How Much Do Cruise Ship Nurses Make?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruise ship nurses are in high demand as they provide essential medical care to passengers and crew members at sea. Cruise lines require nurses to have a valid nursing license and often prefer those with experience in emergency and critical care. Cruise ship nurses also need to be able to handle the unique challenges of providing medical care while living on a cruise ship. Cruise ships typically pay their nurses competitive salaries, but how much do cruise ship nurses make?

The exact salary of a cruise ship nurse will depend on several factors, such as experience and the specific cruise line. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for registered nurses was $73,300 in 2019. However, cruise ship nurses may make more than this due to their unique skillset and experience in providing medical treatment at sea. For example, some experienced cruise ship nurses can earn up to $100,000 per year.

In addition to a salary, many cruise lines offer attractive benefits packages for their nurses including free housing while on board the vessel and discounts on entertainment and food onboard the vessel. Some cruise lines also offer bonuses or incentives based on performance evaluations or length of service.

Advancement Opportunities

Cruise line employers usually look for experienced candidates when filling senior nurse positions such as head nurse. Advancement opportunities may include higher pay scales and increased responsibilities such as managing other nursing staff.

Conclusion

Cruise ship nurses can expect competitive salaries depending upon experience, with some earning up to $100,000 per year plus benefits including free housing and discounts on onboard entertainment and food. There are also advancement opportunities available for experienced nurses who wish to take on managerial roles.