Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Plumber
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Plumber is responsible for installing, inspecting, repairing and maintaining freshwater, drainage, sewage, heating and sanitary systems onboard an MSC cruise ship. Candidates should have relevant plumbing qualifications, practical experience in commercial, industrial or marine environments, and a sound understanding of pumps, valves, piping and basic maintenance procedures. The role requires good troubleshooting ability, physical fitness, safe working practices and the flexibility to work at sea, including shifts, weekends and emergencies. Candidates are expected to follow vessel safety procedures, maintain accurate records, keep technical areas clean and cooperate effectively with the engineering and hotel departments. Previous cruise ship or maritime experience is advantageous, while English communication skills are generally required.
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 MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is a major international cruise company and part of MSC Group, a privately held global transportation and logistics organization. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the cruise line operates a modern fleet sailing to destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, South America, North America, Asia and other regions. Its ships provide accommodation, restaurants, entertainment, excursions, retail and family activities for guests from around the world. MSC employs multinational onboard teams in hotel operations, marine services, food and beverage, entertainment, engineering and guest relations. The company emphasizes maritime safety, professional service, operational efficiency and cultural diversity. Employees typically live and work onboard for contract periods, receiving accommodation and meals while travelling between ports. Exact employment conditions, benefits, contract length and salary depend on the vessel, position, nationality, experience and applicable maritime regulations.