How Much Does the Average Cruise Ship Employee Make?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ship employees are some of the hardest working individuals in the travel and hospitality industry. Not only do they work long hours, but they’re also responsible for keeping passengers safe and happy while on board.

But how much money do these workers make? It turns out that the salary range for cruise ship employees can vary quite a bit, depending on their job role and experience level.

Stateroom Attendants are responsible for cleaning the passenger cabins, making beds, stocking rooms with supplies, and ensuring that all amenities are properly functioning. Entry-level stateroom attendants typically earn an average salary of $1,000 per month. Experienced stateroom attendants who have worked on ships for several years may earn as much as $1,800 to $2,000 per month.

Waiters and Bartenders provide food and beverage service to passengers throughout their voyage. Most waiters make minimum wage or slightly above depending on their experience level.

Bartenders may earn slightly more than minimum wage at between $2.50 to $3 per hour in tips. Highly experienced waitstaff can make as much as $2,500 a month in tips alone.

Entertainment Staff, such as performers and DJs, tend to be paid hourly wages that range from $7 to $15 per hour depending on experience level. At sea performers may also receive additional compensation in the form of tips from passengers.

Crew Members, such as engineers and deckhands, typically receive salaries ranging from $1,500 to $2,200 per month depending on their job role and seniority level. Highly experienced crew members may earn salaries of up to $3,000 or more.

Conclusion:
The amount that cruise ship employees make depends largely on their job role and experience level. Entry-level workers typically earn around minimum wage or slightly above while more experienced workers can make upwards of $3,000 a month in salary plus additional tips from passengers in certain roles.