Free Cruise Training Programme By Shosholoza Ocean Academy

Free Cruise Training Programme: Shosholoza Ocean Academy

If you’ve ever dreamed about working on a cruise ship, traveling the world, and gaining international hospitality experience, Shosholoza Ocean Academy (SOA) might be exactly where that journey begins. 

Based in South Africa and owned by MSC Cruises, this academy trains and prepares people for onboard roles — from bar service and dining to housekeeping and kitchen operations.

What makes Shosholoza Ocean Academy special is its purpose. It’s not just a school — it’s a bridge. Many South Africans have the talent and work ethic to succeed in hospitality, but they simply lack access to affordable training or international exposure. SOA fills that gap by offering free training programs that get you job-ready for the cruise industry.

How the MSC Free Training Programme Works

In practice, here’s how it all comes together. You don’t just sign up and show up — first, you apply for an open position through their official website. The academy runs recruitment drives throughout the year, mainly for departments like housekeeping, bar, dining, and culinary services. 

Once you apply, you’ll go through an interview process. If you pass, you’ll receive an invitation to attend the relevant training program.

Now, here’s the good part: the training itself is completely free. There are no course fees or hidden costs for the actual learning. However, you’re responsible for your own accommodation and transport to the training center. 

Meals are provided while you’re in training, which helps a lot, especially for those traveling from other provinces.

Training usually takes place at the academy’s Durban or Cape Town centers, depending on the type of course. For example, culinary training happens mainly in Cape Town, while bar and housekeeping programs are often based in Durban. 

The duration depends — some courses last just a week, while others can stretch up to three weeks. It’s full-time, hands-on work. You’re expected to attend every day, just like you would on a real ship.

During the course, you’ll learn the essentials of cruise-level hospitality — from serving guests and maintaining hygiene standards to teamwork, communication, and professional conduct. You may also have a look at 13 Best Learnerships for Matriculants with No Experience for more opportunities.

Once your training ends, you won’t immediately set sail. The academy reviews every candidate’s performance and submits the results to MSC Cruises. You then wait for final confirmation. 

It can take up to six weeks before you hear back about your placement, so patience is part of the process.

 If you’re successful, you’ll receive an offer to join the ship in your selected department.

Cruise Training Programme Requirements

Here are what we observed are the main eligibility requirements and who benefits most:

• You must be a South African citizen.

• Some roles require having worked in hospitality before (e.g. in a 3- or 4-star hotel) or having related qualifications. However, for many positions, if you meet the baseline (interview + required skills), you’ll have a chance.

• Good communication skills (especially English) are often needed. Being presentable, professional, and ready for work in an environment with high service standards is important.

• You’ll need to attend full consecutive days of training (6-20 days) so availability matters.

How to Enroll / Apply for Free Training

Here’s how people can get started, based on our analysis and the information from SOA. There’s an application you fill in, usually including a CV, possibly proof of hospitality experience or qualifications, and other standard documents. 

Apply here: MSC Cruise Training Programme

Also apply for: Best Retail Training Programmes and Learnerships in South Africa

Conclusion

So, if you’ve ever imagined yourself working on a cruise ship, meeting people from around the world, and learning from one of the biggest names in the industry, start with SOA. Visit their site, check out the open positions, and take that first step. Honestly, it could be the start of something bigger than you expect.