Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Head Waiter
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Head Waiter supervises restaurant service, coordinates waitstaff, assigns sections, checks table settings and food presentation, and ensures guests receive efficient, courteous service. Requirements generally include previous experience as a waiter or supervisory restaurant position, strong knowledge of food and beverage service, good English communication, professional appearance, and the ability to work under pressure. Additional languages, hospitality training, and cruise or international experience are advantageous. Candidates are expected to lead by example, resolve guest concerns diplomatically, support sales of beverages and specialty dining, follow hygiene and safety procedures, and work flexible hours during a fixed-term onboard contract.
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 the cruise division of MSC, a privately held Swiss-based shipping and travel group headquartered in Geneva. It operates a large fleet serving Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, the Middle East, Asia, and other international destinations. The company offers contemporary leisure cruises, family travel, premium dining, entertainment, excursions, and a wide range of onboard services. MSC Cruises employs multinational maritime and hospitality teams, including restaurant, hotel, deck, technical, entertainment, and guest-services professionals. Crew members typically live and work onboard under fixed-term contracts, serving guests from many countries. The company emphasizes international teamwork, professional hospitality, safety, and consistent service standards. Employment conditions, benefits, accommodation, travel arrangements, and contract terms vary according to nationality, vessel, role, and applicable maritime regulations.