FAQ

Will I be able to get off the ship in the ports of call? 

Absolutely! One of the best parts of working on ships are the ability to get off the ship in the different ports and see the world.  Most musicians & entertainers will perform at night.  You will have time to explore the different ports of call.

Is there an age limit?  

Most lines require you to be 21 years old and above.  Some set, the minimum age at 18.

What do I wear? 

Once hired, you’ll receive a document from us outlining exactly what you are expected to wear.  Most cruise lines require you to have formal attire such as tuxedo and suite / dress.

Will I have to share a cabin? 

Cabin situations varies depending on the position you’re hired for. In most cases, you will share a cabin with another musician if you are hired as theatre orchestra or lounge bands.  If you are hired as a piano bar entertainer or a one man-band, you will most likely have a single cabin.

Is there internet on board? 

Yes.  Each ship has a crew internet cafe with terminals. Also, cruise ships usually have wireless internet access which you can use in most areas of the ship.  In either case, you will need to purchase an internet card or package, which costs 8-10 cents/minute.  In addition, there is internet cafes in many of the ports.

Will I be expected to perform any duties other than performing music? 

Yes, but very few.  All crew members are required to assist in safety/emergency drills which will occur once or twice a cruise.

Do I need to pass a drug test/physical exam? 

Yes.  All musicians must pass a pre-employment physical exam prior to joining.  The test includes a drug test, blood test, & chest x-ray.  Medical results are good for two years from the date they are administrated.

Pre-employment physical exam has to be completed at your own expense.  However, most cruise companies reimburse for some of the medical onboard with valid receipts.

Do I have to buy my own flight? 

No. We will make all your travel arrangements and the cost is fully covered by the cruise line.  Sometimes, you may stay overnight before joining the ship.  In that case, the hotel, and transportation will be taken care of as well.

Will I have to pay taxes?

Non-US Citizen: It is your responsibility to declare your income made on board.

US Citizen: Federal taxes are deducted for US Citizens, however; state taxes are not.

How do I get paid on board? 

You will be paid in U.S. currency, either cash or via direct deposit.  If direct deposit is unavailable, you can elect to send a wire transfer to exchange the cash for a money order.

What are the auditions like? 

The audition may be done in person or via video calls such as Skype and Facetime.  The audition is designed to make sure you can comfortably perform different styles that you will encounter on a cruise ship job.  The material consist of production show material, big band, guest entertainer charts to name a few.

What languages is required for all major cruise lines? 

For all major cruise lines, English is the universal language spoken.  You are expected to have sufficient English skill not only to understand general safety instructions but also to communicate with your Musical Director, fellow staff and crew, and guests onboard.

How long will the contract be? 

Most contracts are 3-6 months continuous, depending on the ship & position.  However, sometimes its negotiable.  If requested, the shorter/fill-in positions might be offered to re-hires that have completed a contract with the company.

Do I need a visa?

Non-US and Canadian Citizens require a C1/D Visa.  Once hired, you’ll receive a Letter of Employment which you can take to the US Embassy in order to attain the C1/D visa.  Depending on your destination, some countries will require an entrance visa as well.

Do I need a passport?

Yes.  Every employee is required to have a passport valid through the end of his/her contract.