How to Get a Job on a Cruise Ship as a Medical Professional
Whether it’s standing up for the rights of global seafarers or caring for thousands of guests during their voyage, VIKAND is committed to doing right by people. Part of this commitment includes finding passionate medical professionals who can best represent our organization in providing first-class medical care onboard. If you’re a medical professional wondering how to get a job on a cruise ship, keep reading!
Is Working Aboard a Ship Right for You?
Before we start evaluating whether or not a candidate is the right fit, it’s important for the candidate to consider whether a job on a cruise ship is right for them, and if they meet the required qualifications. After all, working at sea is a unique experience.
How is Practicing Medicine at Sea Different?
Practicing medicine in an office or hospital on land is very different from being a medical professional on a cruise ship. On land, you have access to more resources and personnel, especially when situations escalate. Being a medical professional at sea calls on you to possess and practice skills beyond your medical training, including:
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Leadership and administrative skills
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Flexibility, and a willingness to handle diverse medical issues
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The ability to work in a multicultural environment
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Being open to learning from nurses and support staff
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A basic understanding of maritime law
As an onboard medical professional, you may find yourself dealing with a toothache on Monday, a major cardiac event on Tuesday and a conference call with the board of directors on Wednesday. It is a diverse, fast-paced, and demanding role that requires you to be engaged and decisive on a daily basis.
Do You Meet the Requirements to Work Onboard a Ship?
First and foremost, you do not need previous experience working on a ship. Our team values qualified medical professionals and we do not expect all candidates to have previous onboard experience. For many providers, working with VIKAND is their first experience delivering onboard medical care.
If you want to know how to get a job on a cruise ship, here is what we look for in qualified candidates:
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Medical/nursing degree and license: We recognize medical credentials from just about anywhere in the world, as long as they are current and valid.
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Emergency care experience: Candidates must have 3+ years of experience working in an emergency room or intensive care setting. This helps ensure that you can perform in an onboard environment with fixed resources and support.
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Proficiency in English: In order to provide diverse guests with effective care in a variety of locations, our doctors and nurses must be able to read, write and speak the English language.
If you are a licensed nurse, doctor, or paramedic who can speak and write in English and has worked in emergency or intensive care units for at least 3 years, then you are encouraged to apply. And if traveling the world and caring for people at sea sounds appealing, then a job with VIKAND could be right for you! Apply here to get started.
