Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Assistant Front Desk Manager
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Assistant Front Desk Manager supports the Front Desk Manager in overseeing reception operations, guest services, embarkation and disembarkation procedures, account handling, complaints and daily communication with passengers. Candidates are generally expected to have prior experience in front office or hotel guest services, preferably in a supervisory role, along with strong English communication skills. Additional languages, cruise or international hospitality experience, computer proficiency and familiarity with hotel management systems are valuable. The role requires professionalism, patience, strong organizational ability and a service-focused attitude. Candidates should be comfortable working long hours at sea, living onboard, following company procedures and assisting guests from diverse cultural backgrounds in a fast-paced environment.
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, a privately owned global transportation and travel group headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The cruise line operates a large fleet serving destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, Asia and other regions. MSC Cruises offers accommodation, dining, entertainment, shore excursions and family-oriented onboard experiences. Its workforce is highly international, with employees working in hotel operations, food and beverage, marine services, entertainment, guest relations and technical departments. The company places strong emphasis on hospitality, operational standards, safety and multicultural teamwork. Employees typically work fixed onboard contracts, receive accommodation and meals while at sea, and may travel between multiple destinations during an assignment. Career opportunities are available for both experienced hospitality professionals and candidates developing an international cruise career.