How Much Do Cruise Ship Crew Get Paid? Performer salaries, onboard expenses and more!

[@vincent412l7]

Pride of America is US-flagged and is subject to US labor laws (including minimum wage, work hours, and overtime).

[@QuadfidenceSteph.]

For a young and single person, this is pretty much the dream

[@latishaconey5883]

It truly is

[@WVUGRAD2012]

High or low expenses are part of life as well as paying taxes! So you could chose to save or budget even with these matters. Remember, life is about choices, good or bad, and If we are old enough to make choices than we are certainly able to live with our decisions and/or consequences.

[@ghazanfaryaq6776]

$3500.00/month is a good salary considering the fact that food & lodging is free. Again, that all depends on your overheads back home. Most entertainers I've met on cruises are young and single.

[@Mojothepyruttarrr]

I got a cat not going without my best mate don't care how much gold there offering no matey no go eee

[@Mojothepyruttarrr]

Il write books and lyrics in stead

[@butchkaminsky9470]

Health insurance, dental and eye care, IRA? Etc.

[@jonericksen3278]

You realize that is about starting entry wage for unskilled McDonald's workers? And they have to work much more hours with less freedom and miss out on most if not all important family gatherings

[@travelwithdebandnick]

yeah but sounds like that is not what they get in there paycheck after taxes. that 3500 goes down to around 2000 after taxes and the long 14 hour days that some of the crew do makes I not look as attractive in the end sadly

[@moniquefonseca1395]

Thank you for sharing. My family and I love cruising and have always wondered how the crew is paid. I totally agree that the experiences and memories you make are priceless. I hope you continue to enjoy the rest of your time in Hawaii.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you for watching!! ♥️

[@thomasmurray3920]

Yes, I can relate to the expense of places like Hawaii, Japan, etc. as a former Navy officer. When I first started as an Ensign I made $8,900 per year. Four years later as a Lieutenant it was $16,000. We weren’t getting rich back in the late 1970s-early 80s. BTW you have a pleasant voice. Keep up the good work.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Oh wow! That is so interesting! Thank you for watching 🤗

[@walterhumbird4040]

My wife and I sailed on the Pride of America May 2022 for our anniversary, and it was a wonderful experience. We enjoyed the live shows every night in the theater, and all the performers are first class broadway entertainers. A lot of fun things to do on the ship with great excursions in every Hawaiian port. The Pride of American is a beautiful ship, and our memories sailing through the Hawaiian Islands will last a lifetime.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yay!! Im so glad you guys had a good time! ☺️ happy anniversary!

[@Plymouthmusicschool]

I am a musician, and if it ever came up for me in my early 20s and a cruise ship, I would’ve jumped at it. Experience alone would make it worth my time :-) sounds wonderful.

[@lborg960]

Thanks. Very interesting. My wife and I love going on cruises and I know that all the staff on the ships work very hard.

[@retroarcadefan]

Thanks for the insight into how well you are paid and the things covered outside of that!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thanks for watching! 🤗

[@larryonting]

Hawaii resident here. Thanks for the video. Yes, living in Hawaii is very expensive. If you're single with no family responsibility, I do think working on a cruise ship or a navy ship is well worth it.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Expensive but so worth it! 😍 and I agree!

[@Fish29077]

Offshore vessels in Australia, deck crew are on roughly $200,000AUD ($133,500USD) a year, with 6 months off. I can understand why people work cruise ships for very little pay. The experience alone would be worth a contract or two.

[@seanwebb605]

@@Fish29077 Working in most staff or crew positions on a cruise ship won't give you the operational experience or credentials to then work as a proper sailor on other types of ships.

[@peacelife]

Wow! U prob the 1st one being this honest sharing your pay 👏. I wanted to work on this ship but it was available. I got offer a position with the Joy when it was about to debut, but the pay was too low as a Customer Service rep desk so I had to decline. The pay was before tax and I won't make enough for the US tax with all the work hr.

[@becfurness8597]

I was in a customer service role 20 years ago on Norwegian Majesty and Norwegian Sea (both now not part of the fleet). I remember I got $990 a month. I hardly spent any of it because I was good at saving and if I wanted the occasional drink at the crew bar they were $1 each for either a beer or a vodka cruiser type drink.

[@lizarichards2243]

Thanks for sharing!!! FYI. Most of corporate america pays about 30% in taxes and social security.

[@kimmy722]

Thank you for posting. Hopefully this will help stop all the ridiculous fighting people love to do when it comes to crew members paychecks!

[@jacobnebehk5867]

I just got done taking my medical exam two weeks ago. I am looking foward to joing up with this ship pretty soon, hopfully haha. I will be joining the youth staff team, and can not wait to see what the job is like!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yay! That's a great department with great people!

[@Invicta-mj7hc]

Hi! I’m 18 and got hired on as an Assistant waiter! This was abt a month ago that I accepted my offer and I m still waiting on Anderson Kelly, just resending in signed documents. How long did your MMC medical, and then to Training take for you? Are you still on the POA how’s it going?

[@jimshoe402]

Thanks!

[@jimshoe402]

Thank You !!! I was in cabin 10174 i tink Suites Above me and met the guy above me . He said I spent 10 Thousand Dollars (me $2K)and he was pissed off at Wife.. I tip well..ALOHA😁😁😁😁 Saw the Crew Kissing too Oh My God !!!🥰🥰

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you! Your support is so appreciated 🤗

[@jimshoe402]

@@krista.jocelyn I met the Pool drink person there for 6 months. Me and Her no one there, that cruise a No Profit Cruise for Drink people..😁😁😁😁

[@NateTheGreat1791]

I worked on Pride of America back in 2017. I was a restaurant steward (busser). I only lasted 6 weeks on the ship. Ship life wasn’t for me lol! Goal was to work on the ship for at least a year. Do two contracts. Working 7 days a week doing about 70 hours just bussing tables in the buffet restaurant. My pay was $7.69 an hour. Wasn’t worth it!

[@hoodhunter3262]

you're kidding right? $7.69 an hour doing hard labor?

[@NateTheGreat1791]

@@hoodhunter3262 I wish I was! Nope, I was making that much for my position. They pay everyone slightly above federal minimum wage on that ship. Who knows if the pay structure has changed since then though. I’d be curious to know.

[@seanwebb605]

On most lines those jobs go to people from poor countries.

[@kenlord7262]

These videos from Pride of America are great!!!!! Am interviewing with them on Wednesday (not for entertainment but crew) and its been so helpful seeing the cabin and hearing about crew life onboard!! Thank you!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Good luck with the interview! 🤗

[@Invicta-mj7hc]

How did the interview go? Hi! I’m 18 and got hired on as an Assistant waiter! This was abt a month ago that I accepted my offer and I m still waiting on Anderson Kelly, just resending in signed documents. How long did your MMC medical, and then to Training take for you? Are you still on the POA how’s it going?

[@nicolasbaker1245]

Love your videos! Just got an offer letter 3 days ago for restaurant steward and I can't wait!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Congrats! Have fun! :)

[@marktheshark7966]

Good afternoon Krista just wanted to say that I love your videos I wish you would make more but I love your videos you’re awesome please continue the great work that you’re doing your continent and your Vlogs awesome as hell so I will hopefully that you can make more so we can actually understand what you go through on a daily basis

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you so much!! 🥺 that means so much to me! Anything specific you want to see?

[@maryannsharp8427]

I have completed the extra hoops on medical and hope to be onboard soon. Next stop is Maryland for MMC. I am excited to be working in shore excursions. Look forward to meeting you!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yay!! I hope the rest of the process goes smoothly for you!

[@maryannsharp8427]

@@krista.jocelyn it has only been since February 15th! 😂😂😂

[@maryannsharp8427]

Think I am finally done. Ready to be sent to Piney Point! Questions on the day: 1) What shoes are required for crew on POA? 2) Are there any theme nights that I need to pack for? 3) what did you pack that you should have left at home? 4) What do you wish you had packed? 5) Can you keep jars of nuts in your cabin?

[@krista.jocelyn]

@@maryannsharp8427 yay!! Shoes will depend on your department! I think you guys wear black but I’m not sure. Since you’re in Hawaii the whole time you’ll have access to everything you need to buy. So id wait and purchase large toiletries and things until you get here. And yes you can have nuts 🙂 they just don’t want like a rotten banana in your fridge lol

[@krista.jocelyn]

@@maryannsharp8427 and the crew bar just re opened so we haven’t had theme night but I am hoping they will start soon. I wouldn’t worry about packing for that though 🙂

[@AL.BUNDY.]

Considering u don't have to pay for rent, gas, electricity, car insurance, car registration, gas, etc you save a ton of money. Like the car / gas stuff probably saves u 3k a month. Like rent 2500 a month? Maybe with a room mate 1000 a month? So basically that's around 7500-9000 a month if u worked at a non cruise type of job and had 4200 a month saved after those living expenses. That's like 90-108k a year. Nice! Plus, u get to see the world! Seems like a great situation to be in!

[@seanwebb605]

The savings in living expense can make a real difference. But not everyone can easily return home for four to eight weeks and live with their parents. You'll need a plan for where you are going to live during the breaks between contracts when you earn zero dollars. Which is why most staff and crew do it while they are young, take shorter breaks between contracts, and sleep on a couch or with multiple roommates while they are off.

[@jonathanmoreland5652]

Hello i have worked 4.5 years on Pride of America Utility Galley 75+ hours a week @$14hr I have to pay my home city tax as well, lots of taxs. I never uber no where I walk most places Beach is free I do buy snacks Go to movies Once i get back to Maui ill walk back to the ship from the Airport Walk to Waikiki in Honolulu Walk up the road in Kauai to the mall Hit the sushi for lunch Sometimes I'll take the bus

[@TheKnowledgeCrusade]

You have such a talent for making even the simplest things seem magical. ✨

[@krista.jocelyn]

Awh wow thank you so much! ♥️

[@jasonbanh6175]

Hi Krista, I hope everything will be ok for you. Thanks for your honest.

[@kathleenwhelan6500]

Great to get the budget sorted. We have just started on our lap. We are currently in Nambucca Heads NSW.

[@linwu4269]

Waiter assistant 1370$/ month, tips is very depend. Sometimes 0 on one cruise sometimes hundreds. Most of them just get 1370. Waiters get around 2500-3000 as basic.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you for this! I wasn't sure!

[@kendimutegi517]

How about sales assistant please...😀

[@dave5833]

Just found you channel and subscribed. I think you have very interesting content, thank you.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you so much! 🤗

[@marcbellucci2469]

Good info, thank you. Dr. Marc

[@dennisclark8766]

Excellent video!

[@josezavala1558]

I worked on that ship in 2017 you definitely make more then us servers did we worked 12 hours a day and took home 1300 every two weeks

[@seanwebb605]

The vloggers covering cruise ships often aren't representative of the experience. They tend to be wealthier Americans and Canadians, not the majority of crew who do hard work for long hours at low pay.

[@prinevy80]

Things have changed; back in the time in 2000 years, the crew from the F&B department used to earn by tips only and wasn’t prepaid added automatically to the passengers. Can you imagine when the ship had to go to Europe? (They don't know the word tip). That's why I say, back in the time, the crew used to work harder than nowadays. I can see the difference when I cruise with my family. 😉

[@charlesjay8818]

We don't tip in Europe like in the US because we get paid properly. And in Japan it can be rude to tip. Tipping is Just American culture, because you have crap salaries and health care and everything else

[@dairyair5371]

You're statement makes no sense. Americans give more money to the service help because they have "crap salaries"? Wouldn't it make more sense that they tip because they have the disposable income to do it? Also, "We don't tip in Europe like in the US because we get paid properly." This would make more sense if it said "We don't tip in Europe like in the US because we can't afford it". @@charlesjay8818

[@temmietaft2552]

Thanks for sharing this video. I really enjoyed it!!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@SarahL-wx3fq]

Thank you for these videos! They have been helping me to not be as nervous. I'm going to training next week then hopefully straight to the ship. I'm currently figuring out what to pack but the one thing that's not clear is the type shoes we are supposed to wear while working. I will be joining as a photographer and wasn't sure if you might know? If there's a certain style or just non-slip black shoes?

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yay!! I am not totally positive but yeah I believe black non slip. I know the photographers wear all black!

[@SarahL-wx3fq]

@@krista.jocelyn Thank you so much!

[@JustTezFilms]

@@SarahL-wx3fq Hey what was it like working as a photographer and are you still working?

[@Invicta-mj7hc]

Hi! I’m 18 and got hired on as an Assistant waiter! This was abt a month ago that I accepted my offer and I m still waiting on Anderson Kelly, just resending in signed documents. How long did your MMC medical, and then to Training take for you? Are you still on the POA how’s it going?

[@dalejensen5828]

The free rent, food etc. would be worth maybe $1600/month. Worked at Northrup Gruman in facility engineering and witnessed the hull of that ship being constructed plus designed some support apparatus used by the shipyard in order to construct that ship. Original owner of that ship (Delta Steamship CO) went bankrupt during its construction after the 9-11 travel downturn.

[@seanwebb605]

The quality of accommodations and food can be quite low.

[@darianberrones4382]

Hello! I'm waiting for my second interview but was just curious about how active I'll be able to be on the ship between work and resting lol. It'd be cool to see the crew amenities in detail, especially the crew gym and mess hall

[@krista.jocelyn]

Im planning to make a video about the crew areas soon! And since we are in port everyday it really just depends if you want to get off the ship or not!

[@joshuamiller2627]

I'm waiting on the onboarding administrator to get in touch with me my job offer is for utility hotel

[@jeskamstra6964]

@@joshuamiller2627 how long did it take for them to get back to you? Do you have a ship out date?

[@joshuamiller2627]

@@jeskamstra6964 after my virtual interview took 2 days till get my offer letter then a week till the onboarding administrator reached out to me I have everything done but since my BMI is 43 the Dr is wanting me to get a sleep study test done before he passes or fails my physical

[@Invicta-mj7hc]

@@joshuamiller2627 Hi! I’m 18 and got hired on as an Assistant waiter! This was abt a month ago that I accepted my offer and I m still waiting on Anderson Kelly, just resending in signed documents. How long did your MMC medical, and then to Training take for you? Are you still on the POA how’s it going?

[@frankchris07]

Start a Roth IRA put 100 a week in for retirement from age 25 to 65 you should have around 1.5 million to use for retirement a pension if you will.

[@markpolakovich6697]

One thing you never touched on is how many hours a week are you working…So if your a dancer do you work 4 hours a day and the other 20 are yours or do they have y’all do extra work on the ship

[@catabolistnyc1207]

Great vid! Would love to learn about other skilled gigs onboard, such as massage, beauty services and the like. Child care? Thank you!

[@jholly5747]

Check out Lucy on cruising as crew. She has a lot of great information about different positions on cruise ships. Lucy was a massage therapist in the spas. She also works in the shops too.

[@jimcapone2593]

Back in and way back in 1994 working for Costa Cruise ( i think now carnival owned) Lines out of Italy as a musician 400.00 a week in ca$h taxes and all were up to us to pay.

[@Simplyliving-365]

Your newest subscribers 😀. Thanks for sharing ☺️

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yay thank you! 🤗

[@Bess9779]

Too bad they don't go with Florida wages where we don't have to pay a state employment tax. Hawaii is possibly one of the highest in the country.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Ugh seriously! That would be so nice!!

[@philipmclaughlin9636]

Yep my Brother-In-Law just had a 9 month contract on Disney Cruise line preforming Aladin and his Ship turned over every week at Port Canaveral.

[@edkaempf906]

I'm glad you learned, and shared, the amount taken out for taxes. Welcome to the club. Of course, you need to pay your fair share, right?

[@lynyrdskynyrdtributeband]

You are a very smart woman. I play in a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band "Almost Skynard" . We were considering pitching to the cruise industry, but I don't think it pays enough for us to do it.

[@Mudtoes]

My daughter is about to graduate high school and is interested in building work experience to do lighting and such in the entertainment part of crew once old enough to work on a ship. Any tips or ideas on how much she might make or what she needs to do ?

[@skydiver71903]

The Pride of America!!! I worked on her from 2007 - 2008 as a broadcast / audio lighting tech. Enjoy.

[@thej2756]

$1400 usd converted nzd, would be pretty decent pay, it'll be a matter of workload vs pay.

[@admtim]

Great stuff! Do y'all get tips?

[@krista.jocelyn]

We do not!

[@admtim]

@@krista.jocelyn whaaaaat???? that's so rude! I'ma tip y'all directly!

[@candacerichardson3358]

Thats way more than i make. I would love to make that.

[@dork418]

I worked on the pride of America also haha

[@jlawrence0181]

You should really have a better understanding of the taxes you are paying. Of the taxes withheld, you are paying 7.5% in FICA/Medicare just like every other American. At your income level, Hawaii state income taxes should be 7-8%. Are you having too much withheld for federal taxes? Did you get a refund on your federal income tax return? Do realize that federal tax withholding can be adjusted through a W-4 form.

[@seanwebb605]

Keep in mind that they are likely working in this unique situation for four to six months. The next contract would likely be on a different ship under different circumstances. Pride Of America is indeed different in some ways. Relatively low income compared to land based jobs also means that you're paying fairly little in income taxes. Especially when you consider the time between contracts without pay

[@bakaichigo]

Well not bad, you both make more than me in a 2 week period at my corporate job. Sucks about the tax chunk, but nothing to be done about those deductions.

[@johnnycakeslim]

Great to know. Thanks

[@BG-kq6cn]

Are the Asian and African performers (from developing countries) getting paid way less? I heard the pay was 1800 - 2100$ per month 😂

[@krista.jocelyn]

If they are employed as production cast they get paid a US salary so the same as anyone in the cast regardless of where they are from!

[@BG-kq6cn]

Thank you very much for the insights. Could you please suggest some companies that were most likely to hire non-local artists? Due to the economic situation globally, I could understand that companies/agencies might prefer artists who were currently located in the countries, hence I wonder. @@krista.jocelyn

[@seanwebb605]

You basically have to move to the U.S. so that the companies that produce the shows will cast you. Then you would make the same as anyone else in the cast. But if you are in a poor country they would recruit you for close to slave wages in manual labour jobs.

[@jeffjefferson930]

Krista, everyone pays federal income tax, you're a US resident. We all have that 28% (plus/minus) taken out. It isn't because you're in Hawaii.

[@seanwebb605]

I think that maybe you're talking past each other a bit. Some American cruise lines that hire some Americans will do payroll deductions. For most of the staff and crew you get paid cash twice a week without any payroll deductions. You're then required to file your income tax returns in your home country. It's not uncommon for some young women to claim that they live off of their parents or boyfriends and don't have an income. Explaining to your bank where the money comes from becomes an issue. Caught with tax evasion can also become a big issue.

[@kathryncashner3294]

Do you even realize where the money out of your paycheck is going? Yes, only 2/3 of your gross earnings are going to your bank account, but it isn't all due to Hawaii. As you noted, there is a deduction for your health insurance. There are also deductions for Hawaii income tax, federal income tax, social security, medicare tax, etc. These are all required taxes that are taken from every US employee's paycheck. When you file state and federal taxes on April 15, you MAY see a refund of some of this based on your total income, family situation, etc. As a young single person, you probably won't! Those US citizens and residents who are on international ships are legally required to file tax returns and pay those taxes. If you were British, your income while at sea would not be taxed by that government because they don't tax "seamen," but if you were on a US flagged ship, you'd pay a lesser amount of US taxes as a US worker. Bottom line, you are stuck with the tax regulations based on your nationality and where you are working...no way around it. Cruise lines vary. On Virgin, crew members get free internet, basic toiletries, laundry soap, etc. and are allowed to eat in guest areas during certain hours (based on the ship occupancy) at no charge. They do pay for any alcohol or specialty coffee/tea they buy in guest areas. However, the ship has a no tipping culture. This works great for most employees as their salaries are increased well above other lines. However, some positions, like bar tenders, can find themselves earning less than other lines because they were used to getting that extra dollar or two added above the "automatic" gratuity and they no longer get that. My favorite comment was from a crew member friend who said that the old people (he considered himself old) slept on their free time and sent their money home while the young people partied on their free time and never had any money.

[@TravellerWithPlan]

Norwegian cruise line offer me 900 dollars a month I think, if there is covid or no quest as a slot attendant. Is this normal? As I finish my 2nd interview few days ago. Didn't had the chance to bring up the salary. But they said at the end welcome on board. Still waiting for an email. Which is normal.

[@McRocket]

Thanks for this and all the details. BTW - your bf seems nice. How many hours per week (at sea) do you work? How many - if any - days per week do you get off? ☮

[@krista.jocelyn]

It depends on the cruise but currently we have at least one full day off a week and the hours will vary. Usually about 30

[@McRocket]

@@krista.jocelyn Wow! I heard that many people not working on shows (housekeeping, etc.) have to work up to 70 hours a week. Thank you. ☮

[@billdillon8139]

Do the cruise companies have matching 401Ks? You mentioned buying personal objects on board (ie toothbrush, etc) but can you bring them on board from a port? Or buy a couple ahead of time. How much space in your cabin? Thank you for your video.

[@seanwebb605]

Most cruise ship lines offer short term contract work. No retirement savings plans or pensions. That's worth factoring in when you consider doing such work. You'll also need to take care of your own medical insurance and prescription drugs while you are at home. They only provide limited healthcare on the ship. If you become seriously ill or injured while working they'll send you off for care. But if you're not able to continue your contract you go back home and rest on your own dime. And whatever follow up care you require comes out of your own pocket or whatever public healthcare system you have back home.

[@Hyeclassed]

Do they have vapes for sell? I heard they have cigarettes but what about vapes?

[@VerilyVerbatim]

6:00 Would there be a refund of some sort, based on paying 'Hawaiian tax rates', as opposed to conventional 'US tax rates', as you're a US citizen?

[@tjtriesagain]

It's not just Hawaii taxes, it's also federal income taxes, and I would assume social security and medicare. Hawaii is part of the U.S.

[@SterianAlinaNicoleta]

Thank you, girl, share your experience on your Journey on global cruises ships! What are The salaries there? How much they pay there?

[@krista.jocelyn]

Thank you for watching! Salaries depend on your position!

[@supertouring1]

you can search on youtube "How much do cruise ship workers get paid" or "cruise ship salary" to get an idea what other lines pay. There are some equally honest and helpful videos.

[@lisakiara10]

wow, i wish i would just have to pay ~28% income tax, that would be really nice 😮 i have to pay 40% in austria

[@dedeweygant3734]

I just got an offer to join NCL in Hawaii

[@krista.jocelyn]

Congrats! 🤗

[@cs1375]

Skimmed through most of the comments but nothing was mentioned about Code Red. What is a Code Red and when is it put into place?

[@krista.jocelyn]

mm none of the ships I've worked on have had a code red! The codes can change from ship to ship!

[@seanwebb605]

Different cruise lines have different terms to discretely communicate things to crew for emergencies that arise. In addition there are different codes or statuses suggesting viral outbreaks on a ship. If the staff that normally enjoy guest area privileges become less visible then you can know that restrictions have been imposed. If you see staff and crew washing frequently then it's getting bad. If the singer and dancer who wowed you at last night's production show are now offering you hand sanitizers or wiping down railings you might find that the CDC is onboard and you might Princess your cruise for an extended stay.

[@JamesCalvinOnKeysTV]

Hey Kris, any insight on Keyboardist pay? I've put a 6 piece band together for Royal Caribbean Cruise lines but I cannot find a pay scale for them.

[@seanwebb605]

Cruise ship lines often have several different types of musicians. Solo acts for the lounges or pizza/pasta station, party band for the pool deck and the house band for the welcome aboard and production performances. Really you need a talent agent that can get your band booked rather than trying to apply as an individual.

[@blackrun137]

How much does Ordinary seaman make on cruise and also on pride of America ship

[@liz8056]

how much do doctors make? and what specialty in medicine is required to work on a cruise?

[@arden1272]

Thank You So Much I am Now Knowing How The Crew Get Paid And Are you Stay In Pride Cruise Or In Hawaii....Thank You So Much About Your Information Anyway Cause I Want To being An Cruise Crew

[@jhonhendrik3360]

How much the salary for the buffet Steward and junior Waiter

[@dennisdemonceau318]

How much of the auto gratuity that passengers pay goes to you if any. Do you know how that's broken down across all the crew?

[@krista.jocelyn]

As a performer we don’t get tips so I’m not sure how that works!

[@seanwebb605]

You're definitely thinking of those in the hotel hospitality side or tipping staff. That's much like on land limited to housekeepers, waiters and maybe back of house staff. Not to operations staff, activity staff or entertainers.

[@dskains]

I wonder if you have the ability to claim your home state as your residence and then let them tax you based on that rate. I would pick something like NV or TX if you had an address there you could use as they dont have a state income tax. It seems taxing you HA rates just because the ship is there doesn’t seems correct. So if you worked on an international ship maybe you would get a lot of your income tax free since you’re technically not in the US for most of the year??

[@robertlong7723]

Check your tax laws. Generally, your income is taxed in the state income is earned (unless neighboring states have reciprocal tax agreements). You don't get to pick a "home" state. US Citizens are subject to US income tax with a credit for any foreign taxes paid. Tax free income?... keep dreaming.

[@williambrunette1263]

We were on the POA early November of 2022. Did you get on after that?

[@krista.jocelyn]

We were off by then!

[@paladinhill]

KRISTA: If you work on a foreign flagged vessel, are you exempt from US Federal and/or state Income tax?

[@krista.jocelyn]

No you aren’t exempt since we still live in the US and are there part of the year!

[@seanwebb605]

@@krista.jocelyn You got this one wrong. A foreign flagged ship that hired people from around the world in crew positions wouldn't pay U.S. or state taxes. They would pay taxes back in their home jurisdiction. For those coming from the Philippines the remittance tax is really high. But they wouldn't be paying your government taxes on a foreign flagged ship. The Pride Of America is a rare example of a U.S. flagged ship that serves Hawaii.

[@martyfinver9969]

Dont they allow you to escort the passenger tours which are complimentary. I use to be lead escort for NCL now I am that on another world cruise.

[@krista.jocelyn]

Yes they do!

[@spencer82rocks]

I wonder why all this girls are into me back in the day , regardless of situation , wages wise yes it’s true , 😊😊😊

[@jonasoverka3956]

you mention singers and dancers, what about musicians? I sing, but I also am a bass guitarist.

[@seanwebb605]

Depending on the size of the ship they might have solo artists in different lounges, lobby, pizza/pasts station, house band for the welcome aboard show and production numbers and a party band for the pool deck. The pay rates very greatly based on which. A band leader for the production band might also make a higher rate. You would be expected to know big band and jazz pieces.

[@FedericoMusic_]

How can I get to the book shows?

[@lisadavis7055]

Dream job and dream life

[@mitchkatz4918]

angst is typical that taxes are gripes for ev everyone! do you have access to 401k?

[@TheGreatAwakenings]

Can you collect unemployment between contracts?? Curious. Might be a stupid question idk.

[@krista.jocelyn]

I think you can! Usually I take like 2 or 3 months off so it's not usually worth it to go through the hassle every time.

[@seanwebb605]

Think of it more like fishing. You need to earn enough money to save for the off season. However, most cruise ship workers are paid cash without any benefits and then have to file their taxes in their home countries. Don't assume that an American working for an American cruise line is the norm. They aren't even close to being representative of the broader segment that works on cruise ships. In Canada you couldn't really expect to work over seas on a ship without E.I. or CPP deductions then expect to draw benefits. If you don't pay into the system you can't take from the system. Some jurisdictions have different requirements for eligibility for unemployment benefits. Usually it is so many insurable weeks of earnings where you and your employer has paid into the system. Here in Ontario you have to have 420 to 700 hours of insurable work to claim. The maximum benefit is up to about 50% or earnings up to a maximum of $61,500. So if you earned $73,000 a year you are only insured up to $61,500. Of that your benefits would be about $30,750 over a year or $2,562.50 per month. Remembering of course that you still then get income tax directly deducted from that amount. There are rules to weed out habitual users of the system. There is enhanced benefits for longer durations for those in some industries or regions with difficult job prospects. You also need to be able and willing to work and actively seeking work. So regular seasonal unemployment is going to be a problem.

[@jimsargent7288]

Thank you for sharing, do you have opportunities to make money in other ways? private dance lessons, extra jobs on ship anything like that?

[@krista.jocelyn]

Some ships do have side jobs. I will occasionally work the wifi desk for free wifi or you can help at the art auctions and things like that!

[@seanwebb605]

Many of the side hustles she describes are on the down low. Cruise ships cut out much of that because many crew were working in excess of the hours that would require them to pay over time. All of the work on the ship goes towards these caps. Keep in mind that the ship wants a cut of everything. They're not going to allow a performer to sell dance lessons to guests. They might provide dance lessons, but it's usually acting on behalf of the cruise line. Some cruise line also used dancers and additional activity staff. But it is rarely extra cash for the dancer. Art auctions and shopping guides will pay cash quietly on the side. You have to be careful with shopping guides. They can be shifty. They'll promise cash, gifts or a great discount on something that you want to buy. Sometimes they'll give you a bottle of wine or a bag of nuts they didn't eat before leaving suddenly. Not exactly what was promised. Think of them the same way that you would used cars salespeople.

[@FedericoMusic_]

Hi. Can you sing in your cabin?

[@CaptainRadack]

Being you are just docked in Hawaii, why do they consider you living there? You're just a visitor. So if you dock in Canada do they take money out of your pay? Or Alaska?

[@krista.jocelyn]

It’s because it’s a US flagged ship so you are technically working only in the US and have to pay tax to the state. If we were sailing to Canada or even Alaska, the ship would have an international flag. I would still pay tax to my home state in Colorado as I am there part of the year. The POA is the only American flagged cruise ship in the world!

[@CaptainRadack]

@@krista.jocelyn Thank YOU!

[@travelwithdebandnick]

wow i didnt realise that you would have to pay taxes. thats a crazy amount of money that goes towards them

[@Ş-Berlin1]

Normally not

[@emmib1388]

why would you think that she would not have to pay taxes?

[@travelwithdebandnick]

because its not a job on land so i thought itd be different@@emmib1388

[@Ş-Berlin1]

@@emmib1388 When you work as a seafarer, you are paid without any tax or national insurance being deducted. This is because cruise ships and other vessels employ their crew from all over the world, so it is up to each individual seafarer to declare their income to their country.

[@seanwebb605]

@@travelwithdebandnick Everyone has to pay their taxes. Unless you completely sever your relationship and establish permanent residence in another country you have to pay your taxes where you reside. Pride Of America is unique as a U.S. flagged ship operating primarily in Hawaii without going to non U.S. ports. They get some perks for doing that. But then they also have to collect sales and services taxes for their services, pay certain rates and assure that the employer and employee pay the appropriate taxes. Some young cruise ship workers from outside of the U.S. get paid cash on the ships and then take a risk by not accurately declaring their taxes in their home jurisdictions.

[@rolandliana]

When the cruise lines do the job applications, and write the salary, do they do it with the gratuity or without? if without, what does the cruiseline pay without the gratuity?

[@krista.jocelyn]

As a dancer I don’t get gratuity so I’m not sure. I would assume without?

[@seanwebb605]

You'll need to find a hiring partner in your area with a relationship with one or more cruise lines. If you're an American you're unlikely to take their low paid tipping staff positions. You would simply make better money in the U.S. for the same job.

[@chrisjamesies]

how's the wifi on PoA? Do you think it's possible to continue school part time while working on PoA? Thanks!

[@krista.jocelyn]

I barely used it because I had my phone service, but someone in my cast was doing school at the same time and it worked for him I think!

[@chrisjamesies]

@@krista.jocelyn thanks for the 411!

[@Vulcancruiser]

worth it for the free water skiing as well...............

[@sugarcan1110]

What about medical staff ? What is on there paramedics nurse doctors etc ?...you know how it works ..what their shifts ?? Cheers

[@seanwebb605]

Very limited medical staff on many ships. On lines that cater to elderly people you'll find that they come to the medical centre on embarkation so that they know where to find you. In terms of hiring and practices remember that they are really limited regarding what treatments they can offer, what they can prescribe and what the pharmacy can stock onboard. Don't do a contract as a doctor or nurse unless you want to spend long hours handling motion sickness, elderly people, sunburns and viral outbreaks. A great deal of it will be offloading guests to medical personnel on shore.

[@sugarcan1110]

@@seanwebb605 thank you for that information 🙏

[@ruthlobai8514]

Do u know how much cleaner gets paid

[@tonyperez7907]

Ruth, don't waste your time being a cleaner. Work in a coffee shop or as a server Assistant. you can do it girl... Most of the cafe are buffet style :)

[@katchyleereign1044]

@@tonyperez7907 why what is wrong with being a cleaner?

[@tonyperez7907]

Nothing is wrong. You want to make $$$ lot more cash with being a server and bartender. That's why. ;)

[@tonyperez7907]

@@katchyleereign1044 come to NCL Hawaii:)

[@jonnysaint5261]

Getting free food is a huge perk.

[@seanwebb605]

Staff messes are generally really bland, poor quality food. In guest areas you always have to let the guests ahead of you in line and you can't congregate with too many fellow staff members. You can't keep fresh fruit or vegetables in your cabin.

[@BradColemanisHere]

Do you put aside money for retirement? Does the company have a 401k or anything you can join?

[@krista.jocelyn]

I have a separate retirement account. Since we are hired contractually they don’t do 401k for performers 😰

[@champagnearti]

Omg I heard so many horror stories about the NCL utility galley and now I have doubts about accepting the job. Please help me with some advice!

[@krista.jocelyn]

Oh really? I don’t know much about that department and now I’m on a Royal ship so I don’t have anyone I could ask at NCL 😥

[@champagnearti]

@@krista.jocelyn Damn, it’s alright. I guess it’s worth giving a shot for the experience.

[@leonoresmith8638]

What was Roberts position? Waiter or bar waiter?

[@krista.jocelyn]

Singer!

[@kendimutegi517]

How about sales assistant please?

[@seanwebb605]

What kind of sales? Future cruise sales? Excursions? Shopping guides? Shops? Photography? Cruise ships often have several different revenue partners. It's like operating a shopping mall and inviting a department store chain to come and operate stores, spas etc. A cruise ship is often many different companies partnering together. Hiring would be different for each different company operating onboard.

[@JonathanPan-wb8qh]

Hello, do you know how much a restaurant steward get paid hourly?

[@jonblablabla1014]

I was daydreaming about becoming like a waiter on a cruise but the pay must be so low

[@krista.jocelyn]

It depends where you’re from. If you’re from like the US or Canada then it’s not as great!

[@jonblablabla1014]

@@krista.jocelyn from the US. I mean if it's at least $15 an hour I could live with that

[@seanwebb605]

@@jonblablabla1014 Cruise ships are incredibly racist. They love large supplies of poor labour. They hire many of the departments based on place of origin. It makes no sense for a working class or lower middle class American to work as a waiter on a cruise ship. You'll make far more at home. You'll work fewer hours and have a life outside of work. Keep in mind that as a singer/dancer her perspective doesn't reflect the majority of positions and workers on ships. You would be better off trying to work in the activity staff. But you'll need some credentials. Some sort of diploma in recreational leadership etc. Years ago the cruise line that I worked for required a university degree for fulltime contracts for everyone working on the youth staff. Those with community college diplomas could only work short contracts to fill during the holidays like Christmas when more children were onboard.

[@ShawnQuish0904]

Is there Pride of America T-shirt’s and replica models in the shops onboard?

[@krista.jocelyn]

There is definitely t-shirts, but I'll have to check on the replicas!

[@claywilliams3498]

Hey, I just got a job offer for utility hotel for pride of America. Would you be willing to give your hr/rate?

[@kennywilliams123]

have you discussed cruise ship romances amongst the crew on any of your videos?

[@krista.jocelyn]

I haven’t! But I’ll include it in one that’s coming up! Any specific questions?

[@anthonydowling3356]

@@krista.jocelyn Is the guy in this video your BF ? ,and do you share the cabin with him ? .Do most crew have to share a cabin ?