So, I trained with a major cruise line for a new management position. The next training was scheduled, deployment date established - all lined up and ready to go - then BAM! Just like that, the new position has been eliminated. Current crew contracts will be extended - eliminating the need of new hires.
So, you see, things change fast in this business. But, I am continuing my search for a new onboard position - I want something different - maybe a European river cruise -who knows, but what I do know? No matter what position you apply for, with what cruise line, always make the same professional approach when applying.
And when things don't go your way, as I have just experienced, don't get pissed off and don't get mad at the cruise line or the person you were dealing with - you never know who they know - and they just might call you up the next day with another change in your favour.
Keep your head and continue your search as I have outlined - real all the older posts to get up to speed.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Pay your taxes!!!!
Yes, many people enquire as to whether they should declare their cruiseship income. YES!!!
Yes, it is true, most positions are paid onboard in cash - so the government will never know - that is untill they ask you one day, how did you support yourself financially for X period of time? Gulp ((( Yep, if they catch you defrauding them, you are going to jail......
So, here's what you do... As a crew member, for tax purposes, you are considered an independant contractor - not an employee. Therefore, you should declare all your earnings because you can write off many expenses as an independant contractor - the flight (even if the cruise line pays for it because it is part of your contract income and it is in your name), medical examinations, hotels, meals, onboard expenses, some entertaining expenses if they are relevant to your position, clothing, dry cleaning/laundry, personal grooming and sundry items, laptop and accessories...to name a few. Of course each persons country, state and personal situtation will determine exact benefits - this is where you spend a few bucks each year on an accountant to file your taxes for you. Please do not try to hide the cash from Big Brother! Simply set yourself up like a business, and enjoy the benefits! Plus, over time, you will have established a legitimate, self employed income.
Yes, it is true, most positions are paid onboard in cash - so the government will never know - that is untill they ask you one day, how did you support yourself financially for X period of time? Gulp ((( Yep, if they catch you defrauding them, you are going to jail......
So, here's what you do... As a crew member, for tax purposes, you are considered an independant contractor - not an employee. Therefore, you should declare all your earnings because you can write off many expenses as an independant contractor - the flight (even if the cruise line pays for it because it is part of your contract income and it is in your name), medical examinations, hotels, meals, onboard expenses, some entertaining expenses if they are relevant to your position, clothing, dry cleaning/laundry, personal grooming and sundry items, laptop and accessories...to name a few. Of course each persons country, state and personal situtation will determine exact benefits - this is where you spend a few bucks each year on an accountant to file your taxes for you. Please do not try to hide the cash from Big Brother! Simply set yourself up like a business, and enjoy the benefits! Plus, over time, you will have established a legitimate, self employed income.
Just returned from Alaksa
Just returned from an Alaskan cruise on a ship I used to work on 4 years ago.
Paid very close attention to the crew nationalities and onboard jobs around the ship. I was pleasantly surprised to see many more Candians and Americans onboard working in positions such as Cruise Director's Staff, Golf Pro, Boutiques, Port and Shopping Lecturer ($$$), Art Auctioneer ($$$), Future Cruise Consultant, Bridge and Deck Officers, Guest Services/Pursers, Matre' D, Shore Excursions, Youth/Teen Counsellors and more.
Most US crew, were hired directly by this particular cruise line, and most Candians were hired with the help of Page Marine Crews (pmcmarine.com) in Vancouver. (They interview and hire across Canada)
Coninue to read the older blogs as well, for relevant information on ship jobs.
Paid very close attention to the crew nationalities and onboard jobs around the ship. I was pleasantly surprised to see many more Candians and Americans onboard working in positions such as Cruise Director's Staff, Golf Pro, Boutiques, Port and Shopping Lecturer ($$$), Art Auctioneer ($$$), Future Cruise Consultant, Bridge and Deck Officers, Guest Services/Pursers, Matre' D, Shore Excursions, Youth/Teen Counsellors and more.
Most US crew, were hired directly by this particular cruise line, and most Candians were hired with the help of Page Marine Crews (pmcmarine.com) in Vancouver. (They interview and hire across Canada)
Coninue to read the older blogs as well, for relevant information on ship jobs.
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