Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Watch Lead - 1st engineer
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Watch Lead – 1st Engineer supervises engine-room watchkeeping and supports the safe, reliable operation of the vessel’s propulsion, power-generation, auxiliary and technical systems. Candidates should hold appropriate marine engineering certificates of competency, valid STCW training and a seafarer medical certificate, with substantial experience in a similar engineering position on passenger ships or large vessels. Responsibilities include leading watch teams, monitoring machinery performance, coordinating maintenance, responding to breakdowns, maintaining technical records and ensuring compliance with company, flag-state and environmental requirements. The successful candidate is expected to be safety-focused, decisive under pressure, technically capable and comfortable leading a multinational team. Strong communication skills, English proficiency, flexibility and a willingness to work rotating watches and extended periods at sea are essential.
Can I work on cruise ships?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: No host-country permit: a seafarer medical, safety training, a seaman's book, a US crew visa and a Schengen visa.
Watch for: Recruitment fees are banned on ships.
Official source: US Department of State: crewmember visa. Checked October 2026.
What the job usually comes with on cruise ships
Usual for cruise ships, varies by employer. Checked October 2026.
| Housing | Free cabin, usually shared |
|---|---|
| Meals | Free (by law) |
| Flights | Joining and home flights usually paid; free repatriation (by law) |
| Service charge | Passenger service charges pooled on many lines |
| Contract | 6 to 9 months on board, about 2 months unpaid between contracts |
| Leave | 2.5 days a month, often paid as cash |
| Income tax | Usually not withheld; depends on your home country |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is a luxury ocean travel brand created by the MSC Group, one of the world’s largest privately owned shipping and cruise companies. The brand operates premium ships designed around spacious accommodation, refined dining, wellness, distinctive entertainment and immersive destination experiences. Explora Journeys aims to combine the service standards of a luxury hotel with the freedom and variety of ocean travel. Its ships are staffed by international teams working across marine operations, hospitality, culinary services, guest relations and onboard experiences. As part of the MSC Group, the company offers maritime career opportunities supported by established operational expertise, structured safety procedures and global recruitment. Crew members generally work in multicultural environments, follow strict maritime regulations and contribute to a high-end guest experience while living onboard for the duration of their contracts.