The Lived Experiences of MSEUF-CIHTM Cruise Management Students in Their On-Board Training

The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the on-board training program for Hospitality Management students specializing in cruise management. It scrutinized the program's ability to prepare students for the unique challenges of the cruise industry by assessing curriculum alighment, training quality, and overall impact on student's readiness for cruise management roles. Through semi-structured interviews, the study explored participants' experiences, employing a phenomenological research design to gain insights into their perspectives. Findings revealed that while participants found the training fulfilling, they also faced challenges such as cultural adjustment, time management, and feeling adequately prepared. Essential skills identified for success included effective communication, adaptability, flexibility, and responsible service practices. To bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, recommendations include involving cruise line professionals to share real world challenges and restructuring the program's scheduling to ensure comprehensive departmental exposure. Additionally, addressing student challenges like adjusting to work culture, managing stress, and time effectively is crucial for aligning training with industry requirements. The integration of theoretical and practical pre-training workshops is also prepared to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills before embarking on their training. Ultimately, these measures aim to enhance the program's effectiveness, providing students with a well-rounded learning experience and better prepairing them for their future careers in the cruise industry.