A man in a uniform smiles as he looks through binoculars indoors, showcasing the focus and teamwork found in P&O Cruises deck careers, whilst another uniformed person is blurred in the background. A man in a white uniform with black shoulder epaulettes looks through binoculars, smiling. He appears to be in a professional setting, possibly exploring P&O Cruises deck careers on a ship or in a control room.

Deck department

Our deck colleagues are hands‑on professionals who play a vital role in keeping our ships operating safely, efficiently and to high maritime standards. Working across specialist departments on both P&O Cruises and Cunard ships, the deck team supports navigation, seamanship, environmental and safety operations, plus the upkeep of the ship’s exterior, helping ensure a smooth experience for guests and crew.

Deck team members work on the bridge supporting navigation and watchkeeping, out on deck handling mooring, maintenance and seamanship tasks, or behind the scenes to ensure safety procedures and environmental standards are met. They also support day‑to‑day ship operations at sea and in port, from manoeuvring and anchoring to maintaining decks, lifeboats and external areas.

Together, the deck team works as one coordinated unit, combining technical expertise, teamwork and attention to detail to meet international maritime regulations and create unforgettable holiday happiness.

 

Part of something essential

Work at the heart of ship operations and know your role genuinely matters every day.

Confidence at sea

Gain hands‑on experience supporting safe navigation and life‑saving procedures.

Core maritime skills

Learn practical seamanship that sets the foundation for a long‑term seafaring career,

A future‑focused career

Grow professionally with clear development pathways and progression at sea.

Modern ship technology

Build experience using advanced navigation and maritime systems.

Deliver unforgettable holidays

Take satisfaction in knowing your work supports safe, memorable guest experiences.

Learning and development at CSMART

Deck officers regularly attend CSMART Academy in Almere, Netherlands. The global benchmark for maritime training, it combines cutting-edge simulators, pioneering role-based systems and advanced technology to deliver world-class safety, sustainability and operational excellence. Recognised as the first Centre of Safety Excellence, CSMART empowers officers with critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills.

Find out more
A modern ship bridge simulator room featuring multiple control stations, monitors, and large windows with a realistic sea view and distant city skyline—ideal for P&O Cruises technical careers training in a bright space with a tiled ceiling.
Deck team roles

The deck department is responsible for the safe navigation and day‑to‑day operation of the ship. From bridge watchkeeping and seamanship to mooring operations and maritime compliance, the team plays a vital role in every voyage.

A career in the deck department offers clear progression, specialist maritime training and the opportunity to gain worldwide experience while keeping P&O Cruises and Cunard ships operating safely and efficiently at sea.

A man in a white naval captain’s uniform and hat, complete with name badge and epaulettes, stands indoors against a blurred background, representing the professionalism of P&O Cruises deck careers as he looks at the camera.
A smiling woman in a pilot’s uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a black tie sits indoors, in front of large green plants. She has brown hair tied up, a name badge, wedding ring, and embodies the professionalism of P&O Cruises deck careers.
Two female officers in crisp white uniforms stand indoors; one reads from a clipboard whilst the other listens. Nautical decor and a “VENTURA” sign set the scene, highlighting P&O Cruises deck careers in action.
Deck Officer working onboard a P&O Cruises ship, standing on the bridge wing in uniform. The image represents maritime careers at sea, including navigation, ship operations, leadership, and officer career development opportunities with P&O Cruises for qualified seafarers and aspiring deck officers.
A Carnival Corporation cadet and P&O Cruises officer in uniform stand at a control panel on a ship's bridge. One points at a monitor whilst the other observes, both focused on navigation tasks—a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers in action. An example of a job opportunity on a P&O Cruises ship.
Two people in uniform stand at a desk, reviewing documents together in an office or control room with shelves of books and folders—showing the teamwork essential for P&O Cruises deck careers. A radio sits on the desk in front of them.
A man in a white uniform with shoulder stripes speaks to another person in a dark uniform and cap, seen from behind. The outdoor interaction suggests a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers on board a ship.
Two workers wearing black uniforms, yellow safety harnesses, and gloves stand outdoors on a rooftop—reminiscent of P&O Cruises deck careers. One waves and smiles; both wear sunglasses and hats against a blurred cityscape background.
A man in a dark uniform smiles as he holds safety gear, showcasing P&O Cruises deck careers in a room with shelves containing yellow equipment and coiled hoses.
A man in a navy uniform stands by large windows overlooking the sea, holding binoculars and smiling at the camera—a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers.
A man wearing safety goggles, gloves, and a blue shirt with a name badge smiles whilst working outdoors as part of the P&O Cruises deck careers team, holding onto a white metal pole.
Three women in navy uniforms, blue helmets, and orange gloves pose together on a ship. Two are seated on large metal bollards whilst one stands between them, smiling with arms round each other—proudly representing P&O Cruises deck careers.

Captain

Lead the ship and crew, making key decisions for safety, wellbeing and guest experience. Champion teamwork, compliance and a positive culture, ensuring smooth, memorable journeys for everyone on board.

If becoming Captain is your ambition, you’ll need to progress through the ranks of the deck department.

A man in a white naval captain’s uniform and hat, complete with name badge and epaulettes, stands indoors against a blurred background, representing the professionalism of P&O Cruises deck careers as he looks at the camera.

Staff Captain

Lead the deck department and oversee ship safety, stability and crew welfare. Support training, compliance and teamwork, helping deliver smooth operations and unforgettable guest experiences at sea.

A smiling woman in a pilot’s uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a black tie sits indoors, in front of large green plants. She has brown hair tied up, a name badge, wedding ring, and embodies the professionalism of P&O Cruises deck careers.

Safety Officer

Lead ship safety and emergency response, train and guide crew and ensure all equipment and procedures meet the highest standards. Champion a safety‑first culture, helping everyone work and relax with confidence at sea.

Two female officers in crisp white uniforms stand indoors; one reads from a clipboard whilst the other listens. Nautical decor and a “VENTURA” sign set the scene, highlighting P&O Cruises deck careers in action.

1st Officer

Lead safe navigation and cruise planning, supervise the bridge team and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. Support training and teamwork across the deck department.

 

Deck Officer working onboard a P&O Cruises ship, standing on the bridge wing in uniform. The image represents maritime careers at sea, including navigation, ship operations, leadership, and officer career development opportunities with P&O Cruises for qualified seafarers and aspiring deck officers.

2nd Officer

Lead safe navigation and supervise junior officers. Monitor ship stability, maintain cruise records and support training, safety and compliance.

A Carnival Corporation cadet and P&O Cruises officer in uniform stand at a control panel on a ship's bridge. One points at a monitor whilst the other observes, both focused on navigation tasks—a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers in action. An example of a job opportunity on a P&O Cruises ship.

3rd Officer

Support safe navigation and ship operations as junior officer of the watch. Monitor cruise plans, safety checks and emergency procedures, helping keep our ships shipshape and guests happy at sea.

 

Two people in uniform stand at a desk, reviewing documents together in an office or control room with shelves of books and folders—showing the teamwork essential for P&O Cruises deck careers. A radio sits on the desk in front of them.

Bosun

Lead and supervise deck crew, ensuring ship maintenance and safety tasks are completed to high standards. Champion teamwork, safe working practices and a positive environment across the ship.

 

 

 

A man in a white uniform with shoulder stripes speaks to another person in a dark uniform and cap, seen from behind. The outdoor interaction suggests a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers on board a ship.

2nd Bosun

Support the Bosun in supervising deck crew, maintaining ship standards and ensuring safety. Lead by example, promote teamwork and help create a positive environment for crew and guests at sea.

Two workers wearing black uniforms, yellow safety harnesses, and gloves stand outdoors on a rooftop—reminiscent of P&O Cruises deck careers. One waves and smiles; both wear sunglasses and hats against a blurred cityscape background.

Deck Petty Officer

Inspect and maintain lifesaving and firefighting equipment, lead safe working practices and support deck operations. Deliver high standards, strong teamwork and great guest service, helping keep our ship safe, efficient and welcoming for all.

A man in a dark uniform smiles as he holds safety gear, showcasing P&O Cruises deck careers in a room with shelves containing yellow equipment and coiled hoses.

AB Helm

Support safe navigation and ship maintenance as part of the bridge team. Carry out helmsman duties, upkeep tasks and respond to incidents, helping keep our ships shipshape and guests happy at sea.

 

A man in a navy uniform stands by large windows overlooking the sea, holding binoculars and smiling at the camera—a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers.

Sailor AB

Maintain ship and deck areas to high standards, supporting safe operations and guide junior crew. Carry out maintenance, repairs and lookout duties, helping keep our ships shipshape and guests happy at sea.

 

 

A man wearing safety goggles, gloves, and a blue shirt with a name badge smiles whilst working outdoors as part of the P&O Cruises deck careers team, holding onto a white metal pole.

Sailor OS

Support deck maintenance and ship appearance while assisting senior crew and learning new skills. Carry out repairs, cleaning and lookout duties, helping keep our ships shipshape and guests happy at sea.

 

 

 

Three women in navy uniforms, blue helmets, and orange gloves pose together on a ship. Two are seated on large metal bollards whilst one stands between them, smiling with arms round each other—proudly representing P&O Cruises deck careers.
View live roles
Security & Environmental team roles

The security and environmental teams play a vital role in protecting our guests, crew, ships and the oceans we sail, helping create a calm, secure and welcoming onboard environment.

Working across the ship, the security team maintains a strong, visible presence through patrols, monitoring and incident response, helping protect everyone on board. Alongside this, the environmental team ensures responsible operations by managing waste, water treatment, emissions and reporting to reduce environmental impact and support sustainable practices.

A career in security or environmental operations at sea is both professional and purpose‑driven. You’ll work across departments, develop specialist skills and play a hands‑on role in protecting people and the marine environment while building a rewarding maritime career with international experience.

A security guard in a yellow vest and white uniform stands outdoors, holding a walkie-talkie. He could be overseeing P&O Cruises deck careers, with a blue marquee, blurred people, and a white wall in the background.
A smiling woman in a reflective vest holds a walkie-talkie, standing outdoors before a white wall with large blue letters that partially read P&O CRU, representing the dynamic environment of P&O Cruises deck careers.
A security officer wearing a reflective yellow vest and radio equipment stands indoors, with a red background behind her. She has long dark hair pulled back and is looking slightly to the side, smiling—an example of P&O Cruises deck careers in action.
A smiling person in a yellow helmet, face shield, and protective suit stands indoors—perhaps training for P&O Cruises deck careers. Equipment and shelves are visible in the background, suggesting an emergency services environment.
Mountains in Norway

Security Officer

Manage ship security and lead the team to protect guests, crew and assets. Oversee prevention plans, investigations and training to ensure compliance and maintain a safe, welcoming environment for everyone on board.

A security guard in a yellow vest and white uniform stands outdoors, holding a walkie-talkie. He could be overseeing P&O Cruises deck careers, with a blue marquee, blurred people, and a white wall in the background.

Security Supervisor

Lead the security patrol team, oversee access control and screening, and coordinate responses to incidents. Mentor and develop colleagues, ensuring the highest standards of safety, teamwork and guest wellbeing across the ship.

 

A smiling woman in a reflective vest holds a walkie-talkie, standing outdoors before a white wall with large blue letters that partially read P&O CRU, representing the dynamic environment of P&O Cruises deck careers.

Security Patrol

Maintain ship safety by monitoring access, patrolling guest and crew areas and responding to incidents. Provide a calm, visible presence that helps everyone feel secure while supporting investigations and creating unforgettable holiday happiness at sea.

A security officer wearing a reflective yellow vest and radio equipment stands indoors, with a red background behind her. She has long dark hair pulled back and is looking slightly to the side, smiling—an example of P&O Cruises deck careers in action.

Fleet Safety Trainers

Design and deliver engaging safety and security training, empowering crew to work confidently and safely. Champion best practice, continuous improvement and teamwork across a dynamic, multicultural fleet.

A smiling person in a yellow helmet, face shield, and protective suit stands indoors—perhaps training for P&O Cruises deck careers. Equipment and shelves are visible in the background, suggesting an emergency services environment.

Environmental Officer

Environmental officers help protect the oceans and ensure ships operate in line with international environmental regulations. The role focuses on environmental compliance, pollution prevention and supporting sustainable shipboard operations.

 

Working with teams across the ship, environmental officers monitor daily activities, identify environmental risks and support effective waste management and pollution prevention processes. They also review environmental practices, provide training on legislation and help maintain high maritime environmental standards across all operations.

Mountains in Norway
View live roles
Spotted your next career move?

At P&O Cruises, deck officers don’t just step into a role, they step onto a clearly charted career journey. From day one your progression opportunities are visible, with a professional development record that shows where you are now and what comes next. You’ll be supported by a dedicated career manager, structured development records and a clear career grade framework. We invest in you with funded refresher courses, sponsored study leave and regular training at CSMART, our world‑class maritime training centre.

For ratings roles we’ll support your development through the ranks with training specific to your role.

 

Two uniformed ship officers stand on a vessel’s bridge, each scanning the sea ahead through binoculars. A radio and papers rest on the console—offering a glimpse into P&O Cruises deck careers in action.

FAQs

Skills & qualifications
Team roles
Development opportunities
Working on board

What skills do I need to work in the deck department at P&O Cruises?

To work in the deck department at P&O Cruises, you’ll need strong teamwork and communication skills, a high level of safety awareness and the ability to follow procedures in safety‑critical situations. Practical problem‑solving, reliability and confidence working outdoors in changing conditions are also essential.

Do I need previous maritime experience to work in the deck department at P&O Cruises?

The majority of positions do require relevant sea time and recognised qualifications or experience. The exact requirements are clearly set out in each job advert, however almost all deck officers started their career at sea as a cadet, for which full training is provided – find out about the Carnival Corporation cadetship programme here.

What qualifications are required for deck department roles at P&O Cruises?

Most deck roles at P&O Cruises require STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) safety training, a valid seafarer medical certificate and the right travel documents. Deck officer and Rating roles also need internationally recognised Certificates of Competency and/or Proficiency, and the exact requirements are set out in each job advert. We support those looking to gain their qualifications in the deck department and most Officers start their career at sea as a cadet – find out about the Carnival Corporation cadetship programme here.

Is English required for deck department roles with P&O Cruises?

Yes. English is the operational language on board P&O Cruises ships. All deck colleagues must be able to communicate clearly, understand safety instructions and work effectively as part of an international crew.

Are deck department roles at P&O Cruises physically demanding?

Deck department roles can be physically active and may involve working on open decks, handling equipment and supporting ship operations. P&O Cruises provides training, equipment and clear safety procedures to ensure work is carried out safely.

What does the deck department do on board P&O Cruises ships?

The deck department at P&O Cruises is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship, watchkeeping, mooring operations, maintenance of external areas and supporting onboard safety, environmental and emergency procedures.

What deck department roles are available at P&O Cruises?

Deck teams at P&O Cruises typically include deck officers, able seafarers, ordinary seafarers and specialist roles focused on safety, security and environmental operations. Roles can vary by ship and itinerary.

What is a typical day like in a P&O Cruises deck role?

A typical day depends on your role and rank but may include watchkeeping, maintenance tasks, safety checks, drills and supporting arrivals and departures in port. Work is structured, team‑based and safety‑led.

Do deck crew at P&O Cruises interact with guests?

Some deck roles involve guest interaction, particularly during port arrivals, departures and safety drills. Other deck roles are more operational and focused behind the scenes.

Where do deck department teams work on a P&O Cruises ship?

Deck colleagues work across bridge areas, open decks, gangways and operational spaces, playing a key role in both ship safety and overall presentation.

Can I progress my career in the deck department at P&O Cruises?

Yes. P&O Cruises offers clear progression opportunities within the deck department. Many colleagues develop their careers from entry‑level roles into officer and senior leadership positions by building sea time, experience and recognised qualifications.

Does P&O Cruises support training and development for deck roles?

P&O Cruises supports development through onboard training, mentoring and opportunities to gain practical experience at sea. This allows deck colleagues to build skills and work towards further professional certification.

Are there leadership opportunities in deck department roles at P&O Cruises?

Yes. As you gain experience, you can progress into supervisory and officer roles with increased responsibility for navigation, safety management and team leadership on board.

What skills will I develop working in the deck department at P&O Cruises?

You’ll develop technical maritime knowledge alongside highly transferable skills such as leadership, decision‑making under pressure, risk management and working within diverse, global teams.

Can deck department experience at P&O Cruises lead to shoreside careers?

Yes. Deck experience at P&O Cruises can support future careers in maritime operations, safety, training and other shore‑based roles within the wider Carnival UK business.

What is life like working in the deck department at P&O Cruises?

Life on board P&O Cruises ships is structured and sociable. You’ll live and work alongside colleagues from around the world, follow planned duty schedules and be part of a close‑knit shipboard community.

How long are contracts for deck roles at P&O Cruises?

Contract lengths vary depending on role and operational requirements. Full details are shared during the recruitment process before you join your ship.

What are working hours like for deck department roles at P&O Cruises?

Deck roles typically work rotating shifts or watch systems to support 24‑hour ship operations. All work is managed in line with maritime work‑rest regulations.

What accommodation and facilities does P&O Cruises provide on board?

P&O Cruises provides accommodation, meals, medical care and access to onboard crew facilities, such as gyms, recreation areas and welfare services.

Do deck crew at P&O Cruises get time ashore?

Yes. When operational duties allow, deck colleagues may have opportunities to go ashore and explore destinations during port visits.

Latest department news

Staff Captain awarded Merchant Navy Medal
Recognition

Staff Captain awarded Merchant Navy Medal

3 September 2026

Martel Fursdon, a respected maritime leader and Staff Captain with Carnival UK, has been awarded the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service. Her story highlights the power of mentorship, leadership and the opportunities available through a career at sea.
Life on board as a deck cadet
Crew stories

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.
World Oceans Day
Sustainability

World Oceans Day

8 June 2026

On World Oceans Day, we celebrate 10 years of working with ORCA. Discover how careers at sea with P&O Cruises contribute to protecting whales, dolphins and ocean habitats.
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
Two crew members in blue uniforms and helmets smile whilst handling ropes on a ship's deck, surrounded by large green winches and coiled ropes—a snapshot of daily life in P&O Cruises deck careers. Two workers in blue uniforms and safety helmets stand near industrial machinery, holding thick ropes and smiling at each other—capturing the teamwork found in P&O Cruises deck careers, all within a bright indoor setting.

Got the skills and the spark?

How to apply