What Cruise Ship Musicians Really Earn – And Why It’s Worth It

Working as a musician on a cruise ship isn’t just about traveling the world—it’s a real opportunity to earn a solid income, save money, and build a serious career doing what you love. But how much do cruise ship musicians actually make? Let’s break it down.

The Numbers

Salaries vary depending on your experience and your role, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect when starting out:

• Solo Musicians (Guitar Vocalists, Piano Entertainers)
  Private cabin | Starting at $3,000/month
• Duos (Contemporary & Classical)
  Shared cabin | Starting at $2,600/month
• Party Bands, Jazz Ensembles & Quartets
  Shared cabin | $2,600–$3,000/month
• Orchestra/Showband Musicians (Keys, Bass, Drums, Horns, etc.)
  Shared cabin | Starting at $2,600/month

With more experience, you can negotiate higher rates—and even get booked for premium events or feature shows with better pay.

But What About Expenses?

Here’s the best part: living costs onboard are virtually zero.

• Flights, accommodations, and transfers are covered by the cruise line.
• Meals? Free, three times a day—plus snacks.
• Accommodation? Free, with regular housekeeping.
• Visas (if needed)? Some Cruise Lines will reimburse this expense
• Medical Exam: this expense will be probably up to you

So when you’re earning $2,600+ a month, nearly all of that can go straight to your savings or family back home.

How Long Are Contracts?

Most contracts range from 4 to 9 months, with an average of 6 months. After a short break (usually 4–6 weeks), you can sign on again. Many musicians treat this as a long-term career—returning year after year.

Payment & Taxes

• Employees are paid twice a month, directly into their bank account.
• Contractors are paid weekly or monthly.
• Non-U.S. citizens generally aren’t subject to U.S. tax withholdings.

What About Agency Fees?

Some cruise lines pay agencies directly, meaning you keep 100% of your salary. If not, a small percentage (typically 10–20%) may be deducted to cover agency costs. Either way, your earnings remain competitive—and the opportunity to be placed through a reputable agency massively increases your chances of getting booked.

Why Work With an Agency?

While not all cruise lines require it, most of them work primarily with trusted entertainment agencies to find and hire musicians. A professional agency helps you:

• Prepare and polish your promo
• Secure auditions
• Navigate paperwork and contracts
• Stay updated on future opportunities

In short, the right agency can open doors, streamline the process, and keep your cruise career moving forward.