Being exposed to cruise industry

Expanding their understanding of the global tourism landscape, students from the Far Eastern University Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (FEU ITHM) gained firsthand exposure to the cruise industry through an immersive learning experience with Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTC). 

As the tourism and hospitality sector becomes increasingly global and specialized, industry immersions play a vital role in preparing students for diverse career pathways. These experiences allow learners to go beyond the classroom, equipping them with practical knowledge, industry awareness, and a clearer view of emerging opportunities in both sea-based and shore-based roles. 

Held as part of the TamFLEX Series: FEUture-Ready Learning and Employability eXperiences, the activity brought students to the PTC office for a session on “Navigating the Cruise Industry: Trends and Opportunities.” The discussion introduced participants to the structure of the global cruise industry, highlighting evolving passenger expectations, current industry trends, and the wide range of career opportunities available in tourism, hospitality, and maritime sectors. 

Industry representatives from PTC shared professional experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, cultural awareness, and service excellence for aspiring professionals. Their perspectives provided students with a clearer understanding of the competencies required to succeed in the cruise industry. 

“Programs like this show that FEU really tries to expose us to the real world. Instead of only learning through lectures, we get the chance to visit companies and hear directly from professionals. It helps us understand how the industry actually works,” said one student. Another participant added, “Before this visit, I mostly thought about working onboard ships, but the session showed that there are also many important roles on land that support cruise operations. It made me realize how wide the industry really is.” 

Beyond the learning session, students toured PTC’s office facilities, gaining insights into the systems and processes that support global maritime operations. The visit offered a behind-the-scenes look at how recruitment, training, and coordination are managed to ensure seamless operations across international waters. 

Organized by the FEU Career Development and Placement Office in partnership with PTC, the activity marks the second installment of the TamFLEX Series, reinforcing the university’s commitment to experiential learning. 

Through sustained collaborations with industry partners, FEU continues to provide meaningful opportunities for students to engage with professionals, explore real-world work environments, and build the competencies needed to thrive in the global tourism and hospitality industry. 

To learn more about the Tourism and Hotel Management programs, please visit the link: https://www.feu.edu.ph/institute-of-tourism-and-hotel-management/