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Contract Cruise Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Executive Chef Description Set a course for ... Cruise ship experience is strongly preferred. * Strong supervisory and training skills. * Fluent ...

Fixed Term Contract Location: Global Description Management of all shipboard food preparation to ... Preferred knowledge of cruise ship-catering operation. * Thorough knowledge of food preparation ...

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Chef De Partie Description Set a course for ... Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ...

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Guest Services Director Description Set a course ... Minimum 10 years of work experience in cruise industry or mixture of shipboard / land-based hotel ...

Chef De Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Sous Chef Description Set a course for adventure ... Previous cruise ship experience is mandatory for this position. * Extensive knowledge of ...

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Rooms Division Manager Description Set a course ... Previous Cruise ship experience is strongly recommended. * Must have a complete understanding of ...

Fixed Term Contract Location: GLOBAL Reporting To: Snr Assistant Purser Description Set a course ... Cruise ship experience is strongly preferred. * Proficiency in the use of Front Desk computer-based ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Cruise Ship information

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$16

$23

$29

How much do contract cruise ship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cruise ship in the United States is $23.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract cruise ship job?

Contract cruise ship jobs refer to temporary employment positions on cruise ships, typically lasting from a few months up to nine months per contract. These jobs can include roles in hospitality, entertainment, maintenance, and more. Employees live and work on the ship throughout the duration of their contract, often enjoying travel to various international destinations. Contract workers usually receive room, board, and a salary, but work long hours and must adhere to strict onboard policies.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work on a contract cruise ship?

To thrive as a Contract Cruise Ship Worker, you need relevant industry experience, customer service expertise, and often a hospitality or maritime-related qualification. Familiarity with shipboard management systems, safety protocols, and certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) are typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills are essential due to the multicultural and dynamic environment onboard. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensuring passenger satisfaction, maintaining safety standards, and efficiently handling the unique challenges of life at sea.

What are common challenges faced when working on a contract cruise ship, and how can they be managed?

Working on a contract cruise ship role often involves long hours, living in shared quarters, and being away from home for extended periods. Adapting to a multicultural and fast-paced environment can be challenging, but strong communication skills and flexibility are key to success. Many crew members find it helpful to build a support network onboard and take advantage of organized activities during downtime. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance and staying connected with loved ones through available technology can also make the experience more enjoyable.

What is the difference between Contract Cruise Ship vs Contract Hotel Staff?

AspectContract Cruise ShipContract Hotel Staff
CredentialsBasic hospitality certifications, maritime licensesHospitality certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, traveling internationallyHotel properties, land-based locations
Employer & IndustryCruise lines, maritime industryHotels, hospitality industry
Work DurationTypically fixed-term contracts, seasonalVaries, often seasonal or year-round

Contract Cruise Ship roles involve working onboard ships in a maritime environment, requiring maritime certifications, and traveling internationally. In contrast, Contract Hotel Staff work in land-based hotels, focusing on hospitality skills and customer service. Both roles are contract-based but differ mainly in work setting and industry specifics.

How hard is it to get hired on a contract cruise ship?

Getting hired as a contract cruise ship employee typically involves a competitive application process that includes interviews, background checks, and demonstrating relevant skills such as customer service or hospitality experience. Candidates often need to meet specific health and certification requirements, such as STCW certification, and may face a lengthy selection process due to high demand for onboard positions.

How long are contract cruise ship job contracts?

Contract cruise ship jobs typically last between four to nine months, depending on the cruise line and specific position. Crew members often work on rotational schedules, with contracts including periods of work followed by leave or time off at home port.
More about Contract Cruise Ship jobs

What cities are hiring for Contract Cruise Ship jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Cruise Ship job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship jobs?

The most popular types of Cruise Ship jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Cruise Ship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Cruise Ship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Contract Cruise Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,284 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage the production and delivery of bakery items for all food outlets, ensuring compliance with recipes and presentation standards.

  • Supervise and coach bakery galley staff during operational activities and service periods, conducting daily briefings and performance assessments.

  • Monitor costs, production levels, and consumption trends to ensure bakery operations stay within budget and meet quality standards.


Princess Cruises rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 9 rated cruise lines


Job description

Chief Baker
Department: Galley
Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract
Location: GLOBAL
Reporting To: Executive Chef
Description
Set a course for adventure with Princess Cruises!
As one of the world's leading cruise brands and an employer of choice in the industry, Princess Cruises offers exciting career opportunities aboard a fleet recognized for exceptional guest experiences and innovation at sea.
Our teammates represent more than 60 nationalities and bring diverse talents, perspectives, and experiences to life every day. Together, we create memorable moments for guests while building rewarding careers in a supportive, inclusive, and globally connected environment.
At Princess Cruises, we are passionate about delivering exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences. We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to excellence, thrive in a team environment, and take pride in making a positive impact on our guests and fellow teammates.
As part of the Princess family, you'll enjoy competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, international career pathways, and the unique opportunity to explore some of the world's most breathtaking destinations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Effectively manages the production and delivery of bakery items for all food outlets, always ensuring compliance with Company recipes and picture presentation as the minimum standard.
  • Always ensures product quality through tasting and managing and participating in mise en place during production periods.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of new trends and production methods and regularly seeks guidance from the Executive Chef on implementing suggestions.
  • Always ensures that section recipe files are maintained and available to staff.
  • Effectively manages the Bakery galley staff during all operational activities and service periods, ensuring adherence to Company standards.
  • Conducts daily briefings with the Bakery galley team to discuss the previous day's operational performance and efficiency, and upcoming production and events.
  • Always participates in daily meetings with Galley management to review the previous day's operational efficiency; offers suggestions for improvement.
  • Participates in the Executive Chef's and Food and Beverage Director's meetings as appropriate.
  • Observes each crewmember's performance using the relevant role description as a guide and delivers prompt and appropriate correction, improvement, or reinforcement. Coaches and develops skilled, engaged team members to become the Consummate Host.
  • Identifies top performers and mentors them for career advancement or promotion.
  • Regularly collaborates with the Executive Chef to provide constructive and consistent appraisals to encourage Bakery galley staff to achieve their highest potential and advance as appropriate.
  • Always monitors costs and expenditures of Bakery operations, and controls production levels, targets, and par levels to ensure they fall within the established budget.
  • Always monitors consumption trends in the various outlets and sets production levels accordingly, consistently informing the Executive Chef of changes within an appropriate time frame.
  • Always ensures that products are utilized for their intended application and that staff are monitored during production periods to ensure compliance.
  • Cultivates and demonstrates effective working relationships with relevant internal customers and departments.
  • Always ensures options are available for passengers with special dietary requirements/requests (gluten-free options, etc.).
  • Always prepares special-occasion bakery items, including decorative items, as requested.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
  • Degree in Bakery from a recognized culinary institution or three-year apprenticeship in lieu thereof.
  • Minimum of 10 years experience in high-volume bakery operations from hotels/resorts or cruise ships.
  • At least 2 years of experience as Chief Baker or equivalent role or at least 5 years as Chef De Partie Baker onboard cruise ships.
  • Solid knowledge of international bakery recipes/preparation, USPH requirements, food safety and waste management.
  • Cruise ship experience is strongly preferred.
  • Strong supervisory and training skills.
  • Fluent English language skills both verbal and written.
  • Understanding of the foundation of guest service; ability and willingness to deliver outstanding service to our guests.
  • Motivation to excel in all aspects of job duties and responsibilities.
  • Personable communicator with outstanding social skills and a warm, friendly, and caring personality.
  • Ability to continuously surprise and delight guests throughout their cruise experience.
  • Commitment to establish and maintain courteous and professional working relationships in a diverse cultural environment.

Additional Information
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 single 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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