KEY TRAINING TO DO TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST JOB ONBOARD

Amat Victoria Curam. (Victory Loves Preparation.)

Deciding to start your career onboard a cruise ship is a major life decision. A particular lifestyle that comes with this type of work engagement requires a strong skill set and a proper mindset to start with.

The key things you need to have in mind are that this type of work doesn't allow you to negotiate on being the team player and having a service-oriented approach to each guest. Patience, openness and kindness are crucial. Mental preparation for a complete change in lifestyle while on contract and perseverance are a must. Now that we tackled your attitude, you should also be aware of the professional training and certificates needed to land a job.

If you are to work in the engine/deck:

Marine certificates are issued by your country of origin and classified by the ranking and the department - deck or the engine. All marine employees are to have basic STCW certificates, plus ones concerning their onboard role. A Medical Fitness certificate is a must, together with an Immunization Record. All mentioned are to be carried handy and presented upon the sign-on. Check your profile for more information on various certificates needed for specific rankings in the Visas and Certificates section.

If you are to work in the hotel:

Hotel staff and officers are subject to Basic STCW, Medical Certificate, and Immunization Record. Opposite to marine jobs, these will remain the same despite climbing up the career ladder.

Are you curious about which type of jobs you can find on board a cruise ship? Create your profile today and check open positions offered with the world's biggest cruise companies.

*This story was written by an experienced crew member working on a cruise ship*