Cruise Ship Hairstylist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of hospitality and leisure, the role of cruise ship hairstylists is more important than ever.

As the industry sails ahead, the demand for skilled professionals who can cater to, enhance, and safeguard the grooming needs of our guests grows stronger.

But let’s unravel the specifics: What’s truly expected from a cruise ship hairstylist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nitty-gritty of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the exciting world of cruise ship hairstyling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made cruise ship hairstylist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Duties and Responsibilities

Cruise Ship Hairstylists perform a variety of tasks related to hair care and styling, as well as maintaining customer satisfaction in a vibrant and fast-paced environment.

They may also be responsible for some administrative tasks and duties.

Cruise Ship Hairstylists are primarily responsible for directly assisting passengers, with duties and responsibilities including:

• Conducting hair consultations to assess the hair and scalp health of passengers
• Providing hair care and styling services, such as cuts, color, shampoos, blow-drying, and styling
• Offering hair treatment recommendations and selling suitable hair care products
• Adhering to health and safety standards by maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the salon area
• Using a variety of hair styling tools and equipment, including hair dyes, scissors, clippers, dryers, and curling irons
• Providing excellent customer service to ensure passenger satisfaction and repeat business
• Handling passenger payments and keeping accurate records of transactions
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest hair trends and styling methods
• Ordering hair salon supplies and maintaining inventory
• Participating in onboard training and attend staff meetings as required

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and talented hairstylist to join our cruise ship beauty salon team.

The successful candidate will possess excellent cutting, styling, and coloring skills, and a passion for creating unique looks tailored to each client’s preferences.

The Cruise Ship Hairstylist will perform a broad range of beauty services, from cutting hair to performing scalp treatments.

Our ideal candidate is comfortable working with diverse hair types, stays updated on the latest hair trends, and is dedicated to providing high-quality customer service.

 

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients on stylistic options for their hair.
• Listen to client needs to determine their preferences.
• Cut, style and color hair and do scalp treatments.
• Apply a wide range of hair coloring techniques, like highlights, ombre and balayage.
• Create hairstyles for formal events and everyday looks, including braids, ponytails and buns.
• Apply hair treatment products, as needed (e.g., color protection creams and hydrating masks).
• Form bonds with loyal customers and remember their hairstyle preferences.
• Manage bookings and serve walk-ins.
• Ensure tidiness of beauty stations and sterilize tools, as needed.
• Cross-sell hair care products or services.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Hair Stylist, Hairdresser, Colorist or similar role.
• Proficiency with hair straighteners, curling irons, hair clippers and other hairstyling tools.
• Experience with a variety of hair products (e.g., serums, creams and sprays).
• Familiarity with hair treatment products and services.
• Knowledge of a wide range of haircuts, suitable for all hair lengths (e.g., braids and top knots).
• Ensuring clients’ safety and following health procedures.
• Diploma from a cosmetology school or equivalent.

 

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Accommodation and meals provided
• Health insurance
• Opportunity to travel the world
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cruise Ship Hairstylist
• Work Environment: Cruise Ship Beauty Salon
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Beauty Salon Manager
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: Various Cruise Ships (globally)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cruise Ship Hairstylist Do?

A Cruise Ship Hairstylist is a specialized beauty professional who works onboard cruise ships and caters to the hairstyling needs of the passengers and sometimes the crew.

They provide a variety of hair services including cutting, trimming, shampooing, conditioning, and blow-drying.

They can also perform more complex services such as coloring, highlighting, and styling hair for special events.

Cruise Ship Hairstylists are often skilled in creating a variety of looks, from everyday cuts to elegant hairstyles for formal nights or onboard weddings.

Besides hairstyling, they may also offer other beauty services like manicures, pedicures, or makeup application, depending on their range of skills and the ship’s facilities.

They are also responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of their workspace, tools and equipment, in line with the ship’s health and safety policies.

As cruise ships often host a diverse group of passengers, Cruise Ship Hairstylists must be knowledgeable about a wide range of hair types and styles.

They also need to have excellent customer service skills, as they engage with different clients daily, providing consultation, advice, and executing the desired look to their satisfaction.

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Qualifications and Skills

A cruise ship hairstylist needs a blend of technical skills, soft skills, and knowledge related to the specific demands of working on a cruise ship, such as:

• Possessing hairdressing skills and the ability to perform various hair treatments, including haircuts, coloring, styling, and scalp treatments.
• Having a keen aesthetic sense to create hairstyles that suit clients’ features and preferences, and being able to adapt to new and emerging trends in hairstyling.
• Exceptional customer service skills to interact with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, understand their needs, and ensure they have a satisfying experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients, manage client expectations, and handle any customer complaints or issues professionally.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and cope with the demands of the job, considering the movement of the ship.
• Business acumen to manage inventory, maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of the salon, and handle transactions and appointments.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as per the operational needs of the cruise ship.
• Ability to cope with the unique challenges of working in a cruise ship environment, such as dealing with seasickness and working in confined spaces.

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Experience Requirements

Cruise ship hairstylists generally attend a beauty or cosmetology school where they gain substantial theoretical and practical experience as students.

During their education, some students may also work part-time in a salon or beauty center to gain hands-on experience.

As a result, they are typically experienced enough to meet the basic qualifications for a cruise ship hairstylist role.

Entry-level cruise ship hairstylists are often required to have 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be earned through internships, apprenticeships, or part-time roles in salons or beauty centers.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have honed their hairstyling skills and knowledge in salons or similar environments.

They are expected to be proficient in a variety of hairdressing techniques, be familiar with a wide range of hair types and styles, and may even have some specialty skills, like hair coloring or extensions.

Those with over 5 years of experience likely have gained some leadership or managerial experience in their previous roles.

They may be ready to undertake supervisory duties, such as managing a team of hairstylists, training new hires, or overseeing the salon operation on the cruise ship.

Experience working in a multicultural environment or with clients from different cultures and backgrounds can also be beneficial for cruise ship hairstylists, as they serve a diverse clientele on board.

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Education and Training Requirements

Cruise Ship Hairstylists are typically required to complete a program in cosmetology at a state-licensed school or academy.

These programs provide both theoretical and practical training, and graduates usually receive a certificate or diploma upon completion.

Most cruise lines require hairstylists to have a valid license from their home country or state.

Licensing criteria generally include being at least 16 years old, having completed high school or equivalent education, and having graduated from a state-licensed cosmetology program.

In addition to the basic license, it is highly beneficial for Cruise Ship Hairstylists to have advanced training in a range of hair services such as cutting, styling, colouring, and extensions.

Knowledge and experience with multicultural hair types and styles are also preferred due to the diverse clientele on a cruise ship.

While not mandatory, additional certifications in areas like customer service, salon management, or specialized hair treatments can enhance a candidate’s job prospects and show a commitment to continuous learning in their field.

Experience in a salon, spa, or similar setting, particularly in a high-volume or luxury environment, is typically required by most cruise lines.

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Salary Expectations

A Cruise Ship Hairstylist can expect to earn an average salary of $30,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary based on the hairstylist’s level of experience, the cruise line company, and the specific routes or regions the cruise ship travels to.

In addition, tips from clients can significantly increase the annual earnings.

 

Cruise Ship Hairstylist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cruise Ship Hairstylist need?

In addition to cutting, styling, and coloring hair, a Cruise Ship Hairstylist should have strong customer service skills as they interact with diverse clientele daily.

They should also have good manual dexterity, creativity for designing hairstyles, and knowledge of health and safety regulations.

Being bilingual can be an added advantage in this role due to the international nature of the clientele.

 

What qualifications does a Cruise Ship Hairstylist need?

A Cruise Ship Hairstylist typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of a cosmetology program from a state-approved school.

They also need a state-issued cosmetology license.

While not always required, previous experience in a salon, spa, or cruise ship environment can be a plus.

 

What should you look for in a Cruise Ship Hairstylist resume?

Look for a state-issued cosmetology license, completed cosmetology training, and experience in hairstyling.

Customer service skills are also important in this role.

Candidates with experience working in a multicultural or cruise ship environment can be particularly attractive.

Bilingual or multilingual candidates may also be preferred due to the international nature of the clientele.

 

What qualities make a good Cruise Ship Hairstylist?

A good Cruise Ship Hairstylist is creative, adaptable, and has excellent interpersonal skills.

They should be able to work under pressure and maintain a high standard of work even during busy times.

Given the nature of the job, they should also be able to stand for long periods and manage their time effectively.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of beauty trends and how to adapt them to suit individual clients’ needs.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cruise Ship Hairstylist?

Hiring a Cruise Ship Hairstylist can be challenging due to the specific demands of the role.

The candidate needs to be comfortable living and working on a cruise ship for extended periods, which might not suit everyone.

However, providing competitive pay, good working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the fascinating world of being a cruise ship hairstylist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about cutting and styling hair.

It’s about creating head-turning looks while floating on the high seas.

With our comprehensive cruise ship hairstylist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to set sail on a new career path.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next port of call for precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every snip and style is part of the bigger picture.

Let’s shape your future. Together.

How to Become a Cruise Ship Hairstylist (Complete Guide)

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