Carnival Cruise Line is launching a massive recruitment drive to hire thousands of new crew members for its expanding fleet, including the three new cruise ships. In a move to enhance its workforce, the company is offering scholarships to Filipinos who wish to join their team. The scholarships and expanded curriculum at PMMA are expected to significantly improve the career prospects for Filipino seafarers.
ABS-CBN News reports that Carnival has strengthened its partnerships with two universities in the Philippines, which have been key sources of sailors for the cruise line. Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted this collaboration.
"We are expanding our work with PMMA (Philippine Merchant Marine Academy) to create greater opportunities for Filipino employees. Historically, many have started in entry-level positions. Now, we're offering them an expanded curriculum," Duffy explained.
There are about 12,000 Filipino crew members working for Carnival Cruise Line, with about 50,000 employed across Carnival Corporation's eight brands. This initiative aims to enhance the career of Filipino employees, offering them better training and development opportunities.
Carnival also announced the addition of three new ships, each capable of carrying up to 8,000 passengers. Duffy provided a timeline for these new additions: "In January 2025, we will add two more ships. Then, in 2027, 2028, 2029, 2031, and 2033, we will have another ship."
