How many hours do you work a day?
Do I have to wear a uniform?
Do you get time off in ports?
What is the standard length of contract?
Is there a possibility to extend my contract once onboard?
What are the regulations regarding premature termination of employment?
Do I have to wear a uniform?

How many hours do you work a day?
The hours that you work depend on what your position is, and also the amount of time that the ship is in port. The average hours of work would be about 8-12 hours per day, however a lot of that time may be spent socializing with passengers. If the ship is in port, most of the guests will be ashore, and depending on your position, your services may not be required. The hours worked are usually not in one block; they are typically staggered throughout the day, giving you time to lay out in the sun or spend time in your cabin. For example, you may work 5 hours in the morning and then 5 hours in the evening.

Do you get time off in ports?
Crew members are given time off in almost every port. However, you may not get as much time off as passengers do. When the ship arrives in port, there can be a lot of congestion with everyone trying to get off the ship at once. In order to avoid overcrowding, crew usually need to wait for an announcement before they can go ashore. This announcemen t is broadcasted when the gangway is a lot quieter as most passengers would have left the ship. You will also be required to board the ship prior to the passengers’ final boarding time, in order to avoid congestion.

What is the standard length of contract?
The average length of contract is three to six months, however for certain positions there may be a high demand for extra crew over busy periods (such as Christmas and summer), therefore, there are shorter contracts ranging from two weeks to three months.

Is there a possibility to extend my contract once onboard?
Yes, there is usually the possibility of extending your contract as staff members are always coming and going. Therefore, if you know there is a position becoming available relevant to your field, in most cases you will be considered to have your contract extended rather than find someone new.

What are the regulations regarding premature termination of employment?
If a crew member wishes to terminate employment prematurely, they are usually responsible for paying their fares back home.

Do I have to wear a uniform?
You should wear a uniform and name badge at all times in public areas, however if you are not working and are going ashore, a uniform is not necessary, but you should refrain from walking around in the public areas on the ship dressed in casual clothes even if it is in port. There is a dress code for every evening on board, i.e., formal, semi-formal, or casual. Crew members (usually social staff) who are working in public rooms are required to dress accordingly. Therefore, you must ensure that you pack sufficient clothing for formal nights. The dress code does not apply if you are waitering, behind the bar, or working in the casino.