A worker in a blue uniform and safety harness reaches towards a hatch on a large white spherical structure, likely a radar dome, against a clear sky. A worker in a blue uniform and safety harness points at a small access door on a large white spherical structure, with a clear sky in the background.

IT team

Technology supports every moment of a P&O Cruises holiday, helping create a smooth and seamless experience from start to finish. From fast, easy embarkation to reliable guest services, dining systems, onboard Wi‑Fi and entertainment, our IT teams make sure everything works simply and consistently behind the scenes.

Across our fleet, IT teams manage and support the systems that power daily life on board for both guests and crew. The focus is always on reliability, accuracy and service. Using a proactive, detail-focused approach, teams keep systems performing at a high standard, every day at sea.

Our ships operate as fully connected environments, supporting thousands of users and a wide range of modern technologies. This includes onboard data centres, global networks, business systems and guest-facing applications. Working across IT infrastructure, software, cybersecurity, communications and system performance, our teams ensure all technology runs securely and without interruption.

A career in IT with P&O Cruises offers hands-on experience in a unique, complex environment. Every system and connection plays a part in the overall guest experience. By keeping everything running exactly as it should, our IT teams help guests switch off, relax and enjoy their holiday.

Own real impact, every single day

You won’t ‘sit behind the scenes’. You’ll keep guest and crew technology running smoothly, so everyone on board can holiday, work and connect without disruption.

Take on serious responsibility from day one

Because shipboard teams are compact, you’ll manage enterprise‑scale systems, take ownership of incidents and make decisions that you can see playing out immediately across the ship.

Gain rare technical experience that shore roles can’t match.

Work with satellite networking, hybrid cloud/edge environments, segmented security architectures and maritime‑grade redundancy, building credibility fast in cruise ship IT jobs and maritime technology careers.

Support both guest‑facing and operational tech in one role

Sharpen your range across Wi‑Fi & satellite internet, guest service systems (like keycards and onboard accounts), crew welfare tech, core infrastructure (LAN/WAN, servers, backups) and cybersecurity expectations at sea.

Grow through structured service delivery and modern IT practices

Work with clear incident queues, SLAs, accurate ticketing records, safe patching and change control in line with ITIL‑style processes and onboard policy, strengthening your future in onboard IT operations and technical careers at sea.

Build a global career pathway, from ship to shore and beyond

Progress into shipboard leadership, specialist cybersecurity or infrastructure roles, and even shoreside IT and transformation positions, while still being part of a tight‑knit, multi‑national crew community.

IT roles
A smiling man in a white officer’s uniform stands on the deck of a ship, leaning on the rail and looking out over the sea on a bright, clear day.
A man wearing glasses and a white uniform shirt with a name badge adjusts electronic equipment indoors, with a blurred STUDIO sign in the background.
A cruise ship crew member in a white uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a name badge stands smiling on deck. The P&O Cruises logo and ship structure are visible in the background.
Two men in uniform stand behind a bar, one in a white shirt holding a tablet and the other in a striped shirt, engaged in conversation with bottles on shelves in the background.

IT Manager (Arvia & Iona)

As an IT Manager on a cruise ship, you lead the onboard IT function on P&O Cruises largest and most complex ships. You are accountable for delivering reliable, secure and high-performing technology that supports operations, enables revenue and enhances the guest experience.

 

In this role, you will:

  • Lead and develop a team of IT Officers and Technicians, building capability, confidence and strong team performance through coaching, development and clear direction
  • Oversee end-to-end IT operations, ensuring systems remain stable, secure and available across the ship
  • Drive incident, problem and service request management, using an ITIL-aligned approach to maintain service quality
  • Ensure tickets are prioritised and resolved based on operational and guest impact, with clear communication throughout
  • Champion proactive monitoring and preventative maintenance, reducing risk and improving system performance
  • Take accountability for cyber security, compliance and operational resilience across all IT systems

 

You will work across a wide technology landscape, including infrastructure, networks, end-user systems, operational platforms, communications, and guest-facing technology.

 

Collaboration is key. You will work closely with onboard departments, shore-based IT teams and external partners, acting as the central point of coordination for all technology on board. You will also lead responses to major incidents, coordinating stakeholders, driving resolution and maintaining clear, confident communication with senior stakeholders.

 

As a senior leader on board, you will promote a service-led, guest-focused culture, ensuring technology supports safe operations and delivers a seamless onboard experience. Your leadership helps keep the ship connected, secure and running smoothly, creating the foundation for exceptional service and unforgettable journeys.

A smiling man in a white officer’s uniform stands on the deck of a ship, leaning on the rail and looking out over the sea on a bright, clear day.

IT Officer

As an IT Officer on a P&O Cruises ship, you are responsible for delivering reliable, secure and high-performing technology across both guest and crew environments.

 

This is a hands-on role where you will:

  • Support and maintain shipboard IT systems, including networks, applications, end-user devices, iCafe, iTV and satellite communications
  • Take ownership of incident management, leading triage, troubleshooting, and resolution across core systems
  • Prioritise issues based on operational and guest impact, ensuring fast and effective outcomes
  • Manage ticket queues and service requests, keeping records up to date and communicating clearly with users
  • Work closely with shore-based IT teams and external vendors to resolve complex issues

 

You will play a key role in service delivery, helping ensure systems are available, stable and performing well in a 24/7 onboard environment.

 

As the ship’s technical subject matter expert, you will provide guidance across all onboard systems and support continuous improvement. You will also manage and support IT Technicians, assigning work, sharing knowledge and maintaining high standards of service. In addition, you will provide day-to-day team leadership, including coaching, feedback, and performance support, helping to build a strong and consistent IT team on board.

 

Cyber security and compliance are an essential part of the role. You will promote secure behaviours, follow established procedures and help protect systems that support both operations and the guest experience. Your work ensures the ship stays connected, secure, and running smoothly, supporting a seamless experience for everyone on board.

A man wearing glasses and a white uniform shirt with a name badge adjusts electronic equipment indoors, with a blurred STUDIO sign in the background.

Senior IT Technician

As a Senior IT Technician on our larger and more complex ships, you will be a trusted problem-solver, working closely with the IT Officer to deliver reliable, high-quality IT support across the ship.

 

This is a hands-on role where you will:

  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues across networks, applications and end-user devices, including laptops, desktops, handheld devices and iCafe systems
  • Support incident management and service requests, ensuring issues are resolved in line with agreed service levels
  • Monitor key systems and onboard technology, maintaining performance and stability
  • Carry out routine maintenance on equipment such as printers, card systems, and multi-function devices (MFDs)
  • Manage IT assets, including inventories, spare parts and return merchandise authorisations (RMAs)
  • Keep accurate ticket records, providing clear updates to users and working closely with shore-based teams and vendors

 

Service is a key part of the role. You will provide clear, professional support, helping crew and guests feel confident and well supported. You will also mentor and support junior IT Technicians, building capability, confidence and consistency across the team.

 

You will follow established change controls and procedures when applying updates and system changes, helping protect service stability. You will also support cyber security and compliance, promoting secure behaviour and assisting with issue resolution when needed.

 

Your work helps ensure reliable, secure and high-performing technology across the ship, supporting both operations and the guest experience.

A cruise ship crew member in a white uniform with shoulder epaulettes and a name badge stands smiling on deck. The P&O Cruises logo and ship structure are visible in the background.

IT Technician

As an IT Technician on a cruise ship, you play a key role in keeping day-to-day technology reliable for both guests and crew, supporting everything from hardware replacements and fault resolution to system maintenance and user support. You will be part of a close‑knit, collaborative onboard IT team, supporting the testing, maintenance, and repair of shipboard IT systems.

 

This is a hands-on role where you will:

  • Support incident resolution and service requests across core IT systems, including networks, applications, desktops and end-user devices
  • Assist with hardware maintenance and equipment replacement, ensuring systems remain fully operational
  • Monitor IT systems and devices, responding quickly to issues to maintain performance
  • Manage ticket queues, escalating issues where required and working closely with shore-based teams and vendors to support timely resolution
  • Provide clear, timely updates to users, ensuring a strong service-focused experience

 

You will also carry out routine maintenance across a wide range of onboard technology, helping ensure equipment is functional and ready for use. This includes maintaining accurate inventories, managing spare parts and following RMA processes to support efficient operations.

 

Cyber security and compliance are an important part of the role. You will follow established procedures, carry out basic checks, and promote secure and responsible IT practices on board.

 

Your work helps keep technology running smoothly every day, supporting the crew and contributing to a seamless, connected experience for every guest.

Two men in uniform stand behind a bar, one in a white shirt holding a tablet and the other in a striped shirt, engaged in conversation with bottles on shelves in the background.
How to apply
Skills & qualifications
Team roles
Development opportunities
Working on board

What qualifications do I need to work in the IT department on a P&O Cruises ship?

Requirements for cruise ship IT jobs vary depending on the role and level. P&O Cruises looks for candidates with a strong technical foundation and a calm, curious and service-focused approach.

 

Typically, this includes:

  • A degree or diploma in IT, computer science, or a related subject
  • Industry certifications such as CompTIA (A+, Network+, Server+), Microsoft, Cisco, or ITIL (preferred but not always required)
  • Practical experience in IT support, troubleshooting and system administration, ideally in 24/7 or high-availability environments

 

Previous experience at sea is not required. P&O Cruises provide onboard training and support, helping you adapt to ship systems, processes, and life on board.

 

This makes cruise ship IT careers accessible to skilled professionals looking to apply their experience in a dynamic, global environment at sea.

Do P&O Cruises IT roles require previous cruise ship or maritime experience?

No. You do not need previous cruise ship or maritime experience to apply for P&O Cruises IT jobs.

 

P&O Cruises welcomes candidates from a wide range of shore-based IT roles, including support, infrastructure and systems administration. While experience at sea can be helpful, it is not essential.

 

You will receive comprehensive onboard training, covering ship IT systems, processes, relevant regulations and what to expect from life at sea.

 

This means you can successfully transition from a land-based IT job to a maritime IT career, using your existing skills in a new and rewarding environment.

What technical skills are most important for IT roles on board P&O Cruises ships?

The skills needed for cruise ship IT jobs will vary depending on the role. While you are not expected to have all of them, experience in the following areas is highly valued:

 

  • Hardware and software troubleshooting, resolving technical issues quickly and effectively
  • Incident management, including identifying, diagnosing and escalating problems
  • Application support and user assistance for crew systems and onboard services
  • Cyber security and data protection, helping to keep systems and information secure
  • Satellite communications and shipboard IT systems, supporting connectivity at sea
  • System monitoring, updates, and backups to maintain performance and reliability
  • A working knowledge of networks and server environments

 

Alongside technical ability, strong communication skills and confident problem-solving are essential. You will work closely with crew and support guest services, so a service-focused approach is just as important as technical expertise.

 

This combination of skills helps you succeed in maritime IT careers and onboard technology roles, where both system performance and user experience matter.

Are cyber security skills important for P&O Cruises IT roles?

Yes. Cyber security is an important part of working in cruise ship IT roles, helping to protect onboard systems and sensitive data.

 

While advanced cyber security expertise is not always required, having some knowledge or experience is highly valued.

 

P&O Cruises IT teams play a key role in protecting:

  • Crew and operational systems that support daily ship operations
  • Guest data and payment systems, ensuring information is secure
  • Ship-to-shore communications, including satellite and network connections

 

You will work in a secure, always-on environment where data protection, system security and risk awareness are part of everyday IT operations.

 

This helps you build valuable experience in cyber security within maritime IT, supporting both operational reliability and guest trust.

Do I need customer-support experience?

Yes. In cruise ship IT roles, customer service skills are important because your work supports both crew and guest technology.

 

While previous customer support experience is not always essential, it is highly valued. In this role, you will support:

  • Officers and crew across all departments
  • Guest technology, including Wi‑Fi, connectivity and digital services

 

Providing a professional, responsive and service-focused approach is a key part of the job. Strong communication skills and confident problem-solving are just as important as technical knowledge.

 

This helps ensure a smooth and reliable onboard experience for everyone on board.

 

What technical systems will I work with on board P&O Cruises ships?

P&O Cruises offers exposure to large‑scale, enterprise‑level technology, including:

 

  • Robust onboard networks and servers
  • Satellite and VSAT communications
  • Cyber‑secure operational and hotel systems
  • Guest‑facing digital platforms, such as Wi‑Fi and entertainment

 

It’s comparable to managing a complex shore‑based infrastructure but at sea.

What IT roles are available on board a P&O Cruises cruise ship?

IT jobs on a cruise ship vary depending on the size and complexity of the vessel. P&O Cruises offers a clear structure of roles within its onboard IT team.

 

Typical roles include:

  • IT Technician – provides first and second-line support, resolving day-to-day technical issues across the ship
  • Senior IT Technician –  handles more complex problems and supports junior team members with guidance and expertise
  • IT Officer – acts as the onboard technical lead, overseeing incident resolution and maintaining system performance and stability
  • IT Manager – leads the IT department on board, responsible for service delivery, team management and overall IT operations

 

This structure creates a clear pathway for progression in cruise ship IT careers, allowing you to build experience and develop your skills at each level.

What does the IT department do on a P&O Cruises ship?

The IT department plays a vital role in keeping a cruise ship running smoothly behind the scenes. The team ensures all systems are reliable, secure, and available for both guests and crew.

 

This includes supporting:

  • Crew and operational systems that enable day-to-day ship operations
  • Business-critical and safety systems, ensuring connectivity, security and system performance
  • Guest technology, including Wi‑Fi, entertainment and digital services

 

From resolving technical issues to maintaining system performance and security, the IT team helps deliver a safe, connected, and seamless onboard experience.

 

Working in cruise ship IT means being part of a team that supports essential technology across the entire ship, from operations to guest services.

What does a typical day look like for the IT team on a P&O Cruises ship?

No two days are the same in a cruise ship IT role, but your work will focus on keeping onboard systems running smoothly, securely and efficiently.

 

A typical day may include:

  • Monitoring system performance and carrying out daily checks and preventive maintenance
  • Troubleshooting technical issues across onboard applications, hardware and software
  • Maintaining and repairing IT equipment, including replacements when needed
  • Responding to service requests from crew and supporting guest technology
  • Supporting onboard connectivity and digital services to ensure a high standard of service
  • Managing system security, updates, and backups to keep systems reliable and compliant
  • Handling technical escalations and working with shore-based IT teams
  • Completing additional tasks and improvements to support daily operations

 

At a management level, this also includes leading the onboard IT team, overseeing service delivery and ensuring all systems meet operational and business needs.

 

Working at sea means gaining experience across a wide range of systems and technologies, combining hands-on support, problem-solving and teamwork to keep the ship connected and running efficiently.

Are P&O Cruises IT roles more technical or managerial?

P&O Cruises IT jobs are primarily hands-on and technical, especially at entry and mid-level roles.

 

At IT technician level, your focus is on system support, troubleshooting, and resolving technical issues, helping to keep onboard services running smoothly.

 

As you progress to officer level, the role remains technical but adds technical leadership and team support, with some responsibility for guiding others.

 

At manager level, the role becomes more focused on leading the onboard IT function, overseeing service delivery, managing incidents and supporting team development.

 

Across all levels, there is a strong focus on reliable service delivery, combining technical expertise, problem-solving and clear communication to support both crew and guests.

Are IT roles with P&O Cruises operational or guest-facing?

IT jobs on P&O Cruises ships are mainly operational roles, focused on keeping onboard technology running smoothly and securely.

 

By maintaining reliable, high-performing systems, IT teams support everything from core ship operations to guest services. While the role is not typically guest-facing, the work you do has a direct impact on the experience of both guests and crew.

 

This means you play an essential part in delivering a seamless onboard experience, supporting the technology behind connectivity, services, and day-to-day operations on a modern cruise ship.

Does P&O Cruises offer IT training and development on board?

Yes. P&O Cruises is committed to continuous development, supporting IT teams with training and hands-on experience in cruise ship IT roles.

 

You will benefit from:

  • Practical, hands-on experience working in a live shipboard environment
  • Vendor and manufacturer training to build recognised technical expertise
  • Company training on onboard IT systems, processes and operations

 

This ongoing support helps you build technical skills, gain real-world experience and grow your career in maritime IT and cruise ship technology roles.

How does P&O Cruises support career progression in IT roles?

P&O Cruises supports long-term career growth by offering clear pathways to develop your skills and progress in cruise ship IT careers.

 

You will have opportunities to:

  • Progress through onboard roles, from IT Technician to senior and officer-level positions
  • Gain experience across a wide range of systems, technologies and IT responsibilities
  • Build both technical expertise and leadership skills while working at sea

 

This structured approach helps you grow into a skilled and confident IT professional, with long-term career opportunities in maritime IT and cruise ship technology roles.

Are certifications supported while working for P&O Cruises?

P&O Cruises supports professional development and may sponsor role‑relevant certifications, depending on business needs and performance.

Is cruise ship IT experience valued for shore-based IT jobs?

Yes. Experience in cruise ship IT roles is highly valued by employers on shore, as it shows you can work in complex, high-demand environments.

 

While working at sea, you will develop key skills, including:

  • Supporting multiple IT systems that have a direct impact on business operations
  • Taking full ownership of incidents, managing issues from start to resolution in a 24/7 environment
  • Making decisions in high-pressure situations, often working independently
  • Balancing technical delivery with customer service for a diverse, global user base
  • Building broad experience across hardware, software, networks and applications

 

This experience shows you can take responsibility, solve problems quickly and deliver reliable IT services. These are all qualities that employers look for in shore-based IT roles and maritime IT careers.

How does working at sea improve my IT skills?

Working in a cruise ship IT role gives you experience in a fast-paced, real-world environment where technology is critical to daily operations.

 

On board, you will build valuable skills, including:

 

  • Supporting business-critical systems that directly impact guest experience and ship operations
  • Working in a 24/7, high-availability environment where system reliability is essential
  • Managing IT issues from incident response through to resolution and recovery
  • Gaining hands-on experience across hardware, software, networks, and onboard applications
  • Developing strong problem-solving and adaptability skills in a service-focused setting

 

This experience helps you become a well-rounded and confident IT professional, with the ability to work in complex, high-pressure environments both at sea and on shore.

Will I work with new technology on board a P&O Cruises ship?

Yes. At P&O Cruises, onboard technology is always evolving across core systems, cyber security, and guest services.

As part of the IT team, you will work with modern systems and digital services in a fast‑moving environment. This gives you the opportunity to build up-to-date technical skills and gain hands-on experience supporting real-time operations at sea.

Working on a cruise ship means using technology that supports everything from onboard connectivity to guest experiences, helping you grow your career in maritime IT and cruise ship technology.

How does working in IT on a cruise ship differ from shore-based roles?

Unlike shore roles, P&O Cruises IT professionals:

  • Live and work on board
  • Support systems with no external immediate backup
  • Experience accelerated learning through real‑time responsibility

This level of exposure exceeds most land‑based entry and mid‑level IT roles.

What are the working hours for IT roles on a cruise ship?

IT jobs with P&O Cruises work on a rotational contract, with time spent working on board followed by a period of leave at home.

While on board, IT teams support the ship’s 24‑hour operations. This includes a mix of scheduled shifts, on‑call support, and responding to technical issues, service requests, and system incidents as they arise.

Working at sea means being part of a team that keeps essential technology running at all times, helping deliver a smooth and reliable experience for both guests and crew.

What lifestyle benefits do P&O Cruises IT roles offer?

P&O Cruises provides:

  • Accommodation and meals on board
  • Medical care
  • Tax‑efficient earning potential (subject to personal circumstances)
  • The opportunity to travel while working

 

Is IT work on board high pressure?

The environment is fast‑paced, but P&O Cruises supports IT teams through:

  • Clear operational procedures
  • Shore‑based escalation support
  • Well‑defined roles and responsibilities
Three people in white uniforms stand with their backs to the camera, overlooking the deck and pool area of a cruise ship with the sea in the background. Two ship crew members in uniform stand with their backs to the camera, looking out over the deck of a large cruise ship under bright sunlight.

Got the skills and the spark?

How to apply