How Much Does a Massage Therapist Make on a Cruise Ship?

By Anna Duncan

Working as a massage therapist on a cruise ship is a great way to travel the world, experience different cultures, and make money while doing so. Cruise ships offer competitive wages for massage therapists, and depending on the cruise line, experience level and job title, the salary can vary greatly.

Entry-level massage therapist jobs usually require applicants to have at least two years of professional experience in addition to any certifications or licenses required by the state in which they are working. Once employed, these entry-level massage therapists can expect to make between $400-$600 per week depending on how many hours they work.

More experienced massage therapists with additional certifications and titles such as Master Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist or Medical Massage Therapist may command higher salaries. These professionals can earn up to $1000 per week or more depending on the cruise line, job title and number of hours worked.

Additional Compensation

In addition to their base salary, most cruise ship massage therapists also receive tips from customers. Some companies also offer additional bonuses such as free meals and lodging while onboard the ship.

Job Duties

The main duty of a cruise ship massage therapist is to provide therapeutic massages for passengers onboard the vessel. In addition to this duty, they may be expected to provide other services such as facials, body wraps and waxing treatments.

Conclusion

Overall, how much a massage therapist makes on a cruise ship depends on their experience level and job title. Entry-level therapists can expect to make between $400-$600 per week while more experienced therapists may earn up to $1000 per week or more depending on the cruise line and number of hours worked. Additional compensation such as tips and bonuses may also be available depending on the company.