With the cruise industry getting back into full swing comes thousands of jobs in the Caribbean
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA — In an enormous recruitment drive, some 10,000 jobs are being offered to Jamaicans who want to enter the cruise industry.
Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett (center) has lauded the cruise industry's move to recruit some 10,000 Jamaicans for cruise jobs abroad.
Cruising was one of the facets of tourism that was hard-hit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic largely shutting down travel on a global scale.
But now that restrictions have gradually ground to a near-halt in many regions around the world, the industry is quickly returning to its pre-COVID glory.
This resurgence augurs well for the financial well-being of the Caribbean, as the cruise industry has provided and continues to provide countless jobs and economic activity in this region.
Jobs for Jamaicans
Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has confirmed the cruise industry is recruiting some 10,000 Jamaicans to work on cruise ships overseas.
According to Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett, the 10,000 Jamaicans being recruited will fill jobs on cruise ships overseas.
“The cruise lines can recruit anywhere and to express a commitment to hire 10,000 of our countrymen and countrywomen,” he said.
“It is a sure sign of the confidence they have in our workers.
“We are talking about chefs, bellboys, room attendants…seafarers in general…just about in any department.”
Bartlett also noted that the cruise operators will manage the entire recruitment process for the jobs, and all jobseeking Jamaicans need to do is provide a police record and a medical certificate of health.
More jobs throughout the Caribbean
Carnival Cruise Line has officially broken ground on a new cruise port that is expected to create thousands of jobs for Grand Bahama, The Bahamas. (Photo: Office of the Prime Minister of The Bahamas)
Just before Jamaica saw its promise of more jobs, The Bahamas likewise saw thousands of jobs being pledged thanks to new movement within the cruise industry.
The Bahamas is a neighbouring Caribbean country but somewhat of a rival to Jamaica when it comes to tourism.
But both nations, among many others, can boast of a close relationship with cruise liners that often provide both direct and indirect jobs to Caribbean natives.
For instance, a new Carnival Cruise Line port is expected to provide some 1,000 direct jobs and hundreds more indirect jobs in Grand Bahama, The Bahamas.
Bartlett noted, “This is a very big deal and a sign that cruise shipping is back.”
He added, “The best is yet to come, because as soon as the cruise sector opens up more, you will see more of our people being recruited.”
Find the latest jobs in the Caribbean via Caribbean Employment Services Inc.