Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Massage Therapist
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Massage Therapist provides professional massage and wellness treatments to MSC Cruises guests while maintaining high standards of service, hygiene, and safety. Requirements generally include a recognized massage or beauty therapy qualification, relevant practical experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in an international, customer-focused environment. Candidates should be confident recommending suitable treatments and related products, comfortable working to sales targets, and willing to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and during port days. Cruise experience is helpful but may not be essential. The role requires adaptability, professional presentation, physical stamina, and the ability to live and work onboard for extended contracts.
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, a privately owned global shipping and logistics organization. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises operates a large fleet visiting destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, the Middle East, Asia, and other regions. The company provides accommodation, dining, entertainment, excursions, wellness services, and family activities for passengers from around the world. Its multicultural onboard workforce includes hospitality, marine, technical, entertainment, retail, and wellness professionals. Employees typically work under fixed-term contracts and receive onboard accommodation, meals, travel arrangements, and access to crew facilities, subject to the specific contract. MSC values guest service, teamwork, safety, cultural awareness, flexibility, and professional standards.