Cruise ship steward

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

College courses which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering
• Level 2 Diploma in Customer Service

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

You can apply to work as a cruise ship steward directly with cruise lines , or through specialist recruitment agencies .

There are no formal requirements, but experience of working in a hotel, restaurant or bar can be useful. GCSEs in English and maths will be helpful.

Customer service is an important part of the role, so most cruise liners will expect you to have worked in a customer service job before.

As you'll be travelling around the world, it may be helpful if you can speak a second language.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• a desire to help people
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• knowledge of English language
• active listening skills
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of public safety and security
• concentration skills
• knowledge of psychology
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Cruise ship stewards clean and service cabins on board cruise ships.

In this role you could:

• show guests to their cabins
• take food and drink orders
• make beds
• supply fresh linen
• vacuum floors
• replace mini bar items and provide a bill
• replace stocks and supplies

Location : You could work on a cruise ship.
Uniform : You may need to wear a uniform.

Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

36 - 40 hours seasonal

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays on shifts

Career Path:

With experience you could progress to a supervisor post, like assistant housekeeper or head steward.

You could also move into other areas like working as a croupier in the casino, or entertainment or restaurant work.