Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Cook
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Cook prepares high-quality meals for guests and crew according to approved recipes, menus, hygiene standards, and portion guidelines. Requirements typically include professional kitchen experience, basic food-safety knowledge, good knife and preparation skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy, multicultural environment. A culinary qualification is helpful, while cruise or large-scale catering experience may be preferred. Candidates are expected to maintain clean work areas, follow HACCP and company procedures, manage supplies responsibly, support senior chefs, and work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays. The role requires teamwork, stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to live and work 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 the MSC Group. It focuses on a refined, residential-style experience at sea, combining spacious suites, destination-led itineraries, fine dining, wellness, and personalized service. The company operates modern ships designed to offer guests a relaxed alternative to traditional cruising, with visits to coastal destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, and other regions. Its onboard teams work in an international environment and are expected to deliver discreet, attentive service while maintaining high operational and safety standards. Culinary employees support a range of restaurants and dining concepts, preparing fresh food for guests and crew. Employment commonly involves fixed-term contracts, shared or single crew accommodation depending on rank, onboard meals, travel to and from the vessel, and opportunities for progression within the wider MSC Group.