Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Asst. Maitre d
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Assistant Maître d supports the Maître d in managing restaurant service, coordinating dining-room teams, assigning sections, monitoring table service and maintaining high guest-service standards. Candidates should have previous experience in fine dining, luxury hotels or cruise-ship restaurants, along with strong knowledge of food and beverage service. Excellent communication, leadership and problem-solving skills are expected, as well as a professional appearance, attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure. Flexibility is essential because the role involves long hours, rotating shifts, weekends and extended periods at sea. English is generally required; additional languages and cruise experience are advantageous.
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. The company focuses on sophisticated, spacious ships, personalized service and immersive destination experiences rather than traditional mass-market cruising. Its hospitality approach combines the standards of high-end hotels and resorts with the convenience of global ocean travel. Guests can expect elegant accommodation, premium dining, wellness facilities, curated entertainment and carefully designed shore experiences. Employees work in an international environment alongside colleagues from many countries and are expected to deliver discreet, attentive and highly personalized service. As a growing luxury cruise brand, Explora Journeys offers opportunities in hotel operations, restaurants, culinary services, guest relations, housekeeping, entertainment, marine operations and corporate support. Benefits for onboard roles commonly include accommodation, meals, travel to and from the vessel, medical support and opportunities for promotion.