Is It For You?

By Richard Arghiris

If you suffer from claustrophobia or sea-sickness, or if you dislike people generally, then life on a ship is not for you. If you're something of a maverick, then forget it. Loners and rebels don't survive in these environments, everything is about team-play.

Sail On

The ideal candidates will be young (though not necessarily), energetic and out-going. Prior experience in the service industry is a must. Experience in hospitalities is ideal. Strong interpersonal skills, maturity and professionalism are also highly valued attributes. Ultimately, a love of travel is not enough. You must be a 'people' person, who thrives on working with others. At the very least, you need to be able to grin and bear it.

If you're still up for it, then your best chance of landing a job is to contact the cruise-lines directly. If they recruit through an agency, find out which one. Whatever you do, don't tell them you're prepared to do anything. Aim for a specific job, preferably one you've done before. Play down your wanderlust. They want service-orientated professionals, not dreamers.

However, that doesn't mean you should stop dreaming about a life at sea. With persistence and careful planning, you'll get there. Happy sailing, and be sure to pack a swimsuit....

Article added on July 05, 2005

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