Cabin Steward – Onboard Cleaning and Housekeeping Services

OceanGlide Cruises

Available Locations: cape town, Western Cape

Job Description

Job Summary


As a Cabin Steward at OceanGlide Cruises, you will be the face of our onboard hospitality—responsible for delivering spotless cabins, warm, personalized service, and a consistently welcoming environment for our guests. You will manage an assigned section of guest and/or crew cabins, ensure all public areas under your scope are immaculate, respond promptly to guest requests, and uphold the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and hygiene at sea.




Key Responsibilities



  • Maintain, clean, and prepare assigned guest/crew cabins daily (beds, bathrooms, balconies, replenishing amenities, vacuuming, dusting, etc.).

  • Provide timely turndown service and special set‑ups (e.g., for celebrations, VIPs, families).

  • Promptly respond to guest requests, complaints, and special preferences, ensuring seamless resolution and follow-up.

  • Adhere to company housekeeping SOPs, public health standards, and cruise industry regulations (e.g., sanitation, waste segregation, chemical handling).

  • Carry out deep-cleaning programs on a scheduled basis (mattress rotation, curtain cleaning, vent/grille sanitation, etc.).

  • Maintain and report inventory for linens, amenities, and cleaning supplies; minimize wastage.

  • Accurately document maintenance issues and coordinate with the Technical/Facilities team for quick fixes.

  • Support embarkation/disembarkation day operations—room readiness, luggage assistance, lost & found procedures.

  • Ensure strict compliance with health, safety, environmental, and emergency procedures (including participation in crew drills).

  • Collaborate with Housekeeping Supervisors, Laundry, and other departments to deliver a consistent guest experience.




Required Skills and Qualifications



  • Proven ability to deliver five-star housekeeping standards in a fast-paced, high-occupancy environment.

  • Strong guest service orientation with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

  • High attention to detail, time management, and organizational capability.

  • Physical stamina to stand, bend, lift, and move heavy items throughout long shifts.

  • Working knowledge of cleaning agents, equipment, color-coded systems, and hygiene protocols.

  • Basic English proficiency (additional languages are a plus).

  • Ability to live and work in a multicultural, shipboard environment for extended contracts.

  • Understanding of confidentiality and respect for guest privacy.




Experience



  • Essential: 1–2 years of housekeeping experience in hospitality (cruise lines, hotels, luxury resorts) or similar service environments.

  • Preferred: Prior cruise ship experience; exposure to international sanitation standards (e.g., USPH/VSP or equivalent).

  • Certifications (advantageous): STCW Basic Safety Training, Crowd Management, and valid medical fitness for seafarers.




Working Hours



  • Shipboard rotational contract (typically 6–8 months onboard, followed by vacation).

  • 7 days a week while onboard, with scheduled hours and rest periods compliant with maritime labor regulations.

  • Shift-based work, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

  • Participation in emergency drills and trainings as required.




Knowledge, Skills and Abilities



  • Knowledge: Housekeeping SOPs, sanitation and disinfection standards, chemical safety (MSDS), linen handling, inventory control.

  • Skills: Speed with accuracy, guest engagement, problem-solving, multitasking, and priority setting.

  • Abilities: Work under pressure, maintain professionalism, adapt to changing schedules, and function effectively in multicultural teams.




Benefits



  • Competitive, tax-free onboard compensation with performance-based incentives.

  • Free accommodation (shared crew cabins) and meals onboard.

  • Medical coverage onboard and during duty periods, as per company policy.

  • Paid travel to/from the vessel at the start and end of contract (as per policy).

  • Uniforms provided and laundered by the company.

  • World-class training, certifications, and career growth pathways (e.g., Senior Cabin Steward, Housekeeping Supervisor).

  • Crew recreational facilities and onboard welfare programs.

  • Discounts on onboard services and potential family/friend cruise benefits (per policy).




Why Join OceanGlide Cruises



  • Work with a globally recognized cruise brand committed to safety, service excellence, and employee growth.

  • Experience diverse cultures, destinations, and teams while advancing an international hospitality career.

  • Clear progression paths, structured training, and mentorship to grow into supervisory and management roles.

  • A supportive, people-first culture that recognizes and rewards outstanding performance.




How to Apply


Submit the following via our careers portal or designated recruitment partner:



  1. Updated CV/Resume highlighting relevant housekeeping/hospitality experience.

  2. Cover Letter explaining your motivation to work at sea and your service philosophy.

  3. Copies of relevant certifications (e.g., STCW, medical fitness, hygiene training) if available.

  4. Valid passport and any existing seafarer’s book (if applicable).

  5. Professional references (minimum two) from previous employers.


Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview and may undergo a practical housekeeping assessment.