A person in a white uniform stands on a ship’s deck using a sextant to navigate—part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme—with rails and equipment visible under a cloudy sky.

Carnival Corporation cadets

The Carnival Corporation cadet programme is a three-year, fully funded training scheme that combines college studies with hands-on sea experience on board ships within  Carnival Corporation, including P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland & America Line, Seabourn and Carnival Cruise Line. 

It offers an all-expenses-paid route to becoming a qualified deck, engineering, or electro-technical officer (ETO) with internationally recognised qualifications and a professional Officer of the Watch Certification (known as an MCA Certificate of Competency).

Cadets alternate between classroom learning at a maritime college and practical training at sea, graduating as fully-fledged ship’s officers ready for a rewarding career in the maritime industry.

Programme duration:

Three years split into five phases – three college phases and two sea phases – to gain academic awards and required sea time.

Routes available:

Deck cadet, engineering cadet, electro-technical cadet, plus fast-track engineering and electro-technical graduate cadetships for those with a related degree.

Location:

Study at UK maritime colleges (England and Scotland) with sea phases on Carnival Corporation ships worldwide (including P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland & America Line, Seabourn and Carnival Cruise Line)

Training and sea time:

Eight to 12 months at sea (over two practical sea phases), plus college-based learning in nautical science or marine engineering.

Qualifications:

BSc/BEng Degree, Foundation Degree or HND (or equivalent), depending on route and college,  plus Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate of Competency (your licence to sail as a professional officer).

Costs and funding:

All tuition and training fees paid by Carnival Corporation plus a monthly training allowance provided throughout the programme to help with living expenses.

Next role:

Appointment as a qualified third officer with Carnival Corporation upon successful completion (subject to performance and vacancies).

Cadetships on offer

We offer three main cadetship routes, plus a fast-track option for graduates. No matter which path you choose, you’ll follow the same overall cadet journey, but the focus of your training will match your chosen specialisation. Here’s a look at our cadetship options and what each involves:

Deck Officer Cadetship
Two people in uniform stand at a ship's control panel. Part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, one points at the monitor whilst the other observes attentively, both focused on the screen in a modern ship's bridge.
A person stands on a boat deck, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, gazing at a scenic fjord with green mountains, a village, and calm water under a cloudy sky. A lifebuoy hangs on the railing nearby.
A woman in a navy uniform, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stands on a ship’s deck at sunset, holding the rail as golden sunlight illuminates the ocean and distant mountains.
A person in safety gear, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stands on a metal platform overlooking a harbour with boats, buildings, and a snow-capped mountain in the background.

What you’ll learn:

Navigation and ship handling, safety and seamanship, leadership. You’ll train in traditional and modern navigation techniques, maritime regulations, voyage planning and the day-to-day operation of a cruise ship, including safety drills and overseeing crew tasks. You’ll develop leadership and decision-making skills as you take part in managing a vessel’s bridge operations.

Two people in uniform stand at a ship's control panel. Part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, one points at the monitor whilst the other observes attentively, both focused on the screen in a modern ship's bridge.

Where it can take you:

After qualifying, you’ll become a deck officer (third officer) responsible for navigation watch-keeping and ship safety. With further experience and training, you can progress to second officer, Senior officer and ultimately ship’s captain, commanding an entire cruise ship. Many deck officers also use their skills in shore-based roles later, like port operations or maritime management.

A person stands on a boat deck, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, gazing at a scenic fjord with green mountains, a village, and calm water under a cloudy sky. A lifebuoy hangs on the railing nearby.

Who it suits:

You’ll enjoy the deck route if you love travel, geography and technology and have good situational awareness and leadership potential. It’s ideal for those drawn to navigation, safety responsibilities and leading teams. If you like being in the thick of the action on a ship’s bridge and ensuring everything runs smoothly, deck could be for you.

A woman in a navy uniform, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stands on a ship’s deck at sunset, holding the rail as golden sunlight illuminates the ocean and distant mountains.

Qualification outcome:

Officer of the Watch (Unlimited) Certificate of Competency (allowing you to serve on ships worldwide) plus you can obtain a BSc Degree, Foundation Degree or HND in Nautical Science (or equivalent). Exact qualification title to be confirmed by college.

A person in safety gear, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stands on a metal platform overlooking a harbour with boats, buildings, and a snow-capped mountain in the background.
How to apply
Engineering Officer Cadetship
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A smiling person in a lifejacket and white uniform, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, sits in an orange boat with arms outstretched, posing before the Iona and Arvia cruise ships docked side by side in turquoise water.
A person in a blue hard hat, gloves, and white coverall stands on a ship deck holding equipment—possibly participating in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme—with anchor mechanisms and part of the ship's superstructure visible behind.
Two women, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stand side by side in front of an elegant staircase. Both wear long black blazers and skirts with white shirts, set against polished railings and a patterned floor.

What you’ll learn:

Marine engineering, mechanics and problem-solving. You’ll study how a ship’s engine room and mechanical systems work, from diesel engines and power generation to vital systems like air conditioning and water treatment. Hands-on training will cover maintenance, fault-finding and repair of complex technical equipment. You’ll gain the ability to respond to mechanical challenges in a high-tech environment, making quick decisions to keep the ship running safely.

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Where it can take you:

Upon completion, you’ll qualify as an engineering officer (third engineer) responsible for keeping a cruise ship’s machinery and systems in top shape. With more sea time and exams, you could advance to second engineer and later chief engineer, who oversees all technical operations on board. Your engineering expertise is also highly valued in shore-based industries, giving you additional career options in the future.

A smiling person in a lifejacket and white uniform, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, sits in an orange boat with arms outstretched, posing before the Iona and Arvia cruise ships docked side by side in turquoise water.

Who it suits:

If you’re fascinated by how things work – engines, electrical and mechanical systems – and love solving technical problems, the engineering cadetship is a great choice. It’s perfect for those strong in maths/science who enjoy practical work, teamwork and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in an engine room.

A person in a blue hard hat, gloves, and white coverall stands on a ship deck holding equipment—possibly participating in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme—with anchor mechanisms and part of the ship's superstructure visible behind.

Qualification outcome:

Officer of the Watch (Engine) Certificate of Competency (your international licence to serve as a ship’s engineer) plus you can obtain a BEng Degree, Foundation Degree or HND in Marine Engineering (or equivalent). Exact qualification title to be confirmed by college.

Two women, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stand side by side in front of an elegant staircase. Both wear long black blazers and skirts with white shirts, set against polished railings and a patterned floor.
How to apply
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Cadetship
Two people in uniform stand at a workbench, smiling at each other. One person rests a hand on a green motor with tools nearby, suggesting they may be part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme in a technical or engineering workspace.
A man wearing sunglasses, a floral shirt, and shorts stands on a pier in front of a large cruise ship with a red, white, and blue design—showcasing the Carnival Corporation cadet programme—under a clear blue sky.
A young man in a white uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a name badge stands indoors, looking down. Behind him is a control panel with buttons and diagrams, hinting at his role in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme.
A woman in a winter coat and hat, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, smiles whilst standing on a balcony overlooking a calm fjord surrounded by snow-covered mountains and scattered houses under a cloudy sky.

What you’ll learn:

Electrical and electronic systems, high-tech skills. As an ETO Cadet, you’ll focus on the ship’s advanced electrical and electronic equipment, from power generation and control systems to navigation electronics and even entertainment systems. You’ll train in electrical engineering, electronics, IT and automation, with practical experience maintaining and troubleshooting onboard technology to keep the ship’s operations running smoothly.

Two people in uniform stand at a workbench, smiling at each other. One person rests a hand on a green motor with tools nearby, suggesting they may be part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme in a technical or engineering workspace.

Where it can take you:

After training, you’ll become a qualified electro-technical officer – a specialist on board who maintains vital systems like communications, navigation aids and electronic controls. With further experience, you could rise to senior ETO roles, lead an entire technical team on board, or transition to shoreside technical management and shipbuilding projects. The demand for skilled ETOs is high on modern ships, promising strong career prospects globally.

A man wearing sunglasses, a floral shirt, and shorts stands on a pier in front of a large cruise ship with a red, white, and blue design—showcasing the Carnival Corporation cadet programme—under a clear blue sky.

Who it suits:

Choose the ETO cadetship if you have a passion for technology, electrical gadgets and problem-solving. It’s ideal for those who excel in electronics or IT subjects and want a cutting-edge engineering career at sea. If you enjoy working with computers, circuits and power systems, and ensuring everything on a high-tech ship works without a hitch, you’ll thrive as an ETO cadet.

A young man in a white uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a name badge stands indoors, looking down. Behind him is a control panel with buttons and diagrams, hinting at his role in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme.

Qualification outcome:

Electro-Technical Certificate of Competency (to serve as a certified ETO on ships) plus you can obtain a BEng Degree, Foundation Degree or HND in Marine Electrical/Electronic Engineering (or equivalent). Exact qualification title to be confirmed by college.

A woman in a winter coat and hat, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, smiles whilst standing on a balcony overlooking a calm fjord surrounded by snow-covered mountains and scattered houses under a cloudy sky.
How to apply
Engineering Graduate Cadetship

If you already hold a degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, we offer a fast-track engineering cadet programme to help you quickly gain your Engineering Officer of the Watch certification.

This accelerated route recognises your prior education so you can fast-track your training and become a ship’s engineer officer sooner. Graduate cadets undergo an intensive programme (available at all four of our partner colleges) to earn their Officer of the Watch certificate and transition into a marine engineering career at sea.

Contact us to learn more about entry criteria and availability for the Graduate Cadetship.

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Hear from our cadets

A woman in a dark blazer and white shirt stands by a railing on a boat or ship, with the sea and a cloudy sunset sky in the background.

“I knew I wouldn’t enjoy an office job and wanted something combining hands on experience with critical thinking skills.”

Elizabeth, Deck Cadet ,

A person in a white protective suit and yellow ear defenders is working with machinery. They are looking up and smiling at the camera whilst holding a valve or lever. A round pressure gauge is visible nearby.

“I’ve built a lot of confidence and skills in the short time I have been in the industry.”

Elliott, Engineering Cadet,

A smiling person in a white uniform shirt and black tie stands between two crossed maritime flags, with shield-shaped plaques displayed on the wall behind them.

“I’m fortunate to have opportunities to learn on the job and experience what it’s like to travel the world.”

Brandon, Deck Cadet,

Our partner colleges

We’ve teamed up with four renowned maritime colleges in the UK to deliver your cadet training. All are highly respected institutions delivering world-class maritime education. All our partner colleges deliver the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB)-approved officer cadet curriculum and have close ties with the maritime industry, ensuring your learning is relevant and respected globally.

Blackpool
Glasgow
Southampton
South Shields

Blackpool

Fleetwood Nautical Campus (Blackpool and The Fylde College)

One of the UK’s top nautical colleges, Fleetwood is recognised as a National Beacon of Excellence in maritime training. With a long history of training Merchant Navy officers, it provides an immersive environment and strong support to cadets, whether in the classroom or in its practical marine simulation centre.

Visit site
A uniformed woman, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, stands indoors on a ship, using a long pole to clean or inspect an overhead area near a loudspeaker and pipes. There is an EXIT sign, emergency equipment, and safety signs visible in the background.

Glasgow

City of Glasgow College (Riverside Campus)

Based in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, this campus (historically known as Glasgow College of Nautical Studies) is internationally acclaimed for its maritime and mechanical engineering programmes. Cadets benefit from first-class training facilities and expert faculty, gaining skills that are highly valued in the global shipping industry.

Visit site
A person wearing a striped shirt and dungarees, possibly part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, works inside a metal compartment inspecting or adjusting pipes and valves in an industrial area with a chequer-plate floor and plumbing components.

Southampton

Warsash Maritime School (Southampton, Solent University)

Formerly known as the Warsash Maritime Academy, this prestigious school in Southampton has been training seafarers for over 70 years. Warsash offers training from cadet level up to Master (Captain) and Chief Engineer certifications. With cutting-edge facilities like bridge and engine room simulators, it ensures cadets receive an education that meets the highest international standards.

Visit site
Two people in red survival suits and helmets stand on a ship’s deck by the water, likely participating in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme. The person in front wears a clear face visor and life jacket; city buildings appear in the distance.

South Shields

South Shields Marine School (South Tyneside College)

Located in north east England, South Shields Marine School (part of South Tyneside College) offers specialist training in navigation, marine engineering and electrical engineering. It’s known for its state-of-the-art simulation facilities and comprehensive maritime courses.

Visit site
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Your cadet journey: what to expect

Embarking on the Carnival Corporation cadet programme is an exciting adventure. Here’s a step-by-step look at your journey from application to becoming a certified officer.

The exact length and order of phases can vary slightly by training route and college. We’ll provide full details of your personalised training plan when you join.

1. Application and selection

Check our available cadetship opportunities (we typically recruit twice a year) and submit your application with your CV, academic results and a personal statement about why you want to be a cadet. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a self-recorded interview to assess your passion and potential for a seafaring career, and if successful, invited for an assessment day in Southampton.

2. Join the Carnival Corporation programme

If successful, you’ll receive an offer to join the Carnival Corporation cadet programme and you’ll receive a start date for your training (usually in January, April or September intakes, to be confirmed). You’ll also complete a medical exam (ENG1) to ensure you’re fit for life at sea.

3. Cadetship phase one – initial college

You’ll begin with an academic phase at one of our partner maritime colleges. Here you’ll get a solid grounding in subjects like navigation or engineering basics, safety training (STCW courses – basic sea survival, firefighting, first aid etc.), and start building your maritime knowledge base. You’ll also connect with fellow cadets and instructors – these friendships and networks will be invaluable throughout your career!

4. Cadetship phase 2 – first sea

Next, you’ll spend several months at sea on a Carnival Corporation cruise ship. Under the guidance of senior officers, you’ll put your classroom learning into practice – standing watches, assisting with real operations, completing tasks in your Training Record Book (TRB) and truly experiencing life as a seafarer.

5. Cadetship phase 3 – Intermediate college

Return to college for further studies, diving deeper into your specialism (like more advanced navigation, marine systems or electronics). You’ll tackle more complex coursework and prepare for higher-level exams, building on what you learned during your first sea trip.

 

6. Cadetship phase 4 – second sea

Another stint at sea to gain additional sea-time (you need at least 12 months total at sea for deck cadetships and 8 months for engine and ETO certification). You’ll take on more responsibility during this phase, refining your skills and completing final tasks in your Training Record Book. This is also your last chance to soak up knowledge from experienced mentors on board before final exams.

7. Cadetship phase 5 – final college and exams

Your cadet adventure concludes back at college for a final term of study, exam preparation and the completion of any remaining course modules. After passing your academic exams, you’ll undertake the MCA Oral exam (and a Signals test if you’re a deck cadet), the final step to earn your Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency.

8. Become a qualified officer

Congratulations, you’ve made it! You now hold an Officer of the Watch Certificate, making you a qualified officer (e.g. third officer / third engineer). We’ll welcome you to the team as a permanent officer, ready to embark on your first posting aboard Carnival Corporation ship as you set sail on your new career.

Parent or guardian?

We want you to feel confident that your child will be safe, supported and set up for success on a Carnival Corporation cadet course. That’s why our programme is designed to give you peace of mind from the very start.

Our training is fully regulated and meets UK maritime standards set by the MCA and the Merchant Navy Training Board. Throughout the programme, cadets receive round‑the‑clock support from experienced officers, college tutors and a dedicated training team. Safety and wellbeing always come first, with robust training, onboard medical care and regular check‑ins at every stage.

By covering all tuition fees and providing a monthly training allowance, we remove financial barriers while cadets earn recognised qualifications and real‑world experience. Most importantly, we’re proud to support the next generation of maritime leaders and we’ll support your child, and you, every step of the way.

A man and a woman sit cross-legged on the floor indoors, smiling at each other—perhaps discussing their experiences in the Carnival Corporation cadet programme. Shelves, a potted plant, and storage boxes are visible in the background.
Considering a career change?

If you’ve ever dreamed of working at sea, now is the time to take the next step. Whether you want a fresh start, a new challenge or a career with real purpose, the Carnival Corporation cadet programme could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.

We welcome career changers from all backgrounds and many of our most successful cadets come from engineering, hospitality, the armed forces and other industries. With fully funded training, a monthly training allowance and a clear route to becoming a professional officer, you’ll gain globally recognised qualifications alongside real experience at sea. While you’ll need to meet academic criteria and pass an ENG1 medical, alternative routes may be available – we’re always happy to talk through your options.

A man in a black uniform jacket with gold pins, part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme, smiles and looks to the side. The background is blurred.
Application & qualifications
Cadetship programme
Sea phases
Parents and guardians
Career changers

What are the entry requirements to become a cadet?

To be accepted on Higher National Diploma (HND), Foundation Degree (FD), Graduate Certificate or equivalent or Bachelor’s Honours Degree (BSc/BEng) training programmes , applicants need to hold the following minimum academic qualifications:

 

Higher National Diploma – England (GCSE level or equivalent)

  • Four GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 9 to 5, including Mathematics, Science (with significant Physical Science content), English and one other subject OR four National 5 (grade B or above)/GCSE (grade 6 or above) in the following subjects – Maths, English, Physical Science (e.g. Physics; Engineering Science etc) and one other subject (e.g. Geography; Computing Science etc)
  • Successful completion of a Pre-cadetship at SCQF level 6.

 

Graduate Certificate – Scotland

  • Higher/A-level Maths or Physics in conjunction with 4 National 5 (grade C or above)/GCSE (grade 4 or above) in the following subjects – Maths, English, Physical Science (e.g. Physics; Engineering Science etc) and one other subject (e.g. Geography; Computing Science etc)
  • Successful completion of Pre-cadetship at SCQF level 6 (NC Shipping and Maritime Operations).

 

Foundation Degree :

  • Minimum of 48 UCAS points (including a numerate subject for Engineering/ETO)
  • Plus four GCSEs at grade 9 to 5 (A* to C), including Maths, English and Science (with significant Physical Science content)

 

BSc/BEng (Hons) :

  • Minimum of 104-120 UCAS points
  • Plus four GCSEs at grade 9 to 5 (A* to C), including Maths, English and Science (with significant Physical Science content)

 

I don’t have traditional A‑levels. Can I still apply?

Yes. While some routes require A‑levels or equivalent, we consider a range of academic backgrounds. If you meet the GCSE requirements, we’ll review your full education history and advise on the most suitable pathway, including alternative qualifications or access routes, where available.

What nationalities can apply?

You’ll normally need UK or Irish / EU citizenship (or indefinite leave to remain) and must have lived in the UK for at least 12 months before applying. This requirement is linked to UK seafarer training sponsorship regulations, and full details are shared during the application process.

Is a cadetship like an apprenticeship or a university course?

It’s a unique blend of both. Like an apprenticeship, it’s paid and work‑based. Like a degree, it includes structured academic study.

 

In other words, you’re earning qualifications, gaining real‑world experience and receiving a training allowance, all at the same time. However, unlike a traditional university course, cadetships are full‑time and residential during sea phases.

 

Do I have to pay for the cadetship?

No. Carnival Corporation fully funds your tuition, mandatory training courses and core travel. You’ll also receive a monthly training allowance throughout the programme, including during college phases.

 

As a result, you can qualify as an officer without university debt. While you’ll need to budget for personal spending, major training costs are covered and college accommodation subsidies may also be available.

 

Will I have a job after completing the cadetship?

Our goal is to recruit and develop long‑term officers and the vast majority of our cadets progress into officer roles on Carnival Corporation ships, subject to performance and vacancies.

 

Typically:

 

  • Deck cadets become third officers
  • Engineering cadets become third engineers
  • ETO cadets become electro‑technical officers

 

From there, you can progress all the way to chief engineer or captain, supported by clear career pathways and leadership development.

Can this lead to shore‑based roles?

Yes. While many officers choose long sea careers, your qualifications and experience are highly transferable. Former cadets move into roles such as fleet management, port operations, technical management and shipbuilding, both within and beyond Carnival Corporation.

What is STCW and how do I get it before joining?

Needs an answer

What types of cadetships are available?

Carnival Corporation offers four main cadetship routes:

 

  • Deck Cadetship: focusing on navigation and ship operations
  • Engineering Cadetship: specialising in engines and mechanical systems
  • Electro‑Technical Officer (ETO) Cadetship: concentrating on electrical and electronic systems
  • Graduate Engineering Cadetship: for those who already hold an engineering degree

 

Although the training focus differs, all routes lead to a professional Officer of the Watch (OOW) qualification, opening the door to long‑term careers at sea.

How long is the Carnival Corporation cadet programme?

The programme typically lasts around three years. During this time, you’ll complete five training phases, combining college‑based study with on board sea service.

 

Overall, you’ll spend approximately two years at college and eight to 12 months at sea (depending on your chosen pathway), finishing with an internationally recognised qualification as a Merchant Navy Officer.

What qualifications will I gain?

You’ll achieve:

 

  • An academic qualification (HND or Foundation Degree, depending on route and college), and
  • A professional Certificate of Competency awarded by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA)

 

After completing your training, you’ll sit a final MCA oral exam (and Signals test for deck cadets). Passing this grants your Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate, allowing you to work worldwide.

How much will I be paid as a cadet?

Cadets receive a monthly training allowance for the full duration of the programme. In addition, Carnival Corporation covers:

 

  • Tuition fees
  • Mandatory short courses
  • Core travel for training
  • Accommodation subsidies (where applicable)

 

This means you can focus on learning and development, rather than financial pressure.

 

How do you decide which college I’ll attend?

We partner with four leading UK maritime colleges:

 

  • Warsash Maritime School (Southampton)
  • South Shields Marine School
  • Fleetwood Nautical Campus
  • City of Glasgow College

 

Once you receive an offer, we’ll match you to a college based on your training route, qualifications and intake availability, ensuring the right learning environment for your cadetship.

Where will I be based during the programme?

During college phases, you’ll live and study at your assigned maritime college. During sea phases, you’ll join a Carnival Corporation ship, travelling across regions such as the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe or on world cruises.

What benefits do cadets and officers receive?

Alongside pay and funding, a working on board a Carnival Corporation ship includes:

 

  • Free meals, uniform and laundry on board
  • Subsidised internet
  • Paid flights to and from your ship
  • Crew gyms, social spaces and wellbeing programmes
  • Respect & Protect policies and 24/7 support

 

As you progress, you’ll also access wider travel, lifestyle, financial and wellbeing benefits.

How much time will I spend at sea?

You’ll complete at least 12 months of sea time, usually split across two sea phases of around 4–6 months each. These alternate with college phases, giving you structured learning and hands‑on experience.

What is life like on board for cadets?

Life at sea is challenging, exciting and highly rewarding. You’ll work supervised watches alongside experienced officers and gradually build responsibility.

 

Outside work, you’ll share your cabin with a fellow cadet (of the same gender), have access to leisure facilities and time to socialise with a diverse, international crew. Many cadets form friendships that last a lifetime.

What wellbeing and mental health support is available?

Your wellbeing really matters to us. From day one, you’re supported by college tutors, experienced shipboard officers, cadet training managers and our wider Carnival Corporation team. We provide regular check‑ins, confidential advice lines and buddy or mentoring schemes to help you settle in. On board, you’ll have access to wellbeing programmes, gyms and crew social spaces, as well as our Crew Assistance Programme (CAP), which offers 24/7 confidential counselling and practical support for you and your family.

 

Support includes:

 

  • College tutors and student services
  • Shipboard managers and cadet liaison officers
  • The Carnival Corporation cadet training team
  • Our Crew Assistance Programme (CAP), offering 24/7 confidential counselling for you and your family

 

Together, these layers ensure you’re never on your own.

What is the Carnival Corporation cadet programme and what will my child become at the end?

Our cadet programme is a three-year, fully funded officer cadetship that blends maritime college study with hands-on sea experience on Carnival Corporation ships, including P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland & America Line, Seabourn and Carnival Cruise Line. As a result, your child trains towards internationally recognised qualifications and an Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) Certificate of Competency (Officer of the Watch), which allows them to work as a professional officer worldwide.

How do you keep cadets safe and supported while they’re at sea?

Safety and wellbeing come first. That’s why cadets complete rigorous safety training and work under the supervision of experienced officers, while also having access to onboard medical facilities and regular check-ins. In addition, we provide dedicated training support, including shore-based help available 24/7, so cadets can reach out whenever they need it.

Who oversees the training, and is the programme officially recognised?

The programme is fully regulated and meets UK maritime training standards set by the MCA and the Merchant Navy Training Board. Therefore, your child follows an approved curriculum with professional development built in throughout the cadet journey.

Will we be able to stay in touch while they’re on board?

Yes. Cadets can keep in touch with flexible paid-for internet packages. Plus, we use dedicated cadet WhatsApp groups, so they can stay connected to fellow cadets and support staff as they settle in.

 

What does the programme cost and do cadets get paid while they train?

It’s fully funded. We cover tuition and training fees and cadets receive a monthly training allowance throughout the programme, including during college phases. In other words, they can focus on learning while also earning, rather than taking on university debt.

What happens after they qualify, is there a job at the end?

Our aim is to recruit and develop long-term officers. That means the vast majority of cadets progress into officer roles with Carnival Corporation after qualifying, subject to performance and vacancies. Typically, deck cadets become third officers, engineering cadets become third engineers, and ETO cadets become entry-level electro‑technical officers.

I’m changing career. Can I still apply for the cadet programme?

Absolutely. We welcome career changers from all ages and backgrounds and many successful cadets have joined us after roles in engineering, hospitality, retail or the armed forces. What matters most is your motivation, curiosity, and willingness to learn.

What entry requirements do I need to meet as a career changer?

You’ll meet the same core requirements as other cadets. Generally, you’ll need a minimum of four GCSEs (including Maths, English and a Science) and you must pass an MCA ENG1 seafarer medical exam to confirm you’re fit for service at sea. Requirements can vary by route, so we’ll confirm the details based on the cadetship you apply for.

 

I don’t have A-levels (or I studied years ago). Do I still have options?

Yes. While some routes require A-levels (or equivalent), we consider a range of academic backgrounds. So, if you meet the GCSE requirements, we’ll review your education history and advise on the most suitable pathway, including alternative routes or access courses where available.

 

How long is the cadetship, and what does the training look like in real life?

The programme typically lasts around three years and runs across five phases that alternate between maritime college and sea service. Overall, you’ll complete about 12 months at sea, supported by structured learning at college and practical tasks on board.

Is the cadetship paid and what costs do you cover?

Yes – you earn while you learn. You’ll receive a monthly training allowance throughout the programme and we also cover tuition fees plus mandatory training courses and core travel for training. As a result, you can work towards officer qualifications without university debt.

What support will I get if I’m new to sea (and juggling a big life change)?

You won’t do it alone. You’ll get support from college tutors, shipboard managers and the cadet training team, and you’ll also have access to our Crew Assistance Programme (CAP). In addition, we build regular check-ins and mentoring into the experience, so you can settle into life at sea with confidence.

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Life on board as a deck cadet

9 June 2026

Elizabeth shares what it’s really like to train as a deck cadet, from hands-on bridge experience to the realities of life at sea.
Starting a career at sea
Role insight

Starting a career at sea

9 May 2026

Thinking about a career at sea? Two P&O Cruises cadets share how they got started, what training is really like and the advice they’d give to anyone considering cruise ship careers.
Sharing skills, experience and best practice at sea
Development

Sharing skills, experience and best practice at sea

30 September 2025

P&O Cruises flagship Iona welcomed Junior Royal Navy officers for real‑world bridge training. Learn how collaboration, navigation and deck careers come to life at sea.
Read all crew and cruise news
Four young people in formal dark uniforms stand side by side, smiling at the camera in a well-lit room with wood panelling, lamps, and people conversing—showcasing their pride as part of the Carnival Corporation cadet programme. Three young people in dark double-breasted uniforms with gold buttons stand side by side, smiling, in a well-lit room with chandeliers and people in the background, representing the Carnival Corporation cadet programme.

Got the skills and the spark?

How to apply