CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has announced the return of its Summer Fun-ternship Program, offering more than 100 high school students aged 17 and older the opportunity to gain practical experience in cruise terminal operations at six U.S. homeports: Baltimore, Tampa, Jacksonville, Norfolk, New York City and Long Beach.
The initiative follows the programme’s initial launch in summer 2025, when students from the same port communities completed the first cycle of the internship. The company is now repeating the initiative as part of its efforts to introduce young people to careers connected with cruise operations and the broader travel and hospitality sector.
The 8-week programme provides participants with a behind-the-scenes perspective on port operations supporting cruise embarkations. During the placement, students assist port services teams on embarkation days, take part in training and mentorship activities, and gain exposure to several operational roles while receiving an hourly wage.
At the conclusion of the internship period, participants are scheduled to take part in a guided ship tour and attend a luncheon on board with company leadership.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, indicated that the company decided to continue the initiative after observing the enthusiasm and development shown by the inaugural group of participants. She noted that the programme was intended to help students build confidence, leadership capabilities and practical experience while gaining insight into an industry that contributes significantly to the economies of the communities in which Carnival operates.
Applications are open to eligible students living in the participating homeport regions, with submissions accepted until June 8th. The programme will take place between June and August, with the specific schedule varying depending on the location.