Passenger liner stewards work either in cabin service, or in the bar area of cruise liners.

The work of cabin stewards includes:

• keeping guests’ cabins clean and tidy
• making beds
• supplying fresh linen
• vacuuming floors
• replenishing stocks of supplies such as shampoo and soap.

The work of bar stewards includes:

• serving passengers with drinks
• clearing and washing glasses
• helping keep the bar well stocked.

Stewards work as part of a team, under the supervision of a head housekeeper or bar manager.

With some cruise companies the job title 'steward' refers to customer service or reception staff, whose duties can include:

• informing passengers about the services offered on board
• arranging excursions
• dealing with guests’ queries and complaints.

Hours and Environment

As a passenger liner steward your work could be seasonal, and will usually be on a temporary contract, with an average length of six months. You will work shifts which include evenings and weekends.

You will usually share accommodation with other staff. Your work will include a lot of walking, standing, lifting and carrying.

Your employer will usually provide a uniform.

Skills and Interests

As a steward you should:

• be welcoming, friendly and helpful when dealing with guests
• have tact and diplomacy and the ability to deal with occasional difficult situations
• be physically fit, with plenty of stamina
• be able to work efficiently under pressure
• be methodical and able to pay attention to detail
• be able to work as part of a team
• have good numeracy skills for cash handling.

Entry

You do not need any particular qualifications to become a passenger liner steward.

There is a lot of competition for jobs, so it will be useful if you have relevant experience such as catering, hotel work or bar work.

Some employers might prefer you to have NVQs/SVQs or professional qualifications such as Food and Beverage Service or Housekeeping.

Visit the Passenger Shipping Association website or contact Springboard UK (in Further Information below) for details of cruise companies. You apply to companies directly, or through agencies that recruit for cruise liners.

Training

You will be given on-the-job training.

You might be able to work towards NVQs/SVQs in Catering and Hospitality at levels 1 and 2.

Opportunities

There are a lot of opportunities on passenger liners due to the increasing popularity of this type of holiday.

Some shipping companies recruit staff themselves, others use specialist employment agencies.

With experience as a steward you might be able to progress to a supervisory job such as bar manager or assistant housekeeper. You could also move into other areas, such as croupier, entertainment or restaurant work.

Annual Income

Rates of pay vary between shipping companies, and according to duties. Contact employers or agencies for specific details.

Accommodation and meals are usually provided free of charge. Salaries may be supplemented by tips.

Further information

2nd Floor
Armstrong House
38 Market Square
Uxbridge
Middlesex
UB8 1LH
Tel: 0870 060 2550