Frequently Asked Questions

The employee is responsible for paying for this thorough checkup, which can be completed at one of the nearby medical institutions that are recommended. You can travel and work onboard after this is finished and approved by our corporate medical department.

You will need to pay for some of the following prior to joining:

• Seamans Medical: +- R6000.00 – All crew must pass medical
• C1 D visas cost: US $ 160 – All crew require this
• Criminal Clearance costs: +/- R180 – All crew require this
• Schengen visas cost: Euros 60 – only if required
• Seaman’s book cost: US $ 50 (current conversion rate is R 696,81) – Only if required
• STCW training certification: estimated cost for all R5000 – R10,000. – Only if required

Most flights for crew are provided depending on the cruise company – crew are responsible for their own cost home if you resign or you are dismissed.

WORK CONDITIONS

• You will work 7-days a week onboard for approximately 10 hours per day
• There will be shifts off but not full days off the entire assignment rotation.
• When the ship is in port, many crew members take the opportunity to go ashore to tour, shop, dine, call home, etc.

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Your crew cabin has 1, 2, 3, or 4 bunk beds, desk and chair, T.V. and telephone. Space is very tight.
• You and your roommates are responsible for keeping your cabin clean and tidy at all times.
• Towels and linens will be provided once a week.
• No guest in cabins! Violation will result in termination / dismissal.

CREW MESS

• All meals and snacks will be served at the crew mess.
• You will have half an hour for each mealtime when on duty.
• Meals are buffet style; serve and clean up after yourself.
• You are not permitted to remove any food or utensils from the mess.

UNIFORMS & LAUNDRY

• Crew uniforms will be issued to you onboard.
• Crew uniforms and work clothes are cleaned free of charge.
• You will be required to use non-slip safety shoes while on duty. Shoes are not provided, you can purchase the approved brand/style before joining or onboard the vessel.
• Open toe shoes/flipflops/etc. are not permitted onboard in crew areas.

AMENITIES

• The Crew Gym is for all crew members available at posted hours.
• You can purchase toiletries, cigarettes, chocolates, and other necessities needed onboard at the Crew Shop.
• The Crew Bar operating hours and rules are to be adhered to at all times.
• You are not permitted to become inebriated or intoxicated while on your assignment contract. You are not allowed to drink alcohol while on duty. Violation of either of these rules is grounds for dismissal.
• Crew Enrichment / Welfare will provide crew activities and events for all the crew members.
• Only employed crew members are provided living accommodations onboard.

COMMUNICATION

• The Internet Café is available for all crewmembers at posted hours. Internet access is available at reasonable prices.
• Phone cards will be available onboard. Also, keep in mind that your phone might work at the different ports. Be careful at sea because international roaming will apply and can be very expensive.
• Wifi is readily available throughout the vessel. You can bring your own electronic devices to use. You will need to purchase internet access/minutes and configure accordingly.
• Mail arrives once a week to the ship. The mail will be sorted by department and distributed. Please remember, mail is processed through a central location, therefore, you will experience a small delay. Also, the ship’s itinerary may determine the regularity of the delivery.

GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITIES

• Your boss will be the head or supervisor of the department. The Captain of the ship is the commander of all and the final decision maker.
• Career growth is offered through internal promotions. You can apply to the positions onboard as they become available.
• Numerous trainings will be available onboard to enrich you knowledge in different aspects of the business.
• Onboard most cruise liners you will get paid monthly via Ocean Pay card. This is a bank card that you can use to make purchase as well as internet banking. This means you have full control of your hard earned money as and when you need!

DATING ONBOARD

• You will have the opportunity to work and make lifelong friends with crewmembers from around the world.
• Dating guests is not permitted. It will result in termination / dismissal.
• Dating fellow crewmembers is allowed.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

• We have a Zero tolerance drug policy with random testing. Drug possession, transportation and usage are causes for immediate termination
• We also have a zero tolerance for harassment of any nature. Every crew member is responsible for keeping a safe, harmonious environment onboard
• You will have curfew onboard.