Cigar Connoisseur (Shipboard)

Department: Beverage

Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract

Reporting To: Beverage Manager

Description

We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Cigar Connoisseur to join our team. As a Cigar Connoisseur, you will be responsible for curating an exceptional cigar experience for our discerning guests. Your role will involve managing our onboard cigar lounge, offering expert advice on cigar selections, and hosting exclusive cigar-related events. If you have a deep appreciation for fine cigars and exceptional customer service, this unique opportunity is perfect for you.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the Lady or Gentleman for this job. Functions, duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. All duties and responsibilities are to be performed in accordance with the Company's Safety, Quality and Environmental standards.

Essential Duties

1. Cigar Lounge Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the onboard cigar lounge, ensuring it is always well-stocked, clean, and inviting.
• Maintain an inventory of premium cigars, ensuring the selection is diverse and caters to various tastes and preferences.
• Monitor cigar storage conditions to ensure optimal quality, including temperature and humidity control.

2. Guest Engagement:

• Provide expert advice to guests on cigar selection, pairing recommendations, and smoking techniques.
• Conduct one-on-one consultations with guests, tailoring cigar recommendations based on their preferences and experiences.
• Educate guests about the history, origins, and craftsmanship of different cigar brands and types.

3. Event Planning and Hosting:

• Organize and host exclusive cigar events, such as cigar tastings, pairing events, and educational sessions.
• Collaborate with the onboard beverage team to create complementary drink pairings, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Coordinate with the entertainment team to incorporate cigar-related activities into the broader cruise itinerary.

4. Sales and Upselling:

• Promote and sell premium cigars, accessories, and related products to guests.
• Identify opportunities to upsell premium products and experiences, such as private cigar tastings or custom cigar blends.
• Track sales performance and provide regular reports to management.

5. Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, particularly regarding smoking areas and the handling of tobacco products.
• Educate guests on proper smoking etiquette and safety protocols while on board.

6. Customer Service Excellence:

• Deliver exceptional customer service, creating memorable experiences that align with the luxury standards of the cruise line.
• Handle guest inquiries, feedback, and complaints with professionalism and a solution-oriented approach.

7. Continuous Learning and Development:

• Stay updated on industry trends, new cigar products, and emerging brands to continuously enhance the guest experience.
• Participate in ongoing training and development to refine expertise and service skills.

Qualifications

1. Experience: Proven experience as a Cigar Connoisseur, Cigar Sommelier, or similar role in a high-end hospitality setting.
2. Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of cigars, including types, brands, origins, and smoking techniques. Familiarity with cigar pairings (e.g., whiskey, rum, coffee) is highly desirable.
3. Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage and educate guests from diverse backgrounds. Strong sales and upselling abilities.
4. Certifications: Certification from a recognized cigar sommelier or tobacco institute is a plus.  Valid Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and flag certification for the duration of the contract and appropriate to position.
5. Personal Attributes: Passionate about cigars and luxury experiences. Detail-oriented, with a commitment to maintaining high standards. A warm and approachable demeanor.

Working Conditions:

• Must be willing to live and work on board a cruise ship for extended periods.
• Flexible schedule, including working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and manage a physically active role.
  

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The Lady or Gentleman must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• All Yacht Ladies and Gentlemen must be physically able to participate in emergency lifesaving procedures and drills. Full use and range of arms and legs as well as full visual, verbal and hearing abilities are required to receive and give instructions in the event of an emergency including the lowering of lifeboats.
• All Yacht Ladies and Gentlemen must be able to communicate in the English language in order to understand and interpret written procedures. This includes the ability to give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms and to effectively present information and respond to questions from guests, supervisors and co-workers.