Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Head Bartender
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Head Bartender leads daily bar operations, supervises bartenders and bar waiters, maintains service standards, and ensures guests receive efficient, friendly service. Candidates typically need previous experience in a supervisory bartending role, strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, beverage service, inventory control, and point-of-sale systems. Excellent English communication, leadership, organization, and guest-service skills are expected. Cruise experience is advantageous, as are relevant hospitality qualifications and the ability to work flexible hours in a busy international environment. The successful candidate should be professional, well presented, reliable, safety conscious, and comfortable living and working onboard for extended contracts.
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 Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is a luxury ocean travel brand created by MSC Group, one of the world's largest privately owned shipping and cruise companies. The brand focuses on refined, yacht-inspired cruising, combining spacious suites, destination-led itineraries, elevated dining, wellness, and highly personalized service. Explora Journeys aims to offer a more relaxed alternative to traditional cruise holidays, with carefully designed ships, stylish public spaces, and an emphasis on authentic travel experiences. Crew members work in an international hospitality environment and are expected to deliver discreet, attentive service while maintaining high operational standards. Benefits commonly associated with cruise employment may include accommodation, meals, travel to and from the vessel, medical support, and opportunities for career development, although exact conditions depend on the contract and position.