RCL $260.09 $3.79 (1.48%)

Careers at Sea
SHIP
ROYAL CARIBBEAN & CELEBRITY

ROYAL CARIBBEAN & CELEBRITY

Royal Caribbean leads with innovative, family-focused ships, while Celebrity offers modern luxury and unique itineraries. Both are powered by passionate crews committed to delivering excellence.

SILVERSEA

SILVERSEA

Silversea offers premium, all-inclusive luxury voyages with immersive experiences to exotic destinations worldwide, powered by crew committed to the highest standards of service.

EXPLORE POSSIBILITIES

CULINARY, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Bar and restaurant chefs, cooks and staff work together to deliver world-class dining experiences at sea.

MARINE DEPARTMENT

Ship bridge officers, engine room staff and deck crew ensure safe ship navigation and operations.

HOTEL
OPERATIONS

Guest services and housekeeping staff that keep our ships operating like a luxury resort.

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Production crew, performers, youth team and sports staff that bring energy and adventure to our guests.

GUEST EXPERIENCE SALES

Casino, shore excursion and photography team that create and capture memorable guest experiences.

OPERATIONS SUPPORT

HR, IT, Finance, Medical and behind the scenes staff managing internal operations and crew wellbeing.

CULINARY, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Bar and restaurant chefs, cooks and staff work together to deliver world-class dining experiences at sea.

MARINE DEPARTMENT

Ship bridge officers, engine room staff and deck crew ensure safe ship navigation and operations.

HOTEL
OPERATIONS

Guest services and housekeeping staff that keep our ships operating like a luxury resort.

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Production crew, performers, youth team and sports staff that bring energy and adventure to our guests.

GUEST EXPERIENCE SALES

Casino, shore excursion and photography team that create and capture memorable guest experiences.

OPERATIONS SUPPORT

HR, IT, Finance, Medical and behind the scenes staff managing internal operations and crew wellbeing.
 

HIRING PARTNERS

Apply directly with us or use one of our trusted vendors. Review our full list of authorized hiring partners in your country.

 

LIFE AT SEA

Learn more about the application & hiring process, perks and benefits at sea, and life onboard.

SEARCH SHIP CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

FAQ

All

To which ship would I be assigned?

Once you have been offered a position, you will be advised which ship you will be joining. Please keep in mind that assignments are provided based on business needs, therefore, you could join any of our beautiful Royal Caribbean Group ships!

Will I always work on the same ship?

Assignments are based on many factors, and priority is understandably given to business need. Generally, there are periods where an individual is assigned to a particular ship, in order to provide an opportunity for the teams to build relationships and consistency. However, as with every aspect of shipboard life, flexibility is key. You might be transferred to another ship as necessary. 

Does Royal Caribbean Group hire couples?

Royal Caribbean Group brands welcome couples onboard. However, each applicant is assessed individually based on their qualifications, and although every effort is made to accommodate couples to be assigned to the same ship, we cannot guarantee that they will be assigned to the same ship, since business needs take precedence.

Do I have to wear a uniform?

As a team, we like to project a consistent and professional image; therefore, we have carefully chosen a uniform for most positions. Uniforms will be provided onboard and there are some uniform items that are considered personal items crew are required to pay for. Your recruiter or hiring partner will discuss this with you in more detail. 

Where do I get the pre-employment medical (PEME)?

All Royal Caribbean Group’s brands’ crew members are required to complete an extensive pre-employment medical examination prior to joining the ship. In most cases, the examination is at the employees’ expense. The examination should be conducted through one of RCG’s approved medical facilities. Once the medical examination is complete and approved by our corporate medical department, employees will be cleared to travel. This medical documentation will then be valid for two years. Your recruiter or hiring partner will discuss this with you in more detail. 

What is a letter of employment?

A letter of employment (LOE) is a document provided by Royal Caribbean Group (or Hiring Partner) that states the date you are scheduled to join our team, the vessel you are joining, and the position for which you have been hired. You must have this document available at all times when traveling to join the ship.

What companies make up the Royal Caribbean Group?

We are made up of five brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, Silversea, Tui Cruises, and Hapag-Lloyd.

Where do Royal Caribbean Group ships sail?

Our ships sail around the world and visit exciting and unique destinations on every continent. Many employees note that traveling the world is one of their favorite parts of working on our ships. 

What is a Schengen visa?

Some nationalities are required to obtain this visa in order to enter countries that are part of the Schengen territory, in Europe. Your Hiring partner or HR representative can help you determine if you need to apply for a Schengen visa.

What is a Schengen visa?

Some nationalities are required to obtain this visa in order to enter countries that are part of the Schengen territory, in Europe. Your Hiring partner or HR representative can help you determine if you need to apply for a Schengen visa.

What is a C1-D visa?

A C1-D visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by US embassies around the world. This visa allows crew members to transit through US ports. If offered a position, Royal Caribbean Group will provide a letter to support your application. This visa is not required for Canadians or US citizens or residents. 

What are the documentation requirements to work onboard Royal Caribbean ships?

Regardless of the position for which you are applying, to qualify for shipboard employment you must have a valid passport, and the ability to: 

  • Obtain a C1-D visa (unless you are Canadian or a US citizen or resident). 
  • Pass RCG’s pre-employment medical examination, which includes information on MLC and ILO guidelines. 
  • Obtain relevant itinerary-driven visas (i.e. Schengen). 
  • Present the proper qualifications/certifications required, based on your role. 
  • Pass a criminal background check. 
  • Obtain flu vaccines and negative COVID-19 tests. 
  • Seaman’s book 

Who are the Hiring Partners, and what do they do?

Royal Caribbean Group has a network of hiring partners to assist in meeting recruitment goals around the world. Hiring partners are third party service providers; they are not employees of our company. Only those listed on this site are authorized to recruit for our company. Learn more here.

How do I apply?  

You can apply directly on CTRAC (add link) or apply through one of our local hiring partners (add link). For certain nationalities, you might be endorsed to local agencies for pre-screening and processing due to local seafarer regulations and requirements.  

Can this job lead to a long-term career? 

Absolutely. Many of our leaders started their careers on board. We provide training, mentorship, and promotion opportunities across departments and ships. 

Do I have to pay for anything to get hired?  

No. We never ask candidates to pay any fees to apply or secure an interview or employment. Be cautious of recruitment scams impersonating cruise lines or hiring agencies. 

Can I choose which ship or itinerary I work on? 

Assignments are based on operational needs, so we cannot guarantee a specific ship or route. However, we do our best to match candidates to the right fit based on skills and availability. 

What is the application process like? 

After submitting your application online, shortlisted candidates will go through interviews and assessments. Some roles may require additional supporting documentation (certification, portfolio or video) during interview or may require multiple interviews. 

What are the basic requirements to apply for a cruise ship job?

You must be at least 18 years old (21 years old for beverage serving positions), fluent in English, and hold a valid passport. Additional requirements vary by role, such as specific certifications or prior hospitality experience.

What languages are required to work onboard?

English is the official language onboard our vessels, therefore, all employees must be able to read, write and speak English. Some positions have specific language requirements, but (in general) English is sufficient. Because of our international guests and exciting itineraries, it is helpful if you speak additional languages, including (but certainly not limited to): Italian, German, French, Spanish and Mandarin. Additional language skills are always a plus!

Do I need previous cruise or maritime experience? What time is it?

Not necessarily. Many roles only require hospitality or customer service experience. For technical or marine roles, maritime certification and experience are typically required.

How long is a typical contract?

Most contracts range from 4 to 8 months, depending on the position and department. Some roles may have shorter or longer durations.

Where will I be working while onboard?

You will live and work onboard one of our cruise ships, traveling to various destinations while performing your duties. Living accommodation and meals are provided.