Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Stabilizers • Stateroom • Cruise Card

Gangway

Term from Cruise Lines industry explained for recruiters

A gangway is an essential piece of equipment in the cruise and maritime industry that serves as a bridge or walkway connecting a ship to the dock or port. It's the main entry and exit point that passengers and crew use to board or leave the ship. In cruise line operations, managing and operating gangways safely is crucial for passenger safety and smooth embarkation/disembarkation processes. The term can also refer to the designated area or space where this equipment is located. Understanding gangway operations is vital for many maritime positions, particularly those involving passenger services, safety, or deck operations.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised gangway operations for cruise ship embarkation and disembarkation of 3,000+ passengers

Trained staff in proper gangway safety procedures and emergency protocols

Managed security checkpoints at gangway locations during port calls

Typical job title: "Gangway Officers"

Also try searching for:

Security Officer Deck Officer Maritime Safety Officer Port Operations Officer Embarkation Officer Cruise Ship Officer Maritime Operations Supervisor

Where to Find Gangway Officers

Maritime Professional Networks

Industry Associations

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where the gangway becomes unsafe during passenger embarkation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss emergency protocols, passenger safety procedures, communication with shore side staff, and alternative boarding arrangements. Should demonstrate leadership in crisis management.

Q: What factors do you consider when planning gangway operations for multiple ports of call?

Expected Answer: Should mention tide schedules, weather conditions, port regulations, passenger flow management, security requirements, and coordination with local authorities.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety checks do you perform before declaring a gangway ready for passenger use?

Expected Answer: Should describe physical inspection points, security measures, communication systems testing, and verification of proper positioning and securing.

Q: How do you coordinate between ship and shore staff during gangway operations?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication protocols, role assignments, scheduling coordination, and problem-solving procedures between ship and port personnel.