Cruise Ship Medical Jobs: Qualifications & Requirements

Atlantic Medical Recruitment recruits qualified healthcare professionals for international cruise lines.
We recruit for a range of medical roles, including
Doctors, Nurses, Healthcare Assistants, Medical Secretaries, Physiotherapists and Dentists.

Explore our current vacancies below. We update this page as new opportunities become available, so check back regularly.



Requirements needed for all applicants

Physical requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

All shipboard employees must be physically able to participate in emergency lifesaving procedures and drills. Full use and range of arms and legs as well as full visual, verbal and hearing abilities are required to receive and give instructions in the event of an emergency including the lowering of lifeboats. Employees must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (approximately 22.7 kg).

A BMI of under 35 is required and applicants must pass a seafarer’s medical exam. During your interview, please mention any chronic medication you might be taking.

All shipboard employees must be able to communicate in the English language to understand and interpret written procedures. This includes the ability to give and receive instructions in written and verbal forms and to effectively present information and respond to questions from guests, supervisors, and co-workers.

  • Fluency in speaking and writing in English, both conversational and technical

  • Computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Windows 7 (or higher) and MS Office programs with a typing speed of at least 25 words per minute.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

  • A passport with at least 12 months’ validity

  • Eligible for a 12-month USA C1D visa

  • Commitment to a minimum of one year of employment (two 4-month contracts)

  • Compliance with Company disease screening and vaccine requirements for Medical Staff, including vaccination against COVID-19, Influenza and others.

Job highlights

CHKS-accredited medical practice
An international work environment with learning opportunities
Access to the ship's amenities and entertainment
Discounted prices onboard shops and SPA
Free gym access and crew welfare program
Cruise benefits for self and friends and family
Travel expenses to join a vessel and return home, utilities, accommodation, meals, uniforms, laundry and stewarding are included.

Doctor Position

  • Qualified doctors with MBChB or MBBCh

  • Registered as an independent medical practitioner with the HPCSA, or other recognised local medical professional councils

  • Current BLS & ACLS certificates. Some cruise companies also require a valid ATLS.

  • A minimum of 6 months continuous post-graduate clinical experience, spent in a busy, academic ED supervised by an on-site Emergency Medicine Consultant along with a DipPEC (Diploma in Primary Emergency Care) (SA) or other postgraduate EM qualification
    or
    At least 4 years continuous ED experience.

    Experience in acute care, especially management of respiratory and cardiac emergencies (such as the management of arrhythmias and acute coronary syndromes, and the management of ventilated patients) is essential. Experience working in private healthcare facilities is highly desirable.

  • Other recommended courses: Emergency Ultrasound, FEC, BASIC, Emergency ECG 1 & 2.

Registered Nurse Position

  • A minimum of three years full-time post-graduate clinical experience in the Emergency Department or adult ICU as an RN is required, and your most recent work experience (within the last 6 months) should be in a clinical setting.

  • Current BLS & ACLS certificates are required before joining a ship, but they will be beneficial for your clinical interview. Some cruise companies also require a valid PALS.

  • For qualified registered nurses, experience in acute care, especially management of respiratory and cardiac emergencies (such as the management of arrhythmias and acute coronary syndromes, and the management of ventilated patients) is essential. Experience working in private healthcare facilities is highly desirable.

    Electronic Health Records experience and proficiency are essential.

  • Please be informed that we only recruit nurses who are registered with the following nursing councils: South Africa, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, European Union Countries, Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada, and United States.

Dentist Position

  • We are seeking a qualified Dentist (DDS) to provide comprehensive dental care to crew members and guests aboard our cruise ships. The role includes emergency dental treatment, preventive care, and hygiene education.

  • Key Responsibilities:
    • Provide dental services to crew and guests, including extractions, fillings, X-rays, and infection management.
    • Respond to dental and medical emergencies.
    • Maintain and oversee dental supplies and budgets.
    • Ensure compliance with company policies and maritime health regulations.
    • Document treatments using the onboard electronic medical records system (SeaCare).
    • Work closely with the medical team to support overall health initiatives.
    • Adhere to emergency procedures and safety drills as required.

  • Qualifications & Experience:
    • Education: Doctor in Dental Surgery (DDS) or equivalent from an accredited institution, plus a 1-year endodontic diploma (PGDip Dentistry Endodontics) is required.
    • Licensing: Active and valid dental license in good standing.
    • Minimum 3 years of clinical experience in general dental care, including simple extractions, restorations, pain management, and infection control.
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
    • Strong English communication skills, ability to work in a multicultural environment, and commitment to high standards of professionalism and patient care.

    Additional Requirements:
    • Ability to work 7 days a week in a fast-paced environment.
    • Physically fit to perform emergency procedures and participate in safety drills.

Physiotherapist Position

  • We are seeking a qualified and experienced Physiotherapist to join our onboard medical team. You will be responsible for assessing and treating crew members, supporting injury prevention programs, and assisting in medical administration. Your role will be vital in maintaining the well-being of the ship’s crew through proactive training and treatment.

  • Key Responsibilities:
    • Assess and treat crew members as per the Doctor’s requests.
    • Provide injury prevention training, including ergonomic awareness and stretching exercises.
    • Monitor and assist crew with musculoskeletal injuries and rehabilitation.
    • Maintain confidential medical records and assist with medical reporting.
    • Conduct workplace observations to ensure safe movement and lifting techniques.
    • Support emergency drills and assist in maintaining medical inventory.
    • Be available to respond to medical cases and emergencies at all times.

  • Qualifications & Experience:
    • Education: Diploma/Degree in Physiotherapy from an accredited institution.
    • Licensing: Valid Physiotherapy license (must remain valid throughout the contract).
    • Minimum 3 years of experience as a Physiotherapist.
    • Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
    • Fluent in English (Intermediate to Advanced level).
    • Ability to work in a multicultural and dynamic shipboard environment.

    Additional Requirements:
    • Comfortable working in changing environments (indoor & outdoor).
    • Maintain a professional appearance and high hygiene standards.
    • Comfortable living in shared accommodations onboard.
    • Physically fit to perform emergency procedures and participate in safety drills.

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Enquiries: info@shipsdoctor.co.za