Working on a Cruise ship?

[coogy]

Just wondered if anyone has any experience working onboard a cruise ship? I'm currently looking at doing IT support onboard, but if anyone is willing to share any experience that'd be fantastic.

[coogy]

essayer said:

coogy said:

Just wondered if anyone has any experience working onboard a cruise ship? I'm currently looking at doing IT support onboard, but if anyone is willing to share any experience that'd be fantastic.

A mate of mine did it and he loved it. Reasonable money, tax free IIRC, lots of fun.

Main downside is a long time away from home, pretty much living out of a suitcase, albeit with long paid breaks inbetween and they paid for all flights. Also he was paid in dollars.

I guess it depends who you will be working for, what company, and where you will join and leave the ship (eg Miami, Southampton)

also there were three 'grades' of crew
officers - had to wear uniform at all times, but could access public areas while off duty
staff - mid-range jobs, eg. counter staff, hospitality, still allowed on public areas when not working
crew - never allowed in public areas unless working (cleaners, etc)

Would you be officer or staff grade?

Edited by essayer on Tuesday 3rd January 12:24

I've sent off my CV to the main recruitments agencies for the big cruise lines. I have 5 years experience doing IT support at London Gatwick, so I'm hoping this will be somewhat desirable to employers.

As far as a I know the role would probably be "2 stripe" as an officer or junior officer. I have a mate who worked onboard "Oasis of the Seas" as a sports instructor. He tells me IT is fairly mid to high in the hierachy - which is nice.

With regards to being away from home. I'm 26, recently single and got bugger all keeping me here really. Its very appealing, if a little scary.

[coogy]

CVs sent. Just gotta wait and see what's out there now I guess!

[coogy]

Didn't realise this topic had flared up again. Some great advice chaps, thanks

I've emailed all the recruitment agencies for the big companies, nearly all of them have come back to me and said its a particularly difficult job to get as opportunities are scarce but that I should approach the cruise lines directly. So, i've sent out printed copies of my CV and covering letters to most of the big lines (got a couple to go) not heard anything as yet (if at all) but that was only a week ago. Going to try and track down a specific head department or someone of each cruise line and try emailing them the same things. I guess i'll give it a month, if nothing, repeat process!

I've kinda got myself set on the idea now so better stick at it really, as I said before, got sod all here aside from debt! Seems like a win win assuming I can get a bloody job!

Granted, my chances of getting a job on board did sink slightly recently...