F.A.Q.arrow Life On Board
Getting Started with C-Deck

Q: How do I begin working with C-Deck?
A: After submitting your resume to us, we will determine who the recruitment specialist is in your skilled field, and assign them to you accordingly. Your C-Deck recruiter can be your most efficient link to the job market, Your recruiter often knows about jobs that are not publicly advertised. Having a recruiter who is in your niche market can be your fastest contact to identifying jobs in your specialty. So working well with your C-Deck recruiter can be a great advantage to you in your job search. Read below to get a better understanding of how to work successfully with a C-Deck recruiter


1. Show Commitment. Be sincere about working with your recruiter. Your enthusiasm will be interpreted as your level of interest in really changing jobs. Your level of commitment in working with your recruiter will be reciprocated by him/her.

2. Confide in Your Recruiter. Your recruiter is there to help you find the best job opportunity and can only do so if she/he has all the accurate all of the most important information from you. Do not hesitate to share your job search details with your recruiter. Include any organizations where you have already submitted your resume or have interviewed.

4. State Expectations. Assist your recruiter in your job search by explaining exactly what your expectations are.

5. Act Professionally. The level of professionalism you demonstrate while interacting with your recruiter will most likely be interpreted as the level of professionalism you will show at an interview, or on the job. Your recruiter will evaluate the professionalism you display to him/her to determine how well suited you are for certain career opportunities

6. Ask Pertinent Questions. Feel free to ask questions regarding issues that concern you (such as relocation, compensation, position details, prospective employers, etc.). There are no stupid questions. Always make a list of key questions. Get your answers to all the pertinent questions that are necessary to make your decision, if the job is offered.

7. Follow Through. When you make a commitment, see it through. Be committed to your job, and in your interactions with your recruiter. Don't cancel interviews except for emergency reasons and never be a "No Show".

8. Read Recruitment Materials. Prepare yourself. Research the organization in advance and read the materials available to you. Take your portfolio of career accomplishments or post them so your recruiter may evaluate them and share them with potential employers

9. Be Punctual. Return calls from your recruiter as soon as possible. Remember that your recruiter is providing his/her services to you as a candidate. Your promptness in response time and decision-making will be viewed positively to your recruiter for all of his/her hard work on your behalf. In addition, a phone call that is returned late could mean a missed opportunity. Be timely in sending your recruiter your requested documentation. Hiring authorities are usually not patient in waiting on applicants' paperwork, and interpret delays in submission as a lack of interest on the part of the applicant.

10. Be a Good Proofreader. Always complete a thorough and critical review of the documents you send to your C-Deck recruiter (i.e. resume, cover letter, work samples). Typographical errors, poor grammar or syntax can prevent you from getting the job. Be sure to provide all your skills relevant to the position you are applying for!

Remember: Your recruiter can be an invaluable partner to you in your search for your next career opportunity. A cooperative relationship between you and your recruiter is essential in order for you to obtain the highest level of service C-Deck recruiters have to offer. If you are not pleased as to how your recruiter performs please notify C-Deck Headquarters immediately, by emailing reception@c-deck.com
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Q: What are the candidate requirements for getting hired by a cruise line?
A: First and foremost, you must pass a full medical test, as well as a background check and drug test prior to being hired by ANY of the cruise lines. Next, you must possess a current passport from the country that you are from. Beyond that, each line has different methods and requirements for hiring and training of their employees. Send us your resume today and we will help place you with the line that suits you best!



Q: What types of positions does C-Deck, Inc. hire for?
A: C-Deck, Inc currently hires for ALL cruise line positions. Click here for a general list of job descriptions you can find onboard!

Q: What cruise lines does C-Deck hire for?
A: : C-Deck hires for a variety of major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruise Lines, Regent Seven Seas, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruise Lines, Seabourn, and Holland America


For a better understanding of cruise line jobs, please visit our Job Descriptions, or if you are ready to view our available jobs, please click here!



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Q: How long does a typical contract usually last?

A: Most contracts last between 4 and 6 months. You would then usually get 2 months off (unpaid) vacation. As always, there are exceptions to that rule, but those exceptions are typically reserved for those who have previous ship experience. The first 60-90 days are probationary, and whether you get asked back for a second contract is entirely up to the cruise line, based on your performance!

Q: What are the living situations like onboard?
A: Diverse. While living on a ship, there is usually anywhere from 10-50 different nationalities working together. Additionally, you might be required to share a cabin (depending on your position) with someone who works in your same field. A typical week means working 7 days and anywhere from 30-70 hours. You are normally paid every two weeks in cash. (USD)

Q: What type of itinerary can I expect?

A: The itineraries for each line vary immensely! Depending on the cruise line you are hired for, you might travel the USA, the Caribbean, see Europe from the sea, or even sail to Asia!

Q: What types of expenses will I incur while onboard?
A: When working on a cruise ship, there aren’t many things you have to pay for. All meals are included, your uniforms and sheets are laundered courtesy of the ship, medical and dental insurance is included while you are on contract, and you have no rent to pay. The expenses you will have to pay for include any personal shopping done while onboard, alcohol (which is highly discounted at the crew bar), and sometimes Internet usage (though many ships now have free wifi).

Q: Are there dress codes onboard?
A: Most cruise lines have dress codes. What you wear in the crew quarters or on land is your own business, but once you get up in the passenger areas you have to follow the dress code - even if you are not working. Depending on your position, some crewmembers don't have the privilege to be in passenger areas when they are not working. The Golden Rule: No blue jeans, shorts, tank tops or anything that would look out of place in a country club is allowed

Q: What should I pack?
A: You should pack general toiletries and clothing, and the ship will supply all towels and linens. Most Cabins have both 110v and 220v electrical power, so feel free to bring items such as your laptop computer, or anything similar that might help to make you feel more at home. Additional information specific to your particular position will be provided once hired.

Q: How will I keep in touch with family and friends?
A: The ships are in touch with land 24 hours a day via satellite. Most ships also have crew Internet cafes where you can keep in touch through email or most other forms of electronic communication! Phone calls can be made to and from your cabin for about $7.00 a minute. Faxes can also be made to anywhere in the world for about the same rate. But because of the high expense, this form of communication is typically only used for emergencies. There is always the old method of sending mail and/or packages to and from the ship. However, this method is slow (weeks instead of days) but is still the only way to get presents and 'care packages’ to and from the ship.
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