How Do Cruise Ship Contracts Work?

After completing their training period, employees sign a contract to work on a cruise ship for a specific amount of time, which may last up to nine months. These contracts are typically at the bottom of the hierarchy, depending on the experience in hospitality. Full-time contracts are usually 6 months in duration, with a break of around 6-8 weeks before returning to ship. Seasonal contracts may be more suitable for one-off cruises. Contract lengths vary by position but range between four and ten months. After each contract, crew members receive approximately 60 days of vacation before their next contract.

Crew members work long contracts, usually 7-8 months, depending on their position, between 6-11 hours a day. Most cruise line contracts require a four to eight-month commitment for new employees. Some cruise lines allow limited leave between contracts. Entry-level positions allow for six to eight weeks off between contracts, often without salary.

There is no standard employment contract, but they usually last for a minimum of three months and are rarely longer than one year. Most cruise lines offer free room and board throughout the duration of their contracts, often covering the costs of basic living. Most employment contracts are six months long, so they aren’t forever.