What Is a Purser?
A Purser is a crew member responsible for managing the administrative processes onboard, including handling passenger accounts, overseeing the financial side of things and ensuring passenger satisfaction.
Key Takeaways
- Pursers act as a liaison between the passengers and other crew members
- They are a key figurehead in the ship's day-to-day operations
- They handle issues and accounting for both crew members and passengers
On board a cruise ship, a Purser is an important role that serves as an accountant and manager for the passengers. Generally speaking, the Purser is responsible for managing the financial transactions of the passengers, handling all of their onboard purchases and keeping track of their accounts.
Additionally, they are often in charge of organizing excursions and facilitating any necessary paperwork for the passengers or crew.
The Purser also performs other duties such as helping to settle disputes between passengers or crew members. They often serve as mediators when needed, and can help manage any sensitive situations that arise on board.
Additionally, they generally assist in organizing various onboard activities such as trivia nights, cooking classes, cocktails lessons and more. In some cases they may even provide assistance with special projects related to passenger entertainment or cultural enrichment programs.
Other important duties of a Purser include providing customer service to passengers when problems arise and liaising between them and other staff members to ensure smooth operations on board. A Purser also acts as an administrative assistant for the captain in certain scenarios such as emergencies at sea or during difficult weather conditions.
Lastly, they often provide assistance with immigration procedures for foreign crew members who travel between different countries during trips.