At a Glance
- Tasks: Support guest services and administration onboard, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality service.
- Company: Join a leading cruise line with a focus on exceptional guest experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 6:2 rotation, shared accommodation, and time off to recharge.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth in a multicultural environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting travel experience while enhancing your hospitality skills.
- Qualifications: Previous cruise ship experience and strong guest service knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
The Assistant Purser plays a key role in supporting either the Guest Services or Administration function onboard, depending on operational requirements. This position contributes directly to smooth guest operations, accurate documentation, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high-quality guest service. The role involves supervising guest-facing teams or coordinating administrative and compliance processes related to guest movement, reporting, and liaison with authorities. Assignment to either function will be determined based on operational needs and may remain fixed for the duration of the contract. The Assistant Purser may also be required to cover night operations as part of a rotational duty schedule.
Key Responsibilities
- Guest Services Function
- Supervise Guest Services Officers, ensuring adherence to hotel policies, procedures, service standards, and financial controls.
- Provide ongoing coaching and operational support to enable effective use of guest service tools and processes.
- Support staff scheduling to ensure appropriate coverage and service continuity.
- Ensure guest complaints, service issues, and hotel defects are accurately documented, followed up, and escalated where required.
- Support the handling of lost luggage cases, ensuring timely communication and updates to affected guests.
- Promote ownership of guest issues within the team, ensuring resolutions are clearly communicated and closed.
- Assist in delivering service standards, product knowledge, and guest service training.
- Support cross-training initiatives to broaden team members’ exposure to different service functions.
- Maintain awareness of public health requirements and support onboard response coordination when required.
- Ensure accurate management of cash floats and settlement of guest accounts in line with financial procedures.
- Monitor compliance with financial controls and support the resolution of discrepancies.
- Administration Function
- Liaise with port officials to arrange suitable working areas and ensure accurate handover of guest documentation.
- Prepare, process, and transmit required passenger and voyage documentation to relevant authorities in compliance with immigration and security regulations.
- Advise onboard and shore-side teams on guest and crew counts prior to sailing, including international guest requirements.
- Ensure the accuracy, confidentiality, and protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) at all times.
- Prepare and distribute non-revenue guest lists, cabin utilisation reports, and support disembarkation planning.
- Coordinate with department leaders to ensure non-revenue guests meet customs and immigration requirements.
- Liaise with port agents to manage transfers and documentation for guests joining or leaving the vessel mid-voyage.
- Support embarkation teams by providing documentation guidance and reference materials.
- Ensure missing guest data and documentation are collected and updated in relevant systems.
- Be present in the terminal during embarkation and disembarkation to support ground handlers and supervisors.
- Additional Responsibilities
- When assigned, act in a Night Manager capacity, overseeing overnight hotel operations and ensuring continuity of guest service and operational control.
Skills, Knowledge and Experience
Non-Negotiable Requirements
- Previous cruise ship experience.
- Graduate of a recognised hotel or business school or a minimum of two years' experience as a Front Desk Supervisor or Assistant Manager.
- Strong knowledge of guest service operations and administrative processes.
- Proven understanding of immigration, clearance, and compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
- Proficiency in computer-based front office systems and standard office software.
- Excellent command of the English language, both written and spoken.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.
- Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality.
Strongly Preferred
- Knowledge of additional languages.
- Experience working with port authorities, immigration officials, or embarkation operations.
- Strong problem-solving skills and confidence handling complex guest situations.
- High level of personal motivation and attention to detail.
- Warm, personable communication style with strong interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- Ability to build and maintain respectful working relationships in a diverse, multicultural environment.
Contract Details
- 6:2 rotation (6 consecutive months onboard the ship, followed by 2 months of vacation).
- Shared/double cabin accommodation.
Assistant Purser employer: Cruise Academy
As a Chef de Partie Butcher with us, you will join a dynamic and supportive team dedicated to culinary excellence aboard our cruise ship. We offer a unique work environment that fosters professional growth, with opportunities to refine your skills in butchery while enjoying a 6/2 rotation that allows for ample time off. Our commitment to food safety and quality, combined with a diverse cultural atmosphere, makes us an exceptional employer for those seeking a rewarding career in the culinary arts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Purser
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Cruise Academy. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Cruise Academy
Don't be shy about reaching out to Cruise Academy directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Purser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Cruise Academy and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cruise Academy
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
