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Cruise Ship Waitress Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Princess Cruises

Waiter

New York, NY · On-site

Additionally a minimum of one year Cruise ship experience as Waiter or in a similar role is also required. * Good knowledge of fine dining service standards and international cuisine. Good knowledge ...

Princess Cruises

Waiter

New York, NY

Additionally a minimum of one year Cruise ship experience as Waiter or in a similar role is also required. * Good knowledge of fine dining service standards and international cuisine. Good knowledge ...

Princess Cruises

Assists the Waiter to create a comfortable, elegant ambiance by always preparing table settings and ... Minimum of 2 years of restaurant service experience from four-star hotel or cruise ship * Knowledge ...

Princess Cruises

Jr Waiter

New York, NY · On-site

Actively assists the Waiter during the set-up of the restaurant, checking the cleanliness and ... At least two years of restaurant service experience on a cruise ship or in alternative fine dining ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Providence, RI

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Key West, FL · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Morehead City, NC · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Port Canaveral, FL · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Tampa, FL

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

American Cruise Lines

Waiter

Seattle, WA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

S. cruise company, offers unique experiences exploring America's rivers and coasts. We're hiring Waiters for the 2026 cruising season. You'll work in our shipboard hotel and restaurant providing ...

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Cruise Ship Waitress information

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How much do cruise ship waitress jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise ship waitress in the United States is $15.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cruise ship waitress?

Cruise ship waitresses are hospitality professionals who serve food and beverages to passengers aboard cruise ships. Their responsibilities include taking orders, delivering meals, ensuring guest satisfaction, and maintaining cleanliness in dining areas. They often work long hours and interact with people from around the world, providing high-quality service in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. In addition to standard serving duties, cruise ship waitresses may also assist with special events and follow rigorous safety standards unique to the maritime industry.

What are some unique challenges a cruise ship waitress might face compared to working in a land-based restaurant?

As a Cruise Ship Waitress, you'll encounter unique challenges such as adapting to a constantly changing work environment at sea, serving guests from diverse international backgrounds, and handling extended shifts during peak travel seasons. You'll also need to master ship-specific safety protocols and collaborate closely with an international team in confined living and working spaces. Flexibility, strong communication, and the ability to quickly learn new service styles are essential for success in this dynamic role.

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

To thrive as a Cruise Ship Waitress, you need strong customer service skills, experience in food and beverage service, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and adherence to international safety and hygiene standards, such as STCW certification, are typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills help you excel in a multicultural, fast-paced environment. These abilities ensure efficient service, guest satisfaction, and smooth operations on board.

What is the difference between Cruise Ship Waitress vs Hotel Waitress?

AspectCruise Ship WaitressHotel Waitress
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, serving passengers at seaIn hotel restaurants, serving guests on land
Required CertificationsFood safety, hospitality training, possibly STCW certificationsFood safety, hospitality training
Employer & IndustryCruise lines, maritime hospitalityHotels, resort restaurants
Work ScheduleRotational shifts, often international travelTypically daily shifts, fixed location

While both roles involve serving guests and require hospitality skills, Cruise Ship Waitresses work onboard ships with international travel, whereas Hotel Waitresses serve in land-based hotel restaurants. The work environment, certifications, and schedules differ, but both focus on providing excellent customer service in the hospitality industry.

How to become a cruise ship waitress?

To become a cruise ship waitress, candidates typically need previous experience in hospitality or food service, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Applicants often undergo training provided by the cruise line and must meet health and visa requirements, including a valid passport. Fluency in English and sometimes additional languages can be advantageous.
More about Cruise Ship Waitress jobs

What cities are hiring for Cruise Ship Waitress jobs?

Cities with the most Cruise Ship Waitress job openings:

What states have the most Cruise Ship Waitress jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Cruise Ship Waitress jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cruise Ship Waitress jobs are:

Cruise Ship Waitress jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Ship Waitress job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,855 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Waiter

Princess Cruises

New York, NY • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 19 days ago

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

Waiter
Department: Restaurant
Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract
Location: GLOBAL
Reporting To: Restaurant Manager
Description
By applying to this position, your application will be submitted to Princess Cruises' internal Talent Acquisition team.
A professional recruiter will contact you shortly if your qualifications align with our hiring requirements.
As the world's leading cruise line, we understand that 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
  • Creates a comfortable, elegant atmosphere by always preparing table settings and maintaining service stations in accordance with all company standards.
  • Understands the food and beverage menus and actively upsell and make recommendations based on guest preferences and dietary needs.
  • Manages orders for assigned areas using on-board tools and technology.
    Delivers food and beverages as requested, on time, in the correct service order and according to brand standards.
  • Ensures service procedures are followed during meal times, including clearing and cleaning tables to brand standards.
  • Cultivates a memorable connection with each guest by always showing genuine interest during service and remaining fully engaged throughout the cruise.
  • Always observes and identifies guest preferences and adapts service accordingly, anticipating guest needs.
  • Understands the facilities, product and service expectations of their area and promptly rectifies any deficiencies that would negatively impact the guest experience.
  • Utilizes expertise and knowledge of the ship's food and beverage outlets and their respective operating hours to provide flexible options for individual guest preferences.
  • Maximizes wine and beverage sales by presenting relevant choices in an inviting manner and using Medallion Class tools to deliver a personalized experience.
  • Ensures that orders are recorded promptly and accurately through the on-board POS system.
  • Promotes Specialty Dining venues to enhance the guest dining experience and strives to exceed set targets.
  • Sensitively executes sales promotions and special event notifications as directed by the Restaurant Manager and Director of Restaurant Operations without interfering with the guest's dining experience.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
  • Minimum of three years fine dining experience as a Waiter or Restaurant Supervisor in a large hospitality setting (Luxury Hotels/Resorts). Additionally a minimum of one year Cruise ship experience as Waiter or in a similar role is also required.
  • Good knowledge of fine dining service standards and international cuisine. Good knowledge of wine is also required.
  • Fluent in English, both verbal and written.
  • Understanding of the fundamentals of guest service and the ability and willingness to provide outstanding service to our guests.
  • Motivation to excel in all aspects of the role.
  • Personable communicator with excellent social skills and a warm, friendly and caring personality.
  • Ability to consistently surprise and delight guests throughout their cruise experience.
  • Commitment to establishing and maintaining 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 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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