The 2nd Officer on a cruise ship plays a crucial role in ensuring safe navigation and operational efficiency. As a certified Officer of the Watch, they manage bridge watch duties, oversee voyage planning, and maintain navigational equipment and charts. They assist in safety inspections, crew training, and emergency drills, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations. Additionally, the 2nd Officer monitors environmental and safety systems, reports significant events, and supports the Safety Officer in maintaining safety equipment. This position requires a valid STCW certificate, proficiency in English, and experience in maritime operations. The 2nd Officer's responsibilities are vital for the ship's safety, environmental compliance, and overall guest satisfaction.

The Third Officer on a cruise ship is a licensed deck officer responsible for safe navigation and onboard safety operations. As Officer of the Watch (OOW), they manage bridge duties during assigned shifts, ensuring adherence to voyage plans and maritime regulations. They assist in maintaining navigational charts, publications, and GMDSS communication systems. Additionally, the Third Officer oversees the inspection and upkeep of lifesaving and firefighting equipment, supporting the Safety Officer in drills and emergency preparedness. They contribute to deck maintenance, mooring operations, and administrative tasks such as updating ship certificates and safety documentation. This role requires an STCW-compliant in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) license, proficiency in English, and strong teamwork skills. The Third Officer plays a vital role in ensuring the vessel's safety, security, and operational efficiency, directly impacting the overall guest experience on board.

A Deck Cadet is a trainee officer aboard a cruise ship, gaining practical experience under the guidance of senior deck officers. Their responsibilities include assisting with bridge watchkeeping, maintaining navigational equipment, and participating in safety drills. Cadets are involved in deck operations such as mooring, anchoring, and routine maintenance tasks like painting and cleaning. They also help with cargo handling and ensure compliance with safety protocols. Throughout their training, Deck Cadets document their experiences in a training record book, essential for obtaining their Officer of the Watch certification. This role requires completion of mandatory STCW courses, including Basic Safety Training and Crowd Management. Proficiency in English and a strong commitment to learning are essential. The Deck Cadet position serves as a foundational step toward a career as a licensed deck officer, offering comprehensive exposure to the operational aspects of maritime navigation and ship management.

The 2nd Engineer on a cruise ship is a licensed officer responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of the engine room and associated technical systems. Reporting directly to the Chief Engineer, they supervise engine room staff, manage maintenance schedules, and ensure all machinery including main engines, auxiliary systems, and safety equipment— operates efficiently and safely. They conduct regular inspections, coordinate repairs, and maintain compliance with international maritime regulations such as MARPOL and SOLAS. The 2nd Engineer also plays a crucial role in emergency preparedness, leading drills and responding to technical emergencies. This position requires a valid STCW III/2 Chief Engineer license, proficiency in English, and strong leadership skills. The 2nd Engineer ensures the vessel's propulsion and hotel systems function optimally, contributing significantly to the ship's overall performance and guest satisfaction.

The Third Engineer on a cruise ship is a licensed officer responsible for maintaining and operating key engine room systems. They conduct watchkeeping duties, monitor machinery performance, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Key responsibilities include overseeing auxiliary engines, boilers, and fuel systems, performing routine maintenance, and assisting in emergency drills. They also manage fuel and lube oil levels, maintain accurate logs, and support the Second Engineer in training junior staff. This role requires an STCW-compliant Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch (OICEW) license, proficiency in English, and strong problem solving skills. The Third Engineer plays a vital role in ensuring the vessel's propulsion and hotel systems function optimally, contributing significantly to the ship's overall performance.

An Engine Cadet on a cruise ship is a trainee marine engineer gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of senior engineering officers.

Responsibilities include assisting with the maintenance and operation of engine room systems such as propulsion, fuel, electrical, and HVAC equipment. Cadets participate in routine inspections, record-keeping, and safety drills, while also learning to operate pumps, generators, and auxiliary machinery. They are expected to follow safety protocols, complete tasks assigned by the Second or Chief Engineer, and diligently update their training record book as part of their progression toward an Officer of the Watch (Engine) certification. This role requires completion of mandatory STCW courses, including Basic Safety Training, and a strong commitment to learning and teamwork. The Engine Cadet position is a foundational step toward a career as a licensed marine engineer, offering comprehensive exposure to shipboard engineering operations.

Carries out general upkeep of the ship’s exterior and deck surfaces, ensuring the vessel remains clean and visually maintained.

Assists with docking and undocking procedures, supporting senior crew during port arrivals and departures.

Stands gangway and lookout duties as instructed, maintaining vigilance for onboard safety and security.

Takes part in regular safety drills and onboard training, staying ready to follow emergency procedures when needed.

Works under the direction of senior deck officers, contributing to team success through disciplined and efficient performance.

Responsible for cleaning and maintaining machinery spaces, including wiping down equipment and general cleaning in the engine room.

Helps operate disposal systems such as incinerators and compactors under guidance.

Follows all safety measures and wears protective gear while working near hazardous equipment.

Notifies supervisors about technical faults or unsafe conditions for timely resolution.

Assists engineering staff with routine maintenance tasks and participates in safety training sessions.

Maintains ship surfaces by chipping, painting, and performing minor repairs to preserve structural integrity.

Supports bridge watchkeeping duties and operates as a lookout or helmsman when required.

Handles deck equipment like winches and windlasses during cargo handling and anchoring.

Serves in the lifeboat crew, participating in drills and emergency preparedness exercises.

Guides junior deckhands, promoting proper techniques and safety awareness onboard.

Inspects and maintains HVAC and cooling systems onboard to ensure consistent climate control.

Troubleshoots and fixes any issues related to heating and air conditioning systems in guest and crew spaces.

Routinely cleans filters, checks refrigerants, and calibrates system controls.

Works with engineering team to resolve technical malfunctions and optimize system functionality.

Maintains safety standards when working with refrigerants and high-pressure systems, logging all repairs and checks.

Maintains and repairs all shipboard electrical systems including lighting, control panels, and distribution networks.

Responds quickly to power outages or equipment issues to restore full operations.

Tests emergency electrical gear regularly to comply with maritime safety protocols.

Uses safety procedures for high-voltage systems, ensuring a risk-free working environment.

Coordinates larger projects with the Chief Electrician, documenting all maintenance activities.

A Plumber on a cruise ship plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning of the vessel’s plumbing systems, contributing directly to passenger comfort and regulatory compliance. Working under the technical or hotel maintenance department, the Plumber handles the installation, maintenance, and repair of systems including fresh water, drainage, sewage, and vacuum assisted toilets. Duties include inspecting and servicing pumps, pipelines, evaporators, and storage tanks, as well as maintaining black and gray water lines. They manage the sewage treatment plant to meet maritime discharge standards and respond to repair requests resolving leaks, unclogging drains, and replacing fixtures as needed. By keeping all water systems operational, the Plumber ensures safe, hygienic, and smooth onboard operations for both guests and crew throughout the voyage.

The Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is a licensed engineering professional responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of all electrical and electronic systems onboard a cruise ship. This role covers power generation, distribution, lighting, HVAC, elevators, and advanced systems such as radar, GPS, sonar, and communication networks. Working closely with marine engineers, the ETO specializes in electrical/electronic engineering and plays a vital role in ensuring the vessel operates safely and efficiently. Core responsibilities include continuously monitoring electrical systems, performing diagnostics, and executing preventive maintenance on generators, switchboards, control systems, fire detection devices, and automation networks. The ETO ensures all electronic systems whether bridge consoles or engine control panels are functional at all times to maintain guest safety, navigational accuracy, and overall ship performance.

The Security Officer is a key member of the cruise ship’s Security Department, responsible for upholding the ship’s security plan and ensuring the safety of guests, crew, and property. This role includes managing access points, supervising screenings, and enforcing international maritime security protocols like the ISPS Code. Reporting to the Chief Security Officer or Staff Captain, they coordinate the onboard security team and maintain 24/7 vigilance. Duties include monitoring CCTV systems, conducting patrols, and investigating incidents such as theft or disturbances. Security Officers also enforce restricted area policies and verify identification to prevent unauthorized access. In emergencies, they act as trained first responders—controlling conflicts, securing scenes, and collaborating with other departments as needed to ensure order and compliance onboard.

A Fitter or Fitter/Welder is a skilled crew member in the engine department, specializing in mechanical repairs, welding, and metal fabrication to maintain the ship’s equipment and structural integrity. Reporting to senior engineers, they assist in the upkeep of engines, piping systems, valves, and other technical components. Their duties include welding, cutting, and assembling metal parts to repair or replace machinery, often working in the ship’s workshop. Fitters also perform routine inspections across engine room areas, identifying potential hazards like leaks, loose fittings, or unusual vibrations. They either fix minor issues on the spot or escalate concerns to engineering officers to avoid operational disruptions. Their role is critical in supporting the safe, reliable performance of the ship’s propulsion and technical systems.

A Carpenter, also known as a Joiner, is responsible for all shipboard carpentry tasks, ensuring that wooden structures and interior fittings are well maintained. Handle repairs and installations involving doors, panels, flooring, handrails, and furniture. Their duties include maintaining both decorative and safety-critical woodwork such as fire doors, staircases, and deck railings. They also work with laminates, veneers, and occasionally perform minor upholstery or tile repairs. Carpenters inspect and fix wall and ceiling panels that may loosen from ship vibrations, contributing to overall safety and passenger comfort. By ensuring proper function and condition of wood elements throughout the vessel, including emergency exits and fire safety doors, they play a key role in maintaining onboard standards and safety compliance.