Yes. The minimum age to work on board is 18. On American ships, crew members under 21 cannot work in bars or serve alcohol, so those positions require you to be 21 or older. Some companies also set upper age limits. Check the requirements for the position you are interested in before applying.

Browse the open positions on our Hospitality Jobs and Marine Jobs pages (under Jobs in the menu) and apply online. You can also visit one of our offices listed on our Contact page: our headquarters at Westlands Business Park, 6th Floor, Chiromo Lane, Nairobi, Kenya, or our offices in Mauritius and Madagascar.

Requirements vary depending on the position you are applying for, but common requirements include being at least 18 years old, having relevant experience or qualifications for the job, being fluent in English (additional languages may be required for certain positions), and possessing the necessary certifications or licenses.

While previous experience in the hospitality or maritime industry is often preferred, it is not always required. Many entry-level positions offer on-the-job training, making them accessible to candidates without prior experience.

The hiring process typically involves submitting an online application, followed by a series of interviews (which may be conducted in person, over the phone, or via video). Successful candidates may then be required to undergo background checks, medical examinations, and onboard training before joining a ship.

Crew members typically receive a range of benefits, including competitive salaries, accommodation and meals provided onboard, access to onboard facilities and amenities during off-duty hours, opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to travel to various destinations around the world.

Contracts for ship jobs can vary in length, but they typically range from several months to a year. The duration of the contract may depend on factors such as the position, the vessel itinerary, and the needs of the shipping company. 

While some employers may allow employees to bring family members onboard as guests during certain times, it is not typically feasible for family members to live with employees for the duration of their contract. However, some employers offer family-friendly policies and benefits for employees.

While you can express preferences for specific shipping lines or ships during the application process, ultimately, the availability of positions and placements is determined by the shipping line’s staffing needs. We work with our principal clients and strive to match candidates with positions that align with their skills, experience, and preferences as closely as possible.

CSCS International Manning never charges candidates any fee for applying, recruitment or placement, and never collects money from you. You will need certain documents and certificates, such as a visa, seaman’s book and STCW certificates. For cruise ship positions, you pay for these yourself up front and the cruise line reimburses you once you are on board. These costs are paid directly to the issuing authorities and training providers, not to CSCS. If anyone asks you to pay money to CSCS, do not pay and report it to info@cscsinternational.africa.