Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Upholsterer
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Upholsterer maintains and repairs upholstered furniture, wall coverings, mattresses, carpets, curtains, and other interior furnishings throughout the ship. Candidates should have proven upholstery or furniture-repair experience, strong knowledge of fabrics, foam, leather, vinyl, stitching, adhesives, and hand or power tools. Cruise, hotel, or marine experience is advantageous. The role requires attention to detail, good physical fitness, safe working practices, and the ability to work at heights or in confined areas when necessary. The successful candidate is expected to deliver high-quality repairs promptly, keep work areas clean, follow shipboard safety and environmental procedures, and cooperate professionally with housekeeping, hotel, and technical teams. Flexibility, reliability, and willingness to work varied shifts and live onboard 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. It operates upscale ships designed around spacious suites, refined dining, wellness, destination experiences, and highly personalized service. The brand aims to combine the freedom of private yacht travel with the facilities and reach of a modern cruise line. Crew members work in an international environment and contribute to a premium guest experience, where presentation, discretion, craftsmanship, and attention to detail are particularly important. Explora Journeys offers onboard roles across hotel operations, culinary services, marine operations, entertainment, housekeeping, technical maintenance, and guest relations. Employees generally live onboard while working rotational contracts, with accommodation, meals, and access to selected crew facilities normally included. Exact employment terms, benefits, salary, and contract length vary according to position, vessel, nationality, and applicable maritime regulations.