Question 1

How can I get a job onboard?

Accepted Answer

Hello! This is where the Academy Onboard and Cruise Retail Academy can help you to join the cruise industry.  We are experts in cruise recruitment and can help you to find a job in a number of departments onboard.  We are recruiting for 20+ different job roles on cruise ships for 24 cruise lines.   We are working with many of the main cruise retail operators and many other speciality partners, recruiting for a wide variety of retail positions such as Retail Manager, Watch Specialist, Retail Ambassador and Sales Associate.

Please visit our JOB SEARCH page to learn more, listen to our podcast and to then apply for jobs by clicking 'Apply for Job' on the Talent Hub page.

Question 2

Are there any fees for applying with us?

Accepted Answer

No.   We don't charge you any recruitment or training fees for applying for jobs with us.  Are services are provided to jobseekers completely free of charge.

To trust us with your journey onboard. we are certified by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency to ensure we are fully MLC compliant.

Question 3

How long does it take to get onboard?

Accepted Answer

It's complicated!  The process can take anything from 1 month up to 1 year dependant on a number of different factors.

You can learn much more in-depth information about the steps you will need to take by visiting our Requirements page:

Question 4

How do I need to write my CV when applying for a position?

Accepted Answer

Your CV is very important, and will determine how easily we can process your application.  Here are some quick tips we recommend you to follow:

1) Ensure your CV is in PDF or Word format only.  Do not attach JPG, PPT or PNG format.
2) Ensure that all your personal details are on your CV - Full Name, Nationality, Email address, Age, Address. 
3) Ensure that you list all your job experience starting with your most recent position first.  You should also explain any gaps in employment (for example, travelling, looking after family)
4) Be sure to emphasise relevant experience with greater detail.  Sales experience, customer service, personal goals etc
5) Keep it under 2 pages long and ensure all the key information is on the first page.
6) Provide a strong opening statement to introduce yourself and what your aspirations will be for working in the cruise industry.
7) Your CV will be the gateway to your interview.  Therefore, ensure you tell your story as you want it to be told!

You can learn much more by visiting our CV Workshop Webinar in the E-Academy:

Question 5

From which countries can I apply from?

Accepted Answer

You can apply with us from nearly all major countries.  It is important to say however that we do operate with some restrictions based on allowed nationalities wih some of our partners.  Also, we are not allowed to recruit in other countries due to local regulations (ie. India, China or the Philippines).

Question 6

What is living onboard like?

Accepted Answer

This is one of our most asked questions!

Crew facilities vary significantly per ship.  Because it is such a high requested topic, we have a learning course in our E-Academy called Life Onboard.   It will cover everything from what crew facilities are like, to how you will embark onto the ship.  Simply, join the Cruise Retail Academy for free, and you can access this course and 50 others - all for free!

Question 7

Why should i trust Academy Onboard / Cruise Retail Academy?

Accepted Answer

There are many challenges in getting recruited to a job on cruise ships.  We understand this and have seen first hand some of the 'sharks' operating in this industry.

We are different.

Firstly, we would like to thank you for actually doing the research into why you should trust your recruiter / trainer, it is a really important step to ensure that you are making the right choice.  You are not alone in having to navigate this complex process, and we are here to support you as best as we can.

1) Please have a look at some of the 350+ reviews of our services on Trustpilot to see what our members thought about our courses / information / support:

2) We are accredited by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure we are compliant with MLC regulations

Read through our biography to learn a bit about us and our experience and why you can trust us:

3) And finally, have a look through why you can TRUST US with your journey:

As you may have seen in our company values, for us 'TRUST IS EVERYTHING'.  It is one of our most important values, and therefore we pride ourselves at really operating with truth, transparency and genuine care.   If we have delivered that for you, then we have lived our value.

Question 8

It will be my first time onboard, what information do I need to access?

Accepted Answer

We understand that going onboard for the first time can be a bit scary.  We fully understand this!

For members of the Cruise Retail Academy, we have written a Life Onboard course in our E-Academy, so you can learn more about what steps you will need to go through to get onboard, and then what it will be like when you arrive on the ship.

In terms of the requirements needed to get onboard for the first time, we have a page full of useful information for you:

Question 9

What are the benefits of working onboard a cruise ship?

Accepted Answer

Are you seeking an adventurous career where every day offers something new? Working on a cruise ship could be your dream job! Here's why setting sail as a cruise ship employee might be the perfect opportunity for you:

1. Travel the World
One of the most appealing aspects of cruise ship employment is the chance to travel while you work. Visit numerous destinations across continents without spending a penny on travel expenses. Explore cultures, savour exotic cuisine, meet new people and make memories in stunning locations.

2. Free Room and Board
Forget about rent and grocery bills! Cruise lines will provide you free accommodation and meals for their employees. This perk can significantly boost your savings, as you have fewer financial responsibilities while onboard.

3. Diverse Job Opportunities
Cruise ships operate like small floating cities, offering a wide range of job roles. Whether your expertise lies in hospitality, entertainment, technical maintenance, or customer service, you'll find a role that matches your skills. Broaden your horizons with opportunities for growth and cross-training.

4. Meet Diverse People
Live and work with an international crew, gaining insights into different cultures and languages. This multicultural experience not only enriches your personal development, but also strengthens your interpersonal and communication skills.  You will make amazing new friends from across the globe!

5. Build a Unique Resume
Employers value the adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills gained from cruise ship work. Adding cruise ship employment to your resume / CV signals to future employers that you are versatile and can thrive in dynamic environments.

6. Flexible Work Contracts
Whether you're looking for a short-term adventure or a long-term lifestyle change, cruise lines often offer flexible contracts ranging from a few months to a year. This allows you to tailor your work experience to fit your personal and career goals

7. Employee Discounts
Enjoy travel discounts for yourself, family, and friends on cruise vacations. This benefit means you can share the world of sea travel with loved ones at more affordable rates.

Embark on a journey where work and adventure merge seamlessly. With numerous benefits and experiences waiting for you, working on a cruise ship could be the exciting career change you've been looking for!

Question 10

Which cruise operators are you working with?

Accepted Answer

We are working directly with most of the major cruise retail operators and a number of onboard revenue partners and cruise lines for a wide variety of job roles onboard.

We will give you further information if we invite you to an interview.

From there, we will provide you with a number of private web pages so you can learn and understand more about each of these operators in much more detail.

Question 11

Where do I learn about Medicals, Visa, Security Training, Police Checks?

Accepted Answer

Please visit our Reqirements page, where we will guide you through the main steps you need to undertake before you can work onboard.

Question 12

When should I leave my job / studies to embark onboard for the first time?

Accepted Answer

Understanding the timing before getting onboard is a key skill.

It is important that you do not resign from your current role or from any studies until after your medical, visa and paperwork have all been accepted and cleared by your cruise operator and you are waiting scheduling.

Question 13

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

It is a daunting task to attempt to pack everything you will need into a suitcase for seven months, especially as you will probably experience several different climate conditions during your contract.

Luckily, we have written an E-Academy course just for our Cruise Retail Academy members called TOP 10 First Time Onboard Tips!  It is free to join!

The following list is designed only as a suggestion as to what you may need to pack:

Blackwork shoes (comfortable) slip resistance
Black running/walking/tennis shoes
Head covering or hat
Sunglasses & Suntan lotion
Sufficient underwear, socks, or pantyhose
Toiletries (although these are available in the shop on board or ashore)
Alarm Clock
Swimsuit and beachwear
Lightweight jacket or sweater
Black dress (for female Team Members)
Complete Black Business suit, shirt, and tie (for male Team Members)
Casual clothing for free time wear
Camera
Voltage adapter. Whilst there is 110v - 220v power onboard, it is useful to have an international adapter
​
Don't bring Irons, Large Stereo Systems or duvets / quilts.

Question 14

How many hours do I work each day?

Accepted Answer

Depends on the type of day.  Sea days usually are the most hours as shops are open, port days can be less hours dependant on whether there is a delivery or inventories to be completed.  The working time rules onboard are goverened by the MLC.

We have a free course exclusively written for Cruise Retail Academy members called Learning About a Day In the Life Onboard which can help you to learn the dfferent types of days, and what you will be required to do.

Question 15

What is the minimum and maximum age to working onboard?

Accepted Answer

MINIMUM
The minimum age you need to be to work in the retail department on a cruise ship is 21 or older.  You need to by physically fit, able to carry heavy loads if needed and able to be on the move for a number of hours a day.

MAXIMUM
According to most cruise line employment policies, there is no maximum age to work on a cruise ship; as long as you meet the physical and job requirements, you can apply regardless of age, although some positions may favour younger applicants due to the demanding nature of the work.

Question 16

What will it all cost?

Accepted Answer

We have a requirements page with all the information you need to know in terms of the projected costs to get onboard.  Please note these costs do vary from operator to operator, so please check with us as you go through the recruitment process to make sure you understand fully.

Question 17

How can I learn about the different cruise lines and their fleet?

Accepted Answer

Our Cruise Databank has an extensive database of over 300 cruise ships, so you can learn all about the major cruise lines and all their fleet.

Onboard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)