How Much Do You Make Working for Norwegian Cruise Lines?

By Robert Palmer

If you are considering working for Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL), one of the most common questions you might have is about the pay scale. While there are several factors that determine the salary of an NCL employee, we will try to give you a general idea of how much you can expect to earn in this article.

Earnings by Position

The salary range varies depending on the type of job and the level of experience. Here are some of the positions and their average salaries at Norwegian Cruise Lines:

  • Deckhand: The average salary for a Deckhand is around $30,000 per year.
  • Waiter/Waitress: The Waiter/Waitress position pays around $2,400 per month plus tips.
  • Cook: A Cook at NCL earns an average salary of $2,200 per month.
  • Cruise Director: The Cruise Director is responsible for organizing onboard activities and entertainment. They earn an average salary of $6,500 per month.
  • Cabin Steward/Stewardess: Cabin Stewards/Stewardesses typically earn around $1,800-$2,200 per month plus tips.

Bonuses and Benefits

Apart from basic salary, NCL employees may also receive bonuses and benefits such as medical insurance, retirement plans, free accommodation and meals onboard while working, paid vacation time, and discounted rates for family members to sail on NCL ships.

Tips

One thing to keep in mind is that many positions on a cruise ship rely heavily on tips. For example, waiters/waitresses and cabin stewards/stewardesses earn a significant portion of their income from gratuities. It’s not uncommon for a waiter or waitress to earn more than $1,000 per month in tips alone.

Contract Length

Another factor that affects earnings is the length of the contract. Most NCL employees work on contracts that last between 4-6 months, with the opportunity to renew for another contract. However, some positions may require longer contracts.

Conclusion

Overall, working for Norwegian Cruise Lines can be a lucrative opportunity for those looking to earn a steady income while traveling and experiencing new cultures. While salaries vary depending on the job and experience level, the benefits and bonuses offered by NCL make it an attractive option for many job seekers.