How to apply for Cruise Ships? | Guide to become an Officer on Cruise Ships
What is a Cruise Ship?
A cruise ship is like a floating hotel and vacation resort on the water. It’s a massive ship designed for people to have a relaxing and enjoyable time while travelling to various destinations.Â
On a cruise ship, you’ll find comfortable rooms, restaurants, entertainment like shows and games, pools, and even shops. You can think of it as a fun and convenient way to explore different places while having all the amenities you need on board. If you want to be a part of this amazing career then you are in for a treat as we discuss how to join the Cruise Ship as an Officer.
What are the departments on a cruise ship?
Salary and Rank In Cruise Ship
Deck Department
| Rank | Salary |
| Captain | 15000$-20000$ |
| Staff Captain | 8000$-12000$ |
| Chief Officer (SAFETY) | 6000$-8000$ |
| Chief Officer (OVERALL) | 6000$-8000$ |
| Environmental Officer | 6000$-8000$ |
| 1st Officer | 7500$ |
| 2nd Officer | 7000$ |
| 3rd Officer | 6200$ |
| Cadet | 2800$ |
The salary figures mentioned above have been recommended by industry experts and are typically paid to officers and crew members who work onboard cruise ships.
Engine DepartmentÂ
| Rank | Salary |
| Chief Engineer | 12000$+ |
| Staff Chief Engineer | 8000$+ |
| 2nd Engineer | 7000$+ |
| 3rd Engineer | 5500$+ |
| 4th Engineer | 4000$+ |
| Engine Cadet | 2500$+ |
The salary figures mentioned above have been recommended by industry experts and are typically paid to officers and crew members who work onboard cruise ships.
How to Join the Cruise Ship as an Officer?
Joining a cruise ship can be an exciting career choice, and there are two common routes to get started.
- Applying OfflineÂ
Firstly, you can apply offline through certified agencies approved by cruise companies. These agencies specialize in connecting aspiring crew members with the right opportunities.Â
- Applying Online
Secondly, many cruise lines offer the convenience of online applications directly through their websites. You can also explore job listings and connect with recruiters on platforms like LinkedIn to find your perfect cruise ship job.
Steps to Join Cruise Ship
- Step 1: Complete your educational qualifications, such as DNS(Diploma in Nautical Science)/BSc in Nautical Science or GME/B.Tech in Marine Engineering.
- Step 2: Gain practical experience by completing a cadetship program.
- Step 3: Successfully clear the MEO examination which is in itself a tough nut to crack that’s why we have MEO Class packages so that you can clear your exams in one go.
- Step 4: Begin your job search by applying online through cruise companies’ websites or via LinkedIn.
- Step 5: Prepare for a HireVue or video-based interview as part of the initial screening process.
- Step 6: Undergo a Vienna Testing Scheme assessment to evaluate your skills and compatibility with the role.
- Step 7: Attend an HR interview to discuss your qualifications and aspirations.
- Step 8: Proceed to a final interview with a fleet engineer or a higher-ranking officer.
- Step 9: Successfully pass the medical examination as the final step in the recruitment process.
Why Should ETO Join Cruise Ships?Â
An Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) should consider joining a cruise ship because the salary offered in this role is often equivalent to what one might earn on an LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) carrier.Â
Furthermore, Senior ETOs can earn upto the salary of a Chief Engineer on board. This competitive compensation, coupled with the opportunity to work in a vibrant and dynamic environment, makes a career on a cruise ship an appealing choice for skilled ETOs seeking both financial stability and professional growth.
Ranks of ETO on Cruise shipÂ
| Ranks | Salary |
| Junior ETO | 1500$-2500$ |
| 3rd ETO | 4000$-6000$ |
| 2nd ETO | 6000$-8000$ |
| Senior ETO | 9000$+ |
What Does an Electrical Engineer Officer Do on a Ship? Refer to this
Documents Required to Join Cruise Ship
- Passport
- VISA
- Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)
- Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)
- Medical Certificate
Benefits of Joining CruiseÂ
Joining a cruise ship as part of the crew offers a range of unique benefits that go beyond just a paycheck. Here are some compelling advantages:
1. Higher Salary and Contract Flexibility: Cruise ship crew often enjoy a higher salary than their land-based counterparts. The typical 4-month contract, followed by 2-3 months off, allows for extended vacation time and personal pursuits.
2. Flexibility in Sign-Off: Crew members can delay their sign-off with a valid reason or even make a request to join a specific ship or sign off earlier, providing a level of flexibility not often found in other careers.
3. Port Visits and Travel Opportunities: More port visits mean more shore leave and the chance to explore diverse destinations. It’s a dream come true for those who love to travel, although it’s balanced with watch duty responsibilities.
4. Multicultural Environment: Working on a cruise ship means interacting with people from all over the world. It’s a great opportunity to learn about different cultures and forge lifelong friendships.
5. Vibrant Social Life: Cruise ships are like floating communities, with lots of crew members and tourists onboard. This lively atmosphere means parties, gatherings, and a happening social scene. There’s even a dedicated crew bar and lounge for unwinding.
6. Culinary Delights: The food on board is often of a high standard, with options ranging from continental to Indian cuisine. Officers may enjoy complimentary meals in the officer mess, while crew members may have access to special crew mess restaurants.
7. Medical and Insurance Benefits: Cruise ship companies typically offer robust medical benefits and insurance policies to ensure the well-being of their crew members.
8. Varied Work Environment: Crew members get to work with a variety of machinery and technology, providing valuable skills and experience.
9. Connectivity and Internet: While internet usage may incur a charge, the availability of social media and good internet speed helps crew members stay connected with loved ones.
10. Work Hours and Interactions: The working hours can be demanding, often involving 10-hour shifts with no Sundays or traditional holidays off. Crew members also need to maintain a professional demeanour when interacting with guests.
In sum, joining a cruise ship offers not just a job but a lifestyle rich in unique experiences, personal growth, and opportunities to connect with people from all walks of life. It’s a career choice that promises adventure, camaraderie, and the chance to see the world while earning a living.
Drawbacks of Joining Cruise Ship
Limited Opportunities for Indian Officers: The cruise ship industry historically had fewer opportunities for Indian officers, which could limit career advancement.
Dominance of Italian Influence: Some cruise lines may have a strong Italian influence in their management, potentially affecting the diversity of the workforce.
Slower Promotion and Savings: Advancement and savings potential can be slower in the cruise ship industry compared to other maritime careers, affecting financial growth.
Few Cruise Lines
- Carnival Cruise Lines
- Royal Cruise Lines
- MSC Cruise
- Disney Cruise Lines
- Costa
- AIDA
- Princess
- Norwegian Cruise Lines
- P&O Cruise
- Holland America Lines
Merchant Navy Life On Ship | Can Merchant Navy Officer Becomes Billionaire | CE Praneet Mehta
Disclaimer :- The opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author and may not necessarily reflect those of Merchant Navy Decoded. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and disclaim any responsibility for it. Data and visuals used are sourced from publicly available information and may not be authenticated by any regulatory body. Reviews and comments appearing on our blogs represent the opinions of individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Merchant Navy Decoded. We are not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on these reviews or comments.
Reproduction, copying, sharing, or use of the article or images in any form is strictly prohibited without prior permission from both the author and Merchant Navy Decoded.
I sail in tankers
Yes
Join for deck department
Sir aapko chief engineer banne me kitna time laga or aapne kis age me ship join kiya please reply me
Because i have interest in engine cadet
Hi Sachin, normally it takes around 10 year to become a Chief Engineer considering you don’t delay your exams. If you have any personal query that you need to ask from C/E Praneet Sir then you can check out our Expert Counselling section.
Is joining a cruise ship as a engineer is easy than joining it as deck cadet as a Indian i want to join cruise ship later but don’t know which side is better
Hey Tushar, joining the Merchant Navy as a Deck is far more easy than joining in Cruise. There are very less Indian at the Officer or Engineer level working in Cruise Industry. So, if you want to shift into the Cruise, I suggest you to go for Merchant Navy first, gain experience and then try to make a shift. Check how you can join Merchant Navy with our free Merchant Navy Guidance Series.
sir can nios student join cruise after dns??
Hey Abhishek, at the current moment we don’t have any expertise on the cruise shipping and we do not want to misguide you by providing false info that’s why we would not be able to guide you in this matter.
ETO, Shankar pd singh, I have experienced in various ships for 20 years I interest to join cruise ship, my whatsapp number is 917710869169
Hi sir iam joining for cruise ship daek department after 12 So what kind of cross will I do?
Hey Sarthak, right now we don’t have anything to offer regarding cruise right now but we are planning to give information regarding this also.
Kya mujhe job mil sakti hai
Hi Anubhav, currently we do not offer any guidance for cruise shipping.
What to do if I am a just pass-out CS engineer and I want to join ship how to start or what to do…??
Hi Prateek, if you are a CS engineer, then I would suggest you to not switch career because if you switch now then it would be too late for you to grow in this career also.