17/09/2026
Requirements and qualifications for a massage therapist on a ship (cruise ship) typically fall into these categories:
Education & Certification
• High school diploma at minimum (some employers prefer a massage therapy diploma/certificate)
• NC II (National Certificate II) in Massage Therapy from TESDA — a standard credential for Filipino applicants
• Diploma from an accredited massage school (e.g., CIBTAC or similar internationally recognized body is a plus)
• DOH (Department of Health) license, where applicable
Experience
• Most agencies and concessionaires (like OneSpaWorld/Steiner, which staffs spas on major cruise lines) ask for at least 1–2 years of professional massage therapy experience, ideally in a hotel, resort, or spa setting
Skills
• Proficiency in multiple massage modalities: Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, Thai, reflexology, shiatsu, Balinese, etc.
• Knowledge of body treatments/facials is a plus, since many ship spa roles combine massage with beauty services
• Strong sales ability — cruise ship spa staff are usually expected to sell spa products/retail on commission the ability to sell is another key qualification, since Steiner’s therapists are expected to sell products as part of the job
• Good physical stamina (long hours, standing/working for extended periods)
• Customer service orientation and a positive, upbeat personality — recruiters specifically look for a friendly, “smiley” personality since guests are on holiday
Documents & Legal Requirements
• Valid passport
• NBI clearance (often with Apostille for overseas processing)
• PEME (Pre-Employment Medical Examination) / medical certificate of fitness to work at sea
• Seaman’s Book / SIRB, depending on the vessel type
• Some yacht/ship positions also require STCW Basic Safety Training and an ENG1 medical certificate
• Contract is usually processed through a POEA/DMW-licensed manning or recruitment agency
Personal Requirements
• Fluent in English (required for guest interaction)
• Certain employers set age limits, grooming standards, or a no-visible-tattoos policy
• Willingness to work on a contractual basis (typically 6–9 months per contract)
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