Experienced cruise ship Bar Waiter with four international contracts across four MSC Cruises vessels between 2023 and 2026: Grandiosa, Lirica, Euribia and Preziosa. Also brings land-based bartending, mixology and bar ordering experience from hotel and venue bars in KwaZulu-Natal. Skilled in high-volume bar and beverage service, beverage package sales, cocktails, wine and spirits, and onboard POS systems, serving a multinational guest base to international brand standards.
Comfortable with long contracts, shipboard safety and security procedures and life in a multicultural crew. Friendly, sales-driven and quick to fit into new venues, vessels and teams. Applying to Princess Cruises for Bar Waiter, Bar Steward or Bartender roles, with a strong interest in progressing to supervisory positions in the beverage department.
Cruise Ship Experience
Bar Waiter — MSC Cruises
Apr 2023 – Aug 2026
Bar & Beverage Department | 4 contracts on 4 vessels
MSC Grandiosa
Apr 2023 – Jan 2024
MSC Euribia
Jul 2025 – Mar 2026
MSC Lirica
Aug 2024 – Apr 2025
MSC Preziosa
Jul 2026 – Aug 2026
Provided fast, accurate beverage and table service in busy lounges, pool bars and venues on large and mid-size ships.
Sold beverage packages, cocktails and premium products by building rapport with guests and making suitable recommendations.
Handled guest charges and onboard accounts accurately on shipboard POS systems during peak service.
Worked closely with bartenders, senior bar staff and bar management in multinational teams.
Adapted quickly to new vessels, venues and management teams on each contract.
Followed strict public-health, hygiene, sanitation and responsible alcohol service standards.
Took part in emergency drills and safety duties as a member of the ship's crew.
Land-Based Hospitality
Bartender — Capital Hotels, Zimbali
Feb 2024 – Aug 2024
Bartending and mixology in a resort hotel setting, plus back-of-house admin, stock control and ordering.
Bartender — Alchemy, Ballito
Feb 2022 – Mar 2023
Bartending and cocktail preparation in a busy venue, plus back-of-house admin, stock and supplier ordering.
All STCW courses are approved by SAMSA (South African Maritime Safety Authority). Copies are attached. Click a certificate number to view it online, or view all certificates (combined PDF).
Surfing, running and calisthenics, plus singing and playing instruments. I enjoy taking part in crew activities and events.
References
“Within the first month Matthew had shown exemplary workmanship and bartending skills to head up the bar, as well as handle the cash-ups … loved by customers and staff alike, and is a hard worker.”Don Stewart — Owner, Robson's Brewery
“He was fast to learn the workings of the shop, and was apt with cashing up. Matt has a great sales drive, as well as an exceptional client service ethos.”Nick Saunders — Owner, The Gentry
MSC Cruises letter of recommendation/evaluation attached. Full reference contact details are available on request.
Supporting Documents Attached
STCW and maritime certificates • Seaman's Book • Passport • MSC Cruises letter of recommendation/evaluation
