What Is a Cruise Ship Chef Called?

By Alice Nichols

A cruise ship chef plays a major role in the successful operation of any cruise line. Cruise ships offer passengers a wide variety of experiences, from fine dining to casual buffets, and chefs are expected to provide all types of cuisine.

The responsibilities of a cruise ship chef include creating menus, ordering ingredients, overseeing food preparation and presentation, maintaining quality standards, and managing the kitchen staff. Given the demands of the job, it is no surprise that the title “cruise ship chef” is held in high regard among industry professionals.

The title “cruise ship chef” is used to refer to a variety of positions within the culinary world. A head chef on a cruise ship is typically referred to as an executive chef or executive sous-chef.

These chefs are responsible for all aspects of meal preparation and presentation and may even be involved in menu design and budgeting decisions. Executive chefs often have several years of experience in professional kitchens prior to working on a cruise ship.

Sous-chefs on cruise ships are second-in-command behind the executive chef. They are responsible for supervising kitchen staff, delegating tasks, ensuring quality standards are met, and assisting with menu planning or preparing meals when needed. A sous-chef may be promoted from within or hired from outside the company.

Chef de Partie, or Station Chef, positions are held by those who specialize in one type of cuisine such as pastries, salads, or hot food items. These chefs may also be responsible for teaching other staff members how to properly prepare their dishes and ensuring that all recipes are followed accurately.

The title Chef de Cuisine, also known as Kitchen Manager, is held by those who oversee all aspects of meal preparation aboard a cruise ship. They plan menus, order ingredients and supplies, train new staff members, manage inventory levels, delegate tasks among kitchen staff members, ensure food safety standards are met at all times.

The title “Cruise Ship Chef”, then refers to any one of these positions within the culinary team aboard a cruise line. A successful career as a Cruise Ship Chef requires expertise in culinary techniques and flavors from around the world along with management skills necessary for leading and motivating kitchen staff members.

In conclusion, Cruise Ship Chefs can hold titles such as Executive Chef/Executive Sous-Chef/Chef de Partie/Station Chef/Chef de Cuisine/Kitchen Manager depending on their roles while operating a cruise line business onboard.