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Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this ...

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this ...

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this ...

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this ...

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this ...

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... batch cooking/ preparation process is practice and always meet the cost target. * Thinks ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

Chef De Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

... batch cooking/ preparation process is practice and always meet the cost target. * Thinks ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

... batch cooking/ preparation process is practice and always meet the cost target. * Thinks ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... batch cooking/ preparation process is practice and always meet the cost target. * Thinks ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

Chef De Partie

New York, NY

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

... batch cooking/ preparation process is practice and always meet the cost target. * Thinks ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

Sous Chef

New York, NY · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

As the world's leading cruise line, our guests have high expectations of us, and we have high ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates who hold ...

Sous Chef

New York, NY

$54K - $73K/yr

As the world's leading cruise line, our guests have high expectations of us, and we have high ... Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates who hold ...

Lead Line Cook

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

Lead Line Cook

Petersburg, AK · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

Lead Line Cook

Chattanooga, TN

$15.75 - $20/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

Lead Line Cook

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

Lead Line Cook

Florence, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

Lead Line Cook

Muskegon, MI

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Lead Line Cooks to our shipboard team for the 2026 season on America's rivers. Our shipboard team ...

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Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook information

See salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cruise ship cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cruise ship cook in the United States is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook do?

An Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook assists the kitchen staff in preparing meals for passengers and crew on a cruise ship. Their duties typically include basic food preparation, cleaning kitchen areas, organizing ingredients, and learning cooking techniques under the supervision of experienced chefs. This position is designed to provide hands-on training and experience in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, with opportunities to learn about both local and international cuisines. Over time, apprentices can advance to higher positions in the ship's culinary team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, adaptability, and strong time management are crucial soft skills in this fast-paced, multicultural environment. These skills ensure efficient, high-quality meal preparation and smooth operations that meet strict safety standards and guest expectations at sea.

What are some common challenges Apprentice Cruise Ship Cooks face when adapting to life and work at sea?

One of the primary challenges Apprentice Cruise Ship Cooks encounter is adjusting to the fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment while living aboard a ship for extended periods. You'll need to adapt to working in compact spaces, manage seasickness, and maintain food safety standards despite the ship's motion. Additionally, collaborating with an international team requires strong communication skills and flexibility, as shifts can vary and teamwork is essential. Embracing these challenges helps build resilience and prepares you for advancement within the culinary team.

What is the difference between Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook vs Cruise Ship Cook?

AspectApprentice Cruise Ship CookCruise Ship Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, certification often requiredAdvanced culinary skills, experience, and certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining environment onboard cruise ships, supervisedFull culinary responsibilities onboard cruise ships
Job RoleAssists and learns under supervision, performs basic kitchen tasksPrepares meals, manages kitchen operations, supervises staff

The Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting in the kitchen, often requiring basic culinary training. In contrast, the Cruise Ship Cook is a more experienced role responsible for preparing meals and managing kitchen duties. The apprenticeship provides a pathway to becoming a fully qualified cruise ship cook.

More about Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Cook jobs? The most popular types of Cruise Ship Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook jobs are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cruise Ship Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,037 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Demi Chef de Partie

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Contractor

Posted 25 days ago


Princess Cruises rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 9 rated cruise lines


Job description

By applying to this position, your application will be submitted to Princess Cruises' internal Talent Acquisition team and will be reviewed by a professional recruiter who will contact you soon if your qualifications meet our requirements for this position.
 
As the world's leading cruise line, our guests have high expectations of us, and we have high expectations of our team members. We appreciate your patience as we carefully review each candidate.
 
 Set a course for adventure with Princess Cruises! The employer of choice in the cruise industry, our fleet of Love Boats offer exceptional facilities and extensive professional development and recreational programs for our valued teammates who hail from more than 60 countries around the globe. 
 
An iconic brand beloved by millions, we love people who love what they do and work together to help our guests create a lifetime of wonderful memories while providing friendly, attentive and authentic service like only Princess can. 
 
As a member of the Princess Family, you'll enjoy a truly adventurous career with excellent incentives, unlimited opportunities for growth, and ports of call that will leave you breathless.
  • Always carries out culinary production in the assigned station in the Main Galley or other outlets according to Company recipes and specifications, as directed by the Sous Chef or Chef de Partie.
  • Always adheres to the daily production schedule, under the direction of the Sous Chef or Chef de Partie, as required by the itinerary and various outlets.
  • Always ensures that assigned section recipe files are in order and well maintained.
  • Regularly seeks guidance from the Sous Chef or Chef de Partie in executing production according to Company recipes.
  • Demonstrates an ongoing understanding of the ingredient consumption required for daily production and always informs the Sous Chef or Chef de Partie when fluctuations occur.
  • Continually coaches subordinates in menu and recipe knowledge, production skills and culinary techniques, product holding techniques, and presentation and delivery of the product, under the direction of the Sous Chef or Chef de Partie.
  • Continually trains staff in and always ensures compliance with Company, safety, environmental, USPH and Fleet Regulations, and other internal, external, and governmental regulations as directed.
  • Assists in on-the-job training for new-to-vessel Galley staff in assigned sections as directed by the Sous Chef or Chef De Partie.
  • Adhere to USPH requirements and ensure the cooking/preparation process is practiced to reduce food waste.
  • Always handles and utilizes all materials and goods with the utmost care during production to eliminate waste; monitors and coaches assigned staff to do the same.
  • Formal qualification in Culinary Arts from a recognized culinary training institution.
  • Minimum of four years of relevant experience in a high-volume culinary production environment (hotels, resorts, or cruise ships), including at least one year as Demi Chef de Partie. Cruise ship experience is recommended.
  • Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic understanding of public health and sanitation regulations and procedures.
  • Ability to train and motivate Commis Chefs effectively.
  • Good command of the English language, both verbal and written.
  • Demonstrated motivation to excel in all aspects of job duties and responsibilities.
  • A personable communicator with excellent social skills and a warm, friendly, and caring personality.
  • Commitment to establishing and maintaining courteous and professional working relationships in a diverse cultural environment.
Possession of an STCW Ship's Cook Certificate is recommended for this role. Candidates holding this certification demonstrate compliance with international maritime standards for food safety and galley operations.
This position involves regular physical activity, including standing for extended periods and lifting or moving heavy items in line with operational requirements. 
Embark on a career adventure like no other! As part of the Princess Cruises team, you'll enjoy: 
  • A competitive salary package. 
  • Your own comfortable double cabin - your private space to relax and recharge. 
  • Company-paid travel to and from the ship, so you can focus on the journey ahead. 
  • Access to exclusive areas and benefits onboard (depending on the rank and occupational group). 
  • A vibrant recreation and welfare program designed to support your well-being and work-life balance. 
  • Access to exceptional learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career. 
  • The chance to travel the world, exploring exciting destinations while doing what you love. 
  • A welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued. 
Join us and become part of a global team that's passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences-both for our guests and for one another.  

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