Recruitment Agencies

Recruiting crew members for cruise liners and yachts across various countries can be harsh and complex, which is why many companies rely on local hiring agencies to manage recruitment, documentation, and logistics. While some cruise lines allow direct applications, others redirect candidates to local agencies.

Official recruitment agencies are prohibited from charging candidates during the selection process, as mandated by the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC). However, many agencies still impose fees or demand payments from new hires. If this occurs, candidates have the right to refuse and report the agency to the MLC. Charging for additional services like English classes or hospitality training, however, is not considered a violation but it is considered a very high offense to the candidate and it is treated as a joke in the community. If you ever come across an agency that does this practice please report it to us and we will make sure to spread the word on all our social media.