How Much Is It to See a Doctor on a Cruise Ship?

By Anna Duncan

Cruise ships today are like floating cities, with all the amenities of a resort and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. But what happens if you need medical attention while on board?

Like any other healthcare facility, there is a fee for receiving medical services on a cruise ship. But how much is it to see a doctor on a cruise ship? That answer depends on the type of care you need.

Emergency Medical Care

If you experience an emergency medical situation while on board, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, the priority is to get you the help you need as quickly as possible. Cruise ships will typically provide this care at no cost to the passenger-in extreme cases, they may even call in an airlift to transport the patient to an appropriate healthcare facility.

Non-Emergency Medical Care

For non-emergency medical care, such as minor scrapes and bruises or illnesses like a cold or stomach flu, there will be a fee for services. Cruise lines typically have their own onboard medical staff who are available 24/7 and can provide basic care for routine ailments. The cost for this service varies by cruise line but usually ranges from $50-$100 per visit.

Prescription Medications

In addition to the cost of seeing a doctor, there may also be a fee for any prescription medications that are given out. This cost varies depending on what type of medication is prescribed and if it is available onboard. Most common medications are usually stocked in the ship’s pharmacy, so passengers can avoid paying extra fees for them.

Additional Fees

In some cases, additional costs may be incurred if tests or imaging studies are ordered by the doctor. These costs vary greatly depending on what type of tests or studies are ordered. Furthermore, if a passenger needs to be evacuated off the ship due to their medical condition then additional fees may apply.

Conclusion


The cost of seeing a doctor while on board can vary greatly depending on the type of care needed and any additional tests or procedures recommended by the doctor. In general though, most routine visits will range from $50-$100 per visit and any necessary prescription medications will incur an additional charge. It’s important to remember that in emergency situations, cruises ships will provide immediate medical attention at no cost.