Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Buffet Attendant
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Buffet Attendant supports buffet and casual dining operations aboard MSC Cruises. Responsibilities typically include preparing and replenishing food stations, keeping counters and dining areas clean, assisting guests courteously, clearing used dishes, following food-safety and hygiene procedures, and supporting other restaurant duties as required. Candidates should have hospitality, restaurant, or food-service experience, a friendly and professional manner, good communication skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy multicultural environment. Flexibility is essential, as the role involves long hours, shift work, weekends, and living onboard for extended contracts. Physical stamina, teamwork, neat presentation, and compliance with company safety standards are also 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 global cruise company headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company group. It operates a large fleet sailing to destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North and South America, the Middle East, and other worldwide regions. The company offers ocean cruises focused on family holidays, entertainment, dining, wellness, and cultural discovery. MSC Cruises employs an international workforce across hotel services, food and beverage, marine operations, entertainment, engineering, guest relations, and corporate functions. Shipboard employees generally receive accommodation, meals, onboard medical support, travel arrangements connected with contracts, and opportunities to work with colleagues and guests from many countries. Working for MSC Cruises requires adaptability, professionalism, strong service standards, and a willingness to live and work at sea for the duration of an assigned contract.