Role in shipping and logistics
Passenger ships are merchant vessels built to carry people. ROPAX (roll-on/roll-off passenger) vessels carry foot passengers and vehicles on short to medium-distance ferry routes. Cruise ships move thousands of travellers on fixed itineraries; every call brings fuel, stores, waste handling and crew changes. Passenger shipping is as much a part of the transport chain as it is tourism.
Different types and their main characteristics
1. Ferries/ROPAX:
- Short to medium range
- Stern/bow ramps for rapid vehicle loading
- Accommodation ranges from seats-only to overnight cabins.
2. Cruise ships
- Purpose-built ‘floating hotels’
- Cruise ships carry paying guests and a large hotel-style crew who are undertaking passenger ship jobs (e.g., catering, housekeeping, entertainment, technical)
- The layout favours leisure, dining and entertainment over speed.
3. Ocean liners
- Heavier, thicker hulls and higher service speed for blue-water crossings
- These ships are now niche: modern hybrids such as Queen Mary 2 still cross the North Atlantic but also run as cruise ships.
Working on passenger ships
Passenger ship crew reviews on Offshore Ship Advisor cover cabins, food, downtime areas, Wi-Fi and cleanliness, scored by serving crew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What safety training do crew members need?
All passenger ships operate under SOLAS and STCW. New and returning crew must hold valid basic safety certificates covering survival, firefighting, first aid and safety. They’re also required to take part in regular abandon-ship drills on board. Every crew member has an assigned emergency duty on the muster list.
Do I need qualifications?
Yes. You need valid STCW certificates in survival, firefighting, first aid, personal safety and security awareness before most cruise or ferry operators will sign you on.
How long are rotations?
Deck officers may work 3-4 month hitches with similar time off. Hotel/hospitality crew often sign 6–8 month contracts.
Is working on a passenger ship worth it?
Crew reviews of passenger ships say hours are long, but travel, food, accommodation and progression are included.