Real stories from P&O Cruises cadets
When you picture a career at sea, it’s often the destinations that come to mind first. But for many of our cadets, the journey starts long before that with a moment, a feeling or a spark of inspiration that stays with them.
For Brandon and Elliott, that spark turned into a path into cruise ship careers with P&O Cruises. Their stories give a genuine insight into what it’s like to begin building a future at sea, from training and challenges to the rewards that come with it.
Why a career at sea starts with a moment
For Brandon, his journey began as a child. At six years old, stepping onboard Ventura for the first time, he decided he wanted to become a cruise ship captain. Fifteen years later, he’s now working towards that goal as a deck cadet with Carnival UK, the same company that inspired him in the first place.
Elliott’s path was shaped by growing up by the coast. Spending time at the beach, combined with a passion for travel, led him to explore maritime careers. For him, a career at sea offered something unique, the chance to build skills that could take him anywhere in the world.
These early influences are something many people share when they explore hospitality jobs or cruise ship careers; a love of travel, the sea and the idea of doing something different.
Training, travel and learning on the job
Training as a cadet is both structured and hands-on, combining college learning with real-life experience on board.
Brandon, studying Nautical Science at the City of Glasgow College, describes both elements as equally valuable. Time at sea, in particular, stands out.
Being on board a cruise ship offers the opportunity to learn in real time, while also experiencing life at sea and visiting different parts of the world. It’s a balance that makes cadetships in cruise ship careers so distinctive.
Elliott, studying Marine Engineering at Warsash Maritime School, has found the course challenging but rewarding. In a short time, he’s already developed confidence, technical skills and a deeper understanding of the industry.
Across both deck and engineering roles, one thing is clear – learning never stops. From classroom theory to practical problem-solving on board, cadets are constantly building experience that will shape their future careers.
The skills that shape a great cadet
Technical knowledge is important, but it’s not the only thing that matters in careers at sea. For Brandon, personality plays a big part. Bringing humour, character and a positive attitude helps build morale on board and strengthens teamwork. In an environment where people live and work closely together, being yourself goes a long way.
Elliott highlights a different but equally important set of strengths: dedication, resilience and confidence. Alongside these traits, skills like quick thinking, problem solving and a willingness to learn are essential, especially in engineering roles, where every day can bring something new.
Together, these qualities reflect what makes cruise ship careers unique. It’s not just about what you know, but how you approach challenges, work with others and grow over time.
Advice for starting your cruise ship career
Both cadets are clear on one thing – a career at sea is incredibly rewarding, but it isn’t always easy.
Brandon still carries advice given to him on his first trip on board Iona: there will be tough days, but the key is to reset, stay positive and keep going. It’s a mindset that has stayed with him and continues to guide his journey.
Elliott’s advice focuses on making the most of every opportunity. Listen to those around you, ask questions and engage fully with your training. Every senior officer started in exactly the same place, as a cadet learning the ropes.
Start your career at sea with P&O Cruises
Whether you’re interested in deck roles, engineering or electro-technical, our cadet programme is designed to support you every step of the way.
