If you’ve ever dreamed of working on a cruise ship—waking up in a new country every week while getting paid for it—you’re not alone.
But when it comes to choosing the right cruise line to work for, it’s not just about flashy ships or exotic itineraries. You’ll want to find the company that fits your goals, your experience, and your lifestyle.
Whether you’re aiming for big-ship energy with massive crews and endless departments, or the smaller, more intimate vibe where you can actually get to know your guests (and maybe earn better tips), there’s a cruise job out there for you.
Cruise ships offer roles in everything from hospitality and entertainment to engineering, security, and wellness.
If you’re ready to start your life at sea, here are five cruise lines that current and former crew members say are among the best to work for.
1. Royal Caribbean: Big Ships, Big Opportunities
Want to work for one of the most recognized cruise brands in the world? Royal Caribbean might be your golden ticket.
With 27 ships (and more on the way), Royal Caribbean sails to nearly every continent—and is known for pushing boundaries with over-the-top ship features and jaw-dropping itineraries.
But behind the glitz and glamour is a company that’s earned a strong reputation for treating its crew well.
From the moment you board, you’re part of a system designed to support you. Think free accommodations, discounted cruises for you and your family, and reduced prices on excursions.
To keep things fun, Royal Caribbean also runs regular crew events, from beach parties to soccer tournaments.
Even though life at sea can be demanding (especially with 24/7 operations), the cruise line puts serious effort into creating a positive, engaging environment for its staff.
Contracts vary depending on your position. Senior officers may work 4-month stints, while most other crew work between 6 and 8 months per contract. Full days off are rare, but you do get time to explore ports or join crew-only activities.
The company hires across departments—from casino staff and chefs to electricians and engineers. You could even land a role at their private island destinations like CocoCay, which offer their own unique work environments.
Check their website to see the available job openings
2. MSC Cruises: A Global Giant with a Family Feel
If you want to hop aboard a fast-growing cruise line that also values diversity and innovation, MSC Cruises is worth a serious look.
As the world’s largest privately owned cruise company, MSC currently operates 19 ships with more on the horizon—and over 23,000 employees worldwide.
One of the standout features of MSC is its incredibly international crew, representing more than 110 nationalities.
Over half of its shore-based workforce is made up of women, and the brand really leans into inclusivity as a cornerstone of their team culture.
MSC’s career site emphasizes how their diverse crew creates stronger connections with guests, and it’s something you’ll notice onboard. That same diversity shows up in the camaraderie between coworkers, too.
Perks for crew members include access to a private crew gym, pool, bar, laundry service, healthcare support, and social events like themed parties and crew-only outings. It’s a solid balance of work and play.
Contracts generally last five to seven months, followed by a two-month break. And here’s a cool bonus: MSC offers a quiz on their careers site that helps you figure out whether life at sea is right for you.
Whether your interest lies in hotel services, deck operations, or the engine room, MSC offers a variety of roles—and they’re constantly hiring thanks to their expansion plans.
Check their website to see the available job openings
3. Disney Cruise Line: Where Work Meets Whimsy
If your idea of a dream job includes creating magical moments for families, dancing with Disney characters, or just being part of something that brings joy to people every day, then Disney Cruise Line might be the perfect fit.
Disney currently operates five ships, with two more on the way. Their itineraries range from Caribbean beach escapes to Alaskan adventures and European getaways.
What sets Disney apart is its family-first focus and world-famous customer service, both of which extend to how they treat their crew.
Working for Disney comes with a long list of perks: free Disney theme park tickets for you and your family, discounts on merchandise and experiences, competitive pay, and internal awards for excellence.
They also offer thorough onboarding training and clear career paths, so you won’t just be spinning your wheels—you’ll be growing.
Contracts typically range from 3 to 8 months, depending on your role, and the company encourages internal advancement.
If you love entertainment, hospitality, or child care—and have that extra bit of Disney sparkle—this could be your floating fairytale.
Check their website to see the available job openings
4. AIDA Cruises: A European Favorite with a Fresh Vibe
If you’re based in the EU or looking for a cruise line that combines energetic vibes with solid benefits, AIDA Cruises is definitely worth considering.
Known for its colorful branding and younger-skewing crowd, AIDA is a German line under the Carnival Corporation umbrella.
With 14 ships focused on active and experience-rich travel, AIDA offers something different—not just for guests, but for crew, too.
One of the major draws is that AIDA follows EU employment guidelines, which means contracts come with strong social protections and health coverage.
Crew members enjoy awesome perks like access to a fitness center, sundeck, and even a crew sauna. There’s free Wi-Fi (a rare treat at sea), and team members are often invited to join shore excursions.
They also offer an online training platform called AIDA Train Me Up to help staff build new skills and level up in their careers.
Contracts usually last 4 to 6 months, and job openings span guest services, technical operations, entertainment, and more—from electricians to housekeepers to camera operators. If you’re a team player who enjoys high-energy environments, AIDA could be a great fit.
Check their website to see the available job openings.
5. Cunard Line: Cruise History Meets Classic Elegance
Fancy working for one of the most iconic names in cruise history? Cunard Line, which dates back to 1839, offers a more traditional and elegant cruising experience—and a work environment that values professionalism, precision, and heritage.
Cunard’s four ships sail worldwide, including transatlantic crossings and exotic routes to Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Their clientele tends to appreciate the finer things—think formal dress codes, afternoon tea, and polished service—so staff are expected to deliver on that high-end promise.
Working for Cunard has its perks: gym access, crew-only deck space, free accommodation and meals, discounted excursions and onboard purchases, and covered airfare to join your ship.
Plus, their commitment to training and advancement means you’ll constantly be supported in growing your skills and career.
Crew contracts vary depending on your department, but most run between 4 to 6 months, followed by time off.
Positions range from hotel and guest services to marketing, medical, finance, and engineering. With a crew size of roughly 1,000 per ship, it’s big—but still feels like a close-knit team.
If you want to work for a cruise line that’s steeped in tradition but still offers worldwide adventures, Cunard is a solid choice.
Check their website to see the available job openings
Wrapping It All Up: Which Cruise Line Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to finding the best cruise line to work for. Some people thrive on the size and energy of massive ships like those from Royal Caribbean or MSC.
Others prefer the charm and refinement of Cunard or the magical world of Disney. And for those looking for a European-focused employer with strong training and benefits, AIDA delivers.
A few key things to remember:
- 🎯 You apply to the cruise line, not to a specific ship. They’ll assign you where you’re needed.
- 🛳️ Bigger cruise corporations like Carnival or Royal Caribbean Group own multiple lines—once you’re in, it can open doors to different brands.
- 🤝 Smaller cruise lines tend to offer more personal working environments, which some crew members prefer.
As you gain experience, you may also find opportunities with high-end or specialty lines—like expedition cruises or luxury yacht-style ships. These often come with even better perks and more exotic itineraries.
