Ship Steward
せんぱくきゅうじ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that provides stewarding services such as serving meals and beverages, table setting, and cleanup to passengers and crew on ships like cruise ships and ferries.
Description
Ship stewards provide meals and beverages to passengers on ships such as cruise ships and ferries, perform table settings and cleanup, and handle room service in cabins. Based on service manners, they must offer attentive responses to passengers' requests, check for allergies, and communicate in multiple languages. They also need to understand ship-specific safety and hygiene protocols as well as emergency response procedures, and carry out duties in collaboration with crew members. Teamwork and high physical stamina are essential amid long hours of standing work and irregular schedules.
Future Outlook
With the recovery and expansion of the cruise tourism market, demand for ship stewards is expected to remain stable. There is particularly high demand for personnel who can provide multilingual support and premium hospitality services. By gaining experience, one can expect high income and promotion to management positions.
Personality Traits
Able to provide bright and courteous customer service / Able to respond flexibly / Has cooperativeness / Has hospitality
Work Style
Career Path
Junior Ship Steward → Ship Steward → Chief Steward/Stewardess → Onboard Service Manager → Land-Based Recruitment/Trainer
Required Skills
Basic English Conversation / Customer Service Manners / Drink Preparation / Onboard Safety Procedures / Order Taking / Table Setting
Recommended Skills
Allergy Response Skills / Hospitality (Cruise) / Multilingual Support (Non-English) / Sommelier Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because the ability to flexibly respond to onboard environmental changes and cross-cultural interactions is necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because accurate and courteous service is required. |
| Communication Skills | Because diverse communication with passengers occurs frequently. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it involves prolonged standing work and carrying heavy trays. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because high resilience is required for long hours of work and handling peak times. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because collaboration with crew members and the kitchen is essential. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Because it focuses more on flexible responses than advanced logical analysis. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because routine services are the main focus, with limited opportunities for creativity. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because simple accounting is the main task, with no need for advanced numerical analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- STCW Basic Training Certificate for New Entrants
- Ship Staff Passbook
Aliases
- Cruise Steward
- Onboard Steward
- Steward
Related Jobs
- Cruise Hostess
- Hotel Steward
- Restaurant Hall Staff