Ferry vacancies

Passenger ferry: Who can I find a job?

Surely, every person knows about the existence of passenger ferries, even if they are not directly connected with the sea and the fleet. Many people have even used the services of such courts, but what are they? Generally, passenger ferries - an important link in the system of sea and river transportation. These ships transport thousands of people every day between cities, islands and countries, covering routes of varying lengths. Ferries operate both within one state and on international lines, combining the functions of transport and partly of a hotel.Passenger ferry service requires special responsibility, since the crew works not only with equipment, but also with people. This imposes additional requirements on the level of service, discipline and readiness to act in emergency situations.

Features of the passenger ferry

A modern passenger ferry is a vessel capable of transporting both passengers and vehicles. There are purely passenger ferries, as well as Ro-Pax - mixed-type ships equipped with car and cargo decks. On board such ferries can accommodate from 100 to several thousand people.Depending on the route and duration of the voyage, ferries are divided into:

• ToShort lines (1–4 hours) - between islands, ports of the same region;

• day routes (up to 24 hours) - most often within the country;

• international passages (from a day or more) - with full service on board.

Vacancies on passenger ferries

Passenger ferries require an extensive crew, including both traditional maritime positions and service personnel. Depending on the size of the vessel and its route, the following vacancies may be available:

• ToCaptain (Master) - controls the ship, is responsible for safety;

• Chief Officer - mooring organization, navigation, security;

• watch assistants (2O, 3O) - maintain a navigator's watch, monitor navigation;

• boatswain and sailors - work on deck, servicing gear, working with ramps;

• Chief Engineer - responsible for the entire technical part;

• mechanics of the 2nd and 3rd rank - maintenance of machines and generators;

• mechanics and electricians - daily maintenance, troubleshooting;

• refrigeration mechanics - in the presence of refrigeration units and air conditioning systems;

• conductors and stewards - seating passengers, cleaning, assistance;

• cook and galley staff - catering on board;

• bartenders, waiters, cashiers - in the presence of cafes and shops;

• cleaners - maintaining cleanliness in public areas;

• Safety Officer - monitoring emergency preparedness, crew training;

• medical worker - especially important on long routes;

• animators and entertainment staff - on large cruise ferries;

• duty free employees - selling goods on international flights.

For marine specialists, the requirements are standard, as for any other vessels: 

• maritime diploma for the position;
  valid STCW certificates (including Passenger Safety);
  medical certificate form 086/у;
  work experience (on ferries is an advantage);
  Fluency in English (especially on international routes).

The following requirements are established for maintenance personnel: 

• experience in the hotel or restaurant business;

• accuracy, stress resistance, politeness;

• knowledge of English (and others - at the request of the shipowner);

• readiness for shift work.

Peculiarities ferry services

Working on a passenger ferry differs from the cargo fleet:

• frequent maneuvers, mooring features; 

• many passengers, and accordingly greater responsibility; 

• strict adherence to safety standards; 

• rotational service and short contracts; 

• the ability to stay as close to home as possible when it comes to domestic routes. 

The advantage is stability, high standards, regular contracts. But it is also important to be prepared for high labor intensity, especially in the summer season or when the ship is fully loaded.

Conclusion

Passenger ferry — this is not just transport, but an entire floating infrastructure. Working on such a ship requires discipline, the ability to work in a team and a willingness to communicate with passengers. In return - an interesting service, decent pay and the opportunity for career growth.To search for vacancies, it is better to contact reliable crewing companies, for example, “Marine MAN”. The company offers employment for both experienced sailors and beginners who want to try themselves in the field of passenger transportation. Convenient search for vacancies, support of documents, support at all stages - all this makes employment easier and safer.