A cruise ship Bar Waiter serves drinks to guests, takes orders, provides excellent customer service by suggesting beverages and up-selling, maintains a clean and stocked bar area, handles payments, and ensures compliance with hygiene and safety standards like HACCP. They must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, work well under pressure, and be knowledgeable about the cruise ship's beverage offerings and events.
Key Responsibilities
Guest Service:
Greet guests, take drink orders, and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages promptly and professionally.
Beverage Knowledge:
Suggest drinks, promote cocktails, and up-sell premium brands by knowing standard drink recipes, garnishes, and wine knowledge.
Sales & Transactions:
Accurately compute bills, present checks, and process payments using the point-of-sale system.
Bar Operations:
Ensure the assigned bar area is clean, properly stocked, and prepared for service according to company standards.
Hygiene & Safety:
Adhere to company policies and public health guidelines, such as HACCP and U.S. Public Health (USPH), to maintain food and beverage standards.
Communication:
Communicate effectively with guests and other shipboard employees, and report any issues or discrepancies to the bartender or supervisor.
Teamwork:
Collaborate with team members and potentially provide training to junior staff to foster a productive and harmonious work environment.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Experience:
Previous bar service experience, ideally in a high-volume setting, a busy 5-star hotel, or a cruise ship.
Knowledge:
Understanding of food safety and sanitation, as well as comprehensive knowledge of beverages.
Customer Service:
Proven ability to provide excellent, attentive, and courteous service to guests.
Physical Demands:
Must be physically fit and able to stand for extended periods, lift items up to 55 pounds, and perform tasks requiring full visual, verbal, and hearing abilities for emergency situations.
Professionalism:
Maintain a professional appearance, adhere to grooming standards, and act with integrity.
Certifications:
A Food Safety/HACCP certificate and a valid passport are often required.