FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The basic requirements to work onboard include an intermediate level of English for effective communication, a minimum age required by the company (usually between 18 and 21 years old), knowledge or experience in the desired area, availability for 6 to 9-month trips, and the ability to adapt to a multicultural and dynamic environment.
For assistant positions, an intermediate level of English is generally required, as communication onboard happens in this language. Some companies may administer proficiency tests to evaluate the candidate’s ability to interact with colleagues and passengers.
Yes, some companies hire candidates without experience for auxiliary roles. These positions allow the crew member to learn about the industry and adapt better to the demands of working onboard.
Interview results are typically given within 1 to 2 days, but this timeline may vary depending on the role and the company’s needs. In some cases, additional documents may be requested, which could extend the response time.
Required documentation varies by company, but minimum documents include a valid passport (for at least one year), vaccination certificate, criminal background check, work visa (if necessary), pre-employment medical exams, and maritime safety course certification. Some companies offer reimbursement for medical exams after embarkation.
The embarkation process typically takes between 6 to 8 months, depending on how quickly the candidate gathers all the required documents and completes the necessary training. Some companies may have shorter or longer timelines depending on demand and logistics.
The contract is international and fixed-term, following the regulations set by the Maritime Labour Convention of 2006 (MLC 2006). This convention provides rights and guarantees for maritime workers, regulating safety, working conditions, and benefits.
The contract length varies from 4 to 9 months, depending on the company and the role performed by the crew member.
Salaries are paid in U.S. dollars, typically through an international card provided by the company. Payment frequency can vary between monthly or biweekly, depending on the company’s policies.
For positions that involve direct guest service, a significant portion of the salary may come from tips given by passengers. The amount received will depend on the quality of service provided and the company’s policy.
Yes, the ship has a Human Resources department responsible for managing contracts, payments, promotions, and other operational issues. Crew members can contact the HR department onboard to clarify doubts and resolve work-related issues.
Rehire depends on the crew member’s performance and the company’s needs. During the contract, supervisors evaluate factors such as commitment, collaboration, professional appearance, and technical skills.
Some companies fully cover round-trip airfare, while others provide only the one-way ticket. It’s important to verify these details before hiring.
The embarkation location is defined by the company and provided to the crew member along with the embarkation date. Embarkation may take place in Brazil or abroad.
The standard working hours vary between 12 and 14 hours daily, depending on the role and operational demands. Work is split into shifts with rest periods, and some companies offer different schedules.
Crew members can disembark during their free time as long as they are not scheduled under the In Port Manning (IPM) system, which requires part of the crew to remain onboard on certain days to ensure the safety of the ship and passengers.
Yes, all companies offer medical assistance during the contract. Medical costs are covered by the company, and a medical team is available on the ship for emergencies and general consultations.
There are opportunities for career growth onboard. Promotions occur based on the crew member’s performance, accumulated experience, and available positions. The progression process takes place exclusively onboard.
Promotions are granted based on merit and experience. The crew member must demonstrate technical skills, leadership, and commitment to be considered, subject to approval by the company and availability of vacancies.
The interval between contracts can vary from 2 to 6 months, depending on the needs of the cruise company and the crew member’s availability. In some cases, this period can be longer based on the company’s demand.
We do not recommend that the crew member disembark before the contract ends, as it may impact future embarkation opportunities. In case of an urgent need, such as a family emergency, it is essential to inform HR onboard to assess the situation. If disembarkation is authorized, the costs for returning home are usually the responsibility of the crew member.
Crew cabins are compact and typically shared by 2 to 4 crew members, including shared bathrooms. For better organization and comfort, it is recommended to bring only essential items, as the space is limited.
Yes! Ships offer exclusive spaces for the crew, such as gyms, bars, sun decks, libraries, and internet cafes. Using these areas allows for relaxation and socialization during free time.
There are phones available in the cabins for paid calls. Internet is accessible through internet cafes with computers or Wi-Fi networks offered onboard, usually at an additional cost. Since this service is via satellite, the speed can be limited, and the prices may be high. Many crew members choose to use internet services at ports during stopovers.
Yes, most uniforms are provided by the company, and the laundry service for crew members is available free of charge. This helps maintain proper uniforms for daily work.
No. According to international regulations, cruise companies are obligated to repatriate their crew members directly to their home countries at the end of the contract.
It is essential to bring all original documentation. We recommend carrying these documents in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage, as the lack of any required document could prevent embarkation and hiring.
The company will provide a boarding letter with all necessary instructions. A port agent may receive the crew member. If this doesn’t happen, it is recommended to contact the numbers provided in the boarding letter. If you can’t get in touch immediately, go to the embarkation port or look for a hotel until you receive instructions from the company. Companies offer emergency 24/7 assistance.
- Free accommodation on the ship.
- Meals provided at no additional cost.
- No daily commuting to work.
- Salary paid in U.S. dollars, ensuring greater financial stability.
- International experience, providing learning and professional growth.
- Long periods away from family – Keep regular contact through calls and messages, and build good relationships with colleagues to minimize homesickness.
- Intense routine and long working hours – Having an organized routine and taking full advantage of rest periods is essential for well-being.
- Adaptation to a multicultural environment – Ships have crew members from various nationalities. Being respectful and learning from other cultures helps with integration and makes the experience more enriching.