Are there any costs involved?
Only once you have been accepted you will need:
Seaman’s medical examination (Up to R2500) This is re-reimbursed to you onboard
Your crew US C1/D visa (USD 138.00 Approx. R1100.00)
Additional Entry Visa – if required (Approx. R650.00)
Seaman’s Book – dependant of cruise company (Approx. R350.00)
Administration Fee of R775.00 (Dependant on cruise company if this will be charge - your consultant will confirm this)
STCW Certificate – Most cruise companies will supply this onboard, but there is certain positions that this will be a pre-requisite

Cost covered in your employment contract?
All flight and travel costs to join the vessel anywhere in the world is built into your first contract
All uniforms (except chefs) accommodation and meals onboard
Medical Insurance whilst onboard the vessel.

How long is the contract?
Most contracts are 5-6 months long with 6-8 week vacations. Employment contracts are offered as permanent positions, with re-newable contracts based on performance appraisals. Senior Management position contracts are variable.

What are the working hours like?
The ship is constantly cruising, and there are almost always guests onboard, so hours are long. Expect to work every day of your contract, about 70 hours per week. Shore-leave is limited to a few hours a day, if and when the ship is in port.

How much can I earn?
This is depending on position and the cruise client. Some vessels offer a small basic salary with the majority of your wages earned from gratuities, from $1500 up to $2500 per month (on average). Premier vessels offer full salaries with a no tipping policy, from approximately Euro 1500.00 per month. Full salaries and packages will be discussed on a one-to-one bases.

Where do you stay onboard?
All crew are accommodated in shared 2 or 3 berth cabins with integrated bathroom facilities. Positions of seniority have single cabins.

What facilities are available for crew onboard?
Most vessels have a number of facilities for crew to enjoy in their off time, such as the crew restaurant, crew bar, crew deck (some vessels have a pool), gym, computer centre, crew shop, spa (during certain hours)

Can couples apply?
Each applicant is considered on his/her individual merits. Generally this is not suited for couples unless both applicants have very similar qualifications and can therefore be grouped in the same department.

What are the visa requirements?
Crew visas (American C1/D) can only be arranged once a job offer has been made, and a "Letter of Employment" has been issued.
Additional Schengen or entry visa are required for South Africa passport holders.

Where do the vessels travel to?
The vessels travel all over the world and have year-round itineraries to some of the world’s most exotic destinations.

How long does it take to get hired?
If you meet the job requirements & depending on the time of the year, it can take between 2 months & 6 months to get hired.

How do I apply?
If you want to apply you need to send a professional up-to-date CV and recent photo, along with any references or certificates that you may have that are related to the hospitality industry.
Email this through to us at: Gourmet Recruitment International
E-mail: info@grisa.co.za