The Diploma in Travel and Tourism

Cruising to the Top!

The cruise industry is enjoying a sustained period of growth, despite the recession, with more Brits taking a cruise holiday than ever before. It plays a key role within the UK economy, directly contributing $2.3bn in 2008 and generating an estimated 49,015 direct and indirect jobs, an increase of 13% on 2007. (Source: The European Cruise Council)

1.65m Brits are expected to cruise in 2010, a 6.5% increase on 2009. So why are more people cruising? The reality is that the cruise holiday proposition offers value for money and a wide variety of experiences to suit all types of consumer. The industry is launching 16 new ships in 2010 and making huge investments to convert land-based tourists to cruise. Cruise itineraries are also being expanded to take in emerging destinations such as the Middle East, Far East and the Indian Ocean.

Working within the cruise industry is enjoyable, exciting and extremely satisfying.  There are numerous opportunities available for all skill levels. A superb website, www.crusieshipjob.com  lists all the possible jobs available on cruise ships from cooks, beauticians, musicians, bar tenders and waiters through to cruise director and even captain! I counted over 160 different types of jobs and these didn’t include the many openings shore side including sales and marketing for cruise lines and cruise specialist travel agents. I recently visited Carnival House in Southampton which is home to around 900 employees working for Carnival UK owners of famous lines such as Cunard and P&O Cruises. Working on a ship means being able to travel to exotic destinations while  getting paid, surely one of the  main reasons students turn to tourism qualifications! A summer stop-gap often turns into years at sea as the experience is so rewarding.

In the UK in 2008, nearly 22 jobs were created for every $1m in direct cruise industry expenditure and the way investment is increasing, we can expect to see many more jobs being generated. The cruise industry is all too often overlooked by tourism students as an option for graduate employment but it is a fantastic opportunity. The Travel & Tourism Diploma is an excellent qualification as it also includes a cruise module designed to raise the profile of cruising, the opportunities to be found within the sector and will equip students with the appropriate skills.  Spread the word and get on board!

Flo Powell (Director – Association of Cruise Experts)