How Much Does a Plumber Make on a Cruise Ship?

Ever wondered what it’s like to fix pipes while sailing across the Caribbean or the Mediterranean? If you’re a skilled plumber considering a career at sea, you’re not alone. Many tradespeople are drawn to the adventure, steady work, and competitive pay that cruise ship jobs offer. But how much does a plumber make on a cruise ship—and is it worth leaving dry land behind? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about salaries, benefits, job requirements, and day-to-day life as a plumber aboard a luxury liner.

What Is a Cruise Ship Plumber’s Average Salary?

Salaries for plumbers on cruise ships vary based on experience, cruise line, vessel size, and contract length—but most earn between $3,000 and $5,500 per month before tips or bonuses. Unlike land-based plumbing jobs, shipboard plumbers typically work under tax-free contracts, meaning their take-home pay is often significantly higher than comparable roles ashore.

According to industry insiders and crew forums like Cruise Critic and Crew Center, entry-level plumbers (often titled “Utility Plumbers” or “Junior Plumbers”) start around $2,800–$3,500/month, while senior plumbers or those with marine certifications can earn $5,000–$6,500/month.

💡 Fun fact: On Royal Caribbean or Carnival ships, plumbers often receive free room, board, medical care, and laundry—reducing living expenses to nearly zero.

How Does Cruise Ship Pay Compare to Land-Based Plumbing?

Let’s put it in perspective with a quick comparison:

While U.S. plumbers earned a median annual wage of $60,090 in 2024 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics ), cruise ship plumbers can save far more due to zero living costs and no income tax on international waters.

However, the trade-off is intense schedules and long periods away from home—often 6 to 9 months at sea per contract.

What Are the Job Duties of a Cruise Ship Plumber?

Don’t picture just fixing leaky faucets. On a cruise ship carrying 3,000+ passengers and crew, plumbing systems are massive and complex. A shipboard plumber’s responsibilities include:

• Maintaining and repairing freshwater, greywater, and sewage systems
• Servicing hundreds of bathrooms, galleys, and laundry facilities
• Responding to emergency leaks or blockages 24/7
• Assisting with HVAC and refrigeration systems (in some roles)
• Following strict environmental and safety protocols (e.g., MARPOL regulations)

As noted by maritime employment agency V.Ships, “Plumbers on cruise ships must be versatile, physically fit, and able to troubleshoot under pressure—often in tight, humid engine room spaces.”

How to Become a Plumber on a Cruise Ship: Step-by-Step

Landing this job isn’t just about wrench skills—it requires preparation. Here’s how to get started:

1. Get Certified as a Plumber

You’ll need a valid plumbing license or vocational certification from your home country. U.S. candidates often hold a state-issued journeyman or master plumber license.

2. Gain Marine or Industrial Experience (Preferred)

While not always mandatory, experience with marine sanitation devices (MSDs), high-capacity pumps, or industrial piping gives you a strong edge.

3. Apply Through Official Cruise Line Career Portals

Major lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises post openings on their websites. Avoid third-party “placement” scams—always apply directly.

4. Pass Medical and Background Checks

You’ll need a seafarer’s medical certificate (ENG1 or equivalent) and a clean criminal record.

5. Complete STCW Training

The Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) is a mandatory safety course for all crew. It covers fire safety, survival, and first aid. Training takes 5–10 days and costs $800–$1,200.

🌐 Learn more about maritime employment standards on Wikipedia’s page on STCW .

6. Sign a Contract (Typically 6–9 Months)

Contracts are fixed-term with no early termination. But many plumbers renew for multiple seasons due to the savings potential.

Pros and Cons of Being a Cruise Ship Plumber

✅ Advantages

• Tax-free income (for most nationalities)
• Zero living expenses—food, lodging, and healthcare covered
• Travel the world while working (ports in Europe, Asia, Caribbean)
• High savings rate—many save $20,000–$40,000/year

❌ Challenges

• No weekends or holidays—you work every day
• Cramped living quarters (shared cabins, limited privacy)
• Long separation from family (6+ months)
• Physically demanding work in hot, noisy environments

FAQ: Cruise Ship Plumber Salaries & Careers

Q1: Do cruise ship plumbers pay taxes?

A: It depends on your nationality and tax residency. U.S. citizens must still file taxes with the IRS, but may qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (up to $126,500 in 2025). Most non-U.S. crew members receive fully tax-free wages.

Q2: How many hours do plumbers work on a cruise ship?

A: Typically 10–12 hours per day, 7 days a week. Emergency calls can extend shifts. However, you get full days off between contracts—often 2–3 months.

Q3: Can women work as plumbers on cruise ships?

A: Absolutely. While male-dominated, cruise lines actively recruit skilled women. Gender doesn’t affect pay—only experience and certification matter.

Q4: Is plumbing experience enough, or do I need marine training?

A: Basic plumbing certification is the minimum. Marine-specific training (like MSD operation) is a plus but often taught onboard. STCW certification is mandatory for all crew, regardless of role.

Q5: Which cruise lines pay plumbers the most?

A: Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea often offer higher wages, but they also require more experience. Mainstream lines (Royal Caribbean, Carnival) offer solid entry points with strong benefits.

Q6: Can I bring my family onboard?

A: No. Only senior officers (e.g., captains, hotel directors) may qualify for family accommodations after years of service. Plumbers live in crew-only areas.

Conclusion: Is a Cruise Ship Plumbing Career Right for You?

If you’re a skilled plumber seeking adventure, financial freedom, and a break from the 9-to-5 grind, working on a cruise ship could be a game-changer. With tax-free salaries of $3,000–$6,500/month, all essentials covered, and the chance to see the world, it’s a rare opportunity to earn while exploring.

That said, it’s not for everyone. The demanding schedule and long separations require resilience and adaptability. But for those who thrive in dynamic environments, the rewards—both financial and personal—are real.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow tradesperson on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit! And if you’re ready to set sail, start by checking the official career pages of major cruise lines today.