How Much Does Wait Staff Make on Cruise Ship?

By Alice Nichols

Working as a waiter on a cruise ship is an exciting career choice for many people. Cruise ships offer a unique way to travel the world and get paid for it.

The job of wait staff on a cruise ship involves more than just taking orders and serving food; they must also be able to interact with passengers, manage their time efficiently, and be knowledgeable about the different countries they will visit. It can be an extremely rewarding experience, but how much does wait staff make on cruise ships?

Wait staff on cruise ships typically make an hourly wage of between $2 and $7 per hour, depending on the cruise line’s policy. This wage is usually supplemented by tips from passengers, which can range from 10% to 20% of the total bill. Tips are expected in some countries but not all, so it is important to check before you start your job.

The amount of money you make as a waiter on a cruise ship also depends on your experience level and how well you perform. Those who have worked in the service industry before may receive higher wages than inexperienced workers. Additionally, those who show excellent customer service skills and are able to work quickly may receive higher wages than those who are slower or less personable.

It is also important to consider that wait staff must work long hours while aboard the ship; most shifts last 8-10 hours with little opportunity for breaks or days off. This means that although wait staff may make more money than other workers onboard, they often have less free time for personal activities or sightseeing when in port.

In addition to wages and tips, wait staff may also receive additional benefits such as free food, lodging onboard the ship, discounts at certain ports of call, and access to amenities such as pools or gyms.

Overall, working as a waiter on a cruise ship can be a great way to see the world while earning an income. The exact amount that wait staff make on cruise ships varies depending upon their experience level and performance; however, most waiters make between $2-$7 per hour plus tips which range from 10%-20%. In addition to wages and tips, waiters may receive additional benefits like free food or lodging onboard the ship.

Conclusion: Working as a waiter on a cruise ship can be both exciting and rewarding. Waiters typically make an hourly wage between $2-$7 per hour plus tips ranging from 10%-20%, depending upon their experience level and performance.