If you’ve ever stepped into the Main Galley during dinner rush on a cruise ship, you know—it’s not just busy, it’s controlled chaos at full speed.
This is where hundreds (sometimes thousands) of meals are plated in minutes. The galley runs 24/7, feeding guests from early breakfast to late-night snacks. Different stations handle everything—bakery, appetizers, hot line, desserts—and when dinner hits, it all comes alive at once.
Waiters moving fast with trays, chefs calling orders, plates flying out nonstop. It might look crazy, but there’s a rhythm to it. And every waiter quickly learns the unwritten rules of survival.
Here are 10 essential rules every cruise ship waiter knows during galley rush hour:
1. Stay alert at all times
Floors can be slippery, trays move fast, and accidents happen. Always watch your step.
2. Respect the line—but protect your spot
Everyone is waiting for their orders. Be polite, but don’t let others cut ahead of you.
3. Never lose your cool
The chefs are under pressure too. Stay calm, focused, and professional—even during the busiest moments.
4. Walk on the right side
Just like traffic. It keeps everything flowing and prevents collisions.
5. Protect your hands
Plates are HOT. Always use a cloth napkin to avoid burns.
6. Don’t walk too slow—or too fast
Keep a steady pace. And when passing behind someone, say the magic words: “Behind you!” or “Watch your back!”
7. Start with cold items first
Pick up salads, desserts, or cold dishes first. Hot items come last so they reach guests fresh.
8. Never sit on galley counters
Counters are work zones, not rest areas. Hygiene and professionalism matter.
9. Speak up and take initiative
Don’t wait for the chef to notice you. Ask clearly and confidently for your order.
10. Stay focused and keep moving
Rush hour waits for no one. Every second counts, and teamwork makes it work.
The galley during rush hour is intense—but it’s also where teamwork shines the most. Every waiter, every chef, and every plate plays a part in delivering the cruise experience guests remember.
And once you survive your first real galley rush… you’re officially part of the crew.
This is where hundreds (sometimes thousands) of meals are plated in minutes. The galley runs 24/7, feeding guests from early breakfast to late-night snacks. Different stations handle everything—bakery, appetizers, hot line, desserts—and when dinner hits, it all comes alive at once.
Waiters moving fast with trays, chefs calling orders, plates flying out nonstop. It might look crazy, but there’s a rhythm to it. And every waiter quickly learns the unwritten rules of survival.
Here are 10 essential rules every cruise ship waiter knows during galley rush hour:
1. Stay alert at all times
Floors can be slippery, trays move fast, and accidents happen. Always watch your step.
2. Respect the line—but protect your spot
Everyone is waiting for their orders. Be polite, but don’t let others cut ahead of you.
3. Never lose your cool
The chefs are under pressure too. Stay calm, focused, and professional—even during the busiest moments.
4. Walk on the right side
Just like traffic. It keeps everything flowing and prevents collisions.
5. Protect your hands
Plates are HOT. Always use a cloth napkin to avoid burns.
6. Don’t walk too slow—or too fast
Keep a steady pace. And when passing behind someone, say the magic words: “Behind you!” or “Watch your back!”
7. Start with cold items first
Pick up salads, desserts, or cold dishes first. Hot items come last so they reach guests fresh.
8. Never sit on galley counters
Counters are work zones, not rest areas. Hygiene and professionalism matter.
9. Speak up and take initiative
Don’t wait for the chef to notice you. Ask clearly and confidently for your order.
10. Stay focused and keep moving
Rush hour waits for no one. Every second counts, and teamwork makes it work.
The galley during rush hour is intense—but it’s also where teamwork shines the most. Every waiter, every chef, and every plate plays a part in delivering the cruise experience guests remember.
And once you survive your first real galley rush… you’re officially part of the crew.
