Working on River Cruise Ships – Information & Requirements
River cruise ships operate on the most important European waterways, including the Danube, Moselle, Main, Rhine, Rhône and Seine.
Depending on the cruise line, ship capacities range from 80 to 200 guests, with a crew of approximately 35 to 85 employees.
Contracts are seasonal and usually run from March to November.
Accommodation & Meals
Crew members share their cabin with one or two colleagues.
All meals are provided free of charge on board.
Language & Professional Requirements
Anyone who wishes to work on a river cruise ship must have:

• Good English or German language skills (ideally both)

• Professional experience in the position applied for

• Reliability, resilience and teamwork skills

Working Hours
Working on board is demanding.
You will usually work 7 days per week, approximately 10–12 hours per day.
There are no full days off, however, you will have daily free hours for rest.
Application Process
Most cruise companies conduct interviews between December and February.
Temporary Chef Ltd. is responsible for the pre-selection of all applicants.
First Step:
Please complete our online application form and submit the required documents.
Required Documents:

• CV in English or German (with photo)

• Two passport-sized photographs

• Work references

• Relevant diplomas & certificates

• Copy of passport

• Current criminal record check
   

🍽 1. Executive Chef (m/f/d)
Job Description:
Overall responsibility for the kitchen on board. Leadership of an international team, quality and hygiene supervision, planning, production and cost control at the highest level.
Requirements:

• Several years of experience as Executive or Head Chef

• Strong leadership & organizational skills

• Very good English language skills

• Cruise ship or 4–5★ hotel experience is an advantage

Salary:
€3,500 – €6,500 (depending on cruise line & ship type)


🍳 2. Sous Chef (m/f/d)
Job Description:
Deputy to the Executive Chef. Operational responsibility for daily production processes, team coordination and ensuring all quality standards during service.
Requirements:

• Experience as Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie

• High level of resilience & leadership skills

• Good English language skills

• Experience in upscale gastronomy

Salary:
€2,800 – €4,500


🥖 3. Chief Baker (m/f/d)
Job Description:
Responsible for the daily production of bread, pastries and baked goods at consistently high quality. Planning, production and hygiene in the bakery department.
Requirements:

• Completed training as a Master Baker

• Several years of experience

• Good English language skills

• Ability to efficiently produce large quantities

Salary:
€2,000 – €3,200


🍰 4. Pastry Chef / Chef Patissier (m/f/d)
Job Description:
Management of the pastry department. Production of high-quality desserts, sweet buffets and specialties. Creativity, precision and quality awareness are key.
Requirements:

• Pastry chef training / Master confectioner

• Proven experience in upscale gastronomy

• Good English language skills

• Creative and structured working style

Salary:
€2,200 – €3,500