Tattoos & Cruise Ship Employment: Key Info

Concerned about how your tattoos might affect your chances of working on a cruise ship? This blog post answers common questions about tattoo policies and standards for various cruise lines. Whether you're a tattoo lover or considering getting one, we've got you covered.

Cruise Line Tattoo Policies

Regarding tattoos, each cruise company has its own set of rules. When it comes to clearly obvious tattoos, some cruise companies are more accepting than others. Evident tattoos, for instance, are allowed at Royal Caribbean International, but they cannot have gang or derogatory connotations. Tattoos are not allowed on the arms, temples, or neck. However, they must not be obscene or overly provocative, nor may they be worn on the face or neck. Carnival Cruise Line also accepts tattoos that are visible.

Tattoo policies at other ship lines are more restrictive. For instance, Disney Cruise Line requires all workers to cover any tattoos that are visibly noticeable with clothing or makeup. Norwegian Cruise Line also forbids visible tattoos, with the exception of tiny ones on the forearm or behind the ear.

General Cruise Ship Industry Tattoo Regulations

There are some basic rules that apply to the cruise ship industry as a whole even though each cruise company has its own regulations regarding tattoos. These rules were set in place to make sure that cruise ship staff dealt with passengers professionally.

Tattoos that are visible must be small and hidden, and they cannot be offensive, gang-related, or profanity-related. Usually, tattoos on the hands, neck, or face are prohibited because they are difficult to cover up and might annoy other commuters. You may need to cover up any noticeable tattoos with clothing or makeup.

If you're considering looking for a position on a cruise ship, it's critical that you're honest about any scars you may have. Some cruise companies might require you to submit pictures of your tattoos or subject you to a physical examination to see if they can be seen.

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Tips for Applying for a Job on a Cruise Ship with Tattoos

If you have tattoos and are interested in applying for a job on a cruise ship, there are some tips you can follow to increase your chances of being hired:

  • Research cruise lines' tattoo policies before applying.

Find out which cruise lines may be more accepting of visible tattoos before applying for a position on one by researching their tattoo policies.

  • Be honest about your tattoos during the application process.

When applying for a job on a cruise ship, be honest about your tattoos and provide any requested information or photos.

  • Consider the location of your tattoo.

If you have a tattoo that is obvious, think about where it is located and whether it can be hidden by clothing or makeup. This might improve your odds of landing a job.

  • Think about looking for a position that doesn't involve interacting with passengers.

If you have tattoos that are noticeable and cannot be covered, think about applying for a job that does not require you to engage with passengers. Possible examples of these include work in the engineering, housekeeping, or galley sections.

  • Be prepared to cover your tattoos with clothing or makeup.

If you are hired for a job on a cruise ship and have visible tattoos, be prepared to cover them with clothing or makeup in accordance with the cruise line's policy.

Conclusion

On cruise cruises, there are typically a few restrictions on tattoos. Studying each cruise line's policy is important before filing an application because some are more tolerant than others. If you have any visible tattoos, be upfront about them when registering, and be prepared to cover them up if necessary with attire or makeup. By having these suggestions in mind, you can improve your chances of finding employment.

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