cruise ship doctor jobs salary in india

• Our Medical Team

Our ships provide a full spectrum of high quality, evidence-based medical care to guests and crew.

“I can now say that I have been to every continent and visited over 100 unique destinations, including Antarctica.”

“A challenging clinical setting and an extraordinary lifestyle make working onboard an adventure that not everyone gets to experience.”

“My realization about the joy of life-at-sea largely surpassed what I had imagined when my friends described their experiences working onboard.”

WHAT KIND OF MEDICAL CARE IS PROVIDED ONBOARD?

WHERE IN THE WORLD WILL I BE ASSIGNED?

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR A MEDICAL POSITION?

WHY CHOOSE US?

Embark your medical career on a new international voyage of discovery. Join our skilled Medical team working on any of our 90 ships across our nine brands: Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Cunard, AIDA Cruises, Costa, P&O Cruises (UK) and P&O Australia. Our staff is passionate about providing quality healthcare to our guests and crew while they sail the world creating lasting memories.

90 SHIPS ACROSS 9 CRUISE LINES AND +8 NEW SHIPS COMING BY 2025

SAILING IN NORTH AMERICA, AUSTRALIA, EUROPE AND MORE

COMING SOON

“I knew I wanted to do something different, but I never expected just how much opportunity I could find working with Carnival. It’s more than an adventure – it’s the best career move I’ve ever made.”

"All of my past nursing experiences including working in intensive care and emergency settings were the foundation for success in this job. I love the variety of patient care opportunities that it affords, meanwhile traveling the world and interacting with fellow crew members from many countries"

“I never realized how broad my skillset was until I experienced working onboard cruise ships. Here I can go from a general practice consultation for someone with an UTI to intubating and sedating a patient, or administering thrombolysis to a patient, in just a single workday.”

“When I was working in the back of the ambulance, I gained the confidence and proficiency to care for my patients. Since working onboard, I developed my team dynamics skills, working along with the nurses and the physicians. They appreciate my skillset and I do value the multidisciplinary environment as a new way of improving my knowledge and skills.”

“Working onboard as a nurse is demanding at times. But the rewards of living on a cruise ship like this with a team like mine has been worth every moment.”

NEED A DOSE OF ADVENTURE? CLICK THROUGH THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Review our process and FAQs below to know what to expect at every step.

• Use our online application tool and set the pace of your application
• Review and acknowledge position requirements
• Complete your personal profile, educational background and work experience
• A Cover Letter and Resume
• Certified copies of your professional qualifications and certificates
• Proof of professional registration and license
• Details of specific clinical skills
• Professional and personal disclosures

• Allow us to share more detail through pre-recorded virtual introductions to our shore-side and shipboard teams
• Participate in an online screening interview, in your own time
• Listening, comprehension, English language skills for the position will be assessed
• Applicants that pass the screening interview, are invited to a Clinical assessment
• Successful applicants will receive a provisional offer, subject to review and validation of references, licenses etc.

Your current and recent employers (in supervising capacities) will be contacted for references.

Accepting an offer of employment, and all terms of and conditions, will allow us to start the onboarding process. As these next steps typically take place locally in your country of residence, your application may be handled by one of our local offices.

Our local administration offices will contact you with guidance on the next steps. These include, but are not limited to:

• Credentialing (review of your professional license to practice, educational background, certifications, employment history etc.)
• Pass a Regulatory Seafarer Medical Fitness examination
• Verifying specific Health Screening requirements for medical staff
• Obtain the necessary travel documents and visas (including C1D Visas for non-USA or Canadian applicants)
• Criminal background checks or Police Clearance
• Your start date availability
• Additional requirements may be imposed by certain countries, Flag states or regulatory bodies, dependent on your nationality and country of residence

• The onboarding process may take several months and once completed and you sign a legal contract, you will be ready to join your first ship
• Provisional assignment details may be shared during times of critical need to help you plan and prepare
• Always wait for instructions before engaging in any professional or personal arrangements in anticipation of joining a ship
• Depending on our operational staffing needs, you may need to wait several weeks or months for an assignment to be available

Cruise Ship Doctor Jobs

Cruise line companies hiring doctors:  PRINCESS CRUISES /HOLLAND AMERICA / P&O AUSTRALIA / SEABOURN / CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

The cruise ship recruitment agency Pro Sea Staff assists Registered Physicians in securing employment for maritime medical careers with the above-listed cruise line companies. Cruise ship medical jobs  offer excellent benefits and a great career opportunity with the possibility of continuous professional development and reliable employment. Cruise ship physician salary as well as numerous job benefits are also very attractive. Embark your medical career on a prestigious cruise line ship for a unique mix of challenge, adventure and responsibility!

Assignments for cruise ship doctor jobs are organized on a rotational basis of 4 months on board and 2 months off – on leave. Flights to and from your home are paid by the cruise line company. A cruise ship doctor is provided with Private Officers Single cabin accommodation. Housing, meals and healthcare insurance are provided by the cruise line company.

Cruise ship doctor recruitment

Cruise ship doctor requirements.

The requirements to work as a cruise ship doctor include a professional degree, relevant post-graduation experience and an unrestricted medical license.

Please consult the details below:

• MBChB, MBBCh (or equivalent) medical degree
• Current, unrestricted license to practice medicine with at least three years post-graduation experience
• Majority of experience in one or more of the following areas: Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Critical / Intensive Care, Cardiology, Anesthetics, Remote Medicine. Additional qualifications such as Diploma in Primary Emergency Care, Diploma in Anesthetics or FCEM are preferred
• Additional skills such as Ultrasound are advisable and certificates such as Advanced Trauma and Pediatric Life Support are also required by some cruise lines

In addition, applicants for cruise line physician jobs MUST have:

• Fluency in English – all candidates for the cruise ship doctor position must be able to communicate fluently in English as a medical professional
• At least 3 years post-graduate experience in Adult Emergency medicine or family practice. Work experience must be recent
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS / ALS) certification and Basic Life Support (BLS). Some companies also require ATLS and PALS
• Good computer skills – Windows based software
• Ability to meet the challenge of learning to work as a doctor in a new and different environment

Working as a doctor onboard a cruise ship

The role of a cruise ship physician goes beyond the scope of responsibilities of a mere GP on a cruise ship. You will lead the medical team in the management of several areas including laboratory testing, radiography, computer work, dispensing of medication and the control and monitoring of stock. Career opportunities for professional development are sponsored by the cruise line company.

Cruise ship doctor job description

As a cruise ship doctor, you will be working closely with other medical staff, your colleagues and a team of nurses under your supervision.  Cruise ship medical jobs involve providing both in and out patient care.  Outpatient care encompasses minor and severe illnesses, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, minor skin complaints and accidental injuries. In-patient care encompasses the management of a wide variety of clinical problems including cardiac diseases (thrombolysis and cardiac monitoring), trauma/orthopedic problems and acute medical and surgical emergencies.

Cruise ship doctor salary

Along with the benefits offered by onboard employment, cruise ship doctor job salary can be an additional source of motivation for the medical professionals in search of a new career opportunity.

Most cruise ship doctors working on passenger cruise ships can expect to earn anywhere between $8000 and $12000 monthly . Cruise ship physician’s salary may vary. Factors such as previous ship experience , years of practice and certifications may be taken into consideration when determining the starting salary.

Only the candidates with the above-noted requirements will be considered for the cruise line doctor job openings.

I'm a cruise-ship doctor. My schedule is intense but it's worth it to see the world — and I get to bring my wife and son along.

• Dr. Gergely Tóth wanted to pursue a career in medicine and work on cruises.
• During his shifts, which can last 24 hours, he has to be prepared for any crisis.
• Tóth said he loves the job because he can travel the world with his family while earning a living.

This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Dr. Gergely Tóth, a cruise-ship doctor. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

As a medical student in Hungary in the early 2000s, I heard plenty of stories from young people who'd worked on cruises.

The adventures, experiences, and financial opportunities this lifestyle offered piqued my interest. But I knew I wanted to work there as a doctor.

I've always wanted to work on cruises

In August 2009, after working in a county hospital in Hungary for seven years, I became serious about working on cruises.

I'd just started as a resident medical officer at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital in England, and every day I'd see pages of cruise-ship job ads in the paper.

Having more medical experience under my belt, I emailed three cruise companies enquiring about how to become a cruise doctor.

Two companies responded. One didn't have any opportunities at the time. Royal Caribbean International offered to have a 15-minute call where they assessed my language skills and work experience.

They also asked about the Hungarian healthcare system, as they were more familiar with the UK one. For this reason, having a UK medical license at the time helped my journey immensely. I'd paid a fee to swap my Hungarian license for a British one when I arrived in the UK.

Cruise-ship doctors need specific qualifications to practice

Requirements to become a cruise doctor include three years of emergency-room experience, some general-practitioner experience, and specific training, such as advanced cardiac life support, pediatric advanced life support, and advanced trauma life support, that need to be refreshed every two years.

Five weeks after my interview in London, I got accepted in February 2010. Seven months later, at 32, I was on my way to Miami for a one-week training before joining one of the Celebrity Cruises for six months, departing from San Francisco. The 1,800-passenger ship seemed huge when I first saw it. Since then I've worked on cruises three times that size.

Cruises have full medical teams and facilities

Depending on the size of the cruise, the medical team consists of five to nine people. On smaller ships, with up to 3,500 passengers and 1,500 staff, there are two doctors, three nurses, and sometimes a medical secretary. On larger cruises, with 6,500 passengers and 2,200 staff, there are three doctors, five nurses, and a secretary.

Related stories

The medical center is an onboard hospital, because we have to be prepared for everything.

We try to get people with serious conditions to land safely and on time, but sometimes it's not possible. On board, there are consultation rooms, a reception area, a waiting room, an ER, an ICU room, ward rooms, X-ray machines, laboratory equipment, and a pharmacy.

A cruise doctor's schedule is intense

Doctors usually work for four months and have two months off. Since my first contract, I've only been taking short contracts to fill any gaps in cruise schedules.

When another doctor can't board for any reason, I will replace them for between a week and three months. Sometimes they let me know about the opportunity months in advance; other times I'll get a call two days before I'm needed.

Six-month contracts were too long for me. My family can join me on the cruise for these short periods, and I don't miss out on big family celebrations in Hungary. I spend four to five months a year on cruises and the rest of my time in Hungary.

When I'm not sailing I work at Hungarian hospitals, but the good pay on the cruises means I can spend more time with my family in Hungary.

We work 24-hour shifts on the cruise ship

We do 24-hour shifts. Consultation hours are from 8 to 11 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. For the remaining time of the day, I'm on call.

There's a dedicated medical-emergency phone number for passengers and staff. The nurse will then decide whether it requires urgent attention or give them an appointment to come within office hours.

On large cruises, it means a daily 15 hours of work and nine hours of being on-call, then getting 24 hours off.

Since I've been a senior doctor for more than a decade now, I have a lot more responsibilities, which take up an additional six to eight hours of my days off. Submitting medical reports to countries and port authorities, checking medicine orders with the chief nurse, and ensuring medical devices work properly or determining if they need to be fixed or replaced are just some of the duties I undertake.

I try to get off the cruise and experience the ports

I'm not an anxious person, but I always try and get off the ship when I can, because it's very busy from the second I board the ship to the flight home.

I love to go on trips and explore new places with my family. It's important for us to see where and how the locals live in each destination. I love food and good coffee, and we have our favorite cafés and restaurants in different countries where the staff greet us like friends.

However, sometimes these outings are cut short due to emergency calls or constant emails. On my last six-week contract, I only managed to leave the ship three times.

People die on cruises, like everywhere else, and sometimes you know them

People do die on cruise ships, like anywhere — not just passengers but staff as well. And it isn't easy, especially when it's someone I know, because most people will need to see a doctor at some point on the ship.

Each cruise has a designated medical-operations manager available 24/7 based in the health center in Miami. While they can advise on how to handle a specific case, the small team on the boat has to deliver. We're a tight-knit group.

There's no place for arguments, rivalry, or hostilities when we're responsible for so many people's lives.

As a cruise-ship doctor, I have a good lifestyle

While my role is equally demanding and rewarding, what I love most about being a cruise doctor is the freedom it gives and that I get to travel the world with my family . If it wasn't for cruising, I wouldn't have this lifestyle both financially and timewise.

It also allows me to spend more time with my family in between contracts in Hungary, because I don't have to work two or three jobs anymore.

Watch: The rise and fall of the cruise industry

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Career Change Guide: How Much Do Doctors on Cruise Ships Make?

• January 13, 2023

Cruise ships have long been a popular form of vacation and relaxation for those who love the open sea and visiting exotic ports of call. In recent years, this multi-billion dollar industry has grown significantly, with more and more people taking advantage of these leisurely oceanic journeys. 

In 2019, there were an estimated 24 million cruise passengers on the world’s seas and oceans. The industry is expected to continue growing as more travelers take to the seas for their holidays.

This growth in popularity has also had an effect on the hiring practices of cruise lines. Many are now looking for more medical personnel to provide medical care and support to their passengers. This includes doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and other health professionals.

How Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Hit the Cruise Ship Industry?

Prior to the pandemic, the cruise ship industry was booming, with an estimated 30 million passengers worldwide taking cruises each year. The sector employed some 1.2 million workers and generated revenues of around $150 billion annually.

However, the spread of COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdown of many countries have hugely impacted the industry. In April 2020, nearly all global cruise ships were forced to suspend their operations due to port closures, quarantine restrictions, and travel bans imposed by governments. 

This led to a massive reduction in revenue and employment, with an estimated 600,000 people losing their jobs and $50 billion in losses for the cruise line operators.

But a newly released report from Cruise Lines International (CLIN) paints an optimistic picture of its recovery heading into 2023. The past year was determined to be a “pivotal transition year” for the industry, with “full recovery projected in 2023.”

They expect nearly all of their cruise ships to be operating fully by this summer, and, at this time, approximately 60% of cruise-related businesses and organizations are hiring, which is great news for doctors looking for a career change.

They Do Hire Doctors

As the cruise ship industry continues to expand, the need for qualified medical staff is growing. Cruise ships need doctors on board to take care of the needs of their passengers and crew. 

Cruise ships with more than 100 passengers onboard are required to have medical staff onboard. These staff members need to meet the guidelines set out by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).

Doctors must be certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to practice medicine onboard, and they must have experience in emergency medicine, general medicine, and other specialties. The qualifications to become a doctor on a cruise ship vary by company but generally include a degree in medicine and a valid state license.

The duties of a doctor on a cruise ship include performing checkups and treating illnesses, injuries, and medical emergencies as they arise. In addition, they may also provide general medical advice and preventive health care measures. A cruise ship doctor may also oversee other medical staff, such as nurses, EMTs, and paramedics.

Cruise ship doctors are classified as emergency physicians. They are trained in emergency care but also need to be qualified in family and internal medicine. 

The types of doctors typically employed onboard cruise ships are general practitioners, obstetricians/gynecologists, pediatricians, dermatologists, and dentists. Additionally, some cruise lines may also hire psychologists and psychiatrists.

Medical care must be available 24/7; typically, a cruise ship will have two doctors onboard — a senior doctor and a junior doctor or nurse. The larger the ship, the more medical staff is required.

Senior doctors on a cruise ship are considered “officers,” meaning they will need to attend any galas and other officer-related events unless they care for a patient who needs their help.

Life as a Cruise Ship Doctor

A doctor’s work schedule on a cruise ship typically consists of a minimum of three months at sea followed by two weeks of vacation back home. During their time at sea, doctors typically work eight-hour days, with additional hours expected during peak times, such as when the vessel is docked or in port.

However, like any job, there are some drawbacks. One of these is the long hours. 

Doctors on cruise ships may work 12-14 hour days and be on-call 7 days a week, with no days off during the entire duration of their contracts. This means that there is little time for leisure activities or even rest, as doctors must remain available in case of an emergency or sudden illness. 

As a doctor on a cruise ship, your responsibilities will include:

• Providing medical care to passengers and crew members
• Performing routine medical checks on passengers and crew before they embark on the vessel
• Monitoring passengers and crew for signs of illness or injury
• Prescribing medications and treatments as needed
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Reporting any illnesses or injuries to the captain and medical staff onboard

A typical day for a doctor onboard a cruise ship begins with a quick check-in at the medical center. This is followed by rounds on the deck to assess any new cases that may have come up overnight. 

After this, the doctor will conduct physical exams and tests on any patients who require it. Throughout the day, the doctor will also keep track of any ongoing illnesses or injuries and provide counsel and advice to passengers or crew who may need it. 

In addition to this, the doctor may also have to participate in meetings with other medical staff and give lectures or seminars on health-related topics. At the end of the day, the doctor will close out their shift and prepare for the next day’s duties.

Despite the long hours, the pay is generally good and allows doctors to save money and plan ahead financially.

Salaries, Benefits, and Perks

Doctors who choose to work on a cruise ship can expect a generous salary and many great benefits. Cruise ships usually offer free accommodation, meals, and other amenities such as onboard entertainment, gyms, spas, and more. More significantly, cruise ship doctors also benefit from free healthcare insurance and travel to and from home to where the ship is docked.

According to Cruise Mummy , senior doctors on a cruise ship can earn between $10,000-$15,000 each month, while junior doctors can expect to make between $7,500-$10,000 each month. Look for Zebras’ findings are slightly higher, with senior doctors earning between $12,000-$14,000 each month and junior doctors earning between $9,000-$12,000 each month.

Contracts usually last around four months, with two contracts “permitted” each year. In total, doctors on cruise ships work a maximum of eight months and have four months of vacation time over the course of the same year. 

Non-tangible benefits of working as a cruise ship doctor include exploring the ports and taking shore excursions during downtime. As well a cruise ship doctor also gets to meet and interact with people from around the world, which can be a great learning experience. 

Best Cruise Ship Lines to Work For

Very few, if any, cruise ships are single companies. Most are part of a larger parent or umbrella company that has multiple cruise lines within its stable of cruise ships.

Ranked by passengers and revenue market share , the five giant cruise companies with their annual U.S. dollar revenue are:

• $8,833.19 Carnival Corporation & plc
• $5,054.21 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
• $2,996.28 Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
• $1,539.65 Mediterranean Shipping Company
• $1,318.47 TUI Group (50%) and Royal Caribbean Group (50%)

That’s good news for doctors wanting to work on a cruise ship. Rather than apply to work on a single ship — the acceptance of your application will allow you to work on any of the parent company’s ships. 

While varying sources differ on which cruise line is the best to work for, Royal Caribbean International comes out on top of several lists. It’s owned by Royal Caribbean Group, which also owns five other cruise lines.

The Royal Caribbean International fleet currently has 27 ships and sails to six of the seven continents. 

Although they don’t have any medical job openings currently, you can create an account by clicking on the “Register” link, and you’ll receive updates as “new opportunities become available.”

Cunard Line is one of the oldest cruise lines, founded in 1839, and is currently part of Carnival Corporation. They have a small fleet of three ships (a fourth ship is currently under construction) and are famous for transatlantic crossings.

Doctors working on this cruise line are offered a permanent contract with 12 weeks on/6 weeks off rotation pattern. They are unique in the cruise line world as they operate as a GMC-designated body, which lets you revalidate your medical license and maintain your registration.

Carnival Corporation offers this insight into what it takes to be a successful doctor on a cruise line:

• Adaptability
• Clinical skill
• Customer service
• Team dynamics
• Communication
• Multi-tasking

If you want to work for the largest privately-held cruise company, you’ll want to check out Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC Cruises). With a fleet of 19 ships and over 23,000 employees, MSC Cruises works hard to bring diversity to its staff hiring.

Contracts are slightly longer, ranging between five and seven months, with a two-month break between contracts. They offer an online self-assessment test to see if an onboard life is right for you.

Disney Cruise Line was bought by Carnival Corporation in 1991 for $372 million. This is the fourth cruise line bought by Carnival (the others are Holland America Lines and Windstar Sale Cruises).

Disney has five ships in its line: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish. They value customer service and encourage staff in their career development and advancement. 

Go here to see what medical jobs they currently offer on any of their ships.

While most cruise ships are aimed at rest and relaxation, AIDA Cruises stands apart by targeting younger, more active vacationers. The cruise line launched in Germany in the early 1960s and, since 2003, has been owned and operated by Carnival Corporation.

Fourteen ships sail under the AIDA Cruises name, and the line is consistently named one of Germany’s best employers, most recently recognized by the Top Employers Institute in 2022.

They currently have an opening for an onboard doctor, or you can submit an unsolicited application if you “didn’t find a job opening [on their site] that suits you.”

Carnival Cruise Ships allows you to directly apply to work as a shipboard doctor for any of their cruise lines if you fulfill the following requirements:

• Hold a medical degree, current registration, and licensing with an “appropriate or national regulatory body.”
• Have at least three years of post-graduate clinical experience in emergency medicine, acute care, or ICU.
• Most recently had clinical work experience.
• Valid accredited ALS/ACLS certificate.
• PALS certification before completing the first year of employment.

Some highly recommended requirements are:

• Experience and certification in point-of-care ultrasound.
• Experience with the use of EHRs
• Advanced airway management
• Primary emergency care
• Immediate medical care
• Advanced trauma life support
• Experience working in private healthcare settings.

The Bottom Line

Emergency medicine physician salaries in the U.S. currently average $347,500, with a range of between $293,200 and $392,100. Taking the average emergency physician’s salary and the average cruise ship doctor’s salary, you can see a wage discrepancy of just over $200,000 per year.

Before you dismiss a career as a cruise ship doctor because of this potential gap in earnings, you should crunch the numbers a little further. When you consider that your living expenses will be minimal while working for a cruise ship, the earnings gap may look a little different. 

The most accurate way to compare salaries is to identify how much you spend on living expenses throughout the year. When you deduct your mortgage or rent payments, house upkeep, food, personal spending, necessary travel expenses, etc., from either job’s salary, you will be in a better position to consider which career will be more profitable.

If you do own your own home and want to work as a cruise ship doctor, consider renting out your house (and car) for the times you are away to cover your mortgage payments. 

Overall, life as a doctor on a cruise ship can be both demanding and rewarding. Doctors get to travel to different countries while providing quality medical care, get to work in an environment with plenty of amenities and benefits, and are compensated generously for their hard work.

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Medical Team

If you’re looking to fast-track your medical career, becoming a cruise medic is just the ticket

Join our team and you’ll gain skills and qualifications as you work in a fast-paced and rewarding environment. Our well-equipped medical centres and people-centric business ethics ensure quality patient care, with opportunities for invaluable experience across all medical specialisms.

Our teams work hard and enjoy amazing travel experiences, a stable salary and the benefits of working in the private healthcare sector.

Your career at sea

As a cruise medic you’ll grow both technical and non-technical skills, supported by a team both on board and ashore.

We’ll help you broaden your independent practitioner skillset while providing gold standard care in a unique environment. Gain technical skills such as running blood tests or performing X-rays, alongside first responder duties supporting the team with immediate patient care and transfers. You’ll also learn about the management and upkeep of a standalone medical department, including maintaining rosters, supplies, and equipment.

From a personal perspective, you’ll work within a team of other experienced medical professionals, developing strong working relationships to bring the best out of yourself and others.

All medical team members work on sister-brand ships so join us and you’ll get to experience life on board both P&O Cruises and Cunard. And should you return to shore, your years of ship experience will help you secure a more senior role.

Your career opportunities

Join our team

If you’re a doctor at least 4-years post-qualified, or a nurse at least 3-years post-qualified, with a&e or icu experience, we’d love you to join our team, discover more, click to take a look at life on board.

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Exploring the Role and Salary of a Cruise Ship Doctor

Not all ship doctors earn the same salary, which may differ greatly among different cruise lines. Cruise ship jobs, including medical personnel joining the medical team on the ship, are advertised regularly.

The job of a ship's doctor is to provide medical care for the staff and passengers traveling on these ships. However, the question often arises: what salaries do these ship doctors earn when they join any of these cruise ships?

What Do Cruise Doctors Do?

Some people may think that the doctor in the medical center of a cruise ship is just there to provide a band-aid and headache pills. But that is very far from the truth; a cruise ship's medical center contains the same equipment you will find in a small hospital.

This includes an intensive care unit, a high-dependency ward, and an emergency unit that does not include the general ward. They usually have a team of nurses and sometimes two doctors—a junior and a senior doctor—per team.

Cruise doctors provide standard emergency medicine for any ailment that may occur among passengers or staff members of the ship. A medical center on a cruise ship has all the emergency equipment and personnel you will find in a normal hospital.

This means that a cruise doctor must also be able to perform those types of services when they occur on a ship. A standard cruise ship can easily have 5,000+ people aboard, which is the same as in a small town.

Life onboard a ship may be fun for the passengers, but that is not the case most of the time for cruise ship doctors. You will be out on the sea for long periods, so all the people on that ship are the responsibility of the doctors.

The clinic hours on a cruise ship may be long and exhausting, so you will work hard for every dollar you earn. You will also work seven days per week on a cruise ship while it is out at sea, so there is very little rest for the weary.

A large ship has a complement of 1,000 crew members and about 4,000 passengers on a single trip, which may keep you very busy. When you get sick, it is safer on a cruise line than at home.

At home, you need to wait for an ambulance, but while on a cruise ship, the emergency personnel is always available where you need them. That is because they are only a short distance away from you and can be on the scene in a very short time.

The healthcare facilities and services on a cruise ship are state-of-the-art and must meet specific standards for it to stay in business. So you can be sure you will get just as good, if not better, treatment from a ship doctor than at home.

In most cases, more than just one doctor is available on a cruise ship, so you can immediately go. Extensive onboard training is also available for all medical personnel to be efficient in this environment.

Overall, the doctors on a cruise ship are even more qualified to provide passengers with only the best medical services. This will be an invaluable experience for anyone trained to become a doctor, which can be used in their future career.

Personnel You May Find in a Ship's Medical Center

A cruise ship physician will be in charge of a full complement of a standard medical emergency center you find in any town. This will include nurses, paramedics, and other hospital personnel to keep the center in peak condition all the time.

A medical center on a cruise ship will keep the same records you will find in hospitals of all patients and their treatments. This means that there must also be an administrative department to keep these records safe and up to date as they change.

There should also be a dispensary where drugs are kept and issued when needed, which will need a pharmacist. 24/7 medical services are provided to the passengers and crew members.

A medical emergency can happen anytime and anywhere, so they must be ready to react promptly. Doctors on a cruise ship do not have office hours; they must be available for 24 hours while the ship is out at sea.

That means they must always be available for a medical emergency and be ready to help when needed.

Standard Salaries For Cruise Doctors

The industrial standard of salaries for junior doctors working on cruisers can be anything from $9,000 to $12,000 per month. For senior physicians, it can start at $12,000 and go as high as $14,000 monthly.

Not all cruise lines offer the same salary for ship doctors, but you can expect anything from $8,000 up to $14,000. Some doctors will stay with a specific cruise line for many years to enjoy the benefits of the job.

This will include free food and an officer’s single cabin as accommodation, and they get to see many places around the world. 

The average benefits for cruise ship doctors are usually the same as most cruise lines, including free vacation travel. Junior doctors earn as low as $7,500 per month at some cruise lines, while senior doctors earn $12,000 and more.

Contracts for working on some cruise lines are typically four and two months of vacation, but not all are the same.

What Cruise Lines Are the Best To Work For

One of the very popular cruise lines to work for is the Royal Caribbean, as it has very competitive salaries and a rewarding work environment. Working with this cruise line is great if you want to see many different places when you are working with them.

They also have a variety of ship sizes available, and if you are on a larger ship, your life will be full and fast-paced. Another cruise line is Princess Cruises, which also offers a lot of jobs for the medical profession and especially for doctors.

Most cruise lines provide very close or slightly higher salaries than the industry standard for doctors working on cruise ships. You will not get a lot of leave per year, which in some cases is only two weeks per year while working for them.

Other cruise lines, such as Carnival Cruise Lines and Costa Cruises, occasionally look for medical personnel. Then there are also Norwegian Cruise Lines and Morella Cruise Lines, to name only a few of a very long list of cruise lines.

There are hundreds of cruise lines worldwide, and all of them need doctors on board to look after the passengers. 

Who Can Apply for These Jobs

Anyone qualified as a medical doctor can apply for a ship’s physician’s job on a cruise ship. The requirements are a professional medical degree and at least three years of experience in specific fields of the medical profession.

Other requirements include fluency in the English language and basic and advanced life support certifications.

Crew Insights

Articles and experiences shared by crew members working on cruise ship. Find out more about ship life at sea together with tips and advices for first time crew members and cruise oldtimers.

Crew Insight

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Ships & ports.

Cruise Tips For Families & Single Cruisers

Things to Know Before You Cruise

Cruise Ship Salaries: How Much Do Workers Really Make?

As someone who loves to travel, I’ve always been curious about how much money cruise ship workers make. It’s easy to assume that they earn a lot, given the luxurious nature of the industry. But as I delved deeper into the topic, I realized that the answer is not as straightforward as I thought.

In this article, I’ll be breaking down the salaries of different cruise ship staff, including captains, waiters, chefs, bartenders, doctors, nurses, and entertainers, and discussing the employee benefits that come with the job.

While the median average salary for cruise ship workers may be less than that of the average American, it’s important to consider the unique nature of the job. Cruise ship contracts can last anywhere between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months, meaning that employees have the opportunity to earn a significant amount of money in a short amount of time.

Additionally, the employee benefits that come with the job, such as free room and board, can be a major perk. So, let’s take a closer look at the earning potential and benefits of working on a cruise ship.

• The median average salary for a cruise ship worker is less than that of the average American, but more than the average salary of many other countries.
• Cruise ship employees usually work on contracts that can last between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months, and they get to go home for a couple of months in between contracts.
• Cruise ship staff do not get access to free wifi, but they may receive benefits such as accommodation, food, laundry, training, flights to and from the ship, medical care, health insurance, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and cruise discounts for family members.
• Salaries of cruise ship staff vary greatly depending on their position and level of experience, with the average salary of a cruise ship captain being $98,000 and the average cruise director salary being $58,887. Cruise ship waiters can make anywhere from $1,200 to $5,000 per month, while cruise ship doctors can earn between $7,500 and $12,000 per month depending on their level of experience.

Earning Potential

As I read about the earning potential of different cruise ship staff, I noticed that salaries can vary greatly depending on the position and level of experience, with some employees earning as little as $1,200 per month and others making up to $177k per year.

It’s worth noting that cruise ship contracts can last anywhere between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months. During this time, living expenses such as accommodation and food are usually covered by the cruise line, but employees may not have access to free Wi-Fi.

It’s clear that there is a significant range in earning potential for cruise ship staff, with some positions offering much higher salaries than others. However, it’s important to consider the duration of contracts and the fact that living expenses are often taken care of by the cruise line.

Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to weigh the pros and cons of working on a cruise ship and decide if the earning potential is worth the time and effort required.

Salary Breakdown

Let me break down the different pay scales for various positions on a cruise ship. While the average salary of a cruise ship worker may be less than that of the average American, it’s important to note that the earning potential varies greatly depending on the position held.

For instance, a cruise ship captain can earn an average salary of $98,000, while a newly-appointed cruise director may make around $45,000. When negotiating pay, it’s important to consider the discrepancies that may exist between different positions.

For example, cruise ship chefs usually have several years of experience working in similar roles in luxury hotels, restaurants or other high-volume food service facilities. The executive chef on a cruise ship can make up to $6,500 per month, depending on the ship. However, cruise ship waiters may only make $1,200 per month for a junior position or $5,000 per month for the head waiter on an ultra-luxury cruise ship.

It’s important to do your research and negotiate based on your experience and the position you’re applying for in order to ensure fair compensation.

Employee Benefits

I’ve always heard that employee benefits can make a huge difference in job satisfaction, and working on a cruise ship is no exception.

When it comes to housing, most cruise ship employees are provided with accommodation while they work on board. The type of accommodation depends on the position and the ship, but it can range from shared cabins to private rooms with a balcony. Some cruise lines even offer housing for employees in between contracts, which is a great benefit for those who want to save money on rent.

Another important benefit for cruise ship workers is vacation time. While contracts can last between 2 and 11 months, most employees get to go home for a couple of months in between contracts. This gives workers a chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends.

In addition, cruise lines may offer discounts on cruises for family members of employees, which is a great way to enjoy the perks of working on a cruise ship while also spending quality time with loved ones.

Overall, the benefits offered to cruise ship employees can make a big difference in their quality of life and job satisfaction.

Captain Salaries

Honestly, being a captain on a cruise ship seems like a high-paying and prestigious job. According to the table below, the average salary for a cruise ship captain is $98,000. However, this varies depending on the size of the ship and the captain’s experience. A less experienced captain of a small cruise ship can expect to earn around $44,000, while a captain of a mega-ship with over 20 years of experience can earn up to $177,000. Captains can also receive bonuses of up to $40,000 per year, as well as profit sharing of up to $3,000.

To become a captain on a cruise ship, a candidate must have several years of experience as a deck officer and must possess a master’s license from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The experience requirements vary depending on the size of the ship, but most captains have between 5 and 10 years of experience before being promoted to the role. It’s important to note that being a captain on a cruise ship is not just about sailing the ship. Captains are also responsible for the safety of the ship and its passengers, managing the crew, and ensuring that the ship runs smoothly.

Cruise Director Salaries

From my research, the cruise director position seems to offer a decent salary with the potential for growth. As the head of the entertainment department, the cruise director is responsible for organizing and overseeing all onboard activities and events.

This includes everything from live performances to trivia games and dance parties. They also play a key role in ensuring that guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience while on the ship.

To become a cruise director, one typically needs several years of experience in the entertainment industry, as well as strong leadership and organizational skills. They must have the ability to manage a large team of staff and work collaboratively with other departments on the ship.

Additionally, good communication and public speaking skills are a must, as the cruise director often serves as the public face of the ship and is expected to interact with guests on a regular basis. Overall, the cruise director role offers a challenging and rewarding career path for those with a passion for entertainment and hospitality.

Waiter and Chef Salaries

Based on my research, waiters and chefs working on luxury cruise ships can earn significantly higher salaries than their counterparts in traditional restaurants and hotels. A junior waiter on a cruise ship can earn up to $1,200 per month, while the head waiter on an ultra-luxury cruise ship can make up to $5,000 per month. These salaries are due to the job responsibilities that come with working on a cruise ship, such as working long hours and being away from home for months at a time.

Additionally, the industry trends show that cruise ship companies are willing to pay more to attract and retain talented staff. Cruise ship chefs usually have several years of experience working in similar roles in luxury hotels, restaurants, or other high-volume food service facilities. An executive chef on a cruise ship can make up to $6,500 per month, depending on the ship.

These salaries are also due to the job responsibilities that come with working on a cruise ship, such as preparing a variety of meals for thousands of guests each day. The industry trends show that cruise ship companies prioritize high-quality food and dining experiences for guests, which means that they are willing to pay more for skilled chefs.

Doctor and Nurse Salaries

I was surprised to learn how much medical professionals on luxury cruise lines can earn, given the importance of their roles in ensuring the well-being of guests. Cruise ship medical staff play a crucial role in providing necessary medical attention to guests who may fall ill or get injured on the ship. They often work long hours and may have to deal with a variety of medical emergencies, but the salaries they earn reflect their expertise and the importance of their work.

The table below shows the salaries of cruise ship medical staff, including doctors and nurses. In addition to competitive salaries, cruise ship medical staff may also receive benefits such as accommodation, food, and medical care. Working conditions on a cruise ship can be challenging, but for those who enjoy cultural diversity, career growth opportunities, and a unique work-life balance, a career as a cruise ship medical professional may be worth considering.

As with any job, there are pros and cons to working as a cruise ship medical professional. On the one hand, the opportunity to travel and work in a unique environment can be a major draw. On the other hand, the long hours and lack of access to certain amenities, such as free wifi, may not be for everyone. Overall, the salaries of cruise ship medical staff reflect the importance of their work and the value they bring to the cruise industry.

Other Cruise Ship Jobs and Services

Now that we’ve covered the salaries of cruise ship doctors and nurses, let’s move on to other jobs and services offered onboard.

One of the most popular amenities on a cruise ship is the spa. Most cruise ships have spas that offer a wide range of services, such as massages, facials, and body treatments. The cost of these services can vary depending on the cruise line and the type of service, but they’re typically more expensive than what you’d pay on land. However, many people are willing to pay the extra cost for the convenience and luxury of having spa services available to them while on vacation.

In addition to spa services, cruise ships also offer a variety of onboard activities. These can range from fitness classes to cooking demonstrations to art auctions. Some cruise lines even have onboard water parks and zip lines. The cost of these activities is usually included in the price of the cruise, but some may have an additional fee.

It’s important to check with the cruise line to see what activities are available and if there are any extra costs associated with them. With so many options for entertainment and relaxation, there’s never a dull moment on a cruise ship.

What are the working conditions like for cruise ship workers?

Living quarters vary depending on one’s job, but most crew members share small cabins with limited privacy. Work-life balance is a challenge due to long hours and being away from home for months. Many find the experience rewarding despite the hardships.

How do cruise ship companies recruit and hire their employees?

The recruitment process for cruise ship employees involves rigorous screening, background checks, and interviews. Qualifications depend on the job, but most require previous experience and certification. It’s a competitive industry, with thousands of applicants vying for each position.

What kind of training is required for cruise ship staff?

To work on a cruise ship, certification requirements vary depending on the position. Language proficiency is important for customer-facing roles. Training is provided on board and may include safety, hospitality, and job-specific skills.

What are some of the biggest challenges that cruise ship workers face?

Working on a cruise ship can be mentally challenging due to long working hours and isolation from friends and family. Mental health support is essential to combat these challenges and ensure a fulfilling work experience.

How do cruise ship workers spend their free time while on board?

During free time, cruise ship workers can participate in various activities such as visiting ports, watching shows, using the gym, or relaxing by the pool. Socializing opportunities include crew parties, bars, and organized events.

Medical Jobs on Cruise Ships

Doctors and Nurses on cruise ships are on call at all times. They perform routine and emergency care to passengers and crew members. Some cruise ships have Dentists onboard as well.

- Select a position - Doctor (10) Nurse (8)

22 jobs found  |  Page 1 of 5

As the onboard Doctor, you will provide medical services to crew members and guests. You will also support the Staff...

4 July 2024 - Royal Caribbean Group - English

The onboard Nurse provides nursing services to all At Sea employees and guests, and supports the Staff Captain and other...

Doctor for Silversea

Job ID: 13100 Rank: Doctor Employment Type: Permanent Joining Date: Jul 31, 2024 Type of Vessel: Passenger Ship Engine Details:...

3 July 2024 - V.Ships Leisure - English

DESCRIPTIONDepartment - Medical Contract duration - 7 months MAIN FUNCTIONResponsible for receiving and triaging emergency enquiries, responding to the scene...

3 July 2024 - World of Seamen Group - English

Dental Assistant

This person is expected to provide dental assistant services during the dental care to all Guests and Crew members who...

1 July 2024 - Royal Caribbean Group - English

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The Times of India

Top 10 AI Skills You Need to Land Your Dream Job

Posted: 3 July 2024 | Last updated: 4 July 2024

This AI Web Story unpacks the top 10 skills dominating the 2024 AI job market. From machine learning and Python to computer vision and communication, discover the in-demand skillset that unlocks exciting AI careers.

10 Essential AI Skills Reigning Supreme in 2024

Machine Learning (ML)

This is the foundation of AI, allowing machines to learn from data without explicit programming. It's crucial for tasks like image recognition, recommendation systems, and fraud detection.

The go-to programming language for AI due to its readability, extensive libraries (like TensorFlow and PyTorch), and large developer community.

Deep Learning

A subfield of ML using artificial neural networks to model complex data patterns. Deep learning powers applications like self-driving cars and natural language processing.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

Enables computers to understand and generate human language. NLP is used in chatbots, machine translation, and sentiment analysis.

Computer Vision (CV)

Allows machines to extract information from images and videos. CV is used in facial recognition, medical imaging analysis, and autonomous robots.

Big Data Technologies

Essential for handling and analyzing the massive datasets used in AI. Skills like Hadoop and Spark are in demand.

Cloud Computing

Provides the computing power and storage needed for large-scale AI projects. Cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are popular choices.

Data Science

Combines statistics, programming, and domain knowledge to extract insights from data. Data scientists play a crucial role in preparing and analyzing data for AI models.

AI Ethics and Bias Mitigation

As AI becomes more widespread, addressing ethical concerns and mitigating bias in algorithms is critical.

Communication Skills

The ability to clearly explain AI concepts, both technical and non-technical, is essential for collaboration and successful implementation of AI projects.

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