Your Next Steps

Fantastic news, you took the time to read all the information and advice that was offered on how to get a job on a cruise line and you have finally received the long awaited letter telling you that you have got the job! So, your next question is 'what do I need to do next?'

The cruise line that has hired you will let you know:

• what papers they will need from you
• what courses if any that you might need to take
• what vaccinations you might need to get prior to arriving to start your job
• what visas (if any) that you need to apply for
• your salary
• how long your contract will be

You will probably have many more questions that you want to ask, but contacting the cruise line every 5 minutes will not look very professional.

To help you with this, we have put together a small checklist to assist you in compiling a list of the most important questions and prepare you for your new adventure .

Medical

You will need a medical check done - check with the cruise line what the process is for this and if they have any forms that you need to complete

Visa

If you are not a US citizen, you will need a C1/D visa. The cruise line needs to issue the application letter for you. You will then need to follow the guidelines of the US embassy in your home country to apply for and receive a C1/D visa.

Uniform

The cruise line will ask you for your clothes size, in order to arrange for a you to have a fitting once you are on board for your uniform

Ask if you need to bring anything with you such as shoes or specific coloured stockings for the females or socks for the men

Remember that some cruise lines have a day uniform and a evening uniform so you may need to bring different coloured shoes for this

Tip for the guys - don't forget the white and/or black socks to go with your Uniform.

STCW

Ask, if the basic fire fighting, first aid and survival at sea (STCW) will be done on board, or if you need to take that course in your home country.

Vaccinations

In some countries, vaccinations are compulsory. Check with the cruise line, if you need any vaccinations (mostly yellow fever) for the places where the ship will be going.

Flights

Some cruise lines provide the flight that will get you to the ship, others however will not.

Check with the cruise line as you may need to budget for this cost in advance.

Contract

Make sure you have a contract from the cruise line, before you leave home. If not chase this up.

Take the original with you, as well as a copy for yourself to keep.

The original you will need to hand to the Crew Purser's Office when you sign on.

Itinerary

Ask where the ship will be sailing.

You can then plan what you need to pack depending on the answer

Tip - a warm jacket and sweater should always be part of your luggage as could always be transferred to a ship in Alaska