Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Oiler on watch
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
An Oiler on Watch supports the engine-room team by monitoring machinery, lubricating equipment, taking readings, assisting with maintenance, maintaining cleanliness, and reporting defects or unusual operating conditions. Candidates typically need relevant marine engine-room experience, basic technical knowledge, physical fitness, and valid STCW certification, including safety training and a seafarer medical certificate. Previous experience as an oiler, wiper, motorman, or engine-room rating is advantageous. The successful candidate is expected to follow watchkeeping procedures, safety and environmental rules, maintain accurate records, respond promptly to alarms, work cooperatively in a multicultural crew, and remain reliable during long shifts and changing operational conditions.
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 within the MSC Group, created to offer a more spacious, relaxed, and contemporary style of cruising. Its ships focus on elegant accommodation, destination-led itineraries, personalized service, fine dining, wellness, and carefully designed onboard experiences. The company aims to combine the service standards of luxury hospitality with the flexibility and variety of ocean travel. Crew members work in an international environment and are expected to deliver polished service, maintain high safety standards, and support a refined guest experience. As part of the wider MSC organization, Explora Journeys benefits from substantial maritime expertise, global recruitment, and established ship-management resources. Employment commonly includes onboard accommodation, meals, transportation arrangements, medical support, and structured contracts, although exact benefits depend on the position, vessel, flag state, and employment agreement.