Apprentice Purser – Cruise Ship

We are seeking an Apprentice Purser to join the Financial Operations team aboard a cruise ship. This is an entry-level training position designed for candidates who are looking to develop their career in shipboard finance, guest accounts, payroll, and accounting operations.

Working under the guidance of the Financial Controller and alongside experienced financial team members, the Apprentice Purser will gain practical experience in either Guest Accounts or Crew Payroll, with the opportunity to progress into a Purser-level position following successful completion of the required training.

Key Responsibilities

Depending on the assigned area, responsibilities may include:

Guest Accounts

Assist with daily reconciliation and balancing of guest financial accounts and point-of-sale transactions.
Support gratuity posting and reconciliation.
Reconcile prepaid guest amenities.
Assist with obtaining and processing payment methods for guest accounts.
Authorize and settle credit card transactions.
Collect and balance cash payments.
Assist with other guest-related financial matters.

Crew Payroll

Assist with crew cash payments and payroll-related enquiries.
Support the preparation and distribution of cash payroll.
Enter and reconcile gratuity and supplemental payroll data.
Assist with foreign exchange transactions.
Support other crew-related financial and payroll activities.

General Responsibilities

Maintain strict confidentiality of guest and crew financial information, including salaries and payment details.
Participate actively in training and development programs.
Complete assigned training checklists and progressively take responsibility for tasks independently.
Provide professional and courteous assistance to guests and crew.
Follow company policies, financial procedures, health and safety standards, and applicable maritime regulations.
Attend mandatory safety drills, meetings, training sessions, and other required activities.
Maintain a safe, secure, and professional working environment.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Financial Controller or management.

Requirements

High school education, basic education, or vocational training equivalent.
Previous experience in payroll, accounting, finance, or cash handling is preferred.
Experience within the hospitality industry, financial institution, or a similar environment is an advantage.
Good understanding of cash handling and currency exchange.
Strong administrative, numerical, and analytical skills.
Good understanding of accounting/bookkeeping principles.
Excellent attention to detail and ability to work with confidential information.
Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a team.
Strong customer service and communication skills.
Professional and positive approach when dealing with guests and colleagues.
Ability to resolve queries and communicate effectively with different levels of management.
Good computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
Intermediate Excel skills, including financial, mathematical, lookup functions, and formulas.
Demonstrated potential for career development and progression into supervisory roles.

Language Requirements
Clear and professional spoken English.
Good written English, with the ability to understand and communicate written and verbal instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively with guests, crew members, supervisors, and management.

Physical Requirements

This is a shipboard position and requires the ability to work in a physically demanding environment.

Candidates must be able to:

Stand and walk for extended periods.
Use hands and arms for routine office duties.
Communicate clearly and hear instructions effectively.
Meet the physical requirements necessary to participate in emergency procedures and safety drills.
Have sufficient mobility and visual, verbal, and hearing abilities to respond to emergency situations.
Lift and/or move items weighing up to 50 lbs (approximately 23 kg).

Career Development

This position offers an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in developing a long-term career in cruise ship financial operations. Successful candidates will receive structured training with the goal of progressing into positions such as Guest Accounts Purser or 2nd Purser Payroll.

If you have a background in finance, accounting, payroll, or cash handling and are looking to gain international shipboard experience, we encourage you to apply.