aspen medical cruise ship nurse

10 Pros and Cons of Being a Cruise Ship Nurse

If you are considering a non-traditional career as a nurse, working onboard a cruise ship might be a career that you may want to consider. Have you ever dreamed of being a nurse on a cruise ship? I know I have. Cruise ships are an excellent career choice for those looking for a destination to escape the chaos of land life. It just sounds so glamorous, right? It sounds like the perfect job, but there are some pros and cons of being a cruise ship nurse you should know about before jumping in head-first. This article will give you the top 10 pros and cons of being a cruise ship nurse. In this article, you will find the information that will help you decide if being a cruise ship nurse is the right fit for you!

What Does A Cruise Ship Nurse Do?

Where does a cruise ship nurse work, how much does a cruise ship nurse make, steps to becoming a cruise ship nurse, top cons of being a cruise ship nurse, 1. you may not have much privacy., 2. you will be living with a stranger., 3. you may end up having seasickness., 4. you will be tied into a contract., 5. you will have decreased job security., 6. you may not get days to rest., 7. you will be working long hours., 8. you may end up working late at night., 9. you may become homesick, 10. you can become sick., top pros of being a cruise ship nurse, 1. your salary is not too shabby., 2. you will travel to some pretty unbelievable places., 3. you will work at sea., 4. you will make friends from all over., 5. your cost of living will be pretty low., 6. you will have a tremendous amount of flexibility., 7. you will gain a unique work experience., 8. you can get discounts., 9. you will be exposed to different cultures, 10. you will gain some real vital experience, my final thoughts.

• Job Satisfaction

What’s It Like to Be a Nurse on a Cruise Ship?

Being a nurse on a cruise ship is an exciting and fulfilling career choice. It offers a unique blend of professional growth, travel opportunities, and personal development. As a cruise ship nurse, you play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of both passengers and crew members.

Let’s delve into the details of this thrilling career and explore the benefits and challenges that come with it.

Understanding Your Job Description as a Cruise Ship Nurse

As a cruise ship nurse, your primary responsibility is to provide medical care to passengers and crew members. You will be working in a small medical facility onboard, equipped to handle various medical situations. Some of your key duties may include:

• Providing first aid and emergency care
• Administering medications
• Treating minor illnesses and injuries
• Assisting with medical evacuations if necessary
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals onboard

The Significance of Your Role on the Cruise Ship

Your role as a nurse on a cruise ship is vital for maintaining the health and safety of everyone onboard. You are the first line of defense when it comes to medical emergencies, and your expertise and quick thinking can save lives. Additionally, you are responsible for promoting health and wellness among passengers and crew members, ensuring a pleasant and safe voyage for all.

The Good Side: Benefits of Being a Cruise Ship Nurse

Opportunity to travel and see the world.

One of the most appealing aspects of being a cruise ship nurse is the opportunity to travel to various destinations across the globe. Imagine waking up to a new picturesque port every week, exploring different cultures, and experiencing breathtaking landscapes. This aspect of the job allows you to satisfy your wanderlust while also pursuing your passion for nursing.

Diverse Patient Experiences

Working on a cruise ship exposes you to a diverse range of patients from different backgrounds and nationalities. This exposure allows you to enhance your clinical skills by encountering unique medical cases that you may not come across in a traditional healthcare setting. It provides an excellent platform to broaden your knowledge and gain valuable experience in various medical conditions.

Social and Recreational Perks on the Cruise Ship

Being a part of the cruise ship community offers ample opportunities for socializing and engaging in recreational activities. You get to meet fellow healthcare professionals, crew members from different departments, and fascinating passengers. You can participate in onboard events, enjoy entertainment shows, and even explore various amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants during your off-duty hours.

The Challenges: What Makes It Tough

Dealing with a wide range of medical situations.

As a cruise ship nurse, you must be prepared to handle a wide range of medical situations. From minor illnesses to serious injuries, you may encounter diverse healthcare needs on a daily basis. This requires you to stay calm under pressure and think critically to provide the best possible care in a limited medical facility.

Limited Medical Resources

While cruise ships have medical facilities, they are relatively small and may have limited resources compared to a traditional hospital. This means you have to be resourceful and make the most of the available equipment and supplies. You may need to rely on your clinical skills and improvisation to provide the necessary care in challenging situations.

Balancing Work Hours and Leisure Time

Working on a cruise ship can be demanding in terms of long hours and irregular schedules. You may have to work shifts that include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Finding a balance between your work responsibilities and personal time can be challenging. However, with proper time management and self-care strategies, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.

The Day-to-Day Life of a Cruise Ship Nurse

A typical day at sea: what you can expect.

A typical day as a cruise ship nurse involves a mix of routine tasks and unexpected medical situations. Your day may start with conducting health screenings for embarking passengers, followed by attending to any medical needs that arise throughout the day. You may also be responsible for managing the ship’s medical inventory and restocking supplies as needed. During off-peak times, you can take the opportunity to engage in professional development activities or explore the various amenities and activities available on the ship.

Gaining Experience and Skills Through Unique Cases

Working as a nurse on a cruise ship exposes you to a wide range of medical cases that you may not encounter in a traditional healthcare setting. From tropical illnesses to maritime emergencies, you have the opportunity to gain valuable experience and enhance your clinical skills. This exposure can be highly rewarding and contribute to your professional growth as a nurse.

How to Thrive as a Nurse on a Cruise Ship

Essential skills and qualities you need.

To thrive as a nurse on a cruise ship, certain skills and qualities are essential. These include:

• Strong clinical skills: As you will be the primary healthcare provider onboard, it is crucial to have a solid foundation in clinical nursing skills .
• Adaptability: The cruise ship environment is constantly changing, and you need to be adaptable to different situations and challenges.
• Communication skills: Effective communication is crucial when dealing with patients, crew members, and other healthcare professionals onboard.
• Problem-solving abilities: Quick thinking and the ability to make decisions under pressure are essential skills for handling medical emergencies on a cruise ship.
• Multicultural awareness: Working with passengers and crew members from different cultures requires cultural sensitivity and the ability to collaborate effectively.

Tips to Adapt and Excel in Your Role on the Ship

To excel in your role as a cruise ship nurse, consider the following tips:

• Stay updated with medical knowledge and advancements: Continuously update your medical knowledge and stay informed about emerging healthcare trends and practices.
• Network and collaborate: Build relationships with fellow healthcare professionals and crew members to create a supportive work environment.
• Take care of yourself: Prioritize self-care and find ways to relax and recharge during your off-duty hours.
• Embrace cultural diversity: Embrace the opportunity to learn about different cultures and adapt your nursing care accordingly.

Working as a nurse on a cruise ship offers a unique and rewarding career path. It allows you to combine your passion for nursing with the excitement of travel and exploration. While the job may come with its challenges, with the right skills, mindset, and adaptability, you can thrive in this fulfilling and adventurous profession. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that combines healthcare and exploration, consider becoming a nurse on a cruise ship.

Sophia Miller

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How To Become A Cruise Ship Nurse

How to become a cruise ship nurse, what does a cruise ship nurse do.

• Salary Info
• Pros and Cons

Finding Work As A Cruise Ship Nurse

Nurses who love to travel, enjoy long breaks from work, and want to experience a one-of-a-kind career could make perfect cruise ship nurses. A cruise ship nurse provides care for guests and crew as the ship sails around the world. 

Cruise ships are pretty much small cities floating in the water with the average cruise ship holding around 3,000 guests, not counting the crew that works on the ship full-time. For nurses that want to escape busy ERs and clinics, working on a cruise ship could be a dream job!

Find Nursing Programs

Becoming a cruise ship nurse isn't as easy as signing up right after nursing school. But here are the steps you’ll need to take if you want to become one:

• Become a Registered Nurse by attending and graduating from an accredited nursing program. You’ll also need to pass the NCLEX-RN.
• Gain Experience: Aside from having an active RN license, most cruise ships only want to hire nurses who have experience in multiple settings. Cruise ships usually require nurses to have 2-3 years of full-time experience, and experience in acute care or niche areas is a big plus.Nurses interested in working on a cruise ship should also be prepared to work odd hours. Shifts start whenever passengers or crew become ill, and this can occur at all hours of the day. Experience in emergency or ICU settings helps applications stand out. 
• Enroll in an in-person or hybrid ACLS course
• Pass the multiple choice exam
• Renew their certification every two years
• Learn another language: It also doesn't hurt to speak more than one language as cruises travel around the world and attract guests who might not speak English. While not required, bilingual nurses might have a huge advantage with some cruise lines.

What does a day as a cruise ship nurse look like? Well, it ranges from treating patients with seasickness to providing healthcare services to patients in critical care.

Work With All Kinds of Patients

Much like hospitals on land, cruise ships see patients with all types of ailments, sicknesses, and health problems. Common issues like bad sunburns and food poisoning could be followed up by a passenger suffering from cardiac arrest. This is why cruise lines want nurses with plenty of ICU and emergency experience.

Work Alongside a Team of Healthcare Professionals

Fortunately, you won't be alone. Cruise lines employ a team of nurses, so someone will be available to provide healthcare at all times. When serious problems do occur, your team of nurses and other physicians will work to keep the patient healthy until they can be transferred to the nearest healthcare facility on land. 

Major cruise lines also equip ships with full medical facilities, including labs, a pharmacy, X-ray equipment, and more. Of course, cruise ship nurses still must make due with what's available to them onboard the ship. 

A cruise ship nurse can expect to work a 12-hour shift, and nurses rotate days off. However, if a serious problem occurs, you might be called upon on an off day to lend a hand. 

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Cruise Ship Nurse Salary: How Much Do Cruise Ship Nurses Make?

Cruise ship nurses get to enjoy life on the seas as well as decent salaries. ZipRecruiter estimates that cruise ship nurses earn an average of $81,396 per year , though ZipRecuriter also estimates that more than half of current cruise ship nurses earn less. Glassdoor reports that Royal Carribean nurses earn an estimated base pay of $97,894 per year. Note that contract conditions vary based on cruise line and experience, and first-time cruise ship nurses probably earn less than what ZipRecruiter and Glassdoor report. 

Some additional good news is that nurses usually get weeks or months off between contracts, allowing for plenty of vacation time. 

Also, cruise lines cover the transportation costs of getting to and from home. So, if your cruise contract expires while you're overseas, the cruise line will pay for your flight home, then pay for your flight back to the ship when your new contract starts!

>> Show Me Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Pros and Cons of Being a Cruise Ship Nurse

Like any other nursing career, working as a cruise ship nurse comes with its ups and downs. Here are some of the top factors to consider when deciding whether cruise ship nursing is right for you. 

• Enjoy life on the sea. Cruise ship nurses have to work while they travel, but they travel nonetheless. You'll get to check out cool new places around the world, and you get to leave the ship if you have the day off. 
• Plenty of flexibility. Contracts last no more than six months at a time. If you decide that cruise ship nursing isn't for you, your contract is probably close to expiring anyway. You can also take off as much time between contracts as you want. 
• Low cost of living. While cruise ship nurses don't make the highest salaries, most expenses are paid for upfront. You don't have to worry about paying rent, covering utilities, or visiting the grocery store. 
• Experience a unique work environment. There's truly nothing like working on a cruise ship. Each day could bring new challenges, and you get to enjoy spending time with your tight knit team of nurses. 
• Contract commitment. When you commit to working on a cruise ship, you can't just back out halfway through -- especially since you might be halfway across the world. Once you sign your contract, you're locked in.
• Seasickness. This doesn't apply to everyone, but if you're prone to seasickness, then cruise ship nursing probably isn't for you.
• Close quarters. Cruise ships feel big at first, but the more time you spend on them, the smaller they feel. If you don't think you can spend months at a time on a ship, then consider sticking to a land-based job. 
• Live contract to contract. You may be ready to work as a cruise ship nurse, but cruise ships might not be ready for you. Contracts are limited (or during a pandemic, essentially nonexistent). Completing a contract with a cruise line does not guarantee a contract renewal, either. 

If you're interested in becoming a cruise ship nurse, check out different cruise line websites to look for open positions. Nurse staffing agencies might also know of cruise ship nurse opportunities that you haven't found.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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Cruise Ship Nurse - Career at Aspen Medical Usa

Cruise Ship Nurse - Career at Aspen Medical Usa in Greece. Apply for Aspen Medical Usa job and get your career at Aspen Medical Usa!

Job Title: Cruise Ship Nurse

Company: Aspen Medical Usa

Job Type: Full Time

Work Place: Athens

Job Category: Marketing Executive

Job Description

Company overview.

Industry: Marketing / Media

Jobs by Aspen Medical Usa

Cruise ship physician, health care assistant, cruise ship doctor, jobs in athens, systemadministrator, informatiker, product marketing lead, job in germany: technical support specialist & developer für hr.

Mom Recounts Scary Experience of Having Sick Son Removed From Cruise Ship

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An idyllic cruise vacation can quickly turn nasty, even dangerous, when a guest suddenly gets sick or injured. Reputable cruise lines have medical facilities on board to address mild-to-moderate illnesses and injuries. But what happens when a passenger has a medical emergency beyond the medical staff's capacity to address- and the closest hospital is hundreds of miles away?

This was the terrifying predicament that Massachusetts mother Angela Bridges faced when her 12-year-old son Aiden fell dangerously aboard the Carnival Venezia last week. With the ship hundreds of miles from shore and the boy's life on the line, the crew had no choice but to call in a high-risk airlift rescue.

Angela Bridges told @gma that the ship's medical staff diagnosed Aiden with a perforated bowel, a rare but deadly condition with a high mortality rate if not treated quickly. Aiden needed emergency surgery immediately, something that the ship's medical team wasn't equipped to do.

Related: US Coast Guard Rescues a Beloved Pet Dog After It Fell off an Oregon Cliff

With the Carnival Venezia some 400 miles out from the coast of North Carolina , the captain put out an SOS call- and an Air Force rescue team came as fast as they could, bringing multiple helicopters and para-rescuers with them. According to Good Morning America, the ship was so far out that the helicopters needed three air-to-air refuelings to complete the journey. Once they arrived, however, they performed the helicopter medevac swiftly and smoothly, while other passengers watched and cheered them on. Angela rode up with her son, braving the scary flight to stay by her son's side.

The Independent reported that the rescue crew performed life-saving treatment on Aiden en route to the nearest hospital. He is currently recovering in an unidentified North Carolina hospital, though his condition is not known at this time.

Medevacs: Racing Against Time

In a medical emergency, every second counts, and when the victim is far out at sea, time is working against them. When the Air Force crew received the distress call, they wasted no time in their response.

"Everyone in the wing mobilized with exceptional speed," rescue pilot Captain Dylan Gan told The Independent . "By uniting our efforts, we saved crucial time, delivering life-saving assistance six hours ahead of other response teams."

A similar medevac rescue took place on a Disney Cruise last month after a pregnant passenger suddenly fell ill . A Coast Guard rescue quickly mobilized to the remote cruise ship, airlifting the patient and bringing her to a hospital in San Juan, Puerto Rico , where she received prompt treatment.

In an on-board medical emergency, a prompt medevac can make the difference between life and death for a patient. It's thanks to medevac rescue crews like these that many cruisers, including the pregnant Disney passenger and Aiden Bridges, have survived life-threatening emergencies out at sea and are still alive to this day.

As for Angela, who is still in the hospital with her son, she couldn't be more grateful to the intrepid Air Force crew and the medical experts that saved her son's life.

"I feel so much gratitude, gratefulness, toward all the people who have been integral to my son's recovery," said Bridges. "It's not just the Coast Guard or the Air Force or the doctors or the nurses. It's all of those people."

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Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia

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