How Much Does a Cruise Ship Band Make?

By Alice Nichols

A cruise ship band, or a shipboard band, is a group of musicians hired by cruise lines to entertain passengers and crew. Cruise ship bands typically perform a variety of popular music genres, including jazz, rock and roll, country, classical, soul, reggae and other forms of music. Bands typically play in lounges on the ship’s main deck or in one of the onboard bars.

The job of a cruise ship band is to keep the guests entertained throughout their journey. Cruise ship bands often play for several hours each night during dinner service, as well as during special events such as cocktail hour or karaoke nights. Some cruise ships also feature live music performances in their main theatre or show lounge.

So how much does a cruise ship band make? Cruise lines typically pay their bands based on an hourly rate.

This rate can vary depending on the size of the band and the length of their contract. Generally speaking, most bands make between $50-$150 per hour while working on a cruise ship. However, some top bands may earn up to $200 per hour for more extensive contracts.

In addition to hourly wages, many cruise lines offer additional perks such as free meals and drinks while onboard. Some ships also provide travel expenses for their musicians when they are touring around different ports of call. Finally, some cruise lines offer bonuses for any special performances that are requested by passengers or crew members during the course of their journey.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the amount that a cruise ship band makes depends largely on the length of their contract and how experienced they are as performers. Most bands will make between $50-$150 per hour while working on a cruise ship with some earning up to $200 per hour for more extensive contracts. In addition to hourly wages, many ships offer perks such as free meals and drinks while onboard and travel expenses when touring around different ports of call.