Lizzie’s story

Thinking about a career at sea but not sure what it’s really like? In this Q&A, Lizzie shares her experience as a deck cadet sponsored by Carnival UK. From hands-on training to life on board, she talks honestly about the skills you need, what surprised her most and why cruise ship careers can be so rewarding.

Why choose a career at sea?

What inspired you to pursue a career at sea?
“I decided to pursue a career at sea because I knew I wouldn’t enjoy a regular office job. I wanted something more hands-on that also challenges how you think and solve problems.

“Another big motivation was travel. The idea of seeing the world while getting paid for it really appealed to me. It felt like a career where every day would be different, and that’s exactly what I was looking for.”

What training as a deck cadet is really like

How have you found your training course so far?
“My training has been really engaging and informative. There’s a strong balance between practical, hands-on experience and the theory behind it, which helps everything make much more sense when you’re applying it in real situations.

“It’s definitely helped me build a better understanding of ship operations and how things work on the bridge. One highlight so far was manoeuvring the vessel into an anchorage for the first time. That moment really stood out because it was the first time I put what I’d learned into practice in a live setting. It gave me a real confidence boost and showed how far I’d come.”

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Skills that matter in cruise ship careers

What skills and traits are most important as a deck cadet?
“Communication is one of the biggest skills you need. At sea, you’re working with people from all over the world, so being able to connect with and understand others is really important.

“You also need to be willing to learn. Asking questions and being open to new experiences makes a big difference, especially early on in your career. Teamwork is another key skill. You’re part of a close team onboard, so supporting each other and working well together is essential for both safety and day-to-day life.”

Advice before starting your career at sea

What advice would you give someone thinking about a career at sea?
“It’s important to understand that a career at sea is a lifestyle, not just a job. You’ll typically be away from home for six to eight months at a time, with limited communication and working every day during your contract.

“But with that comes a lot of positives. It’s a very rewarding career, with the opportunity to travel the world, earn a good salary and enjoy long periods of time off between contracts.

“If you’re open to the lifestyle and ready to challenge yourself, it can be an incredible experience.”