Bar Waiter (P&O Cruises)

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.