Maritime Caterer Apprenticeship North Kent College

A maritime caterer works as a member of the hospitality/hotel services department on board ships and vessels of different types and sizes, preparing, cooking and baking various dishes for passengers and/or crew.

The role includes food purchase and storage; budgeting and menu planning specific to the needs of crew and passengers; and food storage for the fresh produce on board. Customer service is an important part of the role, along with a range of shipboard safety duties and responsibilities.

A maritime caterer will work a shift rota, as determined by the vessel operations, often working alongside other ratings and seafarers from a range of different nationalities. Basic seafarer safety and the work on board must comply with international and national requirements.