Royal Caribbean Group is embarking on an ambitious recruitment effort to meet the surging demand for cruises worldwide. The company is in discussions with various markets globally and aims to recruit thousands of workers to staff its ships and private destinations.
Record Cruise Demand:
The cruise industry experienced a record number of passengers in 2023, driving a surge in demand for cruises. With larger vessels and increased demand, Royal Caribbean is expanding its labor force to meet growing needs.
Royal Caribbean will hire around 10,000 workers in 2024 to support its business expansion, including adding three new ships.
At the end of 2023, the company’s workforce at sea totaled about 88,700 employees, while its land-based workforce, including private destinations, consisted of approximately 9,500 full-time employees.
Business Strategy and Growth:
The recruitment strategy aligns with Royal Caribbean’s moderate capacity growth business strategy.
The company’s strong financial performance, record bookings, and revenue growth have driven its stock price to new highs.
Partnerships for Training:
Royal Caribbean has partnered with institutions like the Caribbean Maritime University in Jamaica to offer short-term skills and certifications courses to meet the demand for skilled workers. These initiatives aim to prepare more workers for careers at sea.
Royal Caribbean’s recruitment efforts span various regions, including the Caribbean, Africa, and Latin America. The company contacts tourism boards and port authorities to facilitate hiring processes and source qualified candidates.
Challenges and Opportunities:
While the recruitment drive presents significant opportunities, challenges remain, including educating potential candidates about careers at sea.
Efforts are underway to manage these challenges and ensure a steady supply of skilled workers to meet industry labor demand.