Cruise ship crews are the lifeblood of any successful journey, providing vital services and amenities to passengers throughout their voyage. But how much do these hardworking individuals make? The answer depends on the cruise line, type of job, and experience, but most crew members make anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000 per month.
As you might expect, senior staff and officers tend to take home the highest salaries. These positions require a higher level of education and experience than entry-level jobs like housekeeping or food service.
For example, an experienced cruise ship captain can earn up to $15,000 per month. Other senior staff such as engineers and navigators may receive a salary in the range of $4,000-$8,000 per month.
Entry-level positions are often paid hourly wages rather than salaries. For example, waiters typically make between $800-$1,500 per month depending on their hours worked; some may even receive tips from passengers which can add to their income significantly. Housekeepers often make around $1,200 per month for full-time work and may receive additional tips as well.
Though most cruise ship crew members don’t make six-figure salaries like some other professions in the travel industry, they enjoy an array of other benefits that can help offset lower pay including free meals and accommodation while onboard the ship as well as discounts on shore excursions or spa treatments when they’re in port. Plus they get to explore different parts of the world from the comfort of their own workplace!
Conclusion: Overall, how much cruise ship crews make depends greatly on the position held and experience level; senior staff generally earn more than entry-level workers but all crew members benefit from free meals and accommodation while onboard plus discounts on shore excursions when in port.