Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Dining Host/ess
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Dining Host/ess welcomes guests, manages restaurant seating, coordinates table assignments, maintains waiting lists, answers dining-related questions and supports smooth meal service. Candidates should have hospitality or restaurant experience, strong communication and customer-service skills, a professional appearance, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy, multicultural environment. Previous cruise, hotel or fine-dining experience is advantageous. The role requires flexibility, teamwork, attention to detail and willingness to work long shifts, weekends and public holidays while living onboard. Candidates are expected to remain courteous under pressure, follow company service standards, assist with guest requests and contribute to a positive dining experience.
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 privately owned Swiss-based transportation and logistics business. The cruise line operates a large fleet serving destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, the Middle East and other global regions. Its ships offer accommodation, restaurants, entertainment, family activities, excursions and wellness facilities for international guests. MSC Cruises employs crew members from many countries and provides structured onboard operations across hotel services, food and beverage, marine operations, entertainment and guest relations. Working for the company generally means living onboard for the duration of a contract, sharing crew facilities and serving guests in a fast-paced, multicultural environment. Employment terms, benefits, travel arrangements and salary vary according to position, nationality, vessel and contract conditions.