What it's like to work on a cruise ship

Do you like to drink heavily, engage in illicit behavior, and sail on the ocean? And no, I’m not suggesting you take up piracy as a profession. Working on a cruise ship is hard work, where you’re likely to work many hours and not get all the amenities you’d receive on land. Cruise ships employ anywhere from 100 to 2,000 employees depending on the size. That means you’re surrounded by your colleagues 24/7, in close quarters, below deck.

If personal space isn’t something that you desperately need, or you want to totally take a break from city life, working on a cruise ship might be a good deal for you. Here’s what’s it’s like to work on a cruise ship.

What’s Good

You get to be on a ship in exotic locations. Also, ships usually sail in international waters so this may be a good opportunity for you to make some cash if you don’t live in the U.S. Because there are so many different things to do on a cruise ship your salary is going to vary. You can typically expect to get paid a little more than you would on land for your particular trade. For example, a director on a cruise ship can make $5,800 – $7,500 a month depending on the ship. Whereas a waiter will make a bit less, between $2400 – $4200, depending on gratuities. Financially you also save money because you don’t have to pay rent, utilities, or for food.

Another good thing about working on a cruise ship is that you only have to work 6-9 months out of the year. Because it’s a seasonal job, you have the rest of the months to do whatever you want.

Lastly, working on a cruise ship is generally fun. There are staff parties and a good sense of comradery on the ship, as well as things to do all the time.

What’s Bad

Because of the international waters thing, it means that it’s possible that workers rights abuses could take place on a cruise ship. Max working hours aren’t really a thing, and because you are at work all the time except when you dock at port, it means you don’t get many breaks. Hours are long and crew members are expected to work 7 days a week, for 6 to 9 months straight.

Sea Days are days when entertainment runs 24 hours a day. This means it’s all hands on deck and there is a very good likelihood you are going to work some hard hours. In addition, you will be in close quarters with your colleagues, so there is virtually no work-life balance.

Working on a cruise ship certainly isn’t for everyone. If you like your neighborhood and friends, there’s a good chance you’d miss them while away at sea. Also, if you aren’t used to working overtime, the hours could be way too much. The best part of working on a cruise ship is the ability to go to a variety of different destinations, and having all of your expenses essentially paid for while you work. If you’re a free bird and love the sun you should look into working on a cruise ship.