Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Executive Pastry Chef
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Executive Pastry Chef leads the ship’s pastry operation, overseeing production of breads, desserts, cakes, chocolates and specialty items across onboard venues. Requirements typically include extensive pastry experience in luxury hotels, resorts or cruise ships, strong knowledge of international baking techniques, food-safety standards and allergen control, plus proven leadership and cost-management skills. The successful candidate is expected to manage and train a multicultural team, maintain consistent presentation and quality, plan menus and orders, control waste, and work efficiently in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment. Flexibility, professionalism, creativity and the ability to work long contracts at sea are essential.
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, one of the world’s major privately owned shipping and travel companies. Explora Journeys focuses on refined, hotel-style cruising, combining spacious suites, destination-led itineraries, high-quality dining and personalized service. Its ships are designed for guests seeking a relaxed and contemporary alternative to traditional cruising, with multiple restaurants, lounges, wellness facilities and enrichment programs. Culinary standards are central to the brand, with menus emphasizing international influences, fresh ingredients and distinctive presentation. Shipboard employees work in a multicultural environment and are expected to deliver polished service while maintaining operational and safety standards. Roles generally include accommodation, meals and access to onboard facilities during contracts, although exact benefits, contract terms and pay vary by position, vessel and nationality.