Wages are paid either at cruise end, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. In between, cash advances are frequently organized by the Chief Purser or Crew Purser. Most companies pay wages in US Dollar currency or in the currency of the flag of the ship i.e. German Mark. There are several different wage system in simultanious use. Which system is used depends on the position and company. Usually non-service personnel receive a fixed wage. This includes all officers, department heads, members of the deck and engine departments, administrative staff, and entertainment staff. Service personal, including waiters, busboys, and room stewards usually receive a basic wage and guest gratuities. The gratuity systems vary between cruise lines, but the following are the most common: 1. Guests give a suggested tip directly to the crew member at the end of the cruise 2. The ship collects the gratuities from the guests on board at cruise end. It is then divided between those crew members receiving gratuities. 3. The gratuities are part of the cruise fare. At cruise end it is divided between those crew members receiving gratuities. 4. Everyone receives a fixed wage. With systems 1, 2, 3 the wage depends directly on the guest count of each cruise. With system 4 the same wage is paid every month, independent of the guest count. With the exception of senior officers, most cruise lines do not pay crew members during their vacation. However, it is common practice to receive vacation pay for every month on board. The vacation pay is paid to the crew member when leaving for vacation. Depending on the company and position, additional bonus and incentive schemes are in place. This can be additional seniority pay for every completed contract/year with the company, a free professional course, a performance bonus, or a returning bonus when coming back for another contract. Because the majority of cruise ships are registered in countries that do not have income taxes agreements with other countries, crew members must voluntarily declare their income tax in their country of residence. Please consult an income tax specialist in your country to fully understand your legal obligations. |
