Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Second Engineer
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Second Engineer supports the Chief Engineer in managing the vessel’s engine room, propulsion systems, generators, machinery, maintenance programs and technical personnel. Candidates typically need a marine engineering qualification, a valid Second Engineer or equivalent Certificate of Competency, STCW certification, relevant sea service and a seafarer medical certificate. Experience on passenger ships, strong knowledge of safety and environmental regulations, and good English communication skills are highly valued. The role requires leadership, sound technical judgment, disciplined record-keeping and the ability to respond calmly to breakdowns or emergencies. Candidates should expect long working hours, rotating watches, strict safety procedures and extended periods away from home.
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 the MSC Group, one of the world’s leading transportation and logistics organizations. Founded in Italy, MSC Cruises operates a large fleet serving destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, Asia and other regions. Its ships combine accommodation, dining, entertainment, recreation and shore excursions for international guests. The company employs crew members from many countries and offers opportunities in marine operations, engineering, hospitality, food and beverage, guest services and onboard revenue departments. Working for MSC Cruises generally involves fixed-term contracts, living onboard, shared crew facilities and a highly multicultural environment. Marine engineering staff play an essential role in maintaining safe, efficient and reliable ship operations while meeting international maritime standards.