Job Description
The role of Bar Waiter (Bar Steward) on P&O Cruises is a key part of the ship’s hospitality team, delivering traditional British service while ensuring guests enjoy a relaxed and memorable onboard experience. P&O expects professionalism, politeness, and attention to detail—values rooted in classic service but delivered in a modern cruise environment.
Here’s a detailed outline of the requirements and responsibilities for a Bar Waiter/Bar Steward working with P&O Cruises:
Essential Requirements
Experience:
- 1–2 years of experience as a bar waiter, steward, or food & beverage server in a hotel, cruise ship, resort, or upscale bar.
- Experience in serving cocktails, wines, and premium beverages is preferred.
- Knowledge of British drink preferences and bar etiquette is a plus (P&O serves mostly UK passengers).
Skills & Abilities:
- Good knowledge of beverages: cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, and soft drinks.
- Excellent customer service skills—warm, friendly, and efficient.
- Ability to memorize bar menus and promote drink specials.
- Upselling skills—politely suggesting premium options or drinks of the day.
- English fluency (speaking and understanding)—other languages are a plus but not required.
- Capable of handling high-volume service during peak hours and special events.
- Ability to carry multiple drinks on trays and serve with a steady hand.
- Confidence in handling payments through the ship’s point-of-sale system (P&O uses a cashless card system).
- Ability to work both indoors (lounges, theater bars) and outdoors (pool bar, deck service).
Key Responsibilities:
- Taking drink orders and serving guests in bars, lounges, pool decks, and theater areas.
- Preparing simple drinks (some bar waiters may assist bartenders with basic prep).
- Providing table service rather than counter service—P&O maintains traditional British hospitality.
- Maintaining cleanliness and order in service areas.
- Ensuring guest satisfaction, addressing concerns or special requests quickly.
- Upselling premium spirits, cocktails, and wine packages where appropriate.
- Supporting bar stock control and inventory (occasionally assisting with stock rotation or requisitions).
- Participating in themed events, cocktail parties, and captain’s receptions.
Personal Presentation:
- Impeccable grooming and hygiene.
- Must adhere to uniform standards (usually white jacket or bar uniform with P&O branding).
- Friendly yet professional demeanor.
Work Conditions:
- Contract length: 6–8 months on board, followed by vacation period.
- Shared cabin accommodation.
- Long hours, 7 days a week, usually in shifts (daytime and late evenings).
- Free meals, laundry service for uniform, and medical care onboard.
Opportunities for Growth:
A Bar Waiter can advance to:
- Bar Supervisor / Head Bar Steward
- Assistant Bar Manager
- Bar Manager / Beverage Manager
Many of today’s bar managers started as assistant bar staff or bar waiters.
Summary:
Working as a Bar Waiter for P&O Cruises is about delivering traditional, high-quality service with a smile. It’s a role for individuals who enjoy meeting people, know how to serve drinks professionally, and can keep up with the pace of a busy cruise ship environment.