In this post, you will learn a little bit about Rocio Gamboa and her experience working on cruise ships. Rocio was born and raised in Peru and since working on ships, she has been to over 70 countries. Rocio worked in the kids club department on Norwegian Cruise Line and her silly YC nickname was “Rainbow.”
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What Position you Currently Work or Have Worked Before?
I worked for Norwegian Cruise Line for about 10 years. I started as a Seasonal Youth Counselor for a year then became Full-Time Youth Counselor and since 2013 I was working as an Early Years Coordinator. I resigned in October 2018.
When and Why You Decided to Work on a Cruise Ship?
I wanted to work on a cruise ship after looking at all the pictures my brother had taken in different countries (he worked for Costa Cruise Lines). When I was finishing high school, I decided to apply when I was working as an English Teacher.
What Information Did You Know About Working on Cruise Ships?
I had a lot of information from my brother, but you only really know all about it once you are onboard.
Where did You Apply and How Long did the Hiring Process Take?
I applied at a recruiting agency in Lima-Peru called Bonavista Cruceros. The hiring process took approximately one month but I only got the letter of employment after six months.
How Much did You Have to Spend Before Joining?
I only had to spend on my C1-D visa, Red Cross Certificate (First Aid and CPR), and some paperwork. I would say approximately $300 dollars in total.
To learn more about what are the required documents to work on a cruise ship, visit this post.
First Impressions on Your First Contract?
I had a nice first contract. Too many things to learn at the same time, I had to do Basic Safety Training (See Requirements to Work on a Cruise ship post) and learn all about kids club rules and games. I was fortunate to have had really nice coworkers that helped me.
What’s Your Favorite and Least Favorite Things About Working on Cruise Ships?
My salary at the end of the month and visiting different countries. The least favorite was the long hours working on a sea day.
Favorite and Least Favorite Ports of Call and Why?
It’s hard to choose a place but I would say Italy, Greece and Montenegro are my top favorites. The least one is Freeport, Bahamas. (There’s not much to do near the port and there was not enough time to go farther due to boat drills or side duties).
What do You Usually do on Your Vacation?
I used to sleep for long hours without setting my alarm o’clock the first week I was home. I also used to travel on my own.
What Could Make Ship Life Better?
I would say crew facilities, like better choices of food. Also having proper training before being thrown out there is helpful.
Any Fun Stories?
Many fun stories. One 2-year-old boy calling a little girl “stupid whore” because she did not want a kiss from him and the way he said it was funny. He just learned to talk, and only his parents know where he learned that word. (we need to be careful what we say in front of kids)
What Tips/Advice do You Have for New Crew Members?
Don’t take things personally, just listen and take advice from everyone there, especially more experienced staff, try to rest as much as you can at least your first week on board. Fresh air is very important, so try to walk on the open deck whenever you can if the ship is at sea all day.
Any Last Words?
Working with people of different nationalities, cultures, customs, religions, and beliefs can be challenging but it will change the way you see things and for the better.
Working on a cruise ship allowed me the opportunity to provide for my family, to save some money that would’ve taken me a lot of years to do while working as a teacher in Peru, and also travel around the world.
I’ve been to more than 60 countries, met amazing people; some of them friends for life, to work with kids with some disabilities and learn how to treat them but most of all, to have met the love of my life.
I will always be thankful for this great experience. But for now, I think my sea legs are ready to settle on “land life”.
I want to thank Rocio for taking the time to share with us her experience about working on a cruise ship.
Have you worked on a cruise ship before or are you currently working on a cruise ship?
Let me know if you are interested in sharing your stories, fun photos and experiences of your journey at sea. Let the world know the awesome things you can do while working on a cruise ship. You will be helping future and current crew members learn more about what’s like to work on a cruise ship.
If you are interested, leave a comment below and we’ll be in touch soon.
I wanted freedom, open air and adventure. I found it on the sea.
Aliane Gerbaut
