Small Ship & Seasonal Cruise Line Jobs
- Connie Motz
- December, 6 2010
- 3 min read
When you’re looking for a cruise line job, don’t just apply to the well-known big name cruise lines.
There are a number of small ship specialty cruise lines as well as cruise lines that operate seasonally; both of these offer a wealth of employment opportunities.
What is considered to be a small ship?
Generally, any cruise line ship that carries fewer than 500 passengers is considered to be a small ship. They typically offer a more intimate cruising experience without the glitziness and pizzazz displayed on some of today’s mega cruise line ships.
What types of cruises are offered on small ships?
Many times a small ship cruise line will offer specialty itineraries like river cruising or exploring a unique destination such as the Antarctic or the Amazon. Or they may also operate specialty types of vessels like a paddle wheeler, barge, freighter, luxury yacht, tall sailing ship, or even a steamboat.
What are the advantages of working on a small ship?
- Because of a small ship’s size, you’ll be able to visit ports and destinations that a larger cruise ship can’t
- With a smaller number on employees onboard, it’s possible to establish a deeper camaraderie and friendships with fellow staff members
- Since a small cruise is typically a niche cruise catering to a select group of passengers, their fares are higher which translates into higher wages for cruise employees
- A contract with a large cruise line can consist of working seven days a week for six months or more while employment with a small ship is more flexible such as working six weeks on followed by two weeks off
What types of jobs are available on a small ship?
Again, because a small ship cruise is specialized, so are their staff and crew members. A small ship is typically looking for skilled employees that can help enhance the guest experience of their passengers. Examples of small ship cruise jobs include:
- Crew members like a captain, first mate, engineering staff, and deckhands
- Specialty instructors like those certified to teach scuba diving
- Presenters - this includes well qualified experts in their field like a historian, guide, or photographer
- Stewards work in the dining room and servicing guest cabins
- Chef, sous-chef, and kitchen prep staff
What are examples of small ship companies?
There are many small ship cruise lines based around the world. Some of these include:
What is a seasonal cruise?
A seasonal cruise line is one that operates only during certain months of the year at peak tourist times such as a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi or an Alaskan cruise. Small ship employment and seasonal cruise line jobs go hand in hand as many seasonal cruise lines operate small ships.