Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Specialty Waiter
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Specialty Waiter provides attentive table service in MSC Cruises’ premium or specialty restaurants, explains menus, takes orders, serves food and beverages, processes guest requests, and maintains high service standards. Candidates generally need previous restaurant or hotel experience, good spoken English, strong communication skills, a polished appearance, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy international environment. Knowledge of food, wine, allergies, and specialty dining is beneficial. The role requires flexibility, teamwork, stamina, and willingness to work long shifts at sea, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. A friendly, sales-minded approach and commitment to guest satisfaction are expected.
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 company and part of MSC Group, a global organization with roots in shipping and logistics. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises operates a modern fleet serving destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The company offers resort-style holidays featuring accommodation, dining, entertainment, excursions, and family activities. Its workforce is highly international, with crew members serving guests from many countries and working in a multicultural environment. MSC Cruises places emphasis on guest experience, operational standards, safety, hospitality, and career development at sea. Employment packages commonly include onboard accommodation, meals, travel arrangements to and from the vessel, and medical support, although exact benefits depend on the contract, position, and recruiting country.