Eve Wambui: How I Secured a Cruise Ship Job Abroad as a Kenyan Chef
Eve Wambui Gacheru, 24, has started work as a cook on an Oceania Cruises vessel based in Miami, marking a major shift in her career.
Gacheru, a graduate of Boma International Hospitality College, previously worked for three years at Hemingways Nairobi. Despite her experience, she faced months of unemployment and attended nearly 20 job interviews without success, at one point returning to live with her parents.
Her situation changed in August 2023 when she applied for a position through Genesis Cruise Services, a Kenyan recruitment agency. Within a week, she received an offer, which required her to complete maritime safety training in Meru, obtain a seaman’s book, secure a C‑1D visa, and undergo a medical examination.
The process cost approximately Sh150,000, although some fees were later reimbursed by the company. By January 2024, Gacheru had boarded the 67,000‑tonne ship, which accommodates around 1,200 guests and 800 crew members.
She works in the cold pantry, preparing salads and fruit dishes for several onboard restaurants. Her workday lasts roughly ten hours, with scheduled breaks, and contracts typically span eight months.
Life on the ship requires adjustments. She shares a small cabin with a Kenyan colleague, eats mainly Asian‑influenced meals, and works longer hours than in her previous hotel role. The experience, however, has allowed her to travel to six countries, with Curaçao standing out for its culture and scenery.
The multinational environment has also shaped her communication. Crew members use simplified English to ensure understanding, and cultural exchanges, such as themed events featuring Kenyan attire, are encouraged.
Financially, the position has been transformative. Gacheru earns roughly four times her previous salary in Nairobi. She views the role as a step in her career rather than a final destination, sharing her experiences online and exploring opportunities in content creation.
She advises persistence: “Even after rejections, keep applying. If you believe things will work out, they will.”
