cruise ship doctor jobs india

• Our Medical Team

Our ships provide a full spectrum of high quality, evidence-based medical care to guests and crew.

“I can now say that I have been to every continent and visited over 100 unique destinations, including Antarctica.”

“A challenging clinical setting and an extraordinary lifestyle make working onboard an adventure that not everyone gets to experience.”

“My realization about the joy of life-at-sea largely surpassed what I had imagined when my friends described their experiences working onboard.”

WHAT KIND OF MEDICAL CARE IS PROVIDED ONBOARD?

WHERE IN THE WORLD WILL I BE ASSIGNED?

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR A MEDICAL POSITION?

WHY CHOOSE US?

Embark your medical career on a new international voyage of discovery. Join our skilled Medical team working on any of our 90 ships across our nine brands: Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Cunard, AIDA Cruises, Costa, P&O Cruises (UK) and P&O Australia. Our staff is passionate about providing quality healthcare to our guests and crew while they sail the world creating lasting memories.

90 SHIPS ACROSS 9 CRUISE LINES AND +8 NEW SHIPS COMING BY 2025

SAILING IN NORTH AMERICA, AUSTRALIA, EUROPE AND MORE

COMING SOON

“I knew I wanted to do something different, but I never expected just how much opportunity I could find working with Carnival. It’s more than an adventure – it’s the best career move I’ve ever made.”

"All of my past nursing experiences including working in intensive care and emergency settings were the foundation for success in this job. I love the variety of patient care opportunities that it affords, meanwhile traveling the world and interacting with fellow crew members from many countries"

“I never realized how broad my skillset was until I experienced working onboard cruise ships. Here I can go from a general practice consultation for someone with an UTI to intubating and sedating a patient, or administering thrombolysis to a patient, in just a single workday.”

“When I was working in the back of the ambulance, I gained the confidence and proficiency to care for my patients. Since working onboard, I developed my team dynamics skills, working along with the nurses and the physicians. They appreciate my skillset and I do value the multidisciplinary environment as a new way of improving my knowledge and skills.”

“Working onboard as a nurse is demanding at times. But the rewards of living on a cruise ship like this with a team like mine has been worth every moment.”

NEED A DOSE OF ADVENTURE? CLICK THROUGH THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Review our process and FAQs below to know what to expect at every step.

• Use our online application tool and set the pace of your application
• Review and acknowledge position requirements
• Complete your personal profile, educational background and work experience
• A Cover Letter and Resume
• Certified copies of your professional qualifications and certificates
• Proof of professional registration and license
• Details of specific clinical skills
• Professional and personal disclosures

• Allow us to share more detail through pre-recorded virtual introductions to our shore-side and shipboard teams
• Participate in an online screening interview, in your own time
• Listening, comprehension, English language skills for the position will be assessed
• Applicants that pass the screening interview, are invited to a Clinical assessment
• Successful applicants will receive a provisional offer, subject to review and validation of references, licenses etc.

Your current and recent employers (in supervising capacities) will be contacted for references.

Accepting an offer of employment, and all terms of and conditions, will allow us to start the onboarding process. As these next steps typically take place locally in your country of residence, your application may be handled by one of our local offices.

Our local administration offices will contact you with guidance on the next steps. These include, but are not limited to:

• Credentialing (review of your professional license to practice, educational background, certifications, employment history etc.)
• Pass a Regulatory Seafarer Medical Fitness examination
• Verifying specific Health Screening requirements for medical staff
• Obtain the necessary travel documents and visas (including C1D Visas for non-USA or Canadian applicants)
• Criminal background checks or Police Clearance
• Your start date availability
• Additional requirements may be imposed by certain countries, Flag states or regulatory bodies, dependent on your nationality and country of residence

• The onboarding process may take several months and once completed and you sign a legal contract, you will be ready to join your first ship
• Provisional assignment details may be shared during times of critical need to help you plan and prepare
• Always wait for instructions before engaging in any professional or personal arrangements in anticipation of joining a ship
• Depending on our operational staffing needs, you may need to wait several weeks or months for an assignment to be available

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

• Follow Cruise Jobs on Facebook
• Follow Cruise Jobs on Instagram

Free emails with tips and advice on how to get a job on-board a cruise ship.

Recruitment Agents: India

✚ Add your company

The following companies based in India recruit candidates to work on cruise ships:

Airborne Recruiting Pvt. Ltd.

• Postal address
• Telephone number

Established in 1962, Airborne pioneered cruise line recruiting in India. Airborne serves many of the worlds' leading cruise lines, ship manning companies, and cruise line concessionaire companie.

Hiren International

• Applications welcome

Hiren International recruits the finest personnel for the international cruise industry, from India and our neighbouring countries.

Indus Hospitality Careers & Training Pvt Ltd

Indus Hospitality Careers & Training Pvt. Ltd is committed to bridging a gap between talent and opportunity in hospitality, cruising and spa & salon industry. Indus conducts its business with a high standard of professionalism and integrity.

Joncia Marine Services

We have been recruiting crew in the Housekeeping, Galley, Hotel operations and Casinos.

westzone marine Pvt Ltd

The West Zone Marine Pvt Ltd provides high quality and dependable Technical Consultancy and Human Resource services in Ship management, Offshore- Oil & Gas and Shipbuilding industry.

Wilhelmsen Ship Management

Experienced crew for LNG/LPG; chemical, product and oil tankers; bulk vessels; car carriers; container vessels; hydrographic and seismic survey vessels; FPSO; FSO; MOPU and cruise.

Cruise Ship Job: Doctor

• Post author: Xuxu
• Post category: Cruise Ship Jobs / Positions

Working as a doctor on a cruise ship is a thrilling and diverse experience that combines the responsibilities of a healthcare professional with the excitement of life at sea. As a vital member of the cruise ship medical team, the cruise ship doctor plays a pivotal role in providing medical care and assistance to both passengers and crew members, as well as managing a skilled team of nurses and assistants. From treating minor ailments to responding to emergencies, your skills are put to the test in a dynamic and fast-paced environment that is constantly rocking from side to side.

Table of Contents

Responsibilities of a Doctor on a Cruise Ship

The role of a cruise ship doctor is vital to maintaining the health and well-being of passengers and crew members throughout their cruise. As a cruise ship doctor, you are responsible for providing comprehensive medical care, responding to emergencies, and managing the ship’s medical facility. Your primary objective is to ensure the safety and health of everyone on board, both guests and crew. This demanding role requires extensive medical knowledge, experience in emergency medicine, and the ability to make quick and critical decisions. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as you’ll be working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, where English might not be their first language.

Requirements for Doctors to Work on cruise ships

To work as a doctor on a cruise ship, there are specific requirements and qualifications that need to be met. While these requirements can vary slightly between cruise lines, here are some common prerequisites:

1. Medical degree and licensure: To work as a doctor on a cruise ship, you must hold a valid medical degree (MD or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Additionally, you must be licensed to practice medicine in the jurisdiction of the cruise ship’s flag state.

2. Specialization and experience: Specialization in emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, or a related field is typically preferred. Prior experience in emergency medicine, general practice, or a relevant specialty is often required, with a minimum number of years of postgraduate clinical experience.

3. Certifications: Basic life support (BLS) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certifications are commonly required. These certifications demonstrate proficiency in responding to medical emergencies. Additional certifications such as Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), or other relevant certifications may also be advantageous.

4. Language proficiency: Fluency in English is typically required as it is the primary language used for communication on most cruise ships. Proficiency in other languages may be beneficial, especially if the ship caters to international clientele or travels to regions where knowledge of local languages is necessary.

5. Medical assessments and vaccinations: Prior to employment, cruise ship doctors may be required to undergo medical assessments to ensure they are fit for the job. Vaccinations and immunizations may be required to meet health and safety standards on board.

6. Interpersonal skills: Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills are crucial for cruise ship doctors. The ability to work well in a multicultural environment, collaborate with a diverse medical team, and provide compassionate care to passengers and crew members is essential.

It’s important to note that specific requirements and hiring processes may vary between cruise lines. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the individual cruise line or recruitment agency for their specific qualifications and prerequisites when applying for a doctor position on a cruise ship.

Example of Job Requirements for Doctors

Doctor applicants must hold a Medical Degree and current registration and licensing with an appropriate governmental or national regulatory body. Applicants must have at least three years of post-graduate clinical experience in emergency medicine, acute care, or ICU, and the most recent work experience should be in a clinical setting. Experience and certification in point-of-care ultrasound is preferred. Additional requirements include:

A valid accredited ALS/ACLS certificate prior to joining a vessel PALS certification may be required before completing the first year of employment A Valid passport and Eligibility to be issued a United States C1/D Visa (Not applicable for US and Canadian citizens) Fluency in English, both conversational and technical Computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Windows 7 (or higher) and MS Office programs Experience with the use of electronic health records is preferred Outstanding interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills A commitment to completing at least two four-month contracts within a twelve-month period Additional training in advanced airway management, ICU, Primary Emergency Care, Immediate Medical Care, ECG, Advanced Trauma Life Support, and Advanced Pediatric Life Support is highly recommended, and experience working in private healthcare settings is preferred.

Most Common Cruise Ship Emergencies

For a doctor preparing to work on a cruise ship, understanding the most common cruise ship emergencies is essential for providing prompt and effective medical care onboard. Among the prevalent emergencies encountered, seasickness often tops the list, affecting both passengers and crew members. Accidents and injuries, such as slips and falls, are also frequent occurrences due to the ship’s dynamic environment.

Gastrointestinal issues , like food poisoning or viral outbreaks, commonly known as Norovirus , can rapidly spread on a vessel with a large number of people in close quarters. It affects everyone from every age group, especially the elderly.

Outbreaks of the stomach bug have surged on cruise ships this year, reaching the highest levels seen in 10 years. Since January 2023, there have been 13 confirmed norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships under U.S. jurisdiction — that’s more outbreaks in six months than there have been during any full year since 2012, according to data from the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Source. Today.com

I myself was once isolated for 48 hours in the medical facility due to catching Norovirus, or as we call it, GI.

Respiratory infections , including influenza or the common cold, are also common due to the proximity of individuals from various regions. Moreover, cardiovascular events and other medical emergencies can arise unexpectedly, necessitating quick and precise interventions. As a cruise ship doctor, being well-prepared to handle these common emergencies ensures the well-being and safety of everyone onboard, fostering a sense of confidence and trust among the ship’s community.

How Much do Doctors Make on a Cruise Ship?

Cruise ship doctors typically receive a competitive salary that is commensurate with their experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Salaries can range from around $4,000 to $10,000 or more per month, depending on various factors.

Additional Benefits

Working on a cruise ship can offer various perks and benefits beyond the salary, depending on the position and the cruise line. Some of the perks include:

• Travel Opportunities: You will get to travel to various destinations and explore different countries and cultures. Say goodbye to your normal routine of working in the same place all the time. Every day your view will change and you will get used to sleeping in one country and waking up in another. Lunch in Italy and breakfast in France? Why not!
• Free Accommodation and Meals: Cruise ship employees, as part of their compensation, receive free onboard accommodation and meals. This is a huge perk of working on a cruise ship. Not having to cook and wash dishes is definitely a perk for me.
• Networking and Career Advancement: Cruise ship jobs provide opportunities to meet people from around the world and build valuable professional connections. It can also lead to potential career advancement within the cruise industry or related fields.
• No Commuting Costs: You live and work on the ship, what else can I say? A five-minute commute is the max you will have here. No more waking up one hour before work, driving another 30 or so minutes,s and repeating the commute back.
• Access to Ship Amenities: As a cruise ship doctor, you will have access to certain onboard amenities, such as crew lounges, fitness centers, and recreational facilities, as well as the option to dine at the finest restaurants on board, use all the cruise ship facilities guests also enjoy, like spas, gym, entertainment shows and much more.
• Tax-Free Income: You may be eligible for tax-free income, depending on your home country’s tax laws and the duration of your contract. Cruise ships are mostly registered in the Bahamas but a lot of them have a base in the US. If you are a US Citizen, you will have to pay federal taxes only on your paycheck and self-report your state taxes, if required. Everyone else will have to report and pay their own taxes, according to their local law on the county they are from.
• Diverse Work Environment: Working on a cruise ship allows individuals to interact with people from various backgrounds and cultures, providing a unique and enriching experience. There are crew members from over 65 different nationalities onboard. Always wanted to learn a second language? This might be your golden chance to have at it!
• Discounts and Deals: Cruise ship crew enjoy discounts on merchandise, excursions, or services offered on board or by partnering businesses at port destinations. Cruise lines also have a crew-only discount if you want to cruise on your vacation, as well as a family and friends discount.

It’s essential to recognize that working on a cruise ship can also be demanding, with long hours and limited time off. However, for those who enjoy travel, adventure, and meeting new people, it can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Can Cruise Ship Doctors Bring Their Families?

Cruise ship doctors may have the opportunity to bring their families on board, but it largely depends on the policies and accommodations provided by the specific cruise line. Some cruise lines do offer family accommodations for certain positions, including doctors, which allow them to bring their families on board. These accommodations are typically larger and more suitable for family living. However, it’s important to note that family accommodations may be limited, and there may be specific requirements or restrictions in place. Cruise ship contracts and policies can vary, so it’s best to inquire directly with the cruise line recruiter regarding their policies on family accommodation for doctors before signing up if that’s important to you.

From my own experience at Norwegian Cruise Line, doctors are considered high-ranking officers and therefore have extra privileges other crew do not. They can bring families to live in their cabins for a certain period of time. I remember there was a doctor from South Africa who often brought their family to stay with him. They stayed for three months onboard, the family had crew and guest privileges, and their kids frequented the cruise ship kids club, so it’s definitely possible!

Do Cruise Ship Doctors Get Their Own Cabin?

Yes, cruise ship doctor has their own cabin. Having your own cabin allows you to have privacy and personal space to rest and recharge during your time off. The cabins are typically equipped with basic amenities such as a bed, storage space, a desk, a small couch, and bathroom facilities.

Also, a perk as a doctor on a cruise ship is that you also get free laundry done for you, with pick up and delivery service, as well as housekeeping, so you don’t even have to make your own bed. You also have the option to order room service whenever you feel like a grilled cheese sandwich at midnight.

How Long Do Cruise Ship Doctors Work?

As a cruise ship doctor, your contract duration can vary depending on the cruise line and specific job arrangement. Typically, cruise ship doctor contracts last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Keep in mind that contract durations may differ, so it’s essential to clarify the specific terms and conditions with your employer before embarking on your adventure as a cruise ship doctor.

Cruise ship life is very exciting and visiting awesome locations around the world is just one of the many benefits of working on a cruise ship. If this is your first time going to work on a cruise ship, you might be wondering what you need to pack for a cruise ship contract. This post might just be what you are looking for.

Final Words

Working on a cruise ship offers a world of perks, from a unique and dynamic work environment to the chance to explore breathtaking destinations worldwide. Imagine waking up each day to the ocean breeze, knowing that you’ll get to provide medical care while sailing to bucket-list-worthy locations. From the Caribbean’s turquoise waters to the majestic fjords of Norway, the opportunities to explore these awesome places are endless. As a cruise ship doctor, you’ll not only be healing and helping people but also satisfying your adventurous spirit by traversing the globe, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others Mahatma Gandhi.

Liked what you saw? Please share the love! Share this content

• Opens in a new window X
• Opens in a new window Facebook
• Opens in a new window LinkedIn
• Opens in a new window Pinterest
• Opens in a new window Reddit
• Opens in a new window Tumblr
• Opens in a new window WhatsApp

You Might Also Like

How do You Get a Job on a Cruise Ship?

Ten Tips For Surviving A Cruise Ship Contract

Cruise Ship Jobs: Bartender(Job Description)

Cruise Ship Doctor Jobs

Cruise line companies hiring doctors:  PRINCESS CRUISES /HOLLAND AMERICA / P&O AUSTRALIA / SEABOURN / CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

The cruise ship recruitment agency Pro Sea Staff assists Registered Physicians in securing employment for maritime medical careers with the above-listed cruise line companies. Cruise ship medical jobs  offer excellent benefits and a great career opportunity with the possibility of continuous professional development and reliable employment. Cruise ship physician salary as well as numerous job benefits are also very attractive. Embark your medical career on a prestigious cruise line ship for a unique mix of challenge, adventure and responsibility!

Assignments for cruise ship doctor jobs are organized on a rotational basis of 4 months on board and 2 months off – on leave. Flights to and from your home are paid by the cruise line company. A cruise ship doctor is provided with Private Officers Single cabin accommodation. Housing, meals and healthcare insurance are provided by the cruise line company.

Cruise ship doctor recruitment

Cruise ship doctor requirements.

The requirements to work as a cruise ship doctor include a professional degree, relevant post-graduation experience and an unrestricted medical license.

Please consult the details below:

• MBChB, MBBCh (or equivalent) medical degree
• Current, unrestricted license to practice medicine with at least three years post-graduation experience
• Majority of experience in one or more of the following areas: Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Critical / Intensive Care, Cardiology, Anesthetics, Remote Medicine. Additional qualifications such as Diploma in Primary Emergency Care, Diploma in Anesthetics or FCEM are preferred
• Additional skills such as Ultrasound are advisable and certificates such as Advanced Trauma and Pediatric Life Support are also required by some cruise lines

In addition, applicants for cruise line physician jobs MUST have:

• Fluency in English – all candidates for the cruise ship doctor position must be able to communicate fluently in English as a medical professional
• At least 3 years post-graduate experience in Adult Emergency medicine or family practice. Work experience must be recent
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS / ALS) certification and Basic Life Support (BLS). Some companies also require ATLS and PALS
• Good computer skills – Windows based software
• Ability to meet the challenge of learning to work as a doctor in a new and different environment

Working as a doctor onboard a cruise ship

The role of a cruise ship physician goes beyond the scope of responsibilities of a mere GP on a cruise ship. You will lead the medical team in the management of several areas including laboratory testing, radiography, computer work, dispensing of medication and the control and monitoring of stock. Career opportunities for professional development are sponsored by the cruise line company.

Cruise ship doctor job description

As a cruise ship doctor, you will be working closely with other medical staff, your colleagues and a team of nurses under your supervision.  Cruise ship medical jobs involve providing both in and out patient care.  Outpatient care encompasses minor and severe illnesses, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, minor skin complaints and accidental injuries. In-patient care encompasses the management of a wide variety of clinical problems including cardiac diseases (thrombolysis and cardiac monitoring), trauma/orthopedic problems and acute medical and surgical emergencies.

Cruise Job Fairs and Career Events

Tui cruises career events in december 2021.

TUI Cruises is holding a few career events on select days in December 2021. These events are seeking crew, specifically in Spa and Sport, Guest Relations, and Youth Staff. TUI Cruises will be working with their hiring partner, Sea Chefs to assist with the recruitment of these positions. Here’s what you need to know about … Read more

Cruise Careers Fair 2021 in India

A cruise ship careers fair will be held in Goa, India on November 29 to December 3, 2021. It will be hosted by Carnival Support Services India (CSSI). They will be recruiting for jobs on many Carnival Corporation brand ships. Hiring Partner in India Cruise Careers India is the career portal of Carnival Support Services … Read more

Kamaxi Overseas Consultants

One of India’s authorized cruise line hiring partners, Kamaxi is the Global Hiring Partner for Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Viking. On October 14, 2020, Kamaxi will be hosting live webinar on Google Meet called Seafarers Speak 2.0. Google Meet with Cruise Line Crewmembers On October 14, 2020, … Read more

‘Dying for Sex’ Series at FX Casts Jay Duplass, Kelvin Yu (EXCLUSIVE)

By Joe Otterson

Joe Otterson

TV Reporter

• Steve Carell Joins Tina Fey in Netflix Comedy Series ‘Four Seasons’ 6 hours ago
• ‘Outlander’ Prequel ‘Blood of My Blood’ Adds Six to Cast 7 hours ago
• ‘Clue’ Film, TV Adaptations in the Works Under New Deal Between Hasbro and Sony 1 day ago

Jay Duplass and Kelvin Yu are the latest additions to the cast of FX ‘s limited series adaptation of “Dying for Sex,” Variety has learned exclusively.

The series is based on the podcast of the same name. Duplass and Yu join previously announced series lead Michelle Williams and cast members Jenny Slate, Rob Delaney, David Rasche, and Esco Jouléy.

The official description of the series states “Molly (Williams), a woman diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, leaves her husband of 15 years and begins to explore her sexuality. She gets the courage and support to go on this adventure from her best friend (Slate), who stays by her side all the way to the very end.”

Popular on Variety

As an actor, Duplass is known for his roles in shows like “Transparent,” “The Mindy Project,” “Industry,” “The Chair,” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.” Behind the camera, he and his brother, Mark, co-created the HBO series “Togetherness” alongside Steve Zissis. The brothers also co-created HBO’s “Room 104” and co-wrote and directed feature films like “Baghead” and “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” among several other collaborations.

He is repped by CAA and Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment.

Yu is a seven-time Emmy nominee for his work on the writing team of “Bob’s Burgers,” winning the award in 2017 for best animated program. He also recently created the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese.” He has appeared on shows such as “The Afterparty” and “Master of None” as well as films like “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Milk.”

He is repped by Writ Large, WME, and Yorn Levine.

Liz Meriwether and Kim Rosenstock are writers, executive producers, and showrunners on “Dying for Sex.” Williams will produce in addition to starring. Katherine Pope, Nikki Boyer, and Leslye Headland will also executive produce along with Jen Sargent, Marshall Lewy, Aaron Hart and Hernan Lopez of Wondery Inc. 20th Television is the studio.

More From Our Brands

How to watch 2024 nba playoffs: livestream without cable, home of the week: inside a stylish upstate new york hideaway that exudes bohemian charm, angel city fc renews three-year deal for back of the jersey sponsor, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, tvline items: id’s nick and aaron carter docuseries, outlander prequel cast additions and more, verify it's you, please log in.