Cruise ships are floating cities filled with luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views, attracting travelers looking for a unique vacation experience. But behind the scenes, cruise ship workers play vital roles—from skilled chefs creating culinary masterpieces to cabin stewards ensuring guest comfort.
Many wonder, how much do cruise ship workers make? The answer varies widely, influenced by factors such as job roles, destinations, and industry standards. Diving into this topic uncovers the complex tapestry of employment and salaries that keep the cruise industry sailing smoothly across the world’s waters.
What Are the Main Departments Found on a Cruise Ship and Their Roles?
Cruise ships are like small cities on the sea, and each one depends on different departments to keep things running smoothly. The Deck Department ensures the ship sails safely, while the Entertainment Department fills the day with fun activities and exciting shows.
The Food and Beverage Department takes care of all the tasty dining options, and the Housekeeping department focuses on cleanliness in cabins and public areas.
For those with medical concerns, the Medical department provides essential healthcare services. The Guest Services department listens to guests and answers guest inquiries, making sure everyone’s needs are met. Since these lines offer a wide range of roles, earnings can vary, especially for those working closely with passengers.
How Much Do Cruise Ship Workers Make?
Choosing to work on a cruise ship is a unique career choice that appeals to many people seeking adventure and travel. But an important aspect of this decision is understanding how much cruise ship workers actually earn.
The salary depends on the job position, level of experience, and the specific roles onboard. Entry-level workers like those in housekeeping, waitstaff, or gift shop salespeople might earn around $600 to $800 monthly.
In contrast, specialized positions such as chefs, engineers, or entertainment staff can make anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 per month. In addition to the base salary, workers usually receive meals, accommodations, and may also benefit from gratuities, bonuses, and other benefits.
This mix of earnings and perks makes working at sea an appealing option for those curious about income on international waters.
Cruise Ship Worker Salaries Without Gratuities
Many cruise ship workers choose this career for the adventure and the chance to travel the world while earning a steady income. However, their salaries often depend on the position, experience, and the cruise line they work for.
Entry-level employees, such as stewards and dining staff, may earn between $700 and $1,200 per month. The lifestyle onboard can be both exciting and demanding, requiring workers to meet the high expectations of passengers across various levels of service.
Captain
With a salary averaging $96,624, captains hold the crucial role of managing the entire operation of a ship. They ensure the vessel meets all safety standards while strictly following laws, regulations, and compliance requirements to protect both crew and passengers.
Hotel Manager
Hotel managers earn an average salary of about $50,555 and play a vital role in ensuring that accommodations meet top standards of cleanliness and comfort. Their responsibilities include supervising guest services, organizing staff training, and maintaining smooth operations to provide a great experience for all visitors.
Cruise Director
One of the highest-paid roles is the Director of Operations, who earns around $93,693 a year, not including gratuities. This position carries major responsibilities, ensuring the smooth operation of the entire cruise ship.
Deck Crew
Deck crew members play a key role in smoothly operating a cruise ship by managing tasks like docking, undocking, and maintaining the ship’s exterior.
They often work long hours, and their role directly impacts the comfort and safety of passengers, especially during changing weather conditions. Whether guiding the vessel through tight ports or working on deck routines, the deck crew ensures everything functions as it should.
Deckhands
Many individuals working on a cruise ship take up roles such as deck crew deckhands, where maintaining cleanliness and orderliness on the deck area is a key part of their operation.
These crew members also assist in mooring operations, and help ensure passenger safety during embarkation and disembarkation. Their role is vital to the smooth running of the vessel, and the average salary for this position is $42,916 annually.
Engine/Mechanical
I will discuss it one by one.
- Chief Engineer – Manages engines and mechanical systems.
- Electrical Engineer – Handles ship’s power and lighting.
- Boatswain’s Mate – Assists with deck work and mooring.
- Fitter – Repairs metal parts and engine components.
- HVAC Technician – Maintains air and ventilation systems.
- Plumber – Fixes pipes, toilets, and water systems.
Chief Engineer
Cruise ship engineers earn a yearly salary of about $85,138, reflecting the importance of their expertise on board. They are responsible for the maintenance and repair of vital systems such as engines, generators, mechanical systems, and propulsion systems.
These professionals work in different environments and adapt to changing weather conditions to keep the ship operating safely and efficiently.
Electrical Engineer
Cruise ship professionals who handle critical onboard systems such as lighting, air conditioning, and navigation equipment play a key role in the smooth operation of the vessel.
These skilled individuals ensure that everything functions properly on board, creating a safe and comfortable experience for both guests and crew. With a reported salary of $77,657 annually, their expertise is highly valued.
Maintenance Manager
Maintenance managers on cruise ships earn an average salary of $75,935, reflecting the importance of their role. Their responsibilities include managing complex maintenance tasks, planning schedules, handling emergency repairs, and making sure all facilities stay in top shape.
Boatswain’s Mate
A Boatswain’s Mate on a Ship plays a vital role in its smooth operation. With a Salary of $30,434, this position commands respect. The Boatswain’s Mate expertly handles ropes and rigging, and performs regular maintenance on the vessel’s exterior to ensure seaworthiness.
Fitter
The average salary for many crew members aboard cruise ships is around $46,570 per year, depending on the task and department they work in. These roles often involve maintaining complex machinery, following strict safety standards, and ensuring the comfort and well-being of passengers.
HVAC Technician
Many HVAC technicians on cruise ships handle a variety of maintenance tasks across different environments, from crowded basements to open rooftops.
Their job includes checking and fixing air conditioning units in tight spaces and making sure every part of the ship stays comfortable for passengers and crew. These professionals earn an average salary of $49,933.
Plumber
In today’s Society, Plumbers earn a Salary averaging $55,173, reflecting their crucial expertise in tackling drains and faucets issues. These unsung heroes safeguard our lives by maintaining intricate piping systems, using their specialized skill set to diagnose and resolve problems before they disrupt daily routines.
Hotel
- Receptionists welcome guests and manage front desk duties.
- Recreation Coordinator organizes fun events on board.
Receptionists
With an average salary of $41,185, receptionists on cruise ships are essential to smooth operations in the hospitality sector. Their role involves handling guest inquiries efficiently and professionally. These workers need the ability to manage a high volume of tasks while providing top-tier service.
Recreation Coordinator
Recreation professionals earn an average salary of $41,117, organizing activities like fitness classes and sports tournaments for passengers of all ages.
These workers help shape the fun atmosphere onboard, giving guests a memorable vacation experience. Their job often happens behind the scenes, but their energy and creativity bring a wide variety of fun to every sailing.
Hospitality
- Executive Chef – Heads the kitchen.
- Sous Chef – Supports the head chef.
- Food Service Director – Oversees food service.
Executive Chef
Executive chefs on cruise ships often stand out with impressive earnings. With an average salary of $41,117, they rely on their expertise in cuisines, strong leadership skills, and smart menu planning to run smooth kitchen operations.
Their experience helps them handle staff and stay calm in tough situations. A creative flair and deep knowledge of food trends are essential for success in this job.
Chef/Sous Chef
Cruise ships are known for their fine dining experiences, and the Chef and Sous Chef play a vital part in bringing that to life. With an average Salary of $45,797, these culinary experts combine creativity, precision, and teamwork to maintain a high-quality dining setting at sea.
The relationship between the head chef and the sous chef is built on mutual respect and shared experience, turning the kitchen into a true haven for culinary innovation. While they embrace tradition, they are always ready to surprise guests with something new—proving that their roles are not just about food, but about awakening the senses.
Food Service Director
Food Service Directors on cruise ships are key professionals who keep dining operations running smoothly. With an average Salary of $56,424, they handle everything from menu planning and meal preparation to managing staff and handling budgeting needs.
Their leadership directly impacts the success of the ship’s culinary operation, ensuring guests enjoy high-quality meals every day.
Entertainment
- Entertainment Manager plans and leads fun events.
- Entertainment Staff helps run shows and engage guests.
Entertainment Manager
With an annual salary of $54,902, Entertainment managers bring energy and creativity on board, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for cruise ship passengers.
These professionals coordinate lively activities and stunning performances, crafting memorable experiences for every guest. Their work goes beyond fun—it supports the smooth flow of onboard events.
Entertainment Staff
The salary for entertainment staff on a cruise line typically averages around $40,606, but several factors influence this amount. The pay can differ based on the individuals’ experience, their specific position, and the cruise line they work for. While the job offers an exciting journey with many passengers, the reality of earnings depends on these key elements.
Security
Cruise ships place a high priority on the safety and comfort of their passengers, and that responsibility lies largely with dedicated staff earning an average annual salary of around $41,796.
These professionals include specialized crew members trained to handle various security measures, manage potential threats, and minimize risks onboard. Modern cruise lines leverage advanced technology such as CCTV cameras and sophisticated access control systems to further strengthen their safety protocols.
Additionally, staff regularly practice comprehensive emergency response protocols to ensure they’re prepared for any situation at sea.
Medical/Health/Safety
- Nurse
- Paramedic
Nurse
Cruise ship workers are essential in maintaining the safety and well-being of passengers. Cruise ship nurses are trained to handle a variety of medical situations, ranging from seasickness to more severe injuries and emergencies. The salary of a cruise ship nurse can vary, but the typical annual earnings are around $71,000.
Paramedic
Cruise ship workers, particularly healthcare professionals, play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers during their journeys. On average, a healthcare professional aboard a cruise ship earns an annual salary of $50,814, reflecting their expertise in handling medical emergencies and providing urgent care when needed.
These professionals work tirelessly, delivering medical services to patients while sailing on the sea, offering crucial support during health crises until they can be transported to land-based medical facilities.
Typical Crew Member’s Salaries
Cruise ship workers play a crucial role in ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of passengers during their voyages. The cruise ship crew salary is often supplemented by tips, making up a significant portion of their total income.
On average, these workers can earn anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month in gratuities, depending on their position and the quality of service they provide. This additional income helps boost their overall earnings and serves as a key motivation to deliver top-notch service to passengers.
Conclusion
How much do cruise ship workers make? Workers in the cruise industry, including cruise ship workers and employees, can see a wide range of wages depending on their position, experience, and the cruise line they join.
Entry-level dining staff or housekeeping roles often start at or just above minimum wage, but many boost their income with tips and bonuses, while more technical positions like chefs and engineers command higher salaries and steady monthly earnings. When evaluating a career at sea, individuals should weigh these factors, research typical pay scales for each role, and consider the full scope of benefits before making their final decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do cruise ship waiters make?
As of May 14, 2025, the average hourly wage for a Waiter on a cruise ship in the United States is $15.80 per hour.
What is the entry-level position on a ship?
The ordinary seaman is commonly seen as the starting position on a ship, yet this role carries a level of responsibility that goes beyond its simple name.
What is the highest paying job on a cruise ship?
Top 5 Highest-Paid Positions on Cruise Ships:
- Executive Chef
- Cruise Director
- Chief Purser
- Hotel Director
- Human Resources Manager
What is the salary of a Cruise Ship Captain?
Cruise ship captains generally receive a monthly salary between $10,000 and $20,000.