Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Sommelier
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Sommelier recommends wines and beverages, explains their characteristics, takes orders, and provides polished service in onboard restaurants and bars. Candidates typically need professional wine knowledge, relevant restaurant or hospitality experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to work confidently with international guests. Wine certifications such as WSET are advantageous. MSC Cruises expects a friendly, sales-oriented, well-presented team member who can upsell appropriately, maintain service standards, handle busy shifts, and work effectively in a multicultural environment. Flexibility, stamina, attention to detail, and willingness to live and work at sea for extended contracts are essential. English is generally required, while additional languages are beneficial.
Can I work on cruise ships?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: No host-country permit: a seafarer medical, safety training, a seaman's book, a US crew visa and a Schengen visa.
Watch for: Recruitment fees are banned on ships.
Official source: US Department of State: crewmember visa. Checked October 2026.
What the job usually comes with on cruise ships
Usual for cruise ships, varies by employer. Checked October 2026.
| Housing | Free cabin, usually shared |
|---|---|
| Meals | Free (by law) |
| Flights | Joining and home flights usually paid; free repatriation (by law) |
| Service charge | Passenger service charges pooled on many lines |
| Contract | 6 to 9 months on board, about 2 months unpaid between contracts |
| Leave | 2.5 days a month, often paid as cash |
| Income tax | Usually not withheld; depends on your home country |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is a major international cruise line and part of the MSC Group, a privately owned global transportation and logistics organization. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the company operates a large fleet serving destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, Asia, and other regions. MSC Cruises provides accommodation, dining, entertainment, shore excursions, and family-focused onboard programs for guests from around the world. Its workforce is highly international, with crew members working in hotel services, food and beverage, marine operations, entertainment, retail, and technical departments. The company is known for its Mediterranean heritage, modern ships, varied itineraries, and emphasis on hospitality and onboard revenue. Employment normally involves fixed-term contracts, shared crew accommodation, meals, uniforms, and the opportunity to travel while gaining international cruise-industry experience.