Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Carpenter
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Carpenter maintains, repairs and improves wooden fixtures, furniture, doors, flooring and interior fittings throughout the cruise ship. Candidates should have formal carpentry training or equivalent practical experience, strong knowledge of woodworking tools and materials, and the ability to read technical drawings. Experience in hotel, marine or commercial environments is advantageous. The role requires safe working practices, attention to detail, physical stamina and the ability to work at height or in confined areas. The successful candidate is expected to respond promptly to maintenance requests, keep work areas clean, follow company and maritime safety procedures, and cooperate professionally with hotel, deck and technical departments. Previous cruise-ship experience and conversational English may be preferred.
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 cruise and shipping companies. The brand focuses on spacious ships, refined hospitality and immersive destination experiences rather than traditional high-volume cruising. Explora Journeys aims to combine European elegance with relaxed, highly personalized service, offering suites, destination-led itineraries, fine dining and curated onboard experiences. Its crew members work in an international environment and are expected to deliver discreet, attentive service while maintaining high standards of safety, presentation and professionalism. Employees generally benefit from onboard accommodation, meals, medical support and opportunities to work across a growing fleet. Carpenter roles support the guest experience by keeping public spaces, suites and operational areas attractive, safe and fully functional.