Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
First Deck Officer
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The First Deck Officer supports the Master in the safe navigation and operation of the vessel. Requirements typically include a valid STCW certification, an appropriate deck officer certificate of competency, relevant sea service, medical fitness, and strong knowledge of maritime safety, emergency procedures, bridge operations, and international regulations. Experience on passenger or large commercial vessels is highly valued. The successful candidate is expected to supervise deck activities, support bridge watchkeeping, lead and train crew, maintain safety standards, complete operational records, and respond calmly during emergencies. Strong communication, leadership, teamwork, English proficiency, and the flexibility to work long hours in a multicultural environment 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 MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is the cruise division of MSC, a global family-owned shipping and travel group headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The company operates a large fleet of modern cruise ships serving destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, the Middle East, and other regions. MSC Cruises is known for its international workforce, Mediterranean heritage, extensive onboard entertainment, family facilities, dining, and hospitality services. Shipboard employees work in a structured, multicultural environment with defined contracts, onboard accommodation, meals, medical support, and travel arrangements commonly included. Deck officers are central to safe navigation, marine operations, regulatory compliance, and passenger protection. Career progression may be available through sea service, performance, additional certifications, and promotion to higher deck ranks. Exact employment terms, rotation patterns, benefits, and salary depend on the vessel, flag state, contract, and officer’s qualifications.