumes for review with a ton of errors - are you kidding me?? You don't need a ship job, you need remedial grammar and spelling lessons - you know who you guys are - but don't lose faith...just pay attention to the details...why??? I will tell you why.....


Your résumé is your first chance to make a positive impression. Cruise ship H.R. Departments view your resume as a reflection of the applicant. (say this over and over) "If you make simple mistakes on your application materials, the assumption is that you will make similar mistakes on the ship." And on a ship, simple mistakes can be costly! So, make sure there aren't any typos, grammatical errors or spelling mistakes in it. You must do more than just spell check it. Print it out. It's easier to detect errors on paper than after your eyes glaze over from staring at a computer screen. Also, have a friend proof-read it for you. This goes for both your cover letter and your resume.

One version of your résumé won't be right for all the various shipboard positions you may wish to apply for. It's better to tailor it to a handful of openings on various cruise lines that directly relate to your experience and accomplishments, rather than to write one and spam dozens of hiring managers with it. Also, use the keywords that are relevant to the job desciption or cruise industry. It shows you know your industry. The biggest mistake people make on a resume is they think everything they've ever done, needs to be in their resume. The resume is the bait to get you the interview - usually by phone, unless the cruise line has an agent in your area. (These are not my words, but they are very true and even moreso here, because you may not get the benefit of a face to face interview) In many cases, your resume and a phone call is it. So, you better make sure its hot and your phone skills are at the top of their game!!! Why? In one day, you know how many email job inquires Princess Cruises receives???? Do ya???? Ha??? More than 1000..that's ONE THOUSAND!! A Day!!! So, you better make sure you stand out, and the way to do it, is to present yourself as eager, willing, with relevant experience and an accomplished individual. Don't worry if you do not have previous shipboard experience. Most cruise line HR offices, (and their respective agents), care more about what you have "achieved" as opposed to what you have "done." They care less about what your duties are/were; they care about what your achievements are/were? Know the difference - it will serve you well.

Managers are more likely to "take that bait" if you describe your accomplishments instead of listing your daily responsibilities - ho hum, boring. Your accomplishments, however insignificant as you may think they are, will set you apart from the competition. Quantify those accomplishments when possible. Describe what you made, saved and achieved for your employer.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Another Ship Job Contact - Celebrity Cruises

Always read the older posts for good info you have missed!

When sending your smokin' hot resume to any cruiseline, make sure you know who you are sending it to. If you do not know the name of the person currently holding the management position, send it attention the position. WTF?

For example, if you want to send your resume directly to the person who hires for Celebrity Cruises, but don't know their name, send it to their "titled posiiton":
IE If you want to apply for any position with youth staff, cruise staff, golf pro, enrichment lecturer, shipboard entertainment, bands etc, any position related to onboard passenger programs, send your professional cover letter, 2 page professionally done resume and 2 pro photos - 1 head shot and 1 shot of 3/4 length. Dress and smile appropriate to the job you are applying for.

For Celebrity Cruises you would Fed Ex it to:

Manager of Cruise Programs
Celebrity Cruises
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL
33132-2028

Seasonal Jobs - Short term contracts

Always Read The Older Posts

For those who prefer short term cruise ship contracts, there are a few postions which can accomodate your needs.

Youth Counsellors/Teen Counsellors
- The contracts for these jobs can be a short as 1-2 weeks. During peak seasons, such as Christmas, Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Easter and the summer time, cruise lines usually bring on extra short term staff for youth/teens, as well as teen specific djs. Its a great introduction into cruise ship employment. Many have gone on to full time contracts. As for ages, I have seen Youth and Teen Staff range in age from late teens to mid 50's.

Other jobs onboard with possible short term contracts are relief nurses, doctors, as well as short term showband musicians. Of course, most mainstage entertainment such as Comedians, Singers, Magicians work on short contracts as well.

Even though you are short term, you will still be required to have the full STCW 95 safety certification, as well as undergo all required cruisie line pre-employment medicals. Because you are short term, your flights be be paid for both ways.

I've had Youth Staff fly from the westcoast, all the way over to the Med for only 3 cruises! Pretty great little paid vacation!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Another cruise ship contact for jobs

Always read the older posts for information as well!

I just googled around for 30 minutes and came across another contact for ships jobs. It's easy, just have some patience, a curiosity, and some common search sense. You can find all the info you need without paying someone for the same thing. Remember, the only person who can offer you a ship job is the cruise line - no paid agent or paid website, no paid video or paid booklet or paid download - no one - nadda!

Follow some of my advice and you will find the ship job you desire. So, the contact I found is for Carnival Cruise Line. If you contact him, make sure you have done your homework first. Read my other blogs to understand whay I mean. You only get one chance to make a first impression - and it's true - not just a cliche'!

1) Short, succinct 3 paragraph cover letter.
2) Your resume is as I have suggested - short, relevant and commanding!
3) You send 1 professional photo geared towards the position you are looking for - let your personality shine!

Remember, never tell them you found this email here. You need to give the impression YOU have done all the work yourself - impress them with your proactive work habits!

Chris Unstead, Carnival Cruise Lines
CUnstead@carnival.com

His area of hiring includes cruise staff/entertainment hosts, youth staff, dancers, singers, musicians. In the subject line write your name and position sought: ie: Cruise Gary, Youth Staff

If you are looking for work as a nurse, doctor, computer tech, internet cafe manager, restaurant manager, or other position, first check their website to see if these positions are hired through a concessionaire (a company the cruise line contracts to provide shipboard services) If you choose to contact him and inquire about other onboard jobs such as security, nurse, doctor, boutiques, casino etc, write only your name and "onboard employment" in the subject line: ie: Cruise Gary, Onboard Employment
In most cases, if you have made a good impression, (ie resume, photo etc), your inquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate person - remember, cruise lines are always looking for good people)

I was looking for the person who hires the Onboard Future Cruise Consultants for RCCL. I found the email for the RCCL VP of Sales - I emailed her and she forwarded my inquiry to the correct person - I received an email from him. You can usually see on your emails, who has sent the email to you, and who they received it from etc - follow then paperless trail!

Keep in mind most galley, bar, restaurant, housekeeping, deck and engine crew positions are filled by nationalities from the Caribbean, Asia, South Asia, South/Central America etc - not US, Canada, UK etc. The exception may be manager positions, officer positions.

Note:
Always send your resume and cover letter as an attachment, unless you have been instructed otherwise.

As I did, it is always a good idea to make the suggestion you are willing to arrange a flight to Miami for an interview - chances are, they will not take you up on it, but is shows your commitment to getting a job with them. And if they say ok, flights are dirt cheap to MIA from anywhere in Canada or the US - and it will be worth it! Plus, organize yourself and you could personally visit most major cruise lines, as they are based in Fort Lauderdale area or the Miami area - except Princess and Crystal.

If you receive a reply from your enquiry, I suggest following it up with a phone call to the Carnival office. They are located in Miami near the MIA airport.Their executive office number is 305-599-2600 - ask for Chris Unstead, Entertainment. If you want to Fed Ex a hard copy of your resume, (which I think is always a great idea), the office address is:
Chris Unstead,
Manager of Entertainment Staff,
Carnival Cruise Lines,
3655 NW 87 Ave,
Miami Fl, USA
33178

NOTE: Never ever hand-write your envelope address - get professional address labels printed for both receiver and sender's address....
...and for crying out loud - SPELL CHECK all your documents! (not like me)

Respect and good luck.

Take a cheap cruise and audition your cruise ship dream job!

Yep, if you are able to; it's a great cheap vacation but more important, you can actually see, all the jobs you are interested in - in action! Watch the cruise staff activites, shore excursions, photogs, shoppies, casino, pursers/front desk, youth staff, musicians, dancers/singers, bands....

Check out the gig, if you can talk to them about work/life onboard. Ships leave from dozens of ports around the US, Canada, Australia, Europe. Check portsandbows.com or cruisecritic.com and check out the various cruise home ports.

Check out some crew ship crew websites and ask questions: www.crewbar.net, www.shipblogger.com, go to Youtube and search "cruise ship crew cabins" and "life onboard a cruise ship".

Monday, August 10, 2009

Cruise Ship Resume - What Should I Send?

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Sunday, August 9, 2009

The Best time to Apply for a Cruise Ship Job (Holland America Contact)

There is no special time, or "better time" to apply for a cruise ship job. It's pretty much high season year round for ships. Why? because cruise ships follow the good weather. Therefore, they are always an attractive vacation choice.

For example, in the summer months, ships will cruise north, ie Alaska, Northern Europe/Baltics, US/Canadian maritimes, and to the extreme south - Antartica and South America etc. In the winter months, cruise ships follow the good weather. That's why you will see ships repositioning in droves, to Mexico, Carribean, Southern Carribbean, Hawaii, South Pacific.

Most cruise lines have ships positioned around the world:
Royal Carribean Cruise Lines
Holland America Line
NCL Norwegian Cruise Lines
Disney Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Crystal Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
MSC Cruises
Costa Cruises
Cunard Line
Oceania Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Windstar Cruises
Azmara Cruises

Many cruise lines are operating year round in places like the Mediterranean and Australia/New Zealand. So, as you can see, there will always be a need for new crew members onboard ships year round. So, the best time to apply? Yesterday!...the second best time to apply? Today!

But, as I always say, do some homework, prepare yourself professionally and then apply as per the cruise line requests. I always suggest sending a hard copy of your resume/2 professional photos, (headshot, 3/4 shot), with Fed-Ex. If you can produce a 3 minute intro video, send it on a DVD but ONLY, and I say ONLY, if it is filmed, edited and produced in a very professional manner - nothing stupid, homemade, goofy etc, unless it is applicable to the job to which you have applied. You will be dressed appropriately for the position; introduce yourself and give a brief intro about yourself and why you are a great candidate for the position you have applied for - you will be enthusiastic and authentic and passionate with energy level appropriate to the position applied - so therefore make the video relevant to your desired position!

And yes, you can call to follow up, but be professional, polite, articulate and greatful for any help you receive - you never know who you are speaking with, or who they know! But yes, follow up!!!!!

And remember, while you are creeping around the internet and making enquiries, use a pseudonym. Then when you are ready to make your presentaion and application, use your real name. Trust me, take some time to find who is in charge of hiring for the positon you want - and send it to the perosn. If this person is NOT the ultimate decision maker, then they will generally send it along for you. Remember, cruise lines want to find good people, just as much as you want to find a cruise ship job. It's match making!

Try it out:
I Googled around for 30 minutes and found this contact for Holland America. She hires for Cruise Staff, Youth Staff, Divers, Shore Excursions and I imagine she would direct you accordingly; if your interest is in say Pursers/Hotel Front Desk, musicians, bands, computer tech, internet cafe manager among others. Check the Holland America website to find the correct name for the various jobs onboard.
Do not send here anything unless it is short, articulate, relevant and professional.

Her email is CBolton@HollandAmerica.com. (Carey Rae Bolton)In the Subject line write the name of the positon you desire.
IE: Subject: Cruise Gary; Seasonal Youth Staff (your name and whatever position you are interested in)

Like me, any of you can do the same searching on the internet and find out who you need to contact. The info and contacts are there!

Friday, August 7, 2009

Know Your Job Onboard

It is a good idea to peruse the various cruise line websites, to learn a little about the kind of product they offer: what their ships are like, what their customer profile is like, what their itineraries are like etc.

Do you want to work on BIG ships or smaller, more intimate ships. I've worked on Grand Class ships with almost 5000 passengers and crew, and smaller ships with less than 500 passengers...big difference - my preference is the smaller vessels - some may say...less work demands - but smaller ships have less crew, so its all relative.

Some crew may also find the smaller ships kind of boring, as they offer less for passengers, and the crew areas are quite limited in what they can provide. But, you may work harder and longer hours on the bigger ships - for the same pay by the way. Think carefully about the kind of experience you want to have onboard.

Check out the cruise line links here on this blog and look at their website information - see which type of cruise lines appeal to you. For example, Royal Caribbean has ships with 3500 - 5000 passengers and another 1800 crew. Other cruise lines will be more intimate so look around and see. Read reviews and ship/company information on www.cruisecritic.com, www.cruisereviews.com and my favorite www.blogs.portsandbows.com.

Then start the process of finding the travel job of your dreams.

Monday, August 3, 2009

So far so good - landing a ship job - it's hard work but rewarding

Yes it is worth it. The process is not as daunting as it may appear. Most people applying to ships for the first time know very little about the industry and that's to be expected.

That is why I advocate learning about the cruise industry, the various cruise line profiles and the various shipboard jobs available. If you don't have specific shipboard job experience, be prepared to accept position which suits your experience and personality. Once you are onboard, you will have the opportunity to see all the other possiblillites.

a) If you enjoy parks and recreation, teaching, child care, paticipate in teen clubs, adventure outings, sports - then working as a Youth or Teen Counslelor would be an ideal position for you - so tailor your resume accordingly and do your homework.

b) If you have any performance background, you are an extrovert, have any amateur peformance experience, singing, comedy, if you have been a ham all through school, love a crowd and can handle a microphone, then you would apply for the Cruise Directors Staff (cruise staff, acd, jracd, social hosts) each cruise line calls this position something different so remember to do your home work.

c) If you have any hotel or resort experience as guest services, office business experience, then you are a perfect candidate for Jr Purser, Purser, Hotel Front Desk, Guest Services. Again each cruise line will call this position something different so do your homework.

d) If you have theatre / stage crew/tech experience or education, then Production Staff, Stage Crew, Sound/Lighting Tech(if you have relevant training) will be for you.

e) If you have travel experience, travel leader experience, adventure sales/leadership experience, dive experience, and you are comfortable on a mic in fornt of a crowd, then Shore Excursions may be for you.

f) If you have cruise travel sales experience, cruise retail sales experience, then Onboard Future Cruise Sales is for you. To apply for this position, expect to provide a DVD of your presentation/sales skills. This is a business position and you will expect to be a polished professional.

g) If have played in bands, duos, solo, worked resorts or other ships as a top 40 band, you will find work. whether you are a soloist, a duo/trio/band, emphasis is on a variety of music in your repetoire. Remember, you have the same passengers for 7, 10, 12 days and more, so you have to know alot of songs...and play them very well. A good vocal band is important. Everything from oldies, 50/60's rock, to classics and top 40 - plus a little latin would be good. This applies to all musical acts on cruise ships - yes, it is expected you can be all things to all people so you will be expected to constantly learn new material whilst onboard.
If you are a Caribbean style band, it is expected you also can play top 40 songs in a "Caribbean style". Musicans work very little compared to others -its a good life onboard.

h) Are you outgoing? If you have any gift shop / retail clothing experience, souvenir, jewelry experience, fine fashion retail experience, retail experience with watches, diamonds etc, you will find employment easy. Most shops onboard are concessions contracted by each cruise line to operate shops on their ships. Princess Cruises is the only cruise line which hires for its own shops. While some say the pay may not always be great, you get most port days off, because ships cannot open their shops whilst in most ports - great job if you want to see alot of the places you are cruising.

i) Doctors, nurses looking for a paid work vacation - contact the cruise lines. They hire short term for this position. If you have a few weeks or months off each year, this is a great way to see the world and get paid.

j) If you have musical theatre / film / stage background, or you are a schooled dancer, or singer there are many year round positions in various productions. These companies are usually contracted by the cruise lines to produce shows. Some of the major companies are Jean Ann Ryan, Stiletto, Sixth Star, Cameron MacKintosh and Princess Cruises and Crystal Cruises who produce their own shows.

k) If you enjoy photography or videography, there are positions on every cruise line. These are usually concessions, which means cruise lines contract out the photo dept to another company, and this company employs the onboard staff. In fact, the photog companies are usually listed on the cruise lines website under employment.

Do your research, prepare yourself a good presentation and if you need to...call them and ask to whom and to where, do you forward your Resume, CV, DVD promo etc. Send it registered so they know you are serious, and you know they received it - then follow up by phone - 7 days after they have received your information and use your best professional / enthusiatic phone manner. They need to "hear" you smile!!

All crew members need this information

If you are new to cruising, this is a reminder of some non negotiable requirements for onboard crew members.

1) Criminal record background check (city/province-state/country)

2) STCW-95 Safety Certification
It is the requirement of international maritime law, that cruise members be safety certified. The certifiation is called STCW-95. It may be called something different in other countries, but the requirements will be the same. You may not be permitted onboard until you ahve copmpleted this standard safety certification requirement. Here is the information website - www.stcw.org. The cost can cary depending where you take the training.
*Note: some cruislines may still offer it onboard.
Here is where I took my training in Florida:
www.mptusa.com/courses/stcw_95_basic_safety_training.html

STCW '95 Basic Safety Training
The certification includes theory and practical hands-on training and assessment for the following Four modules of STCW A-VI/1-1 to 1-4. These courses are approved to satisfy the requirements for Basic Safety Training on all size vessel. There are no tonnage limits. It is appropriate for all crew members. It includes:
Personal Survival Techniques
Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
Basic Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting
Elementary First Aid
Lifecraft Training

Training will include:
Fire Prevention
Fire fighting Techniques
Compliance with Emergency Procedures
Safe Working Practices
Preventing Marine Pollution/MARPOL
Effective Shipboard Communications
Emergency Equipment
Hypothermia
Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
First Aid
Proper use of:
Personal Flotation Devices
Immersion Suits
Liferafts
Abandon Ship Procedures & Equipment

*Most positions within the Youth /Teen Programs, may require advanced first aid and child care safety training or experience.

Contact any Coast Guard office to find out the procedure/location/school for obtaining the STCW-95

For more details about the STCW-95, follow this link.
http://www.mptusa.com/stcw/index.html#dont_look_the_same

Also, if you know how to swim...its a bonus!

The other area of concern onboard a ship is maintaining strict adherence to USPH, United States Public Health Vessel Sanitaion Program. If you are in the hotel department,you will be advised of this very important public health inpsection process, which can determine if a ship can sail or not. You will be advised of your roll, once you are on the ship.

What is the USPH - CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program and How Does it Apply to Cruise Ships?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is given the authority to run the Vessel Sanitation Program in the federal Public Health Service Act. The purpose of the Vessel Sanitation Program is to decrease the outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships. In order to accomplish this goal, the CDC inspects cruise ships, trains cruise ship employees and monitors outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses. Typically, ships are subject to two unannounced inspections each year. At each inspection, the ship is given a grade on a 100 point scale. Anything below 85 is considered failing. Ships that fail an inspection are always reinspected and may not be allowed to sail if there is an imminent threat to public safety. Inspection reports and scores are available to the public on the CDC website and are useful to future cruise ship crew (and passengers).

www.cdc.gov/nceh/vsp/desc/aboutvsp.htm#insp
wwwn.cdc.gov/InspectionQueryTool/Forms/InspectionSearch.aspx