Life on board and leading the team
As Staff Captain, Chris plays a key role in keeping the ship running safely and smoothly. His responsibilities cover several specialist teams, each essential to life on board. There’s the safety team, focused on training, equipment and maintaining a strong safety culture. The deck maintenance team works around the clock to keep the ship looking its best. The bridge team manages navigation, guiding the ship from port to port. And the security team ensures everything runs smoothly at the gangway.
But beyond the structure of the role, it’s the teamwork that matters most.
“What I love about being at sea is the camaraderie. Everyone is working towards the same goal; delivering a great holiday for our guests.” It’s demanding at times, especially during early arrivals or late-night departures, but there’s a strong sense of support across the crew. “It brings me a lot of pride to lead such a hardworking, dedicated team.”
Careers at sea often start in the same place, regardless of where you want to end up. “We all begin as cadets. There’s no fast track, and that’s something I really value. It means we understand each other’s journeys.”
Now, Chris enjoys passing that experience on. “Mentoring junior officers, giving them their first opportunities on the bridge – that’s a big part of the job. Others did that for me, and it’s important to give something back.”
A view from the bridge
For many people considering working on board cruise ships, the bridge is one of the most intriguing places on board. Chris says the reality often surprises visitors.
“People expect it to be busy and loud, but it’s actually very calm. Everyone is focused, and everything is done as a team.” It’s also a place where you see the world differently. “We’ve seen whales, dolphins and turtles in the Caribbean. One of the most memorable moments was off South America; dolphins swimming alongside the ship, lit up by bioluminescence in the water. It was incredible.”
Technology plays a big role too. Modern navigation systems provide huge amounts of information, helping the team make safe, informed decisions.
But navigation is always a shared responsibility. “Even when the captain makes a decision, it’s discussed openly. There’s a chance for everyone to ask questions. It’s a very collaborative environment.”
And there’s a unique satisfaction that comes with the role. “Manoeuvring a ship into a tight harbour and then stepping ashore to see what you’ve done – that’s a great feeling.”
Travel, time off and life at sea
One of the biggest draws of hospitality jobs at sea is the opportunity to travel. Chris has spent several seasons sailing from Barbados, which he now considers a home from home. Sydney is another favourite, with its iconic harbour arrival offering a moment that never gets old.
Life on board isn’t only about work. When the day’s responsibilities are done, there’s time to enjoy what the ship has to offer. “This is our home while we’re at sea. We can go to the gym, watch the shows and spend time together as a team.”
Depending on their role, or if they have ‘deck privileges’, crew can make the most of the experiences on board, dining in the restaurants and exploring the same spaces guests enjoy. “It helps us understand what our guests experience, so we can make better recommendations. It also gives us the chance to unwind together.”
It’s this balance of work, travel and shared experience that makes cruise ship careers so unique.
Start your own adventure at sea
Learn more about working in the deck team and start your journey with P&O Cruises careers today.
