Maritime Hospitality industry focus of FVC event

Maritime Hospitality industry focus of FVC event

A life of the ocean wave for hospitality, tourism and events professionals, was the subject of an online presentation for companies looking to recruit new staff and upskill existing employees within the cruise line industry recently.

Forth Valley College have teamed up with sector leading Viking Maritime to introduce new hospitality qualifications – both stand alone and online – as there is a need to source more qualified and experienced hospitality professionals for the maritime industry, including those from the UK and Europe.

Viking Maritime are working with Forth Valley College, with the goal to create career pathways for the next generation of hotel professionals at sea and want to hear from relevant firms to show them what the partnership can do.

The online Zoom session is available to view here

Key to the proposals will be the launch of the new year long HNC Maritime Hospitality course starting in August 2025, with full-time students attending FVC’s Stirling Campus for three days per week or alternatively, studying at their own pace and time through Flexible Learning. Certificates awarded will be endorsed by both the College and Viking Maritime Group.

A key factor of the partnership allows FVC and Viking to offer a range of online tailored programmes for maritime partners such as ‘An Introduction to Maritime Hospitality and Further Study’ for Managers, covering Maritime law and ethics; Technology and innovation; Leadership and management; and Financial management and reporting.

The Global Cruise Market supports around 1.17 million jobs, catering for around 31.7 million passengers each year around the world. The UK alone has 50 cruise ports – with 16 in Scotland alone. Some of the largest cruise ships can accommodate around 6,000 passengers and in 2024 it is claimed that projected cruise passengers could top 35 million people.

Departments and Roles Onboard include:

  • Food & Beverage
  • Housekeeping
  • Entertainment
  • Guest Services
  • Culinary
  • Interior
  • Onboard Services
  • Administration
  • Concessionaires
  • Expedition

Diane Creed, Director of Curriculum for the Department of Creative, Digital and Leisure Industries, said: “We are very excited to be working with Viking Maritime to deliver these innovative courses, and are confident we can offer the maritime hospitality sector the best training and expertise to help develop the next generation of industry professionals.”