The work

As part of the cadetship programme, you will be assigned practical work experience onboard one of our many cruise ships. Whether you're a Deck, Engineering or Electro-Technical cadet, a cruise ship is much more than just a floating hotel.

Today's modern ships are a highly complex, high-tech environment and you will be working as part of the ship's management team to anticipate, maintain and monitor the multifaceted operational aspects of the ship's day-to-day functions.

Your responsibilities and primary working areas will differ depending on your chosen cadetship, however all work is divided into shifts to ensure that areas such as the Bridge and Engine rooms are manned 24 hours a day. This may mean you are required to work through the night or in the early hours, but you will receive substantial break periods and free time in between.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

As a Deck cadet, part of your duties will include helping to oversee the safe navigation of the ship, to ensure deck maintenance and to supervise the crew. Your working area will be predominantly on the ship's Bridge as well as other external deck areas. Responsibilities will include maintaining deck areas, taking part in the 'watch' which incorporates most arrivals and departures from port, looking after the charts and logbook, maintaining accurate records of the ship's position and eventually supervised driving of the ship and negotiation of traffic situations.

As an Engineering cadet on the other hand, you will be working to ensure the successful running and maintenance of the ship's Engine Room and its equipment. A lot of time will be spent on watch in the Engine Room with particularly busy periods when leaving or entering port. There is also scheduled maintenance to perform, tasks to undertake in the workshop areas, and repairs to machinery or dealing with any plant breakdowns.

Finally, as an Electro-Technical cadet, you will have responsibility for the maintenance of the ship's electro-technical equipment including the electrical generating plant, electronic/automated control systems, bridge navigational equipment and entertainment systems. Crucially your duties will involve evaluating any problems that arise, making quick and effective decisions and taking the appropriate corrective measures.