New Carnival Corporate Cadet Programme

For many young people, the idea of working at sea can feel exciting but out of reach. A new cadet programme from Carnival Corporation is helping to change that, offering a fully funded route into a professional maritime career.

The Carnival Corporation Cadet Programme has been designed to develop the next generation of maritime officers, providing a combination of college-based study and hands-on experience on board some of the world's most recognised cruise ships.

A different route into maritime

Unlike a traditional university pathway, cadets earn professional maritime qualifications while gaining practical experience at sea. The programme is fully sponsored, meaning tuition fees are covered and cadets receive financial support throughout their training.

The three-year programme includes placements on ships across the Carnival Corporation fleet, which includes brands such as P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn and Carnival Cruise Line.

Cadetships available

The programme offers several pathways depending on individual interests and strengths:

• Deck Officer Cadetship

• Engineering Officer Cadetship

• Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Cadetship

• Fast-track graduate opportunities for candidates with relevant engineering or electrical qualifications

Cadets alternate between time at a maritime college and practical sea phases, building the knowledge, confidence and experience needed to become qualified officers.

Why it matters

The maritime sector continues to need skilled people across a wide range of technical and operational roles. Programmes like this help create clear pathways for young people who enjoy problem-solving, teamwork, technology, engineering or travel, while supporting the industry's future workforce needs.

Successful cadets can achieve internationally recognised qualifications alongside an Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency, opening up opportunities to work across the global maritime industry.

Opportunities for students across the Solent region

For students and careers advisers looking to explore alternatives to university or discover exciting careers linked to STEM subjects, the programme offers a valuable route into a growing international industry. From navigating ships around the world to managing advanced engineering systems, there are opportunities to develop skills that can lead to a rewarding long-term future.

As supporters of maritime careers and workforce development, the Maritime & Transport Careers Programme (MTCP) welcomes opportunities that help inspire the next generation and strengthen the talent pipeline across the sector.