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Cruise Ship Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Princess Cruises

Demi Chef de Partie

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Demi Chef de Partie Department: Galley Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract Location: Global ... Cruise ship experience is recommended. * Strong knowledge of Western cuisines and a basic ...

Princess Cruises

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 ... Ability to train and motivate Commis Chefs effectively. * Good command of the English language ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Marietta, OH · On-site

$39K - $53K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Guilford, CT · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Farmington, UT · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Florence, AL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Coinjock, NC · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Mackinac Island, MI · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Florence, AL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Sandy, UT · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Riverton, WY · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Decatur, AL · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Saint Francisville, LA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Marietta, OH · On-site

$39K - $53K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

American Cruise Lines

Sous Chef

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United ... Minimum 3 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, or cruise ship. * ServSafe ...

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Cruise Ship Chef information

See salary details

$28.5K

$64K

$95K

How much do cruise ship chef jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cruise ship chef in the United States is $63,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges a cruise ship chef faces compared to land-based chefs?

Cruise Ship Chefs work in a dynamic environment where they must prepare diverse cuisines for hundreds or even thousands of guests with varying dietary needs, often within tight schedules and limited storage space. They must also adapt to the logistical challenges of sourcing and managing fresh ingredients while at sea, as well as comply with strict health and safety regulations. Additionally, Cruise Ship Chefs collaborate closely with a multicultural team and may work long shifts, requiring strong communication and adaptability skills to ensure smooth kitchen operations.

What is a cruise ship chef?

Cruise Ship Chefs are professional cooks responsible for preparing meals and managing kitchen operations aboard cruise ships. They often work in a fast-paced environment, serving a large number of passengers with diverse culinary preferences. These chefs may specialize in various cuisines and are involved in menu planning, food preparation, and maintaining food safety standards. The role requires adaptability, teamwork, and strong organizational skills due to the unique challenges of working at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cruise ship chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cruise Ship Chef, you need a strong background in culinary arts, food safety, and menu planning, often supported by a culinary degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and international food handling certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills help you succeed in a multicultural, fast-paced environment. These skills ensure high-quality dining experiences for guests and efficient kitchen operations under demanding conditions.

How many years to become a cruise ship chef?

Becoming a cruise ship chef typically requires 2 to 4 years of culinary education or training, along with several years of experience in professional kitchens. Many cruise lines prefer candidates with at least 3-5 years of cooking experience and relevant certifications such as food safety training. The exact time can vary depending on prior experience and skill development.

What is the difference between Cruise Ship Chef vs Restaurant Chef?

AspectCruise Ship ChefRestaurant Chef
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, working in confined, mobile kitchensRestaurant kitchens, often stationary in a fixed location
Required CertificationsFood safety, HACCP, maritime safety certificationsFood safety, culinary certifications, possibly state or local licenses
Employer & Industry UsageCruise lines, hospitality industryIndependent restaurants, hotel restaurants, hospitality industry

Both roles require culinary skills and food safety knowledge, but Cruise Ship Chefs work in mobile, confined environments onboard ships, often with maritime safety certifications, while Restaurant Chefs work in stationary restaurant kitchens. The choice depends on your preference for travel and working environment.

What does a cruise ship chef do?

A cruise ship chef works in the kitchen of a cruise ship and oversees and creates the culinary experiences for each dining guest. Your responsibilities are to plan a menu, prepare the kitchen for each meal service, cook food for each meal, manage the inventory of food supplies and cooking equipment, clean the kitchen and equipment after each meal service, and plan accordingly for guest dietary restrictions. Your duties may also include collaborating with cruise ship management staff during meetings to design new menu themes, discuss any current concerns about the kitchen and its processes, and offer ideas for improvement to the culinary experience.

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

Getting hired as a cruise ship chef typically requires relevant culinary experience, certifications such as food safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. Competition can be high, and employers often look for strong references and proven skills in large-scale food preparation. The hiring process may include interviews, skill assessments, and background checks.

How much do cruise ship chefs make?

Cruise ship chefs typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, the cruise line, and the length of the contract. Salaries can vary based on the chef's role, skills, and certifications, with higher pay often associated with executive or specialty chefs working onboard for several months at a time.
More about Cruise Ship Chef jobs
What cities are hiring for Cruise Ship Chef jobs? Cities with the most Cruise Ship Chef job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Chef jobs? The most popular types of Cruise Ship Chef jobs are:
What states have the most Cruise Ship Chef jobs? States with the most job openings for Cruise Ship Chef jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cruise Ship Chef jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cruise Ship Chef jobs are:
Cruise Ship Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Ship Chef job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,994 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Demi Chef de Partie

Princess Cruises

New York, NY • On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Temporary

Re-posted yesterday

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

Demi Chef de Partie
Department: Galley
Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract
Location: Global
Reporting To: Chef De Partie
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.
Key Responsibilities
  • 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.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
  • 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.
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 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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