Pros
Starting a career as a wine stewardess with Viking can be a good entry point. The standards aren't too high initially, so it's a manageable environment where you can gradually learn the company’s products, bar operations, and develop your knowledge of cocktails.
Cons
Training and Expectations: The company doesn’t always provide clear guidance on tasks, especially when you're assigned to work in the dining room. You’ll wear the same uniform as the restaurant staff, and sometimes they may expect you to help with their duties, even if it's outside your role. Workload & Staffing: There are typically only three wine stewards on each ship, with each of us responsible for one restaurant. This can be demanding, particularly during busy periods or inventory nights when overtime is common. Overtime & Pay: Overtime is not compensated, especially during inventory or restocking shifts, which often go beyond regular hours. Promotion Policy: Be aware that if you receive a promotion, your seniority pay may be reset, which can impact your earnings.